Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in St. Johns County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in development with medium priority
Affordable housing land inventory
A CARE representative introduced the community land trust model — where a nonprofit owns land and leases it to affordable-home buyers — as a new tool to keep homes affordable in perpetuity, and said the group will brief each commissioner.
Affordable housing need
CARE advocates urged the county to use zoning incentives and conditions on rezonings to win more affordable housing, and to set annual unit goals.
Warehouse build-out at 3440 Agricultural Center Drive
Platform Real Estate Group could get up to $969,206 back in fees and taxes for a 246,000-square-foot warehouse — the county estimates a 193% return over 20 years, but critics called it a tax holiday for unknown out-of-state owners. Final agreement comes back later.
Marsh & Arrow outdoor archery range on US 1 South
A new low-intensity outdoor archery range is approved for US 1 South, open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily with no crossbows allowed. The county recently amended its land development code to make archery ranges possible.
Cabinet Depot warehouse rezoning on Ronald Road
A displaced cabinet business owner wants to rezone two lots next to 30-year residential homes from mobile-home residential to Commercial Warehouse. Neighbors worry the zoning runs with the land forever; the board recommended approval with intrusive uses excluded.
Our Lady Star of the Sea church campus expansion
The church plans to rebuild and enlarge its administration building, childcare center, and faith formation building on A1A, staying well under the impervious surface limit. The board's recommendation moves it to the County Commission, with construction targeted to finish by next summer.
Courthouse expansion avoided through space reuse
Rather than a $60 million courthouse addition, the county is converting the former permit center — moving clerk divisions there — freeing space for two new courtrooms at a fraction of the cost. Design is about 50% complete.
Slowing residential growth, rising commercial permits
Single-family permitting has flatlined at roughly 200–230 homes a month, way down from the boom years, but commercial permitting is trending upward — a mix that helps diversify the tax base and eases service demands.