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Board denies partial‑demolition approach for 161 North Beach, reaffirms prior full‑demolition approval
Summary
After extended debate about neighborhood impact and DEP permitting, the DRB denied the applicant's request to change an earlier approved full demolition to a partial demolition that would salvage existing pilings and major structural components. The board reaffirmed its January approval and recorded concerns about timing and neighbor disruption.
The board engaged in an extended hearing on 161 North Beach Road before voting to deny the applicant's request to change a prior full‑demolition approval to a partial demolition that would leave pilings and structural beams in place. Jared Gaylord, representing the owner, and contractor Mike Odom argued that a partial demolition would shorten construction time and reduce neighborhood disruption; contractor Mike Odom said much of the exposed damage was fixable. Staff and some board members expressed concern about leaving a partially demolished structure on the island for an extended period, and the building department emphasized DEP (state) review would still be required for coastal construction permitting.
Public comment highlighted process and notice issues: Charles Donaldson, speaking for adjacent seasonal residents, asked the board to consider continuing the matter so neighbors could review materials when they were present. Catherine Harding read a staff email from the DEP field representative saying the state would defer "to Tallahassee for a full CCCL permit consideration," and noted, "a field permit is not going to be issued on this." Ultimately the board moved to deny the partial‑demolition application and reaffirmed the prior January approval for full demolition so the prior development order remains in effect.
