St. Petersburg City Council Approves Historic District Designation Near Mirror Lake
St. Petersburg, FL — The City Council has officially designated a local historic district for properties within 200 feet of Mirror Lake. This decision, aimed at preserving the area’s historic character, was passed with a vote of 5 in favor and 2 against after substantial discussion.
Background on the Decision
The push for this designation began in 2020, initiated by council member Gina Driscoll. Local support for the preservation of the unique architecture in the area has grown since then, ultimately leading to the current outcome. Following past attempts, including a deferred initiative in 2021 related to a planned courthouse, residents and the preservation group Preserve the Burg hailed the recent vote.
Community Reactions
Local residents celebrated the decision, expressing gratitude for the council’s efforts to protect their neighborhood’s historic identity. Meanwhile, some council members raised valid concerns regarding the 200-foot boundary deemed arbitrary for the historic district. Opponents such as Matthew Weidner expressed apprehension that the historic designation could infringe on property rights, claiming that the application for the designation was incomplete.
Developer Concerns
Developers, including Will Conroy of Backstreets Capital, also voiced their worries over how the new designation could impact future developments in the vicinity. “The restrictions on new builds could hinder growth in a thriving community,” Conroy commented. However, properties already listed on the St. Petersburg Register of Historic Places, like the notable Mirror Lake Community Library, will remain unaffected.
Exemptions and Regulations
The Sunshine Senior Center, which sits within the newly designated area, is exempt from the restrictions, allowing for potential future redevelopment. As part of the new historic district regulations, any changes to exteriors, new constructions, or demolitions will require a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA). Despite the new rules, existing projects with prior approvals will continue as planned.
Support for the Designation
The city mandated a majority support from the tax parcels in the area to proceed. This resulted in a significant approval from residents, with support from 77 out of 142 parcels. The designation is not only a reflection of community backing but is also expected to enhance property values close to the historic district.
Recent Development Approvals
In the backdrop of this preservation effort, St. Petersburg has seen recent approvals for multiple development projects. These include plans for a luxury condominium and an 11-story residential building near Mirror Lake, alongside a proposed 225-unit apartment complex intended for workforce housing.
Conclusion
This historic district designation is a significant step taken by the St. Petersburg City Council to maintain the area’s rich history while navigating the challenges of modern development. As discussions continue about the impact on current and future projects, the balance between development and preservation remains a top priority for both residents and officials.
