Board approves special exception for Boss Lighting to move LED manufacturing to Burnt Store Road

The Charlotte County Board of Zoning Appeals on July 9 approved a special exception (SC‑25‑005) for Boss Lighting LLC to use an existing 8,200‑square‑foot building on Burnt Store Road in Punta Gorda for indoor LED lighting manufacturing and assembly.

Senior planner Elizabeth Nocek told the board the site is zoned CG and the use – light manufacturing and assembly in a completely enclosed building – is allowed by special exception under section 3‑9‑42 of the county code. Nocek said staff found the proposal consistent with the comprehensive plan, compatible with surrounding commercial uses, and unlikely to generate significant noise, hazardous materials, or traffic. Staff recommended approval with conditions limiting the special exception to the submitted site plans and requiring the applicant to obtain applicable permits.

Applicant representatives described the business and its expansion plans. Emily Curran, representing Boss Lighting and MCA, thanked staff for their assistance and said the company is relocating and scaling up operations. Founder Jim Grady said the business started locally and has grown into a manufacturer with increased production needs and new employees. "This is us," Grady said, summarizing the business's local roots and growth.

The board approved the special exception with the conditions suggested by staff; the motion to approve was seconded and passed by voice vote. The chair welcomed the business to the community.

Staff recorded standard conditions: the special exception applies only to the lands and floor plans submitted with the application; the applicant must obtain all applicable county permits and approvals; and any major change in the use or site would require a modification of the special exception.