Coral Springs pharmacy withdraws its request to open near First Haitian Baptist Church after city staff recommends against approval
Coral Springs, Florida – A specialty pharmacy that had requested special permission to open near a local church has officially withdrawn its proposal, according to city documents. The issue was scheduled for discussion at the Coral Springs City Commission meeting on Thursday but will no longer be considered.
The pharmacy, which provides medications for patients with cancer, HIV, and other serious conditions, had planned to operate in a small commercial plaza at 9837 Sample Road. However, the proposed site is less than 500 feet from the First Haitian Baptist Church, a distance that violates the city’s zoning rules. Coral Springs regulations prohibit pharmacies from opening within 500 feet of schools, parks, or places of worship.
To proceed, the pharmacy had sought a special exemption from the city commission, but city staff had recommended against granting permission. With the withdrawal, it is now unclear whether the pharmacy will attempt to seek special approval again in the future.
The move comes amid ongoing debates over how zoning rules affect the placement of medical facilities and other businesses. While specialty pharmacies can play a crucial role in serving patients with complex health needs, the city’s proximity restrictions are designed to balance community access with safety and neighborhood concerns.
For now, the project to open a Coral Springs Pharmacy in the plaza at Sample Road is on hold indefinitely. Residents and church officials had expressed concerns about increased traffic and potential safety issues near the place of worship, which may have influenced the pharmacy’s decision to pull the request.
City zoning regulations are strict, particularly when it comes to the placement of pharmacies near schools, parks, or religious institutions. These measures aim to maintain the character of neighborhoods and protect sensitive areas while still supporting community health needs.
The Coral Springs City Commission did not provide additional comment on the withdrawal, and city documents show no immediate plans for alternative proposals. Meanwhile, patients seeking specialized pharmacy services will need to look to other locations in the area for the time being.
The decision highlights the challenges businesses can face when attempting to navigate local zoning rules and underscores the city’s commitment to following established regulations while considering community input.
