Developer Seeks Expedited Permit to Combat Homeless Encampments on Troubled Apopka Site
- Meeting Overview:
At the recent Apopka City Council meeting, discussions centered around a developer’s request to expedite a site clearing permit for a property plagued by persistent illegal dumping and homeless encampments. The developer urged the council to allow clearing of the site, arguing it would curb ongoing issues and benefit both the city and local businesses. The site in question has been the subject of complaints, including a previously waived $80,000 code violation due to illegal dumping of furniture and trash.
During the meeting, the developer expressed frustration over the delays caused by additional requirements for a sediment and erosion control plan. Public works officials stressed the necessity of such a plan to prevent environmental damage during site clearing. In response, it was suggested that the developer submit a mass grading plan as part of the construction site plan to facilitate the permitting process. The developer agreed to comply with the requirements, including the installation of a double silt fence on the south side of the property to manage potential erosion issues.
Another agenda item involved a special exception request for industrial outdoor storage on Hermit Smith Road. The applicant plans to bring the property up to code, improving parking services and stormwater management. The Planning Commission must approve or deny the request, with an appeal option available to the city council if needed.
Additionally, the council reviewed a construction site plan for Invitation Cove, addressing concerns about street configurations and public versus private infrastructure. Discussions included the need for additional geotechnical borings and compliance with the city’s comprehensive plan for transportation and parking. Several unresolved issues, notably regarding ADA compliance and drainage easements, were deferred for further offline discussion between the applicant and city officials.
Bryan Nelson
City Council Officials:
Alexander Smith (Commissioner – Seat 1), Diane Velazquez (Commissioner – Seat 2), Nadia L. Anderson (Commissioner – Seat 3), Nick Nesta (Commissioner – Seat 4)
-
Meeting Type:
City Council
-
Committee:
-
Meeting Date:
10/29/2025
-
Recording Published:
10/29/2025
-
Duration:
20 Minutes
-
Notability Score:
Routine
Receive debriefs about local meetings in your inbox weekly:
-
State:
Florida
-
County:
Orange County
-
Towns:
Apopka
Recent Meetings Nearby:
- 12/04/2025
- 12/04/2025
- 51 Minutes
- 12/03/2025
- 12/03/2025
- 79 Minutes
- 12/03/2025
- 12/03/2025
- 127 Minutes