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Commission approves Newfield Crossroads Phase 1A3 plat; developer highlights open space, tortoise recipient site
Summary
The Board approved the phase 1A3 plat for Newfield Crossroads (155 lots, ~32.6 acres). The developer described extensive conservation work (Kiplinger Conservancy), trailhead openings and an FWC‑approved gopher tortoise recipient site created on the property.
Martin County commissioners approved the Newfield Crossroads Phase 1A3 plat on April 8, clearing the way for 155 residential lots, four civic areas and supporting infrastructure on about 32.56 acres within the larger master‑planned Newfield community.
Luis Aguilar, principal planner, told the board the plat application for Marami Palm Beach LLC complies with county regulations and that the County Surveyor’s Office found the legal plat in statutory order. Staff recommended approval and noted the plat is the first step to allow lot sales and subdivision infrastructure construction.
James Fitzgerald, director of development for Mattamy Homes (developer), presented context for the master plan approved in 2020: conservation easements covering roughly 1,800 acres known as the Kiplinger Conservancy, 10 miles of public trails and an approved FWC gopher tortoise recipient site on the property. Fitzgerald said the tortoise recipient site required extended site preparation including roller chopping, prescribed burns and habitat work and that the company pursued the recipient‑site approval rather than paying relocation mitigation fees off‑site.
Commissioners praised the open‑space concept and the developer’s public‑benefit amenities including pocket parks, a linear park and forthcoming community facilities. Commissioner Campy noted that having a county‑local recipient site keeps relocated tortoises within the county rather than moving them far afield.
A public speaker asked about fire station needs in rapidly developing areas; staff explained a station would be planned where response circles are county‑beneficial, noting a station placed at the immediate neighborhood edge now would serve large portions of neighboring jurisdictions.
The Board voted unanimously to approve the plat and associated construction agreements; the developer will move to infrastructure construction and subsequent lot sales under the approved plat.
