Mexico Beach City Council Denies Hatley Drive Rezoning, Approves Annexation Ordinances, and Advances Shark Fishing Restrictions

Shark Fishing Regulations: The council continued discussions from the July 8 meeting about regulating shark fishing to protect public safety. The focus was on prohibiting heavy equipment (e.g., propane cannons, drones, large hooks, chum) used for targeted shark fishing, while preserving organic surf fishing. Concerns were raised about attracting large sharks (e.g., tiger sharks) that could endanger swimmers, as sharks remain in the area regardless of fishing hours. The council directed the city attorney to draft an ordinance banning specific equipment associated with targeted shark fishing, with enforcement by the police department. No immediate action was taken, pending the ordinance draft.

Donation and Memorial Policy: The council reviewed and unanimously adopted a policy standardizing donations (e.g., memorial benches), prompted by a recent bench donation on 3rd Street. The policy addresses maintenance, repair costs, and ownership, ensuring consistency in appearance and responsibility for upkeep.

Hatley Drive Zoning Request: A proposal to rezone 320 Hatley Drive from low-density residential to residential general (allowing duplexes/triplexes) was denied unanimously. The applicant, Justin Trivet, aimed to build affordable long-term rental housing, citing demand and an existing triplex built under post-Hurricane Michael temporary zoning. Concerns included spot zoning, potential traffic increases, property value depreciation, and setting a precedent for future rezoning requests. The council noted the lack of detailed plans (e.g., site drawings, parking, wetland impact) and the risk of future owners converting properties to vacation rentals.

Annexation and Land Use Amendments: The council approved the first readings of eight ordinances (854, 855, 856, 857, 858, 859, 861, 862) for the voluntary annexation of three parcels (~62 acres total) near Highway 98, redesignating them from Bay County Conservation/Mixed Use to Mexico Beach Tourist Mixed Use. These parcels include a residential component (45 single-family lots), a commercial parcel (12,000 sq ft for potential financial, medical, or restaurant use), and a hotel parcel (96-unit Home2 Suites by Hilton). The developer, Brent Thason, confirmed the plat for the residential lots was recorded, with horizontal infrastructure nearing completion, pending city inspections. Vertical development (e.g., hotel) is planned post-August 12, 2025, the second hearing date.

Infrastructure Updates:

Code Enforcement and E-Bikes: The council agreed to revisit e-bike and e-scooter regulations on sidewalks due to safety concerns, following prior discussions. The code enforcement officer will present reports and processes at the next meeting (August 5, 2025) to guide ordinance development, including signage to prohibit motorized vehicles on sidewalks.

Public Works Recognition: The council commended Public Works for clearing overgrown beach grass and palm fronds from walkways, improving aesthetics and accessibility.