Hilton Rezoning Hearing Rescheduled

The Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa has announced a proposal to build a second tower. This would over double their occupancy, going from 310 rooms to the proposed 626 rooms.

A statement given to the Coastal Breeze by an Olshan Properties Spokesperson says, “As long-time stewards of the Hilton Marco Island, we are committed to maintaining Marco Island's status as a premier destination. The requested rezoning and expansion will not only strengthen the local economy, but purposefully improve public infrastructure and landscaping, while providing additional long-term employment opportunities. We appreciate the collaborative effort from City staff and other community stakeholders throughout this review process and look forward to working together to bring this proposal forward.”

Still in the early stages, a rezoning would be the first item on the agenda. The preliminary item on the agenda for the July 10 City Planning Board meeting had to be rescheduled for July 31 due to the fact that the advertisement on the issue was missing the application number. This number is required in the Land Development Code.

Dan Smith, Director of Community Affairs of Marco Island, took a moment to share his thoughts, alluding to the fact that a lot of things will need to happen before progress can be made.

With the Hilton placing in their pre-application that they want to be rezoned to a PUD (Planned Unit Development), “They were using the PUD as a vehicle to increase density, when they need a comprehensive plan change because they don’t have enough density credits to build what they’re trying to build.”

Smith is a firm believer in following the two-step process that the city’s code requires to be consistent with the comprehensive plan, “They are doing it as a one-step process.”

The Hilton wants to double their units to bring a total of 626 rooms, when their density credits only allow for 310 on the property.

In 2021, a Comprehensive Plan amendment was specifically amended to decrease density on the Island, not to raise it. This is a key reason why another amendment is needed presently, as it would essentially reverse the course set by City leadership back in 2021.

Closing his remarks Smith added, “It’s like wanting to drive a car without ever taking driver’s ed. And they're going to expect to be able to drive that car, and it doesn't work that way. You've got to go through some training first, and then you have to take a test, and then once you pass the test, you can drive a car.

Smith stressed that it isn’t impossible what needs to be done to make it happen, but it will be a long road ahead to complete the necessary steps to stay within city code, policies, and correct procedures.