Coral Springs expands small business opportunities with zoning change
Coral Springs elected officials on Wednesday night approved a major zoning change that could expand small business opportunities in the city as well as an estimated $3 million in spending.
Commissioners also honored educators and veterans, and recognized a long-time city employee.
Here’s what you need to know from the March 25 City Commission meeting.
Flex zoning, $3 million in spending approved
After months of conversations with Coral Springs’ business community, commissioners unanimously approved a flexible zoning proposal, which allows a limited range of small-scale manufacturing.
Head of Community Development Tina Jou said that this would lead to more opportunities in the city’s commercial districts for entrepreneurs in artisan industries such as woodworking, handmade textiles, jewelrymaking, cheesemaking, coffee roasting, craft beverage production, and print and design studios.
Commissioners also approved up to $3 million in spending on various projects, including a partnership with the Broward School District to improve lighting and paving at J.P. Taravella High School’s football field, use expiring American Rescue Plan Act funds to expand fiber-optic internet service across the city, and continue regular maintenance of roads, parking lots and buildings.
A new opioid settlement was also approved. According to City Attorney John “JJ” Hearn, this brings Coral Springs’ total winnings from pharmaceutical companies to over $900 million.
Educators, veterans, city employees recognized
Mayor Scott Brook recognized residents who served during the Vietnam War, coming close to tears speaking about their service and the battles they faced even after coming home.
“We cannot measure the debt of gratitude we owe to those brave men and women who served, were wounded, or died in battle in defense of the values that we hold precious,” Brook said.
“We recognize the contributions that they continue to make during those years and the years to follow, to still be here with some very tough memories and some tough losses.”
Commission members also recognized two award-winning educators: Jason Freedman, the Career and Technical Education Director at Coral Springs High School, and Tricia Richardson Roberts, a counselor at James S. Hunt Elemetary School.
Lastly, city officials celebrated the retirement of Lou Goldstein, who spent 36 years with the Coral Springs Parks and Recreation Department. Goldstein began as a park ranger after graduating from college, eventually making his way up to become Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation.
