Land Use

The digital billboard code being negotiated as part of a lawsuit settlment with ClearChannel (owner of most of the billboards in Tampa) made a suprise appearance on today's city council agenda.  Sitting at item number 66, this new code will allow digital billboards in certain areas of town that generally run along commercial corridors and the freeways.

The suprise listing of this item on today's agenda was noticed by OSHNA member Ingrid Smith.  The item reads:

Armstrong Development, the company contracted by CVS to build on the lot, has sent a letter to OSHNA's membership and asked that we publish it.

CVS will be going for a variance on April 15th for a 2-APS (beer/wine package liquor sale) under file number V09-378.

OSHNA received a polite email from Armstrong Development regarding CVS.  According to Greg Webb, while Armstrong is still interested in developing that corner for CVS, CVS corporate believes they gave enough concessions and took the negative reaction of City staff to heart.  Armstrong Development has been told by CVS to cease work on the project.  Mr Webb wanted everyone to know that CVS appreciated the support of the residents.  If City staff would support re-opening the PD, Armstrong Development believes that CVS might consider a second attempt.

City Council met today at 10:30am and finished the vote to deny the zoning changes for CVS.  OSHNA's representative at that meeting was Ann McDonald.  She reports:

CVS went before City Council late Thursday evening to request a zoning change from commercial intensive to planned development in preparation for locating their store at Sligh and Nebraska Ave.  A number of residents showed up to the meeting, as did the presidents of all three neighborhood associations and the business guild. 

City Staff recommended against approval.