Palm Beach County residents, 1000 Friends of Florida and environmental activist Rosa Durando have filed paperwork with the State of Florida this week to challenge County land use amendment approvals, and gain standing to participate in negotiation.
The State Department of Community Affairs had found the proposed land use amendments to be out of compliance with state law and the county's plan, but County Commissioners adopted the amendments despite the findings. The amendments would, among other changes, allow a tenfold increase in homes on 97 acres within a rural area, and approve 26 homes where only two are now allowed. Throughout the year at public hearings, residents have testified that the proposals are too dense. The City of Greenacres is also opposed to the changes in the unincorporated area near the City.
The commissioners "need to review what the professionals in planning have done", area resident Jim Harangody said.
County and state planners are trying to negotiate an alternative plan. If negotiations stall, an administrative law judge will hearing testimony from all the parties involved and make a ruling.
Thanks to Sheryl Stolzenberg
