PLANNING COMMISSION UNANIMOUSLY DENIES REZONE APPLICATION FOR STATE ROAD 70 PARCEL IN HISTORIC ONECO

(ONECO, FL—AUGUST 15, 2024)  Today the Manatee County Planning Commission voted 7-0 to deny a South Carolina developer’s application to rezone a 6.4 acre parcel at 2008 53rd Ave. East / State Road 70 for a 116 unit housing project, 25% of which would be designated “affordable housing”. Bradenton Project LLC planned to build four 3-story buildings  and two residential houses.  Representatives from Citizens for Historic Oneco made a case that the project would add dangerous traffic, potential flooding from storm water runoff, damage wetlands and wildlife habitat.  Neighborhood incompatibility was also a factor. 

Storm water runoff was another large factor in the Planning Commission’s denial of the application. Tropical Storm Debby dropped almost 12” of rain August 4th and the land to the south of the proposed development is in the Pearce Drain/Gap & Bowlees Creek watersheds which flooded along 55th Ave. E. Residents from that area attended  and shared stories of  historic flooding in the area.

Another issue commissioners were concerned about it the affect the project would have on the Johnson Helm House which would be just 40’ to the east of the development. The home, built in 1908, is one of only two Manatee County private residences listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is the only original piece of Old Oneco’s rich history which began back in 1881. 

“Putting a multi-level housing smack dab next to a historical home makes zero sense on juxtaposition alone,” stated Laini Routh Hollins who’s family has deep roots in the historic Oneco area. 

Planning Board Chairman Richard Bedford stated the project was the equivalent of “trying to put a round peg in a square hole.” Other commissioners agreed the project was incompatible with the surrounding neighborhoods, lacked creativity and the density for the area was too high.

“This was a home run for our community. We need responsible development that fits with our existing zoning of 4.5 single family unites per acre. This project was asking for an 80% increase or 20 units per acre. We already face traffic congestion with over 32,000 cars along this stretch.” stated Margi Nanney, spokesperson for Citizens for Historic Oneco.

Citizens for Historic Oneco has been active in preserving the unique history and character of Historic Oneco, the area between 15th St. East and US 301  and nearby neighborhoods

The rezone application was scheduled to come before the Manatee County Board of County Commissioners Thursday, August 22nd but has been continued until September 5th for a final vote. Bradenton Project LLC was represented by Morris Engineering of Bradenton. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 941-527-7865