Saxon Manor is looking to expand their wedding venue by changing a 7.7 acre lot adjacent to the Saxon Manor House to Commercial from Mobile Home/Multi Family Residential. The City of Brooksville adopted the amendment to the City’s comprehensive future land use map on April 6th. The owners Greg and Dorothea Stephens now must apply for a neighborhood commercial zoning (C-4) that is a lower intensity commercial use specifically designed for residential and mixed use areas.
The owners of Saxon Manor, Greg and Dorothea Stephens built a 5000 square foot residential barn structure on the 7.7 acre property and would like to use it as a rustic wedding venue alternative to the classic Victorian Saxon Manor House. The Stephens purchased the property in 2013. They had previously purchased the historic Saxon Scarborough House in 2011. Most recently, they purchased the former Roger’s Christmas House Village in 2014.
Attorney Pamela Jo Hatley J.D., P.h.D prepared the narrative for the Future Land Use Map Amendment Application. In it she describes the fiscal impact on the City’s finances, stating that “The intended improvements and commercial use of the subject parcel will result in a higher assessed value and corresponding increased tax revenue for the City.” She also explains that the wedding venue business attracts clients from other areas of Florida as well as other states. The expansion of the Stephens’ business will bring in more visitors to the City which translates into a positive impact on other local businesses.
In the narrative, Dr. Hatley also explains the 7.7 acre parcel will be developed minimally to support the wedding banquet venue and does not foresee a significant impact on the environment relating to the existing barn as a wedding venue. Additionally, she states that the usage of the barn for wedding receptions is not expected to significantly impact roads since receptions are held on weekends and non-peak hours.
The Saxon Manor House currently averages four events per month. If their change to C-4 zoning goes through, their goal is to hold 8 events per month. There are approximately 100 guests per event.
City of Brooksville staff has reported that since the site is adjacent to commercially zoned properties to the north and west as well as being situated close to E. Jefferson Street and N. Broad Street, commercial land use would be compatible with surrounding development.
At the Council Meeting on April 6th, Councilmembers praised Saxon Manor as a valuable asset to the community and voted to adopt the ordinance amending the Comprehensive Future Land Use Map to Commercial for the 7.7 acre parcel. With this step complete, Saxon Manor is looking forward to acquiring Commercial C-4 zoning.
UPDATE: C-4 Zoning for Saxon Manor
