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Attorney Michael O'Haire, representing the applicant, wished to reserve his comments to the end of the public hearing. John Dean, architect for the proposed project, having been duly sworn, gave details of the project. He pointed out that the location is isolated, is adequate in size, and is accessed by 154th Avenue which is paved. The retreatants will stay on site because the purpose of a retreat is for people to be isolated to make changes in their lives. There is objection to this use from the grove owners because of the agricultural nature of the surrounding property, but isolated places are not to - be found in developed areas. The applicants are aware of the activity involved in grove care and do not feel there is any problem. There are two other pieces of property in that area which are not used for agriculture. The applicants will agree to a condition not to raise any host plants which would impact the Japanese Fruit Fly Protocol Program. Mr. Dean maintained that the special use plan meets every technical criteria, will not adversely impact the public health, safety or comfort, or rural development in the area, and is compatible with the other uses in that area. Commissioner Eggert stated that she always advises people who want to build day care centers for adults or children that they should put them in areas of passive agriculture or virgin land. She asked why the applicants chose this property which is located in a very active agricultural area. Mr. Dean responded that among the criteria necessary for a retreat is isolation and this property is isolated, is accessed by a paved road and was available. Pastor Sandy Coffey, having been duly sworn, described herself and her husband, Richard, as long-time, tax -paying, law abiding citizens of the community. Mr. Coffey owns a large construction company and has employed several Vero Beach residents for the past 12 years. Pastor Coffey and her husband have been active as volunteers with different community projects and have a lot to offer Vero Beach. After Pastor Coffey announced at her church that she wanted to start the ministry, a woman told her about this property. She went out to see it and decided it was the right spot, and they will reside permanently on the property. Pastor Coffey stressed that Harvest Christian Ranch is needed. It is a non-profit corporation, a discipleship church reaching out to the community. The doors are open to anyone desiring to change their life. The retreatants will stay no longer than six months, although some individuals will leave before six months. The program is very structured. It is run like Faith Farm facilities 9 APR 121994 23 noK, F-, , All