Q: What’s the latest on the Pine Island Road/US 1 intersection that has proven to be so dangerous?
A: This back road from Nocatee that also has Pine Island Academy on it has become very heavily traveled and it has become dangerous to make a left onto US 1 (across four lanes of traffic) as well as a right turn (because there is no merge lane on US 1). Our Transportation Summit in March with our Tallahassee legislative delegation allowed us to show them how important this project is. The project was fast tracked and we were able to secure the funds this legislative session to put in a light at this intersection sooner rather than later. It usually takes about three or four years to get a traffic signal installed, but I’m told this one should be done within two years. The county’s transfer station and pet center on Stratton Road (on the west side of US 1) share this intersection and will also benefit from a traffic light. This will definitely save lives.
Q: Can you share your thoughts on workforce housing?
A: I’m all for teachers, nurses, and firemen obtaining housing. I’m trying to be on the side of the person who needs the home. I’m not in favor of higher density housing to accomplish this. I’d rather see developers who desire to have, for instance, a sheriff’s deputy with a car in the driveway in their neighborhood, perhaps offer incentives like lower interest rates or pricing. I think workforce housing should require a minimum amount of time that the home must be owned and a 30-year mortgage. Builders are proposing to offer homes for $270,000 and as a small percentage of their proposed community in order to get approval for their project. I called a bank and found that the minimum required income would be $60,000 – $80,000 for this price of home; police officers and teachers don’t generally make that much. I think the way this is being marketed needs more details.
Q: Can you comment on the transmittal approval of The Landings at St. Johns in the May 16 Board of County Commissioners meeting?
A: This is the first time since I’ve been on the board that we’ve sent a transmittal to the state for such a large project. I voted against it due to the concerns of neighbors as well as increased traffic and impact on the schools.
Q: What’s the latest on the potential land development change to protect trees?
A: The other commissioners agree to hear information from staff on this issue and I believe the presentation will be at an upcoming board meeting, possibly June 20. I would recommend anyone interested in attending to check the meeting agenda when it comes out to make sure. I think this presentation will just be informational. I plan to talk about why I’d like to keep Florida beautiful and not like a moonscape. Trees sell homes and make real estate more valuable. They really make developments look so much nicer.
Q: What is the best way for our readers to contact you?
A: Readers can email me at bcc4kjoseph@sjcfl.us or call me at (904) 679-2620.
