Port St. Joe board tables special-exception request for retaining wall at Drabkin property

PORT ST. JOE, Fla. — The Port St. Joe Planning and Development Review Board on Nov. 4 tabled a special-exception request from David and Patricia Drabkin after board members said the application lacked basic engineering information needed to assess potential impacts.

The item covered Parcel 05681-135R, Lot 7 Grabell Drive. Staff said the applicants planned a structure that includes a retaining wall that would encroach into the required side setback. A neighbor who said she lives next door told the board she believed the notice was for a fence but was told the proposal includes a permanent retaining wall. The neighbor said she had no objection to the house being closer to her driveway but wanted clarity about the retaining wall and whether any fencing or work would cross a nearby ditch.

"I just don't understand what they're trying to do," the neighbor said.

Board members asked for an engineered plan showing wall height and how soil and runoff would be managed. One member noted the board needed to know whether the wall would be elevated with substantial soil behind it, which could worsen runoff onto adjacent properties.

The board voted to table the request and ask the applicants to return with more detailed plans and engineering information before the board takes further action.