Planning Commission: Public Hearing - 05.11.26

The Hillsborough County Planning Commission held a public hearing on May 11, 2026, to consider several privately initiated comprehensive plan map amendments affecting land use designations in various areas including Central Tampa, Ybor City, and unincorporated Hillsborough County. Key procurement-related discussions involved proposed changes to future land use designations to allow for increased residential density, mixed-use development, or light industrial uses. For example, a 3.39-acre site at 1605 North Waters Court was proposed to change from community mixed use 35 to urban mixed use 60, increasing allowable density and intensity to support redevelopment and reinvestment. Another amendment sought to reclassify a 0.39-acre site at 1701 East 2nd Avenue from light industrial to urban mixed use 60 to introduce residential uses. A third amendment proposed changing a 6.7-acre site northwest of Hillsborough Avenue and George Road from residential and office commercial to light industrial, which staff found inconsistent with the comprehensive plan due to compatibility concerns with adjacent residential areas; the applicant argued for consistency citing surrounding industrial uses and proximity to Tampa International Airport. Lastly, a rural area amendment to increase residential density was found inconsistent with the comprehensive plan. Motions were taken on each amendment, with the commission recommending approval for the urban mixed use amendments and finding inconsistency for the light industrial and rural residential amendments. These decisions impact future development opportunities, zoning considerations, and potential capital projects in the county.