Board approves PUD amendment at Swiss Fairways to replace duplexes and suites with single-family lots

The Planning and Zoning Board voted to recommend approval of a planned-unit-development amendment proposed for the Skene Paradise Swiss Fairways PUD, a change staff described as replacing 18 duplex villas and 30 vacation suites with 29 single-family residential lots on two parcels totaling 47.8 acres.

Thibaut Dalen, a homeowner and licensed real estate broker, urged approval, saying the change reduces unit count and will raise property values: “What Tiger Paw Estates is proposing is simple and straightforward — fewer units, bigger lots, better homes,” Dalen said. John Crocker, a Swiss Fairways Golf Course owner who helped secure the original PUD, opposed the amendment, arguing the removed density is necessary for his part of the PUD and that earlier approvals and investments could be jeopardized if the density is shifted. “I absolutely oppose this deal getting approved because I need to continue with the PUD that's approved,” Crocker said.

Resident Jamie Bridal raised traffic and wildlife concerns at Monte Vista and State Road 50, saying she often waits more than 15 minutes to turn from Monte Vista and fears more development will worsen crossings. The applicant’s engineer, Chris Kaye of Carter and Kaye Engineering, said the amendment represents a reduction in density on the subject parcels (from around 66 units to 29), will meet regulatory requirements and is coordinating with St. Johns River Water Management District. The board approved the amendment by voice vote; staff said the change does not alter other PUD provisions and that the overall PUD would total about 131 single-family units after the amendment.