Board approves Ruskin mixed-use PD to formalize aquaculture, add limited commercial and storage uses

The Board of County Commissioners approved a multi-part application (G1A/B/C) on Sept. 9 that vacates a small portion of platted right-of-way and establishes a new planned development in Ruskin to preserve an existing aquacultural use, add limited commercial neighborhood and general uses, childcare and an open-storage area for boats and RVs. Real Estate Services staff described the vacate and a drainage easement the petitioner granted to preserve county access to drainage infrastructure. Applicant representatives said the non-profit Sea Life Restoration Institute and LJ Properties operate aquaculture greenhouses on site to grow endangered coral and native seagrasses for restoration projects under Chapter 597, Florida Statutes. The new PD restricts intensive commercial uses, emphasizes residential-support uses and requires enhanced screening for the open-storage tract so that boats and RVs are not visible off-site. Planning commission staff noted the site is in the SMU-6 (Suburban Mixed Use) future land use category and, while the parcel does not meet the 900-foot commercial locational criteria, staff recommended a waiver because the PD provides mitigation measures including enhanced screening and residential-support uses. The zoning hearing master recommended approval. Commissioners voted to approve the three related items together by a 7-0 vote.