Florida Planning Magazine | Fall 2024

FLORIDA PLANNING

Floral & Fauna FLORIDA'S Attracts New Residents

By Lisa Shipley

Planning in an ever-changing world is not easy, especially in Florida.

With more than 1,200 people moving to the state every day, Florida has the second fastest growing population in the United States with four of the nation’s fastest growing metropolitan areas.

Many of the people moving to Florida are drawn explicitly by the state’s pristine lands and waters. But the onslaught of new residents – and the resulting explosion of urban development – threatens to destroy those natural areas that have made the state such a population hotspot.

Each year, Florida loses about 45,000 acres of rural land to development. If that trajectory continues, more than 2 million acres – 20 percent of Florida’s ranches, timberlands and farms – will disappear by 2070.

[APA FLORIDA] KEY CONTACTS - EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Name

APA Florida Executive Committee

President Whit Blanton, FAICP

Immediate Past President Wiatt Bowers, AICP

President-Elect Allara Mills-Gutcher, AICP

Professional Development Henry Bittaker, FAICP

VP Continuing Education Lara Bouck, AICP, PE

VP Membership/Outreach Ennis Davis, AICP

San Felasco Section Gerry Dedenbach, AICP

Gold Coast Section Fabian De La Espriella, AICP

First Coast Section Casey Dendor, AICP

Capital Area Section Kwentin Eastberg, AICP

Phone E-mail

727-464-8712 president@floridaplanning.org

904-363-8488 pastpresident@floridaplanning.org fx

850-319-9180 presidentelect@floridaplanning.org

561-523-0687 profdevelopment@floridaplanning.org

407-481-5672 certmaintenance@floridaplanning.org

904-396-5727 membership@floridaplanning.org f

386-518-5120 sanfelasco@floridaplanning.org

786-245-5202 goldcoast@floridaplanning.org

352-408-6881 firstcoast@floridaplanning.org

561-436-4843 capitalarea@floridaplanning.org

VP Communications Amy Elmore, AICP 813-273-3774 communications@floridaplanning.org

Treasure Coast Section Scott Evans, AICP 727-462-2518 treasurecoast@floridaplanning.org

University Liaison Van Linkous, Ph.D., AICP 863-271-6154 university@floridaplanning.org

VP Conference Services Eddie Ng, AICP

401-524-3263 conferencesvcs@floridaplanning.org

VP Section Affairs Ali Palmer 850-553-3528 sectionaffairs@floridaplanning.org

Atlantic Coast Section Brad Parrish, AICP

321-567-3776 atlanticcoast@floridaplanning.org

Secretary Jill Quigley, AICP 954-641-5680 secretary@floridaplanning.org

Sun Coast Section Nousheen Rahman, AICP 703-981-7215 suncoast@floridaplanning.org

Orlando Metro Section Roxann Read, AICP, CMA, FRA RA 407-245-0300 orlandometro@floridaplanning.org

Treasurer John Roach, AICP

561-822-1448 treasurer@floridaplanning.org

EPG Representative Jarrell Smith 407-839-4006 epg@floridaplanning.org af

Promised Lands Section Laura Tefft, AICP

Emerald Coast Section Melissa Ward, AICP

239-462-3452 promisedlands@floridaplanning.org

850-499-3735 emeraldcoast@floridaplanning.org

Heart of Florida Section Julie Womble 863-860-5105 heartoffl@floridaplanning.org

Broward Section Hing Wong, FAICP 925-549-2000 broward@floridaplanning.org

Student Representative Jared Hoehing Milllie Rivera (non-voting) students@floridaplanning.org

Executive Director Stefanie Svisco

850-201-3272 ssvisco@floridaplanning.org

Ad. Assistant/Bookkeeper Suzie Gray 850-201-3272 sgray@floridaplanning.org

Communications Manager Patti Shea 850-201-3272 pshea@floridaplanning.org

Legislative Representative Lester Abberger 850-524-2779 lesterabberger@gmail.com

Communications Intern Julia Sveen 850-201-3272 intern@floridaplanning.org

Graphic Design (Consultant) Summer Taylor

727-452-2416 summer@exaktmarketing.com

All other inquiries, contact APA Florida at 850-201-3272 or e-mail contact@floridaplanning.org

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

WORKING ON A WORLD

The recent one-two punch of Hurricanes Helene and Milton underscore the vital role that planners and the planning profession play in shaping the health and resilience of our communities and state. Just like with Andrew in 1992 and the triple play of Charley, Jeanne, and Frances in 2004, we learn from these major events and adapt: changing development codes and facility standards, creating mitigation and adaptation plans, undergrounding utilities, strengthening supply chains, building more roundabouts, diversifying our economy, etc. What will be Florida’s long-term lessons learned from the spate of devasting hurricanes over the last several years, from Michael, Irma, Ian, and Idalia to Helene and Milton?

Preliminary estimates are that those two latest hurricanes will each cost at least $50 billion in damages. That doesn’t account for the lives lost, weeks and months of turmoil from displacement, loss of transportation, and lack of income from business closures as debris removal and rebuilding take place. Will the public view the effects of stronger and more rapidly developing storms as just a price to pay for “living in paradise?” If the costs of housing, insurance, and automobile-centric development aren’t already pricing people out of the state, what additional impact will the climate have on household and public costs, as well as the state’s traditional revenue sources of tourism, real estate, and agriculture?

There are a lot of questions to ask but there are not a lot of easy, pat answers. Every community and region will emphasize different plays in the playbook to recover, adapt, and reach their vision. I’m hopeful that Florida will not let a serious crisis go to waste and develop a renewed sense of collaborative partnerships to support our fast-growing state and protect its residents from natural and human-made disasters. I’d love to see the State of Florida establish clear goals and objectives and provide the guidance and funding for regions and localities to sign up and take responsible steps that help achieve those outcomes in their own way. We’ve done it before, but good partnerships take time, require trust, and mutual respect.

There will need to be some statewide decisions on building codes, coastal high hazard development, insurance reform, and other things, but rather than constantly telling locals what they cannot and must not do, let’s work to enable and incentivize the actions we want through meaningful partnerships. There are many interlocking pieces of the puzzle to a better community, and it takes the work of planners in all their roles and responsibilities to fit them together and connect the dots that create a beautiful and strong place where people can thrive. To paraphrase the great Iris DeMent, we are working on a world we may never see. The outcomes we want in the next 50 years depend on our working together.

This is my final column as your APA Florida Chapter president. Thank you for confidence in me and the support of our events at the statewide or section level. The last two years have gone by quickly. It has been a fun and rewarding time getting to know and work with so many passionate and talented professionals across the state. The chapter is in good hands with our Executive Director, Stefanie Svisco, and her staff, along with the new and returning volunteer leadership on our Executive Committee. I’m excited and optimistic to see what’s next for Florida and its many different communities. We have a lot yet to accomplish and I’m happy to continue being a part of it in the best volunteer job anyone can have: Immediate Past President!

Whit Blanton FAICP

APA Florida President

[FLORIDAS] FLORAL & FAUNA

continued from cover page

But healthy lands and waters are the backbone of Florida’s thriving communities and economies. Florida’s state parks generate $2.6 billion annually and support more than 35,000 jobs. Last year, agriculture generated $10 billion and supported more than 83,000 jobs. Outdoor recreation comprises 15 percent of Florida’s total economic output.

Planning and implementing strategies to balance urban growth with a resilient landscape is undoubtedly complex.

But Florida lawmakers took a bold and historic step three years ago that can reduce this complexity.

In 2021, state policy leaders gave unanimous bipartisan support to the creation of the Florida Wildlife Corridor, 18 million acres of connected lands and waters that stretch from the panhandle to the Everglades.

The name “Wildlife Corridor” could lead some to believe its sole purpose is to protect Florida’s iconic animal species. Indeed, the vast network of connected lands and waters provides habitat for almost 2,000 different species including the Florida panther, manatees, and the Gopher Tortoise.

But when creating the Wildlife Corridor, policy leaders specifically called out the benefits it would bring to people, saying its protection was needed to sustain “the green infrastructure that is the foundation of this state’s economy and quality of life.”

As Florida looks for ways to balance the needs of both people and nature, the Wildlife Corridor can serve as a guide to help planners determine where to target development and where to invest for conservation.

Roughly 10 million acres of the Corridor are currently conserved with another 8 million considered “opportunity areas” in need of protection.

Scientific studies have shown the multiple benefits the Wildlife Corridor currently provides to Florida communities – and the how

those benefits will multiply if the Corridor is fully protected.

A study released in 2021 found the Wildlife Corridor supports at least 114,000 jobs and generates $30 billion a year in revenue from recreation, tourism, and agriculture including ranching and forestry. It also showed that for every $1 invested in conserving the corridor, the state receives roughly $6 in return.

Another study released this year by Florida Atlantic University’s Center for Environmental Studies on behalf of the Archbold Biological Station found that protecting the Wildlife Corridor will strengthen Florida’s resilience against climate change. Around two-thirds of Florida’s floodplains are located within the Wildlife Corridor, absorbing water and acting as natural buffers against flooding. It also found that protecting the corridor could reduce wildfire threats by expanding opportunities to conduct land management practices that keep natural areas healthy and resilient to damaging fires.

A separate study conducted last year by the University of Florida Water Institute found that the Wildlife Corridor plays a major role in protecting the state’s water resources. More than half of Florida’s water systems – springs, river corridors, estuaries, and wetlands – either sit in or flow through the corridor. These water systems support recreational income, provide habitat to diverse species, sequester carbon emissions, mitigate pollution, and reduce flood risks.

As the nation’s largest – and only statewide – conservation effort of its kind, the Florida Wildlife Corridor can serve as a model for other states across the country who are looking for ways to balance the needs of both people and nature.

Here in Florida, protecting the Wildlife Corridor can make planning for a changing future a lot less complex.

Lisa Shipley is the is the CEO of Live Wildly, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising public awareness of the importance of wildlife corridor conservation. Lisa was the Keynote Speaker at FPC24. She can be reached at lisa@livewildly.com.

Farms are the Heart of Rural Communities: SUPPORTING ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

By Nick Hill, AICP

At a recent community event, I spoke with the leader of a multi-generational peanut farm in North Central Florida.

She shared the joy of working alongside family and her pride in the farm’s success. What stood out most, however, was the farm’s deep connection to the local community.

“We sell our products at the grocery store, bring our peanuts to local festivals, and hire employees from town. We even open the farm to schoolchildren so they can learn about farming and running a business. We love our community and the special relationship we share with them.”

This highlights the vital role that farms play in rural communities. Unfortunately, this role is increasingly at risk as farmland continues to shrink. According to the 2022 USDA Census of Agriculture, the number of U.S. farms has decreased by 7 percent since 2017, with total farmland shrinking by 2.2 percent. This trend is especially significant in fast-growing states like Florida, which is projected to lose 2.2 million acres of farmland to development by 2070, according to a 2024 assessment by 1000 Friends of Florida

While the macro impact of agricultural loss on food systems, natural resources, and the economy is well known, its effects on rural communities are often overlooked. Farms

are crucial to the economic and cultural vitality of rural Florida towns, providing many benefits such as:

Preserving Agricultural Lands. In rural planning, farmlands are consistently among the most valued assets. Farms maintain large, active lands that contribute to a rural area’s identity and economy. When farmland is converted into residential or commercial centers, it disrupts this synergy. New developments can bring complaints about farming smells and noises and lead to increased traffic that interferes with farm operations, jeopardizing the sustainability of agricultural operations.

Fostering a Sense of Community. Farms are not just economic drivers; they serve as social and cultural hubs. Through farmers’ markets, agricultural fairs, and seasonal events, farms bring people together, fostering social interaction and a collective identity rooted in the land. Traditions such as harvest festivals and farm-totable initiatives further strengthen community bonds and innovate farming economies. Additionally, the collaboration between farms and local businesses creates an interconnected network that supports the community.

MAIN STREET A Vital Artery to Rural Florida

Kathie Beck and Kathie Ebaugh, FAICP

Main Streets once thrived as the heart of rural Florida communities. Storefronts lined central squares, creating a walkable hub where residents, businesses, and visitors enjoyed local shops, services, public buildings, schools, and parks. People parked on two-lane streets directly in front of buildings, while the railroad, a vital lifeline for commerce and connection, brought in new people and goods. Visitors were drawn to uniquely Florida attractions such as springs, beaches, and summer resorts, all within a short walk from the town center.

However, as Florida’s population grew in the latter half of the 20th century, the prominence of rural Main Streets faded. The decline was driven by the diminishing importance of rail lines, which were replaced by personal vehicles and trucks. Florida responded to this shift by building an interstate highway system. Roads like I-75, I-95, I-10, and I-4 gradually replaced railways as the state’s major arteries.

Over time, major metropolitan areas and world-renowned resorts and theme parks overshadowed local attractions. Strip malls and drive-through businesses, tailored to the needs of travelers and residents looking for quick convenience, replaced the once-bustling town center businesses. On-street parking gave way to wider roads, allowing traffic to flow through towns rather than stop. Slowly,

Florida’s rural Main Streets became quiet, with vacant buildings and dwindling activity.

In 1985, recognizing the need to support once vibrant economic and cultural corridors, and to help communities, maintain their individual architectural identities, the Florida Department of State implemented the Florida Main Street program with a focus on economic vitality through historic preservation By providing technical assistance, advocacy, and professional planning support, the program helps support revitalization of these once-thriving hubs.

DeFuniak Springs is a prime example of how the Florida Main Street program can help reactivate a town center. Located along Highway 90 in Walton County, DeFuniak Springs was once the bustling summer home of the Chautauqua Institute, easily accessed by the Florida Gulf and Atlantic Railroad or Route 90. However, the construction of I-10 led to the town being bypassed, resulting in a decline in railway use. Route 90 became a pass-through for interstate travelers, and the town’s business center shifted from the heart of DeFuniak Springs to the corridor near I-10. Like many communities, DeFuniak Springs experienced a period of decline as transportation patterns changed.

[MAIN] STREET

continued from page 8

To reignite interest in this historic town, Main Street DeFuniak Springs was established to promote, protect, and improve the downtown district. The organization recognizes that every community deserves a vibrant town center with a thriving local economy, rich character, and inviting public spaces. By celebrating the town’s rich history and focusing on economic revitalization, Main Street DeFuniak Springs is helping to restore the area’s charm and vitality.

In recognition of its success, Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd highlighted the efforts of Main Street DeFuniak Springs in September, noting the program’s role in revitalizing the historic downtown. Secretary Byrd praised the success of local businesses and community events, emphasizing how the Main Street program effectively promotes economic development while preserving history. Thanks to these efforts, Main Street has once again become the heart of the community, with developing and established businesses attracting both residents and visitors.

The Florida Main Street program is a valuable resource for other rural communities looking to revitalize their town centers. For more

information on how the program can assist your community, contact the Florida Main Street State Coordinator Katherine Beck at katherine.beck@dos.fl.gov

Kathie Beck is the Program Coordinator for the Florida Main Street Program. She can be reached at Katherine.Beck@dos.myflorida.com.

Kathie Ebaugh, FAICP, is a Board Member of the Florida Downtown Association, whose mission is to actively support the redevelopment of Florida's Main Streets. She can be reached at kathie.ebaugh@jbpro.com.

The Delicate Balance of Expansion and Preservation

By Melissa Ward, AICP

Rural communities have long been celebrated in American art and culture, with images of small-town parades, soda shops, and firehouse dogs capturing a nostalgic charm.

But beyond this idealized view, rural areas face unique challenges—especially those near popular coastal resorts and scenic attractions. For instance, Walton County and Citrus County’s Crystal River, the surge of urban-like development on historically rural land demands a delicate balance of growth and preservation.

Local planners and leaders in these communities must grapple with tough questions. How can they provide essential services for rural areas adjacent to thriving tourist hubs? And how can they prepare for the next 25 years when most resources are concentrated around resorts?

Walton County’s history runs deep, from its Native American roots to the iconic Lake Yard in DeFuniak Springs. This circular lake, home to the Florida Chautauqua since 1909, reflects a legacy of community and cultural enrichment. Similarly, Citrus County’s first-magnitude springs are a vital sanctuary for the endangered Florida manatee, supported by the only U.S. refuge dedicated to a single species. These rural areas are as historically significant as they are ecologically vital.

Historically, rural counties have benefited from resort developments, with new jobs, higher property values,

continued on page 12

Kings Bay in Crystal River, a tourism hotspot.

Three Sisters Springs Wildlife Refuge, home to the hundreds of manatees.

[COASTAL] RURAL TOWNS

continued from page 11

infrastructure grants, and tourism dollars boosting local budgets. Early developments like Sandestin and Seaside in Walton County and Crystal River in Citrus County created seasonal employment and economic stability for local families. Such growth was necessary and appreciated, helping to sustain communities and promote their history.

However, the rapid influx of seasonal homes, the surge of shortterm rental properties, and and urban expansion presents significant challenges. Higher land prices, the loss of affordable housing, and increased commuting times strain long-term residents, often pushing them toward more affordable areas. Meanwhile, the seasonal influx of vacationers alters the character of established neighborhoods and places new demands on public services and infrastructure.

Rural areas do not have the mobility infrastructure and options urban areas have. The fact is that rural counties often cannot offer public transit alternatives for the blue-collar workers and service industry workers pushed to the outskirts of the county. Walton and Crystal River residents often travel long distances without affordable transit alternatives.

The real challenge is preventing rural areas from being overwhelmed by urban-style density and development. Planners must be vigilant to avoid the “waves” of development encroaching on these landscapes, eroding both the natural beauty and functional integrity of rural life. Essential services—like water, sewer, utilities, and internet access—must be provided thoughtfully, but without compromising the rural character that defines these communities.

A strategic approach that considers long-term sustainability, rather than just rapid expansion, is essential. By focusing on the distinct needs of rural communities, planners can protect the cultural heritage and natural landscapes while fostering economic growth that benefits residents and visitors alike. With thoughtful planning, rural areas can strike a harmonious balance between development and preservation, ensuring that they remain vibrant, resilient communities for generations to come.

Melissa I. Ward, AICP, is the Director of Planning & Development for Dunlap & Shipman, P.A. She can be reached at melissa@dunlapshipman.com.

The shoreline on Hammock Bay in Freeport, Walton County, Florida

This Google Earth image illustrates the close proximity off farm land to coastal resorts in Walton County.

APA FLORIDA THROWBACK

We have a library of past Florida Planning issues in the chapter office. We found some throwback articles on Rural Places + Green Spaces we thought you might enjoy. Click on a cover image to read article.

TRAVEL WITH A PLANNERS EYE

We asked our members to send us pictures from recent travels and tell us if they noticed something unique about the city/town/village from a planner’s perspective.

Spain, Israel, & Minnesota

Wiatt Bowers, AICP:

• The original railway connecting Jaffa and Jerusalem has been converted into a linear park with simulation rails placed in the sidewalk.

• The new Tel Aviv light rail has been built underneath the original railway is now a park.

• Multiple bus lanes leading to the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya in Barcelona

• Wide linear park along the Mississippi River in downtown Minneapolis - affording plenty of space for walkers, riders, strollers, and rollers

California

Krystal Clem: Greeting from Palm Springs!

• This 7x15 ft. canvas takes public art to a new level! The canvas was designed by artist Peter Tigler in “paint by number” format and festival goers picked up a cup with a number and finger painted the corresponding number on the canvas to create this beautiful vintage inspired Palm Springs postcard mural. This fantastic mural was installed by California Desert Arts Council and can be found in Downtown Palm Springs.

• Public Art: Larger than life Marilyn Monroe statue.

• Exploring natural spaces at Joshua Tree National Park.

• Renewable energy in the Coachella Valley.

• Palm Springs Village Fest: Every Thursday night street fair featuring arts, crafts, food trucks and live entertainment.

France, Florida & Canada

Christy Fischer:

• High school in Strasbourg, France.

• Banana River sunset (Brevard County) at a restaurant called Sunsets.

• American Falls at night - view from Niagara Falls, Canada

Ireland & Northern Ireland

Carol Van Guilder, AICP

• Getting around and dealing with rain: Bike share, Belfast Northern Ireland;

• Covered shopping passage, Belfast, N. Ireland;

• Pedestrian shopping street, Dublin, Ireland;

• Travel by bus, bike and boat, Dublin, Ireland;

• Rainproof picnic pod, Castlebellingham, Ireland.

Panama Canal

Steve Lindorff, FAICP: A couple of shots of traversing the Panama Canal from north (Caribbean) to south (Pacific) side last October. First shows the closed lock after entry and the second shows part of the "mule" system which holds the 108-ft wide ship steady as it travels through the 110-foot wide canal.

Calfornia & Texas

Doug Kelly, AICP

• View of the California Riveria, Santa Barbara, from the channel.

• Downtown Houston’s Museum District.

• Santa Barbara’s pop-up cafes on State Street began during COVID and have remained. They closed on the street, which is the main city artery.

Denmark

Carol Stricklin, AICP Copenhagen offers vibrant public spaces where people can relax and interact. These images of Superkilen in the Norreboro neighborhoods. Designed by Bjarke Ingels Group, Superflex and Topotek1 this public space celebrates diversity and features objects from around the world.

Norway & The Netherlands

Melissa Zornitta, FAICP

• Norway is riddled with mountainous zig zag roads. This one was in Eidfjord.

• Also from Eidfjord - a really authentic green roof. One guide told us sometimes they let the goats on the roof to "mow" them.

• The transit and dedicated pedestrian/ bike space in Amsterdam.

Alabama

Melissa Ward, AICP: We went to The Grand Hotel in Fairhope, AL. The town and hotel are beautiful, walkable, and full of life! The Grande Hotel is proud, and they should be, of their conservation efforts. Keeping the historic trees, buildings, and natural beauty required that they install parking elsewhere and provide transit. One good reason that minimum parking spaces required could destroy natural beauty. This site has trails for bike rides and walks, lagoons and picnic areas, beaches and docks, and with all of that nestled into the site are the rooms, dining, and convention areas. Adjacent is the town of Fairhope. A renewal in their economy based on beautification efforts.

2024 Florida Planning Conference IN PHOTOS

FPC24 WAS EPIC!

Thank you to the 1,100 attendees and fellow planning advocates for making the 2024 Florida Planning Conference an enormous success. Our largest conference to date, the three and a half days were filled with sessions, mobile tours, featured speakers, receptions, pirates, puppies, and more!

In past years Tuesday was considered a pre-conference day. However, this year due to so many high-quality session submissions and tour options, it was full day packed with sessions, workshops, and mobile tours. We plan on having the same next year at FPC25 in Daytona Beach, so plan on being there!

Also new this year was at-conference outreach efforts with two local non-profits: The Humane Society of Tampa Bay and OASIS Opportunities. We’re excited to announce that three of the seven dogs onsite were adopted into loving homes. We also packed more than 200 hygiene kits for Tampa area students on behalf of OASIS Opportunities. Well done, FPCers!

We topped off the week with a spectacular Closing Reception at the Florida Aquarium. Attendee reviews? Four Star-fish!

Of course, none of this could happen without our sponsors. We are grateful for all our sponsors’ and exhibitors’ support and participation in our inaugural Booth Parade. We can still smell those freshly baked cookies! (Please review all our sponsors on the next page.)

Enjoy some of the photos we captured throughout the week. Visit our Facebook page.

HOUSEKEEPING ITEMS

Session credits. For those who attended, you can log AICP CM here and download session presentations here

Save the date. FPC25 will be in Daytona Beach from Sept. 16 – 19, not the normal Labor Day week. The conference hotel will be the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort. Rooms will be $169 per night.

Call for Presentations. The FPC25 Call for Presentations is now open! You have until Feb. 14, 2025 to submit your panel proposal. Get all the information you need here

Volunteers Needed. Every Florida Planning Conference relies on outstanding volunteers. If you are interested in helping make these conferences top all state conferences, we welcome you. Please fill out a sign up form: FPC25 in Daytona Beach | FPC26 in Miami

THANK YOU TO THE 2024 FLORIDA PLANNING CONFERENCE SPONSORS

PLATINUM SPONSORS

Benesch

England- Thims & Miller, Inc.

Esri

GAI Consultants | Community Solutions Group

HNTB

InNovo Partners

Stantec

Stearns Weaver Miller

GOLD SPONSORS

AtkinsRealis

Ayres Associates Inc

Halff Associates, Inc.

HDR

Infrastructure Consulting & Engineering

Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.

Metro Forecasting Models

Pond & Company

Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council

University of Central Florida, School of Public Administration

University of South Florida

VHB WGI, Inc.

SILVER SPONSORS

Bowman Consulting Calvin, Giordano & Assoc., Inc.

CDMSmith HART

Patel, Greene and Associates, LLC

Pritchett Steinbeck Group Inc.

The Haskell Company Volkert, Inc.

BRONZE SPONSORS

Axis Infrastructure

Dickman Law Firm

Ebenbach Consulting LLC EXP

Forward Pinellas

Port of Tampa

RVi Planning + Landscape Architecture

SB Friedman Development Advisors, LLC

CONFERENCE SUPPORTER

Florida Technical Consultants (FTC)

Urban Planning Innovations, LLC

EXHIBITORS

Amarach Planning Services

APA Transportation Planning Division

Blitz Permits

Burgess & Niple

Chen Moore and Associates

EXP

FAU Urban and Regional Planning

FSU Barnebey Planning & Development Lab

General Code

Kirk Wickersham, AICP, Attorney at Law

Neighborhood Lending Partners

Plan Hillsborough

Safe Mobility for Life Coalition

Streetlight

The Brick Industry Association

UNICUS Rail and Consulting Services, LLC

DIAMOND ANNUAL EMERALD ANNUAL

RUBY ANNUAL

Planner to Leader Lessons Learned:

Elevate Your Personal Brand

By: Corinne Arriaga, AICP, CPH

Five years ago, APA Florida formed the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Committee. One of the committee’s major initiatives was to establish a Planner to Leader program, which focuses on giving planners the tools and resources to advance in their careers.

At past conferences, Planner to Leader was a pre-conference paid workshop. At FPC24, the EDI Committee expanded access and presented three Planner to Leader as part of the conference breakout sessions. More than 220 planners were reached through these three sessions.

Each session focused on providing practical tips for planners at different stages of their career including student to emerging planner, emerging planner to mid-career, and mid-career to leadership.

Level One: Student to Emerging Planner BUILDING AND PRESENTING YOUR PERSONAL BRAND

In the first session, planners learned how to identify their values and ways to integrate them into guiding principles for their personal and professional lives. This is particularly useful when crafting their professional narrative.

How do you want others to view you in the professional field? A professional narrative can be a combination of your values, your accomplishments, and how your experiences and achievements weave together to create the larger tapestry that is your professional profile.

Once you’ve ironed out your values, hand-crafted your professional narrative, it is time to share it with the planning community. Make use of events like the Florida Planning Conference, industry events, alumni networks, and social media (LinkedIn) to build your network. Building and strengthening your network supports your place and advancement in the field.

Lastly, find a mentor! A mentor can work as a sound board and offer guidance as you move through the early stages of your career and beyond.

Level Two: Emerging Planner to MidCareer Planner

Finding Your Place in Planning

The second session provided information for planners working in the field that are ready to advance to the next level.

Let’s pretend you are entertaining a new job offer. How do you know if the compensation is better or worth the switch? One tool that can help guide decision-making is the Rutger’s Job Offer Evaluation Tool. This tool offers a comparison of your current benefits, wages, etc. to the new offer.

Maybe you would rather find a deeper understanding of urban planning or its related fields. This is where academia enters the chat. Academia provides planners with education, resources, and an alumni network. These can give planners an edge in the field when they transition to the practitioner role.

Alternatively, what if you want to advance in your career without switching organizations or going back to school? You can work towards career advancement by plotting your path, seeking out leadership roles and leading certain tasks, enhancing your presentation skills, emphasizing problem solving and collaboration skills, setting fierce, but flexible goals, and most importantly, communicating your goals with leadership.

continued on page 23

[PLANNER] TO LEADER

continued from page 22

Public sector planners can also take this information to benefit their career advancement.

Additionally, some useful tips include learning the budget cycle and confirming the agency’s commitment to your professional development through associations, trainings, conferences, and beyond.

As you move up the career ladder, no matter which sector, always take note of the percentage of planning vs. administration. Make decisions based on what serves your needs and your growth as a professional.

Level Three: Mid-Career Planner to Leadership Cultivate, Navigate, and Elevate Leadership Roles

The third session elevated voices in leadership and prepared planners ready to take the next step in their careers or who are already in leadership positions.

Some of the practical advice that was given includes:

• Don’t focus too much on the title.

• Make a mission statement and live it.

• What’s the next best step? Money doesn’t always lead to progress.

• Be transparent and honest even under pressure, find your voice.

• Be brave.

• Mental health is important, find out what works for you.

• Be vulnerable, share with your team.

• Think about who’s missing from the table? Make it a goal to include them on your team.

Corinne Arriaga, AICP, CPH, is a Senior Transportation Planner with the City of Sarasota and is also an EDI Committee Co-chair. She can be reached at corinne.arriaga@sarasotafl.gov

[FARMS] RURAL COMMUNITY

continued from page 6

Providing Employment. Farms offer local employment opportunities, requiring a range of skills from unskilled labor to technical expertise and management. These jobs provide stable incomes for families and contribute significantly to the local economy. Farming businesses depend on local labor, further intertwining the community with the success of the farm.

To sustain the economic and social vitality of farms, community leaders and policymakers must organize initiatives that support farmers and protect farmland. Without this, farms may be vulnerable to development pressures. It is essential for rural

USEFUL TOOLS FOR YOUR CAREER JOURNEY

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community plans to recognize the value of farming and implement strategies that strengthen the agricultural economy while supporting resilient rural development.

At the end of our conversation, I asked the farmer if she had been approached by developers. She laughed, “Of course I have, but my goal is not to sell. I want to remain a strong, sustainable agricultural business that supports our local community, just as we have for generations.”

Nick Hill, AICP, is a Senior Planner for JBPro. He can be reached at nickolas.hill@jbpro.com.

Congratulations to the 2024 Leadership Award Recipients!

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Marilyn Mammano, AICP

Marilyn Mammano, AICP, is the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient.

Marilyn has served the planning community for more than 50 years and continues to be actively involved not only with our profession, but also with her community. For example:

• Marilyn attended the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn. She received both a bachelor’s degree in Architecture and a master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning from this PAB accredited institution.

• Marilyn is a former member of the New York City Planning Commission. She completed a 25-year career as a professional planner with the City of New York’s Department of City Planning, where she served as the Director of Zoning and Urban Design and the Director of Planning for the Borough of Staten Island.

• Marilyn is a resident of Fort Lauderdale and is active in her community. She is the Chair of the Fort Lauderdale Infrastructure Task Force and a member of the Fort Lauderdale Planning and Zoning Board. She is a Board Member and Past President of the Council of Fort Lauderdale Civic Associations and the current President of the Harbordale Civic Association.

• Marilyn was an Associate Professor at the Florida Atlantic University’s School of Urban and Regional Planning from 2002 to 2018 teaching a number of urban planning courses.

• Marilyn is an active member of the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) as she is the Professional Development Officer for the APA Florida Broward Section.

• Marilyn is also a key member of the chapter’s Legislative Policy Committee where we value her insight and input on planning issues during the legislative session.

OUTSTANDING LOCAL PUBLIC OFFICIAL

Elizabeth Abernethy, AICP

Director of Planning & Development Services, City of St. Petersburg

Elizabeth Abernethy, AICP, has served the City of St. Petersburg since September 2014. She started out as Zoning Official and Manager of the Development Review Services Division and currently serves as the Director of Planning and Development Services where she directs and manages the city’s building, zoning, planning and historic preservation activities.

Liz is a dedicated community leader who provides strong direction and unique planning solutions to address a myriad of complicated issues facing her community and the world at large. Her ability to collaborate with all members of the community provides a master class for all planners on how to balance the diverse interests within a community while navigating the demands of a fast-growing coastal city striving to improve infrastructure and coastal resiliency.

Her supporters describe her as “hardworking, inclusive, and strategic” and one who “masterfully balances the needs of diverse constituents whether they be elected leaders, developers, preservationists, neighborhoods, the general public, city staff, YIMBY’s and NIMBY’s alike, to chart a steady and thoughtful path for managed growth.”

Liz’s accomplishments over the last decade are numerous including the award winning StPete2050 community visioning effort which was recognized with the 2021 APA Florida Project Award of Excellence.

Liz played a central role in bringing forward multiple zoning reform actions for city adoption, including:

• Updating the Downtown Waterfront Master Plan.

• Updating Coastal High Hazard Policies and regulations to address sea level rise and storm vulnerability.

• The expansion of accessory dwelling unit allowance to all neighborhoods.

• The creation of a new “missing middle” zoning district and rezoning nearly 3,000 properties to allow up to four units on formerly zoned single-family lots.

• The creation of an overlay for the SunRunner Bus Transit (BRT) 22nd Street South Station to allow alternative transitoriented development (TOD) supportive development options continued on page 25

LEADERSHIP AWARDS

continued from page 24

in the Warehouse Arts District while retaining artisan and small-scale manufacturing uses; and

• The increase of density and intensity allowances along the SunRunner BRT corridor and along commercial corridors.

• Updating Urban Agriculture provisions expanding Community Gardens.

STUDENT PLANNERS OF THE YEAR

Silas Achidago University of Florida

Beginning the University of Florida MURP program in 2022, Silas Achidago has maintained a 4.0 grade point average while working as a graduate research assistant for the NASA-funded Ghana Land Use Program (GALUP), serving as the Treasurer of the Student Planning Association, interning at CHW, an NV5 company, engaging with the UF Center for African Studies, and coordinating community service projects.

Silas has demonstrated comprehensive of planning principles and the planning process through his work with GALUP and the Florida Institute for Built Environment Resilience (FIBER).

GALUP is a NASA-sponsored research project that aims to enhance the current operational planning framework and building capacity for effective land use planning in Ghana. By integrating trends in deforestation, urbanization, and agricultural expansion from remote sensing with GIS-based modeling, this project will identify potential overlaps/conflicts among various sectors and predict land-use change scenarios”.

Laura Dedenbach, AICP, who nominated Silas says, “as a result of more than 27 years of professional planning experience in the public and private sectors, I have been privileged to work with many talented individuals. Based on my engagement with Silas, I believe he is an excellent ambassador within the planning profession and exemplifies the high caliber of students educated at our program.”

Leticia Sabio

Florida Atlantic University

Leticia Sabio is a graduating Master of Urban and Regional Planning student at Florida Atlantic University with an unparalleled academic record and a demonstrated passion for sustainable urban planning.

She is a highly qualified graduate student with a well-rounded skillset for a successful career in urban planning. Her academic achievements, research experience, technical expertise, and design thinking make

her a valuable asset to any planning team. Her dedication to sustainable and resilient communities positions her to make critical contributions to the field.

Some of her achievements thus far have been:

• Maintaining a 4.0 GPA

• Receiving a Presidential Fellowship from FAU.

• Serving as a Graduate Research Assistant for a $2.5 million project funded by FEMA, demonstrating experience with grant-funded research.

• Writing a thesis that focuses on social vulnerability in flood-prone communities, showcasing her commitment to social equity and community resilience.

AWARDS SEASON WILL BE HERE BEFORE YOU KNOW IT

Do you know of someone or a project that should be on these pages? It’s never too late to work on your nominations. Review these award rules and criteria so you can get started on your nomination application!

Project Awards

• Implementation Project Award

• Comprehensive Plan Award (Large and Small Jurisdictions)

• Best Practices Award

• Grassroots Initiative Award

• Neighborhood Planning Award

• Innovation in Planning for All Ages Award

• Outstanding Student Project Award (Group or Studio Project that is funded)

- New this year: Individual Student Project Award that is not funded

Review the rules and criteria for these awards here

Chapter Planning Leadership Awards

The Planning Leadership Awards are the APA Florida Chapter’s highest honors which recognize individuals for their leadership on planning issues. After seeking input from the membership, Leadership Award candidates are nominated by the APA Florida Executive Committee which also serves as the Leadership Awards Jury.

• President’s Lifetime Achievement

• Distinguished Contribution to the Chapter

• Legislator of the Year

• Outstanding Local Public Official of the Year

• Outstanding Public Interest Group of the Year

• Outstanding Citizen Activist

• Outstanding Media Leadership

• Student Planner of the Year

• Best EDI Workplace

Review the criteria for these awards here

Congratulations to the

2024 Project Award Recipients

The 2024 APA Florida Project Awards were celebrated at the annual conference. These awards recognize the development, conservation, government, or environmental projects where planning has had a positive impact on the outcome. This year there were eight Awards of Excellence and three Awards of Merit. Let’s meet this year’s winners!

AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE

Southside Action Plan

Category: Best Practices l Recipient: City of Tallahassee

The Southside Action Plan is a multi-phased comprehensive plan policy update that originated in a community engagement process involving hundreds of stakeholders and staff hours to bring policy development outside the public hearing process and into the underserved communities and neighborhoods in which they are intended to serve. The result was a change in land use policy (adopted in 2023), but more importantly, a change in citizen engagement in a more equitable and diverse manner that improved the standard for public engagement in the community. The process focuses on action where success is measured by community involvement and project completion.

Heritage at Risk

Category: Best Practices l Recipient: Miami-Dade County

The Miami-Dade County Heritage at Risk Survey is the first countywide survey effort since 1980. Many of the communities are facing significant planning challenges, including intense redevelopment pressures, gentrification, housing affordability, and climate resiliency. Recognizing that the county’s designations inadequately reflected its diverse population, a multi-pronged survey methodology was developed. The survey focused on areas identified as facing planning challenges to support inclusive representation of the community’s diverse heritage through preservation. The result is a project that leverages the intrinsic relationship between planning and preservation to guide a more equitable future.

Lake Wales Envisioned

Category: Best Practices l Recipients: City of Lake Wales, Dover, Kohl & Partners, Inspire Placemaking Collective, Exum Associates, Inc., and Kittelson & Associates, Inc.

With a historic downtown nestled between oak tree-lined walkable neighborhoods planned by the Olmsted Brothers and set amongst picturesque rural landscapes and rolling citrus groves, Lake Wales, Florida is a city rich in natural beauty, history, and community. Facing unprecedented regional development pressure, Lake Wales Envisioned represents a compelling, community-led vision to shape future growth and conservation. Supported by 1000 Friends of Florida, the Olmsted Network, and the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation, the plan proposes a strategic regional conservation framework protecting critical Florida Wildlife Corridor linkages while identifying areas for future growth and encouraging better street and neighborhood design.

(L to R) Oluwaseyi Akinrinde; Devan Leavins; Laurel Harbin, AICP, Ph.D.; and Carly Hanson

(L to R) Glenn Amoruso; Jerry Bell, AICP; and Alex Dambach, AICP

(L to R) James Slaton; Victor Dover, FAICP, LEED-AP, CNU Fellow; and APA President Whit Blanton, FAICP

Mobility Section of the City of Tampa Comprehensive Plan

Category: Comprehensive Plan - Large Jurisdiction l Recipients: Hillsborough County CityCounty Planning Commission and City of Tampa

The Mobility Section of the City of Tampa Comprehensive Plan represents an innovative approach to comprehensive planning in terms of content, process, and implementation. While transportation and land use are often looked at in silos, the section takes a contextbased approach to ensure Tampa’s transportation vision is people and place-oriented. This comprehensive policy document has an emphasis on vital mobility topics such as equity and Vision Zero. Done in conjunction with the city’s MOVES Mobility Plan which focuses on strategic implementation, the Mobility Section takes great strides to progress the city toward a variety of transportation choices.

Southwest Greenways and Debbie Lightsey Nature Park

Category: Implementation Project l Recipient: Blueprint Intergovernmental Agency (Tallahassee)

Debbie Lightsey Nature Park in Tallahassee is a world-class nature park funded and crafted by Blueprint Intergovernmental Agency. Blueprint purchased the 113-acre site in 2006, which includes over 60 acres of natural wetlands full of diverse wildlife, conserving the property. Innovative and meticulous detail went into the design and construction of the project to ensure the sensitive lands were preserved. In 2023, Debbie Lightsey Nature Park opened to the public, featuring biking/walking trails, two elevated boardwalks over natural wetlands, pavilions, picnic tables, parking, play areas, a butterfly garden, and nature trail signage highlighting local wildlife and native vegetation.

Building a Network of Citizen Planners in Florida

Category: Grassroots Initiative l Recipient: 1000 Friends of Florida

Established in 1986 to support sound planning in one of the nation’s fastest growing states, 1000 Friends of Florida’s mission statement notes, “Above all, we strive to give citizens a meaningful role in shaping the futures of their communities and state.” To this end, 1000 Friends focuses on fostering an informed cadre of “citizen planners” to provide meaningful input at the local, regional, and state levels. Through free webinars, landmark studies depicting the impacts of population growth and development on our lands and waters, legislative advocacy, special reports, a robust “clearinghouse” website, and more, 1000 Friends prioritizes empowering Florida’s citizens.

20 is Plenty: Residential Speed Reduction Study

Category: Innovation in Planning for All Ages l Recipients: City of Jacksonville, AtkinsRealis

This study undertook an analysis on speed reduction, aiming to accomplish three primary objectives: 1) Assess the impact of lowering the residential speed limit across the city; 2) Determine optimal strategies for implementing and enforcing the reduced speed limit; and 3) Formulate an Action Plan for execution. Findings indicate that merely reducing speed limits will enhance safety by diminishing the severity and occurrence of crashes on local roads. Additionally, the study presented a visual implementation blueprint titled “Roadmap to Safe Speeds on Local Roads,” delineating the procedural steps for executing a citywide speed limit reduction. This award is sponsored by AARP Florida.

(L to R) Margaret Kubilins, PE; Alana Brasier, AICP; Danni Jorgenson, AICP; Katrina Corcoran, AICP; Gena Torres; and Melissa Zornitta, FAICP

Junious Brown

(L to R) Kimberleigh Dinkins; Vivian Young, AICP; and Haley Busch

(L to R) Wiatt Bowers, AICP; Phil Shad, AICP; Rebecca Dennis, AICP; and Laurie Santana

Four Points

Category: Outstanding Student Project l School: University of South Florida

The project aims to reconnect a once vibrant community by establishing a high-frequency transit destination with high-density mixed uses that promote walkability and provide local residents with opportunities for business, affordable housing, and community space. Four Points would act as a connection to the surrounding four neighborhoods and also as a gateway between downtown, Uptown and Midtown. Four Points will reconnect a once vibrant community by providing affordable housing, community gathering opportunities in a safe, healthy, and lively atmosphere.

AWARDS OF MERIT

City of Punta Gorda Comprehensive Plan 2045

Category: Comprehensive Plan - Small Jurisdiction l Recipient: City of Punta Gorda

The City of Punta Gorda Comprehensive Plan 2045 has paved the way for the city’s residents to engage in planning activities. Through extensive public education and outreach, the Evaluation and Appraisal Report process changed community attitudes and priorities regarding compact development, diverse and affordable housing types, multi-modal transportation systems, community resilience, and the importance of planning for sea level rise and natural disasters. After collecting feedback from more than 900 individuals, conducting over 30 interviews and technical meetings, and holding 45 public meetings, the city was able to integrate community goals into the updated comprehensive plan.

Southport Turning Notch Expansion (Broward/Port Everglades)

Category: Implementation Project l Recipient: Port Everglades

The Port Everglades Southport Turning Notch Expansion (STNE) project lengthened the existing STNE from 900 feet to 2,400 feet at the existing depth of 42 feet. This project has provided for up to five additional berths. A critical part of the STNE includes replacing 8.7 acres of an existing mangrove conservation easement with a 16.5-acre upland enhancement of approximately 70,000 new mangroves and wetland plants, a project element that is now completed. Port officials worked closely with port users, the environmental community, and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to develop the plan for the new mangrove habitat.

Enhancing Regional Transportation Planning in Rural Areas

Category: Outstanding Student Project l School: Florida State University Barnebey Planning and Development Lab Studio

The Florida Department of Transportation, in partnership with the Florida State University Barnebey Planning and Development Lab, undertook a multi-phased project to improve rural transportation planning. The project, centered in FDOT District 2, is designed to test an innovative community-engaged planning process, develop a list of potential projects for two study area counties, Columbia County and Taylor County, and develop guidance that can be applied in rural communities statewide. This pilot closes the gap between rural and urban counties while creating mechanisms for rural counties to self-advocate to FDOT in the transportation planning process.

(L to R) Kristin Combs; Beneetta Mary Jose; and Isaiah Hollinshead

(L to R) ; and Mitchell Austin, AICP, CNU-A; and Brittany Metzler

Natacha Yacinthe, Ph.D

(L to R) Alan Amidon, Billie Ventimiglia (Faculty), Lillian Savage, Michael Greco, Eliza Chase, Sabrina Viteri, Dennis Smith, AICP (Faculty), David Jones (FDOT), Mazi Rhodes, Mary Noonan.

2024 Great Places in Florida People’s Choice Award Goes To …

Palm Coast Waterfront Park

GET TO KNOW THIS YEAR’S TOP VOTE GETTER!

The serene beauty of City of Palm Coast’s Waterfront Park delivers a unique experience as visitors enjoy the Intracoastal Waterway. The 20-acre park’s numerous amenities include three picnic pavilions, a covered patio, a playground, a fishing pier, a public art sculpture, a floating ADA dock, kayak and paddleboard rentals, and trails that provide the linkage to the city’s entire system making it an optimal contender for the Public Space category. Visitors often see manatees, dolphins, and birds while strolling along the Intracoastal Waterway Trail.

This year’s theme was Great Places Exemplifying Safe Mobility for All, which recognizes human mistakes and vulnerabilities, while creating context sensitive safety interventions to limit conflict points through innovative infrastructure projects, education and awareness, available technologies, enforcement, community engagement, and more.

This year’s finalists were:

• Lake Shore Drive (Town of Lake Park)

• Palm Coast Waterfront Park (City of Palm Coast)

• Ringling Trail (City of Sarasota)

Editor’s note: We thank all nominees for this year’s Great Places in Florida Award. All three finalists were impacted by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. We will be watching as they recover and rebuild even stronger. continued on

The City of Palm Coast’s strategic trail design provides an interconnected system for safe travel away from major roadways and arterial intersections. Waterfront Park encompasses the Intracoastal Waterway trail and connections to other trail systems, including Graham Swamp and Linear Park. All trails are either paved or hard packed providing safe and accessible mobility options for all ages and abilities whether you like to bike, run, walk, or otherwise enjoy the trails. Multi-purpose trails are designed wider to encompass more participants providing safer access. Wayfinding signs along the way serve to provide enhanced navigation. There are also bicycle racks and bicycle maintenance stations available. Every year, the City of Palm Coast hosts a “Pedal in the Park” event which is a leisurely-paced bike ride through both Linear Park and Waterfront Park. Not only is this a great opportunity to

[2024] GREAT PLACES

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get introduced to Waterfront Park and the interconnected trail system, but also learn about trail safety and etiquette. The City of Palm Coast partners with a local bicycle shop and the River-to-Sea Transportation Planning Organization who provide helmet fittings and free helmets.

We continue to educate users on trail safety by partnering with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) utilizing their outreach materials and participating in their Mobility Week every year.

The City of Palm Coast partnered with the Rails to Trails Conservancy, Flagler County, and Flagler County Tourism Development Council to raise awareness of our trails system. Trails connect us - to our communities, to nature, and to each other.

With a generous grant from the Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND), Waterfront Park is now home to an ADA kayak launch into the Intracoastal Waterway and expanded picnic and activity space with scenic water views. A PADL station provides standup paddleboards and kayaks for rent, further enhancing opportunities for water-based activity all with the click of your phone.

Waterfront Park devotes an area to a Children’s Memorial Garden which is tucked away in the shade of old oak hammocks. Distinctive bluestone pavers and memorial benches dot the walkway as visitors stroll through the garden. Dedications written by families honor the memory of their lost children. This special place is a peaceful sanctuary for rest, reflection, and recollecting cherished memories.

Waterfront Park’s design preserved the area’s natural beauty and ecological function. It is unique and ecologically diverse, with a coastal scrub community that transitions into a conifer hardwood.

It plays host to a large array of native wildlife species. Lying along the Intracoastal Waterway, the waters have a fascinating history. Visitors can learn more about Waterfront Park by viewing the information and educational signs or scanning the QR Codes scattered throughout the park. Watch videos about birding, the Children’s Memorial Garden, the Flight of Life art sculpture, gopher tortoise, Intracoastal Waterway history, manatees, monofilament, plants, and pollinators.

Several partners are responsible for bringing this bountiful park to fruition. The Florida Coastal Management Program funded this project with a grant from the NOAA Office for Coastal Management, awarded under the Coastal Zone Management Act. This was completed in August 2023. Funding for the acquisition of this site was provided by the Florida Communities Trust using Florida Forever funds, acquired in 2005. This project is also partly funded with a grant from the Grand Haven Community Development District.

The City of Palm Coast is consistently seeking public feedback to ensure parks, facilities, and amenities meet the needs of our community. With Waterfront Park being one of our busiest and most popular parks, it was the site of dedicated outreach efforts during the update of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan in 2023. Parks & Recreation staff met the people where they were by setting up an outreach booth to discuss upcoming projects, share the Parks and Recreation Master Plan engagement opportunities, and collect feedback on any parks and trails enhancements. This effort was very successful resulting in a dedicated trails forum throughout the Parks and Recreation Master Plan to capture the voices of many.

2025-26 APA Florida 2024 Election

YOUR 2025 APA FLORIDA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

PRESIDENT: Allara Mills-Gutcher, AICP

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT: Whit Blanton, FAICP

PRESIDENT-ELECT: Edward Ng, AICP

SECRETARY: Jerry Bell, AICP

TREASURER: Brad Cornelius, AICP, CPM, CFM

VP OF COMMUNICATIONS: Alessandria “Ali” Palmer

VP OF CONFERENCE SERVICES: Kathie Ebaugh, FAICP

VP OF CONTINUING EDUCATION: Lara Bouck, AICP, PE

VP OF MEMBERSHIP & OUTREACH SERVICES: Tony Palermo, AICP

VP OF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: Melissa Dickens, AICP

VP OF SECTION AFFAIRS: Juan Mullerat

ATLANTIC COAST SECTION CHAIR: Brad Parrish, AICP

BROWARD SECTION CHAIR: Hing Wong, FAICP

CAPITAL AREA SECTION CHAIR: Kwentin Eastberg, AICP

EMERALD COAST SECTION CHAIR: Melissa Ward, AICP

FIRST COAST SECTION CHAIR: Casey Dendor, AICP

GOLD COAST SECTION CHAIR: Fabian de la Espriella, AICP

HEART OF FLORIDA SECTION CHAIR: Julie Womble, MA, FRA-P

ORLANDO METRO SECTION CHAIR: Roxann Read, ACIP, CFM, FRA-RA

PROMISED LANDS SECTION CHAIR: Laura Tefft, AICP

SAN FELASCO SECTION CHAIR: Gerry Dedenbach, AICP, LEED AP

SUN COAST SECTION CHAIR: Nousheen Rahman, AICP

TREASURE COAST SECTION CHAIR: Scott Evans, AICP

EMERGING PLANNERS GROUP: TBD

UNIVERSITY LIAISON: TBD

STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE: TBD

APA Florida is pleased to announce its newly elected statewide officers, including President-Elect, Treasurer, Secretary, and six vice presidents. Their terms begin on Jan. 1, 2025, as they join incoming President Allara Mills-Gutcher, AICP and Immediate Past President Whit Blanton, FAICP.

Members cast ballots from July 31 to Aug. 28 to elect these nine statewide officers, who will join the 12 regional section chairs and other appointed officers to form the APA Florida 2025 Executive Committee.

MEET YOUR STATEWIDE OFFICERS

Tony Palermo, AICP VP of Membership & Outreach Services

Melissa Dickens, AICP VP of Professional Development

Juan Mullerat VP of Section Affairs

Edward Ng, AICP President-Elect

Jerry Bell, AICP Secretary Brad Cornelius, AICP, CPM, CFM Treasurer

Allara Mills-Gutcher, AICP President

Kathie Ebaugh, FAICP VP of Conference Services

Alessandria "Ali" Palmer VP of Communications

Lara Bouck, AICP, PE VP of Continuing Education

PLANNERS ON THE MOVE

UF’S ARBOLEDA AND BALLARD RECEIVE APA SCHOLARSHIP

The APA Foundation announced that Kaley Arboleda and Lauryn Ballard, both from the University of Florida, will receive its Diversity Scholarship to help them pursue careers in urban planning. Each student will get $5,000.

Kaley’s passion for creating sustainable and inclusive urban landscapes is evident in her role as an Assistant Planner at the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency in California. Previously, she served as the Housing Outreach Coordinator, where she contributed to affordable and workforce housing initiatives through her AmeriCorps position with the Sierra Nevada Alliance. Kaley’s dedication to enhancing ecological systems and addressing disparities in marginalized communities aligns with the values the APA Foundation seeks to promote.

Lauryn has a strong foundation in political science and brings valuable experience from her roles as a Legislative Aide at the Miami-Dade BOCC and within the Florida Legislature. Her work includes drafting and reviewing legislative proposals, managing community outreach initiatives, and conducting policy research. Lauryn is committed to fostering positive community relationships and informed decision-making, skills that will undoubtedly contribute to her future success in urban planning.

Congratulations to Kaley and Lauryn!

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY WELCOMES BAKER

James Baker, AICP, has joined Hillsborough County Development Services as a Development Planner. With impressive organizational skills from his military background, James is ready to both take on complex challenges and streamline processes.

James was previously a Planner II at the City of Clearwater where he displayed his versatility in writing and communication, creating reports and presentations that made an impact on management and stakeholders alike.

CLARK JOINS INSPIRE PLACEMAKING’S MIAMI OFFICE

Julia Clark has joined the Inspire Placemaking Collective’s Miami office. As a recent graduate, Julia says she is eager to dive into urban planning and learn from the team’s experienced pros. While earning a Master of Urban and Regional Planning and a certificate in Disaster Management and Community Resilience from the University of New Orleans, Julia says she gained hands-on experience at CHART, a research center focused on hazard-related projects.

As a native New Orleanian, she understands the impact of hurricanes

and is passionate about building community resilience. With her background in permaculture gardening, Julia also incorporates her love for food and the outdoors into her approach to urban spaces.

HECTUS NOW HEADS NEWBERRY’S COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Stacey Hectus has stepped into the role of Community Development Director with the City of Newberry after spending three years as the Planning and Zoning Director with Levy County.

Stacey says she is beyond excited to be part of such a great city and she looks forward to many years of solid community development planning in North Central Florida.

HILL HOPS TO JBPRO PLANNING

Nick Hill, AICP, has joined JBPro Planning as a Senior Planner/Community Planning Manager. With more than five years of experience in urban and regional planning, Nick is well-versed in contemporary planning practices.

Nick’s professional background includes updating comprehensive plans and community redevelopment strategies, rewriting land development codes, and reviewing development applications. In addition, he has drafted coastal management plans and conducted entitlement research, all while cultivating equitable community engagement programs throughout the state of Florida.

JENKINS APPOINTED TO WADE TRIM’S COMMUNITY DESIGN GROUP

Jeffrey Jenkins, AICP, CFM, has joined Wade Trim’s Community Design Group in Tampa, where he says he will help communities transform their visions into vibrant spaces for work and play.

With more than 37 years of experience in urban planning and community development, Jeffrey specializes in strategic planning, land use, and zoning. He has collaborated with diverse communities on long-range planning, policy writing, land development codes, historic preservation, and CDBG programs. Most recently, he was an Executive Planner for Pasco County, overseeing development in one of Florida’s fastest-growing areas.

He holds a Bachelor of Geography from Indiana State University and a Master of Public Administration: Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Louisville. Moreover, he recently passed the CFM Exam, becoming a Certified Floodplain Manager.

[PLANNERS] ON THE MOVE

continued from page 31

JOSE JOINS FEHR & PEERS

Beneetta Mary Jose, LEED GA, has joined the transportation planning firm Fehr & Peers in their Orlando office. Beneetta graduated from the University of South Florida’s Urban and Regional Planning Program in May.

As a Transportation Planner, says she is eager to expand her knowledge and make meaningful contributions to the projects and communities served by Fehr & Peers. This opportunity allows her to apply her academic background and experience to innovative transportation projects, helping to create safer, more efficient, and sustainable communities.

KIRBY NAMED TO FLORIDA TREND'S 500 LIST

Dan Kirby, FAICP, FAIA , was named to Florida Trend's Florida 500 Most Influential Business Leaders.

In the item write up, when asked, If I were governor, Dan responded:

We need all hands on deck when it comes to finding solutions! This means fostering participations across the political spectrum by people focused on solutions rather than focusing on the messenger. We need to engage a lot more of our fellow citizens whose voices are not present. Out lends must be meeting their needs - there is a direct line from resilence to budiling codes to managing risk to reducing insurance rates.

Well said and well done, Dan!

FWB’S NELSON-WOLF AND GIBSON EARN TOP HONORS

Amie Nelson-Wolf , a Planner II with the City of Fort Walton Beach, was named Employee of the Year Award for Growth Management, while Tim Gibson, MBA , received Manager of the Year Award for Growth Management. Amie has shown incredible dedication and innovative planning over the past three years, making a lasting impact on the Fort Walton Beach community’s future. Meanwhile, Tim, with more than 30 years of diverse experience, has exemplified exceptional leadership in Human Resources, crisis management, strategic planning, and team building. These accolades reflect not only personal excellence but also the incredible teamwork and commitment to progress within Fort Walton Beach.

Congratulations to Amie and Tim!

SCOTT LEADS GADSDEN COUNTY PLANNING DIVISION

Buford “Beau” Scott, AICP, was promoted to Growth Management Director for the Gadsden County Planning Division.

Previously serving as a Principal Planner, Beau has contributed significantly to the county’s planning efforts. With extensive experience in urban planning, he has worked on comprehensive plans, land development codes, and community redevelopment initiatives. His prior role as an Executive Planner for Pasco County involved overseeing development in one of Florida’s fastest-growing areas.

Known for his strong attention to detail and collaborative spirit, Beau says he is committed to guiding Gadsden County’s growth in a sustainable and effective manner. He holds a solid foundation in planning and development, having previously worked with the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity and various local governments.

STRICKLIN NAMED SAFETY HARBOR’S COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

Carol Stricklin joined the City of Safety Harbor as its Community Development Director. In this role, she will oversee a department that includes building, code enforcement, planning, and community redevelopment.

Carol brings a wealth of experience to her new position, having previously served as the Interim Community Development Director. The City of Safety Harbor is known for its vibrant and walkable downtown along old Tampa Bay, and Carol is eager to contribute to its growth and development.

Before her current role, Carol had a successful career in local government, including positions such as Housing and Community Development Director for Pinellas County and Community Development Director for the City of Largo. She has extensive experience leading teams and managing comprehensive planning initiatives.

ARE YOU AN

APA FLORIDA MEMBER

WHO EARNED A PROMOTION, STARTED A NEW JOB, OR WON AN AWARD?

Whatever the cause for celebration is, we want to hear about it! Click here to fill out the form to be recognized in a future issue of Florida Planning Magazine.

A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Stefanie Svisco

Thank you!

It is hard to believe that I will be completing my second full year as Executive Director. I want to thank everyone who has helped during time, especially Whit, Wiatt, Allara and Eddie.

As 2025 approaches, I look forward to work side-by-side with President Allara Mills-Gutcher, the other new state leaders whom I am confident will keep our chapter moving forward by offering new educational opportunities and recruiting the planners of tomorrow. Their new ideas along with the philosophies of the returning section chairs are sure to make a strong team as we move forward.

As announced during the annual members’ meeting, the state of the chapter is strong and coming off a record-breaking attendance state conference, we are making smart investments to ensure that we have robust funds available to increase our member value through quality professional development opportunities and top-notch events.

Speaking of the state conference, I have been busy planning future events that reach beyond FPC25 in Daytona Beach. In case you missed the announcement, we will be returning to Miami for FPC26. I hope to have FPC27 and FPC28 scheduled very soon.

Finally, like all Floridians, the scenes from Hurricanes Helene and Milton have impacted me and the APA Florida staff. I will work with our new Executive Committee to devise and execute ways we can help those communities struggling to rebuild. I will let you know once we have ways you can contribute.

Have a healthy holiday season and I look forward to seeing you sometime in the new year.

APA FLORIDA WORKING FOR YOU

• OASIS Opportunities hygiene kits packed: 200+

• Puppies adopted from the Humane Society of Tampa Bay: 3

Last year under the guidance of President Whit Blanton, FAICP, the chapter established an AICP Study Group to explore why some public agencies, including FDOT, do not consistently support the AICP credential or cover costs related to achieve and maintain certification.

One group goal is to research if it would make sense to pursue an initiative to include planners in the Consultants Competitive Negotiation Act (CCNA), which currently includes “professional services” within the scope of the practice of architecture, professional engineering, landscape architecture, or registered surveying and mapping, as defined by the laws of the state, or those performed by any architect, professional engineer, landscape architect, or registered surveyor and mapper in connection with his or her professional employment or practice.

In August, the chapter partnered with the University of South Florida to survey all members — both certified and uncertified. A whopping 612 members responded. While we are still processing data, we wanted to share some preliminary findings here

APA Florida is encouraging eligible AICP members to consider applying for selection into the prestigious College of Fellows for the 2026 induction cycle. Each cycle the Chapter selects among eligible candidates to receive its endorsement and support the candidate’s application with an experienced mentor.

Our FAICP Committee is focusing on ensuring an open, transparent, and inclusive process to identify and invite eligible members to express their interest. The committee then identifies those who have made a lasting, positive impact in Florida to receive the Chapter’s endorsement and support in preparing an outstanding and ultimately successful application package.

You can review the nomination guidelines here. If you are interested in being a Chapter nominee, click here to find out what information we need. The deadline is Dec. 20.

We are also looking for FAICP mentors to help the nominees through the nomination process. If you are interested, please submit your name here

The 2024 Florida Planning Conference set all sorts of records:

• Paid registrants: 1,111

• Sponsors + Exhibitors: 64

• Pirates marauding the Opening Reception: 3

• Hotels: 5

• Gallons of coffee: 155

• Marine animals tagging along to the Closing Night Reception at The Florida Aquarium: 7,000+

Thank you to all the attendees and volunteers who made the conference such a success!

We are busy working on FPC25 in Daytona Beach and announced that we will be returning to Miami for FPC26. Click here if you are interested in volunteering for either event.

POLICY WORKSHOP RETURNS TO TALLAHASSEE

You told us you wanted to come back to Tallahassee, and we listened. We are excited to announce that the 2025 APA Florida Public Policy Workshop returns to the Capital City Feb. 26 - 27.

On Feb. 26, there will be a mobile tour hosted by the Capital Area Section and an evening reception for all registrants.

The workshop will take place on Feb. 27 at the Four Points Sheraton in Downtown Tallahassee.

Registration is now open.

2025 ANDRE ANDERSON SCHOLARSHIP

APPLICATION WINDOW OPEN

The Andre Anderson Minority Scholarship is meant to celebrate planning and foster increased interest in planning by providing financial support for graduate-level planning students who are members of underserved ethnic groups and who are enrolled in either (1) a PAB-accredited urban planning graduate program in the State of Florida or (2) an urban planning graduate program in the State of Florida that is actively seeking PAB accreditation. There is one $2,000 award available.

Deadline: Feb. 7, 2025

Click here for more information, application criteria and documentation needed.

[CONSULTANTS] DIRECTORY

Advertise in the Consultants Directory

The Consultant Directory is a fitting place to showcase your firm.  $250 buys space for a year in the newsletter (four issues) plus inclusion in our web-based consultant directory.  Display ads to promote your business, conference, projects and more are available.  Contact the Chapter office at 850-201-3272 for rates and details.

[FLORIDA] PLANNING

Published by the Florida Chapter, American Planning Association, the Florida Planning digital magazine has a current circulation of 3,000 members, subscribers and other readers. Four issues are published a year.

CHANGES OF ADDRESS

For APA members, Send to: Member Records Department

American Planning Association 205 N. Michigan Ave., Ste. 1200 Chicago, IL 60601

Fax: 312-786-6700 or log onto www.planning.org/myapa

ARTICLES

Florida Planning welcomes articles, announcements, letters, pictures and advertising. Call 850-201-3272 regarding articles. The next issue will be published March 2024.

DEADLINES

Article deadlines are generally four weeks prior to publication. Ad deadlines are generally two weeks prior to publication. Consult the editor for any exception to this schedule.

ABOUT THE CHAPTER

APA Florida is a non-profit organization funded through membership dues and fees. Contributions are also welcomed for general purposes and earmarked programs. Please note that contributions are not tax deductible.

For news and information on chapter concerns, visit the APA Florida website at florida planning.org

APA Florida

2017 Delta Boulevard, Suite 101 Tallahassee, FL 32303

Phone: 850-201-3272

Email: connect@floridaplanning.org

[THANK YOU] TO OUR ANNUAL SPONSORS

[UPCOMING] EVENTS

JAN. 24: HOW AI CAN ENHANCE ADA COMPLIANT GIS SOLUTIONS

Webinar. Hosted by APA Florida. This session explores how Artificial Intelligence is enhancing GIS to help planners create more inclusive and accessible mapping environments that comply to ADA standards. By leveraging AI tools, planners can identify issues more efficiently and make proactive, data-driven decisions that address emerging challenges.

Case studies from across South Florida will demonstrate how AI-powered GIS applications have been employed to achieve ADA compliance in mapping. These examples underscore the essential role of ADA-compliant GIS solutions in fostering accessibility, equipping planners with tools to develop adaptable, equitable mapping products that serve the needs of all community members.

Speakers:

• Matthew Davis, AICP, CNU-A, Florida Technical Consultants

• James Barton, P.E Florida Technical Consultants

• Amelia Alman Florida Technical Consultants Information here. Free. 1 CM will be sought.

FEB. 26 & 27: 23RD ANNUAL APA FLORIDA PUBLIC POLICY WORKSHOP

Tallahassee. Hosted by the APA Florida. Join us for two days of policy and discussion about the issues that greatly affect how we plan our communities. On Feb. 26, there will be a mobile tour hosted by the Capital Area Section and an evening reception for all registrants. The workshop will take place on Feb. 27 at the Four Points Sheraton in Downtown Tallahassee. Registration is now open. Review agenda, registration options, hotel accommodations, are more here

ICYMI: SHINING LIGHT ON SUNSHINE

LAWS & OTHER PUBLIC RECORDS REQUESTS

Nearly 475 people registered for this mustattend webinar. Did you miss it? Never fear. You can watch it here and earn your 1 Law CM through our On-Demand recording.