XYZ 300, LLC has filed a compelling lawsuit against the City of St. Petersburg, accusing the city of orchestrating a campaign that severely restricts the development potential of their property. The complaint was filed on October 7, 2024, in the Circuit Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida.
The plaintiff, XYZ 300 LLC, represented by its sole agent Matthew Weidner, claims ownership of four parcels of land located at 250 Mirror Lake Drive North within St. Petersburg's city limits. These properties are entitled to a DC-2 zoning classification, which allows for "intense mixed-use development" according to city ordinances. However, XYZ 300 alleges that their ability to develop these properties has been systematically obstructed by both private historic preservation activists and the city's own historic preservation officials.
The lawsuit outlines a series of actions taken by the city that have imposed "inordinate burdens" on the plaintiff's property rights. One significant point of contention is an alleged illegal and unconstitutional attempt by the city to designate XYZ 300's property as part of a formal historic district. This process continued even after Hurricane Helene caused widespread devastation on September 29, 2024, with a public hearing scheduled for October 8, 2024. The plaintiff describes this timing as "heartless" and indicative of the city's relentless pursuit to impose restrictions.
XYZ 300 further accuses city officials of maintaining close ties with private preservation activists who aim to burden their property without any formal designation or authority. The plaintiff argues that these coordinated efforts have created an unfair power dynamic and violated their vested property rights under Florida law.
The lawsuit seeks relief under the Bert J. Harris Private Property Rights Protection Act and includes claims for Taking and Inverse Condemnation. XYZ 300 demands compensation exceeding $50,000—potentially amounting to millions—alongside costs and attorney fees. They request a bench trial to establish liability and seek a jury trial to determine appropriate compensation for damages incurred due to what they describe as unwarranted interference by the City of St. Petersburg.
Representing XYZ 300 LLC is attorney Matthew D. Weidner from Weidner Law P.A., while no specific defense attorneys or judges are mentioned in this filing under Case Number:24-004469-CI.