A central topic of the meeting was the approval of a large-scale future land use amendment for the Onage South properties. The commission unanimously agreed to change the land use designation from County Rural to mixed-use for these 54.85 acres, which are part of the WAVA Interchange Vision Plan. This amendment is a prerequisite for the proposed development of 326 residential units, which includes a mix of 193 townhomes and single-family lots. The proposal raised discussions about the minimum open space requirements, highlighting the potential need for updates to the city’s Land Development Code to ensure more green areas in future projects.

Another point of discussion was a zoning change for the Onage South properties, transitioning from County A1 Citrus to the Kelly Park Interchange mixed-use zone. This change aligns with the aforementioned land use amendment and includes a detailed master plan for the residential development. The commission focused on the environmental impact, particularly the preservation of 11.24 acres of open space, which meets the current minimum requirement. There was a consensus on the need for a more comprehensive approach to open space in future developments, and a motion to recommend approval was passed without opposition.

The commission also addressed a proposed amendment to the Land Development Code to allow outdoor recreation in the mixed-use downtown and commercial corridor zoning districts. This amendment was prompted by a proposal to introduce a pickleball court in downtown Apopka, which is not permitted under current zoning laws. This move is part of a broader strategy to enhance recreational opportunities within the city. The planning manager clarified that while outdoor recreation is allowed in several zoning districts, it was previously excluded from the downtown area. The commission expressed support for the amendment, and a motion to recommend it was made and seconded.

Addressing school capacity issues was a recurring theme during the meeting, particularly in relation to a large-scale future land use amendment for Chandler Hills. The commission approved the amendment to change the land use to mixed-use, which would permit a development density of up to five units per acre. Concerns were raised about the capacity of local schools to accommodate additional students resulting from new developments. The planning manager explained that school capacity issues are managed through a county formula that estimates student generation rates from new developments. If capacity is insufficient, options include exploring adjacent school zones or negotiating mitigation payments to support the construction of new school facilities.

A notable zoning request involved the change from Residential Single Family Large Lot (RSF 1B) to Residential Two Family (RTF) for a property on Shiler Avenue. This change facilitates the development of a subdivision comprising duplexes and single-family homes. The commission discussed visibility issues related to an abandoned radio station building on the property, which the applicant assured would be removed. Additionally, there were discussions about working with the local police department to ensure that the firing range’s training activities are not disrupted by the new development. The commission approved the zoning change, emphasizing the need for collaboration with the police department during the site plan review process.