Voters gave their government a vote of confidence Tuesday in approving four referendum questions dealing with growth and development.
Nearly 35 percent of the city's registered 7,114 voters cast ballots. Most did so early, opting to vote by absentee ballot.
The changes approved by voters were not controversial, but did touch on some previously sensitive development issues -building heights, density, intensity and land-use regulations.
"I am really pleased with the turnout, especially for a special election. It's always a challenge to get voters to understand the issues," City Manager Mike Bonfield said.
Three of the four referendum questions sought by the city were approved by a margin of more than 60 percent. The margin was a bit tighter on another, Question 2, of about 54 percent.
Any changes affecting density or intensity of land uses, building heights or additions to or changes to land-use categories will still be submitted to voters.
But two of the new city charter amendments eliminate the need to get voter approval for minor changes to the comprehensive plan, particularly when changes are mandated by state law.
The city will no longer need to approach voters for changes to building heights contained in land development regulations - if identical changes to the comprehensive plan were previously approved by referendum.
Not having to go to voters for minor changes or to essentially consider the same issue twice will save the city money from holding elections.
Voters also approved establishing a redevelopment district for Eighth Avenue in Pass-a-Grille that will allow ground-floor commercial and second-floor residential uses, and state-required updates to city maps, city's rules relating to impact of future development, as well as additional protections for sea turtles and natural resources, recreation and commercial waterfronts.
Bonfield said the voter-approved changes will not have an immediate impact on the city.
