Title
Annexation by Referendum - SW 20th Avenue Area (NB)
This is the request for authorization to commence the process for an annexation by referendum of an area commonly referred to SW 20th Avenue Area and Vicinities.
Explanation
The Alachua County Boundary Adjustment Act (BAA) provides two mechanisms for annexation - voluntary annexations, and annexations by referendum. An annexation by referendum is one in which the registered voters in a defined annexation area vote for or against annexation.
As defined by the BAA, it is appropriate to consider annexation in order to ensure sound urban development and accommodation to growth, ensure the efficient provision of urban services to areas that become urban in character, and to encourage development in designated reserve areas that efficiently utilize services and prevent urban sprawl. Based on these parameters, the area to the west of SW 34th Street, north of the vicinity of SW Archer Road, east of Interstate 75 and south of the City limits (excluding those areas already incorporated) would be appropriate for an annexation by referendum.
The referendum would be conducted on November 4, 2008 in coordination with the General Election.
Fiscal Note
The fiscal impact of this annexation will be addressed in the Urban Services Report.
Recommendation
The City Commission: 1) direct the City Manager to analyze the area; 2) direct the City Manager to notify the Supervisor of Election of the desire to conduct the referendum on November 4, 2008; and 3) authorize the City Attorney to prepare and the Clerk of the Commission to advertise ordinances relating to the annexation referendum of the area, if appropriate.
Alternative Recommendation:
The City Commission deny authorization to initiate the process for the annexation referendum.