VERO BEACH — There’s still optimism in City Hall that some recommendations of the downtown masterplan can be implemented, even though two ballot referendums — necessary for the plan to move forward — were rejected by voters Tuesday.
One referendum would have increased the allowable density downtown — from 17 units per acre to 36. The other would have permitted the transfer of development rights, which would have allowed a property owner to sell unbuilt, but approved, units to another.
“I am disappointed in the result, but understand the fear that people may have for increasing density,” said Vice Mayor Linda Moore. “I do still think it is better for growth to occur downtown, than have suburban sprawl.”…