Islanders oppose deviations for Publix, townhomes projects
One public outcry at hearing: ‘You’re ripping the heart out of Pine Island!'
By PAULETTE LeBLANC - | Jul 7, 2021
Every proposed deviation at a public hearing Tuesday, June 29, at Pine Island Methodist Church, sponsored by the Greater Pine Island Civic Association, was voted down by Pine Island residents — most of them left asking why the meeting was even necessary, since they feel they ultimately have no control over current or future development anyway.
Stacy Hewitt, director of planning for Banks Engineering, gave a five-point presentation on the changes they’d like to make to original plans for the new Publix and Orchid Cove Townhomes being built on Pine Island. After each of the five points of the presentation, the community was asked to vote whether they were in favor or opposed to proposals.