Costco gets first approval from Stuart commissioners
Stuart, Fl (treasurecoast.com) -The controversial Costco project gets first approval from the Stuart Commissioners.
It was after 2 a.m. Tuesday when the City Commission wrapped up its meeting, finally taking its first vote on the controversial Costco project proposed for South Kanner Highway.
After eight hours of discussion and public comment, the commission unanimously gave its first approval to the 162,020-square-foot Costco warehouse store, an 18-pump gas station, a 398-unit apartment complex and retail and restaurant space. But before the project comes back for another vote, no earlier than June 14, developers must address more than a dozen conditions requested by the city.
They include:
- Reducing the number of apartments by 5% — about 20 — and using the area for green space
- Naming the proposed connector road, now referred to as Costco Boulevard, to “something more appropriate for Stuart.” It would run through the property, between South Kanner Highway and Southeast Willoughby Boulevard
- Adding design elements such as fountains to the proposed lakes and an art piece at the proposed roundabout on the connector road
- Providing an in-depth breakdown of tree plantings.
The 49-acre development would be built south of Martin County High School and Lychee Tree Nursery.
The lengthy meeting consisted of presentations by the developer and by Linda Kay Richards, who gave a formal presentation in opposition, in addition to multiple questions by commissioners and more than 30 people speaking during public comment.
Most who spoke in favor of Costco Wholesale Corp. but against the proposed location, citing negative impacts on surrounding residential communities and an increase in traffic.
The Stuart project is Costco’s second effort at building in Martin County. Plans for a store in Palm City, both near Interstate 95 and Florida’s Turnpike, was withdrawn in 2017 following more than three years of scrutiny from the public and county.
Mark Mann, general manager of an existing Costco store, highlighted the potential for 150-175 jobs, paying about $16-$27, and what it would do for the local community.
“Costco will be a friend of Martin County, and currently, over 9,500 Costco members already call Martin County home today,” he said.
Some who attended the commission meeting wore red-and-blue “Keep calm and Costco on” T-shirts while others came with signs urging commissioners to vote against the project.
Vice Mayor Merritt Matheson, who introduced the long list of conditions, early-on appeared reluctant. Mayor Eula Clarke voiced hesitation later, but ultimately voted for approval.
Rent for the apartments would be at least $1,400 for a one-bedroom and. $1,800 for a two-bedroom, said developer Joe Marino of M&M Realty Partners.
