The most notable topic of the meeting was the public hearing concerning the rezoning of a property intended for Grace Bible Church’s expansion. The property, formerly part of the South Florida State College campus, is currently zoned as R1A single-family dwelling district. The church seeks to reclassify it to a C2PD limited commercial district to accommodate church-related activities. The town planner clarified the historical inconsistency between the zoning and future land use designations, rooted in changes to state regulations over the decades. To comply with current laws, the church requires a zoning change to proceed with its intended uses. The proposed plan includes a 300-seat auditorium and various facilities that necessitate additional parking, utilizing public right-of-way spaces due to limited on-site parking. The council also considered the church’s request for deviations from the sign code, which includes allowances for temporary and permanent signage.

During the public comment segment, there were inquiries about the implications of the zoning change and concerns about the potential impact on the community. One resident questioned the status of existing signage and its implications for the church’s plans, while another emphasized the importance of the church’s mission and its community role. The discussion also explored the procedural steps following a potential denial of the application.

In conjunction with the rezoning discussion, the council examined the extension of utilities, important for economic development in Lake Placid. The presentation by a representative from the Highlands County Economic Development Office detailed the prospects of extending broadband and natural gas services within the area. The extension of natural gas emerged as a challenge due to the current line being over ten miles away along State Road 70. The financial feasibility of extending the service is uncertain without substantial investments or grants, such as those from the Economic Development Administration.

The conversation extended to broadband development, where the Local Technology Planning Team’s efforts since 2020 were highlighted. A project funded by the American Rescue Plan Act is currently underway, extending broadband over 20 miles to improve connectivity between county buildings and nearby residences. Despite this progress, significant funding for broadband expansion is largely managed by the state, focusing on internet service providers rather than municipalities. The council discussed the eligibility of Lake Placid for further funding, noting the challenges in securing grants and the need to tap into surrounding fiber optics for better connectivity.

The meeting also addressed community concerns about grass parking at Lake June Park. The town planner clarified that the focus was on the feasibility of utilizing grass or mulch for low-frequency parking areas, such as those near the pickleball courts and boat launch. The planner highlighted advantages like cost savings and green space preservation, though concerns about wear and tear and stormwater management were raised. A resident expressed dissatisfaction with the existing gravel parking conditions and the perceived lack of community engagement regarding the pickleball court plans.