City's Planning & Development Director Awarded Outstanding Local Public Official of the Year

City of St. Petersburg's Planning and Development Director Elizabeth Abernethy Awarded Outstanding Local Public Official of the Year

September 6, 2024 - Earlier today, Elizabeth "Liz" Abernethy, the City of St. Petersburg's Planning and Development Director was honored with the Outstanding Local Public Official of the Year award from the Florida Chapter of the American Planning Association (APA Florida). The award was presented at the 2024 Florida Planning Conference, which took place at the Tampa Convention Center and congregated city planning professionals from across the state.

"Elizabeth Abernethy's vision and dedication have been instrumental in shaping the future of St. Petersburg," said Mayor Kenneth T. Welch. "Her innovative approach to urban planning and development has not only preserved the unique character of our city but has also positioned us as a leader in sustainable and inclusive growth. Liz's recognition as Outstanding Local Public Official of the Year is well-deserved, and we are incredibly proud of her contributions to our community."

Abernethy has dedicated more than 30 years as a practicing planner in the Tampa Bay region. Since September 2014, Abernethy has served the City of St. Petersburg, first as a zoning official and manager of the Development Review Services Division and currently as the Director of Planning and Development Services, leading the City's building, zoning, planning, and historic preservation activities.

Abernethy's efforts have included:

• Leading the award-winning StPete2050 community visioning effort (2021 FAPA Award of Excellence)

• Updating the Downtown Waterfront Master Plan

• Shepherding code changes to allow Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) citywide and a new Missing Middle zoning district

• Establishing a process for approval of affordable housing projects under Florida House Bill 1339 and Senate Bill 102

• Updating urban agriculture provisions expanding community gardens

• Updating coastal high hazard policies and regulations to address sea level rise and storm vulnerability

• Creating a Storefront Conservation Corridor Overlay addressing space for small business and corridor character

• Updating noise regulations improving enforcement procedures and establishing a requirement for noise mitigation and monitoring plans

• Implementing a comprehensive update to the residential Land Development Regulations with an innovative floor area ratio approach addressing compatible infill

• A tree and landscape code update introducing enhanced protection for grand and signature trees