Lakeland’s Planning and Zoning Board voted 4-1 on Dec. 16 to block Talbot House Ministries from relocating its homeless shelter to Memorial Boulevard.
The board denied a zoning change for a 72,000-square-foot facility at the southeast corner of Memorial Boulevard and North Ingraham Avenue, leaving the project’s future in doubt.
Board members influenced by public opposition
Despite the staff endorsement and legal warnings, several board members said they were influenced by neighborhood objections and concerns about the site’s suitability.
“We’ve had overwhelming opposition to this project from the residents,” said board member Susan Seitz. “These folks have their money invested in their businesses, in their homes, in their schools, and they do not want a transient facility in their neighborhood.”
Board Chair Terry Dennis said the board is not required to approve every project that meets technical guidelines. “We have also disapproved hotels and other things because we did not feel like they were the best option to go into the surrounding area that they were going to,” Dennis said.
Board member Jolian Rios said his primary concern was the proposed facility’s proximity to Lakes Church Academy.
Board member Jeri Thom said she felt the proposal would simply move “what’s become an issue in one location of the city, a mile or two away to another area of the city.”
Talbot House has 30 days to appeal the board’s decision to the Lakeland City Commission, which would make the final determination after a public hearing.