Popeye's amendment moves to second reading after residents raise traffic, signage and odor concerns

The City of Stuart on Jan. 12 transmitted to second reading a major plan amendment to permit a 1,995-square-foot Popeye's restaurant with dual drive-through lanes in the Windermere Point commercial planned unit development. The motion advances the ordinance to a future meeting but includes direction that staff and the applicant further address traffic impacts, signage quantity and location, landscaping maintenance and odor mitigation measures.

Planning staff and the applicant presented a revised design package after Local Planning Agency feedback that reduced proposed signage and softened architectural colors to better match the surrounding plaza. Staff's traffic consultant estimated AM peak trips at roughly 122 trips (67 entering, 55 exiting) and PM peak trips of approximately 229 (127 entering, 102 exiting); the analysis suggested a de minimis net increase for the site compared with previously approved retail uses, but several neighbors disputed the study given recent nearby apartment and multifamily development.

Residents from adjacent neighborhoods asked for a fuller traffic review, a clear rendering of any monument sign, better landscaping and confirmation of cooking/ventilation controls (scrubbers). Lloyd Nava, a resident of Windermere, said sight lines at the signal and U-turn maneuvers are a safety hazard. Applicant representatives said they revised elevations, reduced signage and will work with staff on dumpster locations and odor control; franchisee Oliver Hurd said the operator is small and locally engaged.

The commission approved moving the item to second reading with no date certain so staff can gather the outstanding materials and respond to neighbor letters; staff recommended returning with responses and design updates for the second reading in ample time.