Board recommends adding density‑bonus reference to LDC and points to comp‑plan limits

The Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval of LDC 26‑004 on May 19, a text amendment that inserts a new section into the land‑development code clarifying gross‑density review and adding an affordable‑housing density bonus provision tied to existing comprehensive‑plan policy.

Planner Drew Pearson said the new section points reviewers to the comprehensive plan when determining maximum allowed density for developments and includes a provision that qualifying master‑plan or mixed‑use projects may receive a density bonus pursuant to comp‑plan policy FL‑01‑03. Pearson described the bonus mechanics: "eligible develops may claim a density bonus of 1 market rate unit for each affordable unit constructed up to and not exceeding 150% of the maximum density permitted," and he said the LDC text is intended to implement the comp‑plan policy, not to change it.

Board members asked whether the affordable threshold moves year to year; Pearson said affordability calculations are based on the Jacksonville metropolitan statistical area area median income (AMI) and may change according to state and regional calculations. Member Hodges moved to recommend approval; the board voted 6–0.

Next steps: staff will forward the recommendation for adoption and said program details such as income thresholds will follow the statutory definitions and AMI updates described by staff.