Board approves zoning text change to allow 65-foot public buildings in institutional districts; resident questions fairness

The Planning & Zoning Board voted Dec. 2 to approve a zoning text amendment that allows publicly owned or operated buildings in the Institutional zoning district to reach a maximum height of 65 feet.

Bridget Keem of the Planning and Zoning Department said the text change (section 158.110, subsection g) aligns the zoning code with a 2024 comprehensive plan amendment that authorizes a 65-foot height for public buildings under the institutional land-use designation. Keem said the revision is intended to permit future publicly owned facilities — the planning staff noted examples such as a parking garage and a public works building — to proceed without separate variances.

During public comment, Brad Moore of Port St. Lucie asked why the city would allow taller public buildings while private businesses remain restricted, arguing that the same standards should apply to all developers. City staff and board members responded that the amendment specifically addresses the Institutional zoning district and that "publicly owned or operated" can include city, county, federal entities and certain educational institutions that provide public benefit; they said private developers have other zoning districts and processes to pursue taller private buildings.

Board members asked whether the definition of 'public' was limited to city ownership; staff replied it could include county and federal ownership and public educational uses when applicable. The board voted to approve the zoning text amendment with the staff recommendation.