Council approves first reading of large-scale comp plan change to convert former Vickers sand mine to low-density residential

The Sebastian City Council approved the first reading and transmittal for Ordinance O‑25‑04, which amends the comprehensive plan future land-use map to designate roughly 148.5 acres — formerly known as the Vickers sand mine — as Low Density Residential (up to 5 units per acre). Staff said approximately 85 acres of the parcel is water and that the upland portion available for development is about 63 acres.

Staff explained the property had been assigned a mixed-use land-use classification in the city’s 2040 comprehensive plan update; subsequent discussions with the property owner and a potential buyer led the city to conclude the proposed concept had become predominantly residential and no longer met the mixed-use intent. Planning staff recommended changing the designation to Low Density Residential and transmitting the amendment to the state Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) for review; staff noted the amendment is a “large-scale” change because it exceeds the 50-acre threshold.

The city made clear tonight’s action was the land-use map change only; rezoning and any site or subdivision concept plans will be reviewed in a later application. On a motion and second, council members voted in favor on first reading. The ordinance will be submitted to state review and returned to council for second reading and adoption with any state comments.