More than 50 members of the Northeast Florida Builders Association Nassau Builders Council voiced their opposition to the proposed nine-month moratorium on development projects.
Bill Moore, Nassau Builders Council chairman, led the charge that ultimately swayed the commissioners to a 3-2 vote against the proposal. Commissioners Tom Branan, Floyd Vanzant and Jim Higginbotham voted against. Commissioner Branan opposed any type of moratorium, saying it would hinder smart economic development.
The opposing commissioners were in agreement that county interests would be better served without a moratorium, and that they could plan and prepare for future growth without one.
Incoming Nassau Builders Council chairman J.P. McClellan said the commissioners would be more effective if they create a task force rather than calling a time out.
Originally, county planning staff proposed a land-development moratorium on any properties that needed a comprehensive plan amendment, a future land-use map amendment or a rezoning (for developments of more than 20 units).
On Oct. 17, more than 150 Nassau Builders Council members packed the new county commission chambers beyond its capacity.
After the large turnout of tradesmen, builders and landowners at the October meeting, the commissioners drastically reduced the scope of the moratorium. The amended version applied only to developments adjacent to roads without concurrency.
Even as modified, the proposed moratorium sent the wrong message, according to landowners and builders.
The issue of private property rights was addressed by one county landowner who said his family is counting on increases in the value of land they have accumulated over a 100-year period for financial security and retirement.
Another opponent pointed out that the moratorium was too broad and that it lacked specific goals.
One area resident said the county west of Interstate 95 has not enjoyed the growth experienced along Florida A1A, and that a moratorium would interfere with growth in that area.
Opponents argued that the moratorium would not solve the county’s growth problems; it would hurt those employed in the construction trades in Nassau County; it would discourage economic development by sending a negative message to those outside the county; and property rights would be threatened.