St. Johns County commissioners on Tuesday unanimously approved a proposed golf-themed entertainment center near Palencia, citing strong demand for family-friendly activities in the area.
The 5-0 vote clears the way for Nothing Putt Fun & Games, a project planned for a 4.5-acre site along U.S. 1. The development would include a one-story 16,000-square-foot indoor miniature golf facility, a 22,000-square-foot outdoor course, arcade games, food trucks and a small bar.
Applicant Barrett Tennant said the concept is intended to function as a community destination built around repeat visits from local families, school field trips, and partnerships with nearby businesses.
“There’s a lot to do for adults, there are some options for kids, but this would be something the whole family can go to and have a great time,” Tennant told The Citizen prior to the vote, describing swathes of St. Johns County as “recreational deserts.”
Commissioner Christian Whitehurst called the project a quality-of-life enhancement on Tuesday.
“Having considered everything that’s been presented, including legitimate concerns from the community, I think this will improve quality of life in the area,” he said.
Commissioner Ann Taylor said she frequently hears from residents in Palencia, Las Calinas, Kensington, and nearby neighborhoods asking for more entertainment options. “They really want some place to go, and unfortunately, we don’t have anything,” she said.
The approval follows a 5-2 recommendation for denial from the county’s Planning and Zoning Agency in December.
PZA members focused on environmental concerns, noting that portions of the property are classified as wetlands.
Tennant and his representative, Matt Lahti of Gulfstream Design Group, previously argued the wetlands are protected under state and federal regulations regardless of zoning and said the one-story design limits environmental impact.
Several nearby residents again raised concerns Tuesday about traffic and noise near their homes. Commissioners noted the project was preferable to other uses that could be developed on the site under current zoning.
Tennant attended the meeting with his son, an avid golfer whose interest helped inspire the project.
Commissioner Clay Murphy drew laughter when he asked the youngster if he had ever bested his old man on the course.
The boy replied that he had — sealing a lighthearted moment just before the unanimous vote.
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