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Board hears update on mediation in Tringale matter and state changes to third‑party reviews
Summary
City staff told the Board of Adjustments that a 70.51 filing prompted scheduled mediation in the Tringale matter and warned of recently passed state bills requiring explicit criteria for denials and a city‑maintained list of approved third‑party site‑plan reviewers; staff said the city will likely issue an RFP to compile qualified private reviewers.
During general board discussion before the variance hearing, city staff updated members on two items with broader municipal implications: a pending mediation under Section 70.51 of the Florida Statutes in the Tringale matter, and recent state legislation changing local processes for site‑plan and third‑party reviews.
A staff attorney told the board a 70.51 filing had been made and that mediation has been scheduled. "If that mediation does not result in a settlement that would be sent to the commission to approve, then we have to have a hearing," the attorney said, adding that mediation outcomes must follow the city's comprehensive plan and ordinances. The attorney also noted the possibility that the owner could later file a claim under the Bert Harris Act and that other appeal remedies to circuit court are available.
Staff also briefed the board on multiple bills the legislature passed that likely will affect local land‑use practice, including laws that will require local governments to state specific criteria when denying rezonings, plats or site plans. Of particular operational impact, staff said, is legislation requiring cities to provide a list of private third‑party reviewers that applicants may opt to use instead of the technical review committee; the city will likely need to issue an RFP and maintain a roster of qualified reviewers.
Planning Manager Margaret Pearson said the requirement to keep a list of private providers is intended to create options for applicants and that such reviewers would need to meet state‑specified qualifications. Planner Mia Sadler and other staff signaled readiness to proceed with procurement and to draft local procedures consistent with the new state requirements.
Board members heard the update without taking formal action but discussed implications for future cases and for the technical review committee's workload.
