Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/104211
Sarasota News Leader January 18, 2013 Vista Neighborhood Association in the aftermath of the Planning Board's approval of a new Walmart supercenter for the old Ringling shopping plaza. The Sarasota City Commission will hear that appeal next month. The Alta Vista neighborhood used two grounds for its appeal. It said the staff misread the zoning code, and the development is not compatible with the neighborhood. Tim Litchett, the head of the city's Neighborhood and Development Services Office, told The Sarasota News Leader he stands behind staff's interpretation of the zoning code. As for "compatibility," it is more of a judgment call, he said. Page 37 about administrative review," said the former mayor. "Some are leery. But others say if that's what it takes to get economic development on the North Trail, then let's do it. I don't see a downside for administrative review on North Trail." OVERLAY ALREADY IN PLACE Chapdelain noted there is already a North Trail Overlay District; the one under review would replace it. The current district guidelines call for the Planning Board to undertake a site plan review instead of providing for administrative review. The old one allows buildings up to 45 feet, The Walmart plan received not only a favor- while the new overlay district would provide able "administrative review" by staff, it was for an additional 10 feet above that limit. The also approved by the Planning Board by a 3-2 old plan has never been used. Chapdelain said, vote. "Some felt it was not comprehensive enough." Dick Clapp has been working on the overlay He does not expect the new overlay district to district since its inception. "There is still con- produce a land rush to North U.S. 41. "I don't cern by some, a handful in the neighborhoods, think anybody considers this a silver bullet," The draft North Trail Overlay District plan includes suggestions for architecture at the intersections of the North Tamiami Trail and other public streets. Designs courtesy City of Sarasota