The proposal, presented by the developer Rick Blunt of Blunt Development Group, outlines plans for six buildings with design standards that include buffering for wetlands and opaque fencing adjacent to residential areas. It specifies that at least 35% of the property must remain open space, with landscaping adhering to city codes and dark skylighting. To conserve water, Bermuda grass will be used instead of St. Augustine grass. The maximum building height is limited to two stories, and the site plan features a single primary access point. The developer is responsible for necessary expansions or upgrades to access points and roadways, as stipulated by the Florida Department of Transportation and Lake County Public Works.

City staff confirmed sufficient capacity in water, wastewater, and other utilities to support the development, with the stipulation that all services must utilize city water and wastewater systems. The proposal includes a requirement for a substantial commitment to development within four years, or the property will revert to R1 zoning standards, allowing one acre per unit.

During the meeting, Blunt expressed enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing its potential to provide local employment opportunities and reduce the need for residents to commute outside the area for work. The development is designed to attract small manufacturers and businesses that have outgrown their initial operations, offering flexibility in unit sizes ranging from 1,250 to 2,500 square feet. Blunt compared the project to a smaller development known as “My Garage,” which successfully accommodates a variety of businesses in a similar flex space environment.

The project received a recommendation for approval from both city staff and the Planning Commission, which voted 7-0 in favor. The commission’s inquiry about the current PUD zoning confirmed it was previously residential, with Blunt noting its former rezoning for a senior living project by the prior owner, Henry Coocher. With no public opposition voiced during the session, the commission advanced the proposal to a second reading scheduled for January 12th.

In a separate agenda item, the meeting commenced with a presentation honoring the achievements of Leesburg’s Pop Warner football and cheerleading teams. Recreation Director Travis Rama introduced the teams, which excelled in the mid-Florida championships. The 11U football team and the 14U girls flag football team both earned mid-Florida championships, while two other teams, the tiny mites and pee-wees, competed in nationals in North Carolina, securing fourth place in their respective categories. Rama highlighted the excitement surrounding the local youth sports programs and the anticipation of a new facility on Susan Street to serve as a home for the teams.

The teams’ introduction included calling out players’ names for recognition, accompanied by applause from the audience. Coaches Jeff and Said Watkins led the 11U football team, while Melvin and Alante Richardson coached the 14U girls flag football team. The cheerleading teams, coached by Mrs. Wanita Russell and Mrs. Venita Pope, also received recognition, with the tiny mites placing third at nationals.