Board denies developer—s request for multiple variances at Ocean Drive lot after neighbors cite flooding and safety concerns

The Jacksonville Beach Board of Adjustments denied a series of variances requested for property fronting Ocean Drive after extended public comment and board questioning about minimum relief and neighborhood impacts. The board voted to deny BOA-24-100087, which sought reductions in front- and rear-yard setbacks and a 50% lot-coverage allowance for the lot identified as "Lot A" at 2730 Second Avenue South.

Applicant Greg Barnett, identifying his address as 1280 Plantation Oaks Drive, asked the board for a front-yard setback of 20 feet in lieu of 25, a rear-yard setback of 20 feet instead of 30, and lot coverage of 50% instead of the 35% maximum. "We are asking for a variance for 50% lot coverage based upon the substandard lot and the irregularity of the lot," Barnett said, adding the parcel is an irregular combination of lots and…