STUART — The City Commission approved a conditional use and distance waiver Nov. 10 allowing a West Coast Florida franchisee to open a new Spice & Tea Exchange in Downtown Stuart, despite city code normally requiring 300 feet between similar businesses.
The debate centered on a 15-year-old amendment to the city’s land development code, designed to limit formula businesses —franchises with multiple locations nationwide — in the historic district to preserve Downtown Stuart’s unique character.
City Planner Mechelle Arbuzow explained, “This is a request by Glenn and Kimberly Gordon for 39 S.W. Osceola St. The waiver is for two formula businesses within 300 feet — Duffy’s Sports Grill and Kilwin’s Chocolates. Such businesses are not prohibited downtown but require CRB consideration and City Commission approval.”
The Community Redevelopment Board recommended denial in October, citing concerns that more franchises could raise rents, making it harder for independent businesses. However, letters of support from local business owners and dignitaries from Mount Dora, where the Gordons operate another location, were also presented.
Representing the applicant and the property owner, Ike Crumpler introduced the Gordons, who operate stores in Mount Dora, Punta Gorda, Sarasota, and Tarpon Springs. Glenn Gordon described their business: “Our first location was in Tarpon Springs. It’s a unique concept, and we’d like to bring it here.”
Kimberly Gordon added, “We’re not just a retail store. We create an experience — guests smell spices, watch hand-mixed blends, and learn to brew tea. It’s educational and immersive.”
Crumpler noted the request revives a previous Spice & Tea Exchange at the site that had closed for personal reasons. He highlighted CRB members’ positive comments on local hiring and complementary business impacts, while acknowledging concerns about rents and large corporate franchises. Property owner Max Ducharme emphasized the Gordons as the type of small business the law was designed to protect.
Vice-Mayor Christopher Collins voiced concern that granting the waiver might set a precedent for more franchises. “If we see more of these, you could argue it contributes to a nationwide trend of standardized downtown offerings,” he said. Attorney Audra Creech countered that prior commissions had already found the business compatible with code requirements, and the process allows reassessment for each operator.
Commissioner Sean Reed supported approval, saying, “Let the consumers decide. If the Spice & Tea Exchange isn’t going to make it, Downtown Stuart will let them know.” Commissioner Laura Giobbi confirmed with City Attorney Lee Baggett that a one-time exception does not negate city code. “It’s a conditional use. Future franchises must go through the same process,” Baggett said.
Several residents spoke, mostly in favor, though CRB Chairman Mark Brechbill expressed concern about encouraging national chains at the expense of local businesses.
The City Commission approved the conditional use and distance waiver 4-1, with Vice-Mayor Collins dissenting. The decision allows the Gordons to open their new downtown location while maintaining oversight and protections for the historic district.