A Thoughtful Case for Moratoriums

In recent discussions surrounding the implementation of moratoriums, a number of arguments have surfaced in opposition to these temporary halts. While the concerns raised are important, it is crucial to consider the broader context and the benefits that moratoriums can bring to Manatee County.

1. Addressing Urgent Needs: One common argument against moratoriums is that they can hinder economic progress by halting development projects. However, moratoriums are often implemented in response to urgent issues that necessitate immediate action, such as environmental degradation, housing crises, or public health emergencies. By temporarily halting activities that contribute to these problems, moratoriums provide policymakers with the necessary time to develop sustainable and effective long-term solutions.
2.  Protecting Vulnerable Populations: Opponents often claim that moratoriums disproportionately affect businesses and economic growth. However, it is essential to recognize that unchecked development and activities can have severe consequences on vulnerable populations. For instance, a moratorium on evictions during a public health crisis can prevent widespread homelessness and protect public health. Similarly, environmental moratoriums can safeguard marginalized communities from pollution, floods, financial devastation, and other harmful impacts.
3. Promoting Sustainable Development: Critics argue that moratoriums stifle innovation and progress. On the contrary, moratoriums can serve as a catalyst for more thoughtful and sustainable development. By pausing harmful activities, policymakers and stakeholders can take the time to assess the long-term impacts, explore alternative solutions, and implement regulations that promote responsible and sustainable growth.
4. Encouraging Comprehensive Planning: It is often suggested that moratoriums are a sign of poor planning or reactive governance. However, the implementation of a moratorium can be a proactive measure to address unforeseen challenges and mitigate potential risks. Moratoriums allow for comprehensive planning and the development of robust policies that consider the needs of all stakeholders, ensuring a more balanced and equitable approach to growth and development.
5. Upholding Public Interest: Finally, opponents may argue that moratoriums infringe on individual rights and freedoms. While it is important to protect individual liberties, it is equally important to uphold the public interest. Moratoriums are typically enacted through democratic processes and are subject to public scrutiny and debate. This ensures that they serve the greater good and reflect the collective will of the community.

In conclusion, while there are valid concerns about the use of moratoriums, it is essential to recognize their potential to address urgent needs, protect vulnerable populations, promote sustainable development, encourage comprehensive planning, and uphold the public interest. Rather than dismissing moratoriums outright, we should approach them as a valuable tool in the policymaker's arsenal, capable of creating a more just and sustainable society.

Moratoria

One of the ordinances in my proposed moratorium: While the proposed one-year moratorium is in effect, the county will not accept, process, or approve any building permit which would increase impervious surface within District 5 or any district that wishes to join the Moratorium. Examples of impervious surfaces can include:

• New single-family homes
• Additions
• Detached garages
• Sheds
• Pools
• Driveways
• Patios
• Apartment Complexes

Building permits that are related to storm damage or those that have already been submitted prior to the effective date of the Ordinance will not be included in this moratorium.

During the temporary moratorium, the county will repair, maintain, and improve ditches, canals, and other stormwater systems while the county awaits the completion of the master stormwater plan to make new improvements.

The second of the ordinances in my proposed moratorium: The second moratorium will be imposed on the consideration of annexations, rezoning, comprehensive plan amendments, site plans, preliminary plats, and final plats. Commercial and Industrial zoned parcels are excluded from the moratorium. While this temporary moratorium is in effect, the County will not accept, process, or approve any new applications for annexations, rezoning’s, comprehensive plan amendments, site plans, preliminary plats, or final plats from any applicants who received entitlements more than three months prior to the effective date of the moratorium and who does not have an application submitted.

Applications submitted prior to the effective date of this Ordinance will be allowed to complete the development process if an applicant had received approval for an annexation, rezoning, and/or comprehensive plan amendment within the last three months prior to the effective date of this Ordinance, said applicant shall have the right to submit a site plan and/or a preliminary plat and subsequently a final plat. If an applicant has submitted for a preliminary plat prior to the effective date of this Ordinance, said applicant shall be allowed during the moratorium to submit for final plat.

During the duration of these moratoriums, the following tasks will be accomplished:
• Entire Land Development Code update
• Entire Comprehensive Plan update
• Stormwater Code update
• Stormwater maintenance activities
• Delivery of Stormwater Master Plan by outside consultant
• Stormwater Impact Fee ordinance
• Housing Impact Fee ordinance

Conclusion

In light of the ongoing discussions and recent developments concerning our county’s planning and zoning policies, we find ourselves at a critical juncture. Immediate Cooperation Required: We urge all builders, developers, and relevant stakeholders to actively cooperate in addressing the pressing issues that have necessitated the proposed moratorium. This includes but is not limited to, participation in meetings, providing transparent project details, and adhering to guidelines that promote sustainable development. I recognize the importance of collaboration and am confident that, with your cooperation, we can achieve a balanced and sustainable approach to growth and development.

Alternative: Moratoria