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Planning board recommends allowing recycled composite decking and trellis materials
Summary
The Planning & Zoning Board recommended allowing composite recycled materials (minimum 60% recycled content) as an approved material for trellises, decks and walkways; the city architect will review product compatibility and the board urged design oversight to prevent poor appearance or rapid fading.
Planning staff presented a narrow text amendment to permit composite recycled materials — typically made from plastic waste or PVC products with at least 60% recycled content — as an approved option for trellises, wood decks and pavers adjacent to waterways. Jennifer Garcia, Planning & Zoning Director, said the intent is to reduce wood‑treated products and paint runoff near waterways and to expand durable, low‑maintenance alternatives.
Board members applauded the sustainability rationale but emphasized design oversight: several members said some manufactured composite products can appear cheap or fade over time, and asked that the city architect or the Board of Architects retain review authority for product selection, appearance and long‑term performance. Staff responded that the city architect will review proposed products and may forward nonstandard proposals to the Board of Architects; staff also noted city CIP could rely on a preapproved product list for routine projects.
A motion to recommend the amendment passed on roll call with all members voting in favor. The board’s recommendation will go to the City Commission for final action.
