Council approves first readings to reclassify 3.96-acre tract off Day Drive for single-family homes

The City of Sebastian on first reading approved changing the future land-use designation and zoning of a 3.96-acre parcel north of Day Drive from institutional/public service to low-density residential/RS-10, a move the applicant said would allow about seven single-family lots.

The change was proposed by Wesley Mills of Mill Short & Associates, who told the council the property—part of Sebastian Highlands Unit 17 and described in the packet as “Track N”—is surrounded by residential uses and has existing frontage utilities. Mills said proposed lots would range from about 15,000 to 35,000 square feet and that an Indian River County lift station sits in an easement on the site.

City staff recommended approval, saying infrastructure exists at the frontage and the requested use is consistent with neighboring low-density neighborhoods. The council voted to set second readings for both the comprehensive-plan change (Ordinance O-25-01) and the rezoning to RS-10 (Ordinance O-25-02) for March 12, 2025; both motions carried unanimously.

Council members and staff noted the development will be limited in scale and compatible with surrounding lots. Council and staff also flagged a future administrative step about responsibility for the short access road that will extend off Day Drive into the new subdivision.

Wesley Mills (applicant) said the developer Ryan Holmes plans the nearby 90-lot subdivision to the north and that the parcel’s proposed lot yields are well under the RS-10 density cap. Staff confirmed allowed institutional uses under the current designation (churches, daycare, public parks) and explained the application is a conversion to a residential land use to match surrounding parcels.

The measures passed on first reading by roll call; the council directed the second reading and adoption be scheduled for March 12, 2025.