​​​​​​***Third of three zoning items for the subject parcels.***

The Petitioner is requesting approval of a Special Use Permit to permit 1) the accessory alcohol sales within a restaurant and 2) use of the facility as an event venue (hall, banquet, or reception use). The building would primarily undergo interior changes in areas such as the cellar and the bell tower, with a reuse assessment to be conducted subsequently. The proposed restaurant would feature 150 seats inside the building and be operational from 5 pm to 10 pm. The structure at 1201 Abercorn Street is a contributing building in the Victorian Historic District, constructed originally in 1887 with a footprint measuring approximately 0.22 acres. The subject parcel is covered 100% by the existing historic structure.

The church has a rich history dating back to the late 19^th century, originally as Duffy Street Baptist Church, later becoming Second Baptist Church, and then Asbury United Methodist Church. Despite its significance, the building faced challenges like water damage and accessibility issues, prompting the decision to sell it in 2024. Immediate repairs will focus on securing the exterior, followed by rehabilitation for commercial use, potentially as a local restaurant. The rehabilitation will adhere to historic preservation standards and involve site improvements such as parking additions and preservation of existing palm trees.

On April 30, 2024, the Planning Commission recommended approval of the requested Special Use Permit to permit ancillary alcohol sales and to permit use as an event venue (hall, banquet, or reception use) with the following condition:

1) The Special Use Permit shall be nontransferable.