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Board approves rezoning for American Humane Association sanctuary in Palm City
Summary
The Martin County Board of County Commissioners approved a mandatory rezoning to AR-5A for two contiguous parcels totaling about 13.5 acres so the American Humane Association can replace and modernize animal care buildings and establish a sanctuary and service-dog program in Palm City.
The Martin County Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a mandatory rezoning on a 13.5-acre site in Palm City to allow the American Humane Association to redevelop facilities for animal care and a service‑dog training sanctuary.
The rezoning request, filed by Gary Oldehoft on behalf of the American Humane Association Inc., changes the land from a 2 agricultural category C district to an AR‑5A agricultural ranchette district. Staff described the change as a mandatory rezoning because the current zoning is inconsistent with the property's agricultural ranchette future‑land‑use designation under the county comprehensive plan.
Staff planner Brian Elam told the board the application meets applicable provisions of the Martin County Land Development Regulations and the comprehensive plan and recommended approval. Elam said two standard category A zoning options exist for the agricultural ranchette future land use (AR‑5A and AR‑10A) and that AR‑5A is consistent with nearby development.
Gary Oldehoft, representing the association, said the group plans to replace an old barn and kennels with raised, air‑conditioned, sound‑attenuated structures to modernize animal care on the property at the northwest intersection of Southwest Quail Hollow Street and Southwest Citrus Boulevard (4903 Southeast Quail Hollow Street). Dr. Robin Gansert, introduced as president and executive director of the American Humane Association, described plans for an “Arc of Hope Barn,” kennels with HEPA filtration and soundproofing, and a residential sanctuary to support Pups for Patriots, the association's service‑dog program for veterans.
Commissioner King praised the local team and moved to accept staff’s recommendation. The motion was seconded and passed by unanimous voice vote.
The approval follows a unanimous 4–0 recommendation from the Local Planning Agency on May 15, 2025, according to staff.
The board’s action authorizes the AR‑5A zoning; additional permits, building plans, and required preconstruction surveys (for protected species, if applicable) remain subject to administrative review and approvals under county regulations.
