Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Zoning topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission OKs Atlantic Overlay change to allow museum use; Jellyfish Museum proponents promise a cultural, educational attraction
Summary
By vote May 13 the commission approved a zoning text amendment to allow museums (and related indoor entertainment uses) in the Atlantic Boulevard Overlay District's B-2 parcels, clearing the way for a proposed jellyfish museum near the pier.
The City Commission approved on first reading a text amendment to the Atlantic Boulevard Overlay District (AOD) May 13 that permits museums and related indoor recreation/entertainment uses in commercial base zoning districts, including the small number of B-2 parcels inside the overlay. The change was requested after the property owner and a museum operator asked to locate a jellyfish museum on a B-2 parcel that did not currently allow the use.
Max Williams, principal planner for development services, said the change is narrowly tailored to allow "museum" uses in any underlying commercial zoning within the AOD; only a handful of B-2 parcels would be affected. The Planning & Zoning Board recommended approval and the proposal included letters of support from the CRA, Visit Fort Lauderdale, the Greater Pompano Chamber, Broward Education Foundation, and the Economic Development Council.
Irina Pelopkonich, representing the Jellyfish Museum team, said the project would be an educational attraction focused on biology and ocean health, with programming for schools and special-needs visitors and discounted or free admission for some groups. Nathan Werner, representing the landlord, said the lease addendum would require the tenant to resurface and restripe the parking lot and renovate the building exterior.
Several residents and local groups spoke in favor during the public hearing, citing tourism and educational benefits. Commissioners debated whether to also permit a broader "other indoor commercial or membership recreation/entertainment" category in B-2; after discussion the commission ultimately kept both the museum language and the broader indoor-entertainment category (the commission considered and then withdrew a motion to remove the broader language). The ordinance passed first reading by unanimous vote.
Ending: The amendment clears the path for the proponents to finalize a lease and proceed with design and permitting. The Jellyfish Museum team said renderings are in the lease addendum and that they will work with city planners on design and code compliance.
