ARI Zoning Conflict Coming to a Head

Advanced Research Institute operates clinical drug trials and recently moved into offices in New Port Richey.

But its operation in ais a violation of the city’s zoning code, say city officials.

Now, they are citing the company for doing so, according to the Tampa Bay Times.

ARI moved into the city from Trinity, into space once used as Harbinger House that is zoned residential. The city attorney has said ARI needs office zoning.

Code enforcement issued a written warning May 4 that ARI was operating in violation because of the zoning and had 14 days to correct the issue, or it would face a citation.

Susan Randall, ARI’s chief executive officer, said to the Times that the building is owned by Juvenile Services Program, which formerly ran the home for troubled boys there.

Even before it opened its doors, ARI was surrounded by controversy. In March, city officials cited ARI’s contractor for not having the proper permits as it readied the building for the company’s move.

The company initially wanted the city to amend its comprehensive plan to accommodate the business, but City staff resisted, instead wanting the company to apply for a simple rezoning.

This week, the company met with city officials to discuss the issue. Afterward,   Barbara Wilhite, the company attorney, again requested that the city change its comprehensive plan and code. According to the Times, the company offered $2,000 to ease the process.

The city's code enforcement officer cited ARI Thursday morning for $513, according to the Times. The Times says a county court date is set for July 26. It cites one of the city attorneys as saying that there is probable cause and that it will be described at arraignment.

Prior to the news of the day’s citation breaking, City Manager John Schneiger told Patch Thursday morning that city officials were in the process of making a decision on whether to follow through with citing the business. He said at that time that he planned to bring Wilhite's request to the City Council at a June 5 meeting for discussion.

“I think this is a decision that I am going to leave up to the City Council,” he said.

Regarding his reasoning for wanting to bring the request to the council, Schneiger said: "We really don't have a policy related to citizens making a request for a comprehensive plan amendment."

He also expressed concern that the cost of amending the plan could be more than what ARI is offering.

ARI employs City Councilwoman Judy DeBella Thomas as. The question of whether the zoning issue poses a conflict of interest for her is something for her to discuss with the city attorney, Schneiger said. 

"My non-legal opinion is that she should recuse herself," he said.