St. Pete officials take up exemption to storefront plan
June 5, 2019 - A proposed amendment that would exempt some buildings from St. Petersburg's newly approved Storefront Conservation Corridor Overlay cleared a hurdle Wednesday, when the Development Review Commission unanimously agreed the proposal was consistent with the city's comprehensive plan. The Storefront Overlay regulates storefront size and design in an effort to discourage chains on Central Avenue and Beach Drive downtown. It was approved over the objections of some developers. The proposed amendment would exempt structures built before 1970 that are designated as local landmarks or that could qualify for local landmark status if the property owner asks for that designation. The city council will review the proposed amendment Thursday at a first reading, with a public hearing and vote set for June 13.