The Brooksville Planning and Zoning Board convened on August 13, 2025, to discuss significant developments in the city, including the qualification of expert witnesses and a proposed rezoning for a senior housing project.

The meeting began with the board confirming the qualifications of community development director David Haley and land use planning expert Steve Goldman as expert witnesses. No objections were raised regarding their participation. The board then moved to accept the agenda backup materials into evidence, which passed unanimously.

Following procedural matters, the board welcomed Paul Manuel, a professional engineer from Coastal Design Consultants, who was also qualified as an expert witness for the evening's discussions.

The primary agenda item was a presentation by Daryl Johnston, representing Summit Villa Senior LLP. Johnston outlined a proposal to rezone a 6-acre property owned by the Brooksville Housing Authority for the development of senior apartment housing. The site, located at the northwest corner of Martin Luther King and Hale Avenue, previously housed single-story apartments that are now in disrepair.

Johnston detailed the request to rezone the property from R-3 to PDPMF (Planned Development Multifamily), allowing for the construction of four buildings with a maximum of 80 units, each no taller than 55 feet. He noted that the surrounding area is predominantly residential, with an adjacent property already approved for apartments, making the proposed development consistent with the neighborhood.

Additionally, Johnston mentioned a future phase that could include up to 32 additional units, although this is not part of the immediate construction plans. The proposal includes specific setbacks and fencing plans to align with neighboring properties, although a waiver for fencing between the new development and the existing apartment complex was requested.

Johnston assured the board that the existing roadway network and utilities would adequately support the proposed development. He emphasized that the height of the buildings would require city council approval, as it exceeds the current code limits.

The meeting concluded with the board's acknowledgment of the proposal's details and the next steps in the review process. The discussions highlighted Brooksville's ongoing efforts to address housing needs for its senior population while ensuring compliance with zoning regulations.