🌅🚧 200-Unit Housing Rejected

Good Morning, Sunland

It’s Friday, and I’ve got some exciting news! At Sunland Bookstore, we’re offering “Pay What You Want” photoshoots on January 19th. We have 10 slots available, so grab your time here with a $20 deposit (fully refundable if you’re not satisfied). After the shoot, we’ll send you your photos, and you pay what you think they’re worth. That’s it!

I’m excited to connect with more people in the area this year—this is just the beginning! Alright…

Weather Update
It’s still colder than we’d like, but today brings some warmth:

☀️ Day: High of 73°F, mostly sunny, with SE winds at 10–15 mph.
🌙 Night: Low of 60°F, clear skies, with S winds at 5–10 mph.

Sounds like “A House Is Not a Home” by Luther Vandross.

❓ Poll Question: What’s the coldest you remember it ever getting here in St. Lucie County? I swear I remember seeing 29°F at some point growing up.

☕ Shoutout: Cool Beans Coffee. I stopped by yesterday for a latte and noticed their $2 weekday coffee hour (hot or iced). If you need a pick-me-up, definitely check it out!

📢 Volunteer Opportunity: St. Lucie County is seeking volunteers for the Contractors Examining Board, Historical Commission, and Homeless Advisory Committee. Apply here by Monday, Jan. 20, at 5 p.m.

🍋 The Main Squeeze: Commission Rejects 200-Unit Housing Proposal in White City 🏡❌

The Quick Take
A proposal to rezone 34 acres at 25th Street and Midway Road from commercial to residential failed to secure enough support from the St. Lucie County Board of Commissioners Tuesday night, following significant pushback from residents.

Why this matters to our community 🌟
The proposal, led by Kolter Group Acquisitions LLC, aimed to address housing demands by building a maximum of 200 townhomes at a density of 5.4 units per acre. Proponents argued the development would reduce traffic compared to commercial use and preserve wetlands, but residents and some commissioners voiced concerns about the project’s impact on White City’s character, traffic, and the need for more businesses in the area. 🌳🚗

Community impact 🌍

• Traffic: Residents highlighted current congestion at 25th Street and Midway Road, worrying the development would make commutes worse. Kolter’s representatives countered that traffic would decrease from ~22,000 daily trips (commercial use) to ~2,000 (residential use). 🚦

• Economic needs: Many residents, including former Sheriff Keith Pearson, advocated for more commercial development, such as restaurants and healthcare facilities, to serve the growing community. 🛍️🍴

• Environmental preservation: Kolter proposed preserving wetlands and enhancing buffers with native vegetation, addressing concerns about local natural habitats. 🌱

The decision 🗳️
After hearing community feedback, Commissioner Cathy Townsend suggested tabling the proposal for further adjustments. However, Commissioner James Clasby motioned to deny the rezoning entirely, citing the need to curb government expansion and maintain White City’s low-density appeal. Commissioners Erin Lowry and Jamie Fowler joined Clasby in rejecting the project.

Community voices 🗣️

• “We have traffic backing up all the way to our gate in the morning. It’s already a nightmare.” – Local resident

• “You’re asking for 22,000 trips a day with big box stores versus 2,000 with homes. Are you sure that’s what you want?” – Commissioner Cathy Townsend

What’s next 🔄
The decision blocks the current plan, but Kolter representatives asked for more time to address concerns. Whether they’ll return with a revised proposal remains unclear.

👉 Get More On This Story

🍊 The Press Round

🏘️ Port St. Lucie Leads Florida in New Apartments

Port St. Lucie saw a 12.9% increase in rental units last year, leading Florida in new apartments. While options are growing, affordability remains a challenge, with average rent at $1,800—16% higher than the national average. Experts say relief may come as supply catches up with demand.

👉 Catch Up Here

🧦 Treasure Coast Sock Drive

The Treasure Coast Sock Drive aims to collect 20,000 pairs of socks by February 28. Drop-off locations are available throughout the region to support those in need.

👉 More Info Here

🚨 Pedestrian Struck by Train

A woman was injured Thursday near the 12th Street Brightline tracks in Vero Beach. Officials report she was side-swiped and hospitalized with severe injuries. Investigations are ongoing.

👉 Read the Full Story

🍹The Refill: 🖼️🖌️ Remember the Peacock Mural? It’s Done!

🎨 Peacock Mural Transformation Complete!
The highly anticipated mural at 607 Orange Avenue in the Peacock Arts District is now finished! Created by Sitki Dogan using a mix of spray paint and latex, this artwork brings fresh energy and creativity to the area, a true need, you feel me?

If you’ve been following this project, you’ll want to see the stunning results—view the "before" image here and the "after" image here.

🚗 Whether you’re driving by or stopping to admire up close, this masterpiece is a must-see.

👉 Explore the PAD Mural Program to discover more artistic highlights in the area.

Support Sunland News

🎉 Top Clicked Events! Enjoy!

See Full Events List Here

Sneaker Ball Party
📅 Friday, January 10 | 8:00 PM
📍 Bayshore Blvd, Port Saint Lucie
Get ready to lace up and glam out at the ultimate Sneaker Ball! Join Will Seri'us and Stella B. for a stylish night filled with music and entertainment.
👉 Find out more

Full Moon Market
📅 Saturday, January 11 | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
📍 Port St. Lucie
Explore a magical market showcasing local vendors and artisans under the full moon. Enjoy a fun afternoon supporting your community.
👉 Get Details Here

Treasure Coast Food Fest & Craft Fair
📅 Saturday, January 11 – Sunday, January 12 | Starts at 12:00 PM
📍 Piazza Drive, Port St. Lucie
Savor delicious bites and shop unique crafts at this two-day festival. Every menu item is $5 or less, supporting the Treasure Coast Food Bank.
👉 Check It Out

Saturday Drive-In Movie Nights | The Wild Robot
📅 Saturday, January 11 | 7:00 PM
📍 Fort Pierce
Experience the magic of drive-in movies with a screening of The Wild Robot. Enjoy a fun family night under the stars.
👉 Find Out More

If you have an event, send it to me here

💧 The Last Drop

• Parks & Recreation Survey Open
  Port St. Lucie wants your input to shape the future of its parks. Share your ideas and help improve the community!
  👉 Take the Survey

• $167M for Small Business Growth
  Florida is investing $167M to boost small businesses. Find out how this funding could impact the Treasure Coast economy.
  👉 Learn More

• Palm Beach Gardens Ice Rink Approved
  Palm Beach Gardens approved a $40M ice rink project, replacing Plant Drive Skate Park. Residents are divided over the plan's benefits and concerns.
  👉 Read More

📸 This is Sunland

A year ago today, we lost a true father, brother, friend, uncle, mentor, barber, DJ, rapper, curator, artist, speaker, thinker, die-hard (and I mean die-hard 😂) Dolphins fan, and a TRUE Saint Lucie County legend. Writing this about my uncle still feels surreal, but I wouldn’t be writing this if it weren’t for Darin Slater. He has shown me—and continues to show me—just how important it is to be for and about your community and your family. For that, I’m eternally thankful. Love you, Unc! Keep watching over us!

Alright… see you Monday!

With love,
Ja’Min

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