By Kathryn Dentato
[email protected]
The Brooksville City Council heard the first reading of the ordinance to annex property belonging to Robert Bodiford, Jr. and Ryan Bodiford. Argus Acquisitions, LLC intends to develop the property but first, it must be annexed by the City of Brooksville.
Located south of Wiscon Road, the property is approximately 27 acres and divided into two large sections. One section is along the west side of Broad Street and another is adjacent to Mason Smith Road. The property also includes a portion of the Seagate, which is a subdivision within the City of Brooksville.
City Planner Steve Gouldman explained that one of the requirements of annexation is that a portion of the property considered must adjoin property currently within the city limits. Both parcels meet this requirement.
Another requirement is that the annexation cannot create a pocket, or enclave, of property that is not part of the incorporated city limits. City Attorney Nancy Stuparich and Gouldman explained the initial concern over a DOT retention pond on the northern border of one of the parcels.
Since the retention pond is owned by DOT and was required to build the road, it is considered a right-of-way and does not meet the standard of an enclave, Stuparich said.
The second hearing of the ordinance is scheduled for 08/03/2020. If approved, Gouldman said the City’s comprehensive plan will be updated. The property will also be given land use and zoning designations to reflect Argus Acquisitions, LLC’s intention for the property to be used in the development of the Seagate community. Argus plans to develop approximately 200 residential lots between the subject property and adjacent property.
Representatives from Argus Acquisitions, LLC and Coastal Engineering were present at the meeting but did not comment. Though the floor was opened for discussion by both council members and the public, no one offered an opinion or question.
Vice Mayor Pat Brayton moved to approve the first reading of the ordinance and schedule the second reading for the next regular City Council meeting on 08/03/2020. Councilmember Bill Kemerer seconded the motion.
City Clerk Jennifer Battista read the headnote. The motion was approved unanimously by roll call vote.
