Commission approves rezoning at 3352 U.S. 98 N. to light-industrial after public hearing

The Okeechobee County Board of County Commissioners on June 10 adopted an ordinance to rezone property at 3352 U.S. Highway 98 North from Residential Single-Family (RSF) to Light Industrial after a public hearing and a planning-board recommendation in favor of the change.

Planner testimony to the board described the parcel and surrounding pattern of small lots along the Highway 98 corridor, noting a mix of agriculture, commercial and residential zoning that complicates single-family development. Staff and the planning board recommended light-industrial zoning because it limits outdoor activity and, in staff’s assessment, better fits the commercial corridor than RSF. The staff report referenced consistency with the county’s land-development regulations and comprehensive plan.

During the public-hearing period no speakers were recorded; staff confirmed mailed notices had been sent to surrounding property owners. Commissioners asked whether homeowners behind the lots had received notice and whether the lots would be developable as single parcels; staff said notices were mailed and that individual lots could be combined or developed but that small lot sizes would limit full development without consolidation. Commissioners also discussed potential residential/industrial interface concerns but noted the light-industrial district restricts outdoor operations and that property owners could seek special exceptions for uses not specifically permitted.

Commissioner Sumner made a motion to approve the rezoning; Commissioner Burrows seconded. The motion passed by voice vote without dissent.

Ending: The planning staff will finalize the ordinance language and record the zoning change as adopted.