G3 Development, with 25 years of experience in commercial real estate development, presented a comprehensive framework for downtown Ocoee. Gunther outlined plans for multifamily residential developments near the 429 highway. The proposal also included vertical mixed-use spaces, where retail like coffee shops could coexist with residential units above, as well as professional office spaces designed to attract year-round visitors and support local businesses.

Gunther introduced three catalyst projects, notably a proposed fish camp-style restaurant near a recording studio, intended to celebrate local heritage and foster community engagement through public events at Bill Breeze Park. While a parking structure was not immediately necessary, Gunther recommended considering one for future growth to avoid common issues faced by other municipalities.

Financial feasibility was an aspect of the discussion. Gunther noted that current rental rates in downtown Ocoee were insufficient to cover new construction costs, citing examples from other municipalities, like Downtown Orlando, which offer substantial incentives to attract tenants. Potential solutions included land contributions and tenant improvement assistance to overcome financial challenges. Gunther emphasized the significance of parking in downtown development, pointing to experiences from other cities that failed to plan adequately, leading to post-development challenges.

Commissioners engaged with the presentation, offering feedback and suggestions. One commissioner expressed interest in the design of the proposed band shell, advocating for its placement closer to the water to enhance seating options and event experiences. Another commissioner preferred a different type of restaurant concept. Throughout the discussions, the importance of public feedback and collaboration was highlighted as crucial in shaping the downtown development plans.

Attention then turned to a variance request concerning a mobile home installation, where the commission addressed previous approval errors related to the orientation and entryway placement of the mobile home. The applicant clarified that the mobile home would be placed directly on the land without a concrete slab, as the lot had been vacant following the demolition of a prior structure. The commission approved the variance unanimously, considering the unique circumstances of the property.

The meeting also discussed the Ocoee Village Center’s new grocery and fuel station project, with a preliminary site plan for four parcels on North Lakewood and Clarkona Koi Road. The plan met zoning requirements and included provisions for loading zones and additional landscaping. The project received unanimous support from the Development Review Committee and the Planning and Zoning Commission.

Further discussions centered on the management of the Forest Lake Golf Club. The commission considered the implications of city ownership versus third-party operation. Some commissioners favored in-house management for better control and profit retention, while others advocated for extending the current lease to allow more time for evaluation. The mayor proposed a 90-day extension for the current operator, enabling staff to explore the feasibility of in-house management.

In the public comment session, Joseph McMullen from the Hapcore Music Foundation expressed gratitude for the city’s support of their annual jazz festival, emphasizing its impact on local youth through educational programs. The commission discussed the possibility of establishing a permanent budget allocation for the festival, traditionally supported through contingency funds.

The meeting concluded with announcements about upcoming events, including an “Evening with Santa” and a “Jolly Jamboree,” as well as a toy donation program led by the Ocoee Police Department. Commissioners expressed gratitude for successful community events and discussed safety concerns around local schools and downtown golf cart usage, emphasizing the need for tightened regulations and improved coordination with the school district.