The Wauchula Planning and Zoning Board met on Monday, February 16, 2015 at 5:30 p.m.
The following members were present: Vice-Chairman Garry Phillips, Chairwoman Donna
Steffens, Shenita Toczek and Ray Graham.
Also present were Assistant City Manager Olivia Minshew, Community Development
Coordinator Kyle Long and Deputy Clerk Victoria Thompson.
Vice-Chairman Phillips called the meeting to order and Chairwoman Steffens arrived
shortly thereafter.
Approval of Minutes – January 19, 2015
Graham motioned to approve the minutes of January 19th as presented, seconded by Toczek.
Deputy Clerk Thompson polled the Board, all were in favor.
Special Exception Request – Carlos Guerrero – 121 W Main Street
Mr. Guerrero addressed the Board on his request for a restaurant with a 20’ x 20’ dance floor and
4 pool tables. He advised they would serve beer and wine but there would be police presence to
make sure there was no trouble. He would like to rent the business out for birthday parties,
weddings and Sweet 16 parties (Quinceaneras).
Marisa Barmby of Central Florida Regional Planning Council was present and explained the
City’s Land Development Code concerning the request.
Ms. Minshew explained Mr. Guerrero’s request also fell within the parameters of the Future
Land Use of Main Street and saw no reason to deny his request.
Public Comment
Pastor Wendell Smith; Jim Kelly of the Herald Advocate; Yolanda Esquivel; Brenda Farmer;
Joyce Cook and Danielle White all voiced concerns about a “dance club” being on Main Street.
They stated they were opposed to such an establishment but had no problem with the restaurant
Mr. Guerrero originally applied for. Parking, alcohol and noise appeared to be the greatest
concerns. Phillips explained the permitted uses on Main Street would allow a restaurant with
beer and wine regardless for clarification and discussion was had on the subject. Ms. Minshew
added that parking requirements are waived in downtown. Mr. Guerrero answered questions
posed about the request.
Mr. Long read the reasons for denial of an application. He explained Mr. Guerrero had
committed none of them; therefore he could not be denied permission to open his establishment.
Phillips moved to approve the request with the following conditions: operating hours would be
11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday – Thursday; Friday and Saturday from 11a.m. to 1 a.m. with Sundays
optional. Law Enforcement presence would be from 10 p.m. until all patrons vacated on Fridays
and Saturdays. Beer and wine would be the only alcoholic beverages served and the business
must be opened within 180 days. There will be a review of the Special Exception 6 months from
the date of opening.
Mr. Guerrero advised he understood and that no alcohol would be taken out of his establishment
as stated in the City’s Code. The occupancy limit would be determined by the Fire Inspector.
Steffens seconded and Deputy Clerk Thompson polled the Board to find all in favor.
Old Business/New Business
Chairwoman Steffens called for any old or new business and received no response.
With no further business to discuss, Chairwoman Steffens adjourned the meeting at 6:50 p.m.
Chairwoman Donna Steffens
Deputy Clerk Victoria Thompson