AGENDA REPORT
DATE: August 11, 2025
TO: City Commission
FROM: Bill McDaniel, City Manager
SUBJECT: Resolution setting a public hearing for a text amendment to Division 1 of Article VII Chapter 102, Supplementary Regulations regarding Private Rail Crossings (PB-2025-22).
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of the proposed text amendment is to introduce regulations regarding rail line crossings on private roads, requiring approval from the rail line owner prior to approval of any site plan reviews, permits or change of use applications processed by the City.
In September 2023, a tragic accident occurred in Plant City when a train struck an SUV attempting to cross a railroad track on Jim Lefler Road, killing six people. The victims, a family en route to a party, were headed to a rental venue operating under Florida's Agri-Tourism law-a provision intended to support agricultural operations while permitting limited event-related uses that would not typically be allowed under the existing zoning. The railroad crossing leading to the venue was marked only by signs, lacking both gates and warning lights. It was only after the accident that CSX became aware that the venue was regularly drawing hundreds of attendees.
In June, 2024, the Board of County Commissioners adopted a similar ordinance impacting the unincorporated areas of the City.
The proposed language would ensure that proposed uses, even those that are allowed by the state to exist outside the code requirements are reviewed and approved by rail line owners prior to approval by the City.
The text below summarizes the major revisions:
Section 102-1038
* Requires development or redevelopment who cross a rail line for access to obtain written authorization and approval from the rail line owner.
* Requires the applicant to provide the written authorization from the rail line owner to Planning & Zoning prior to the approval of plans or permits.
* Speaks specifically to businesses operating as an agritourism ...
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