The most discussion centered on the proposed development project under a Planned Unit Development (PUD) framework. This project includes 250 townhomes with specific requirements for landscaping, access, and recreational amenities. The PUD mandates a 25-foot landscape buffer along property boundaries and prohibits the use of St. Augustine grass, opting instead for Bahia or Bermuda varieties. Access will be through a primary boulevard-type roadway with an eight-foot landscape median and additional emergency access. The entryway will feature decorative signage made from concrete, brick, or stucco, at least five feet high.

Recreational amenities are a key component, with approximately 50,000 square feet dedicated to playgrounds, dog parks, and barbecue areas. A walking trail will connect to the proposed Lake County Trail along County Road 48. A phasing clause requires development commencement within 48 months, or the property reverts to its original zoning. Additional infrastructure improvements, including turn lanes at County Road 48, are mandated by Lake County Public Works.

Steve Harris from the development team acknowledged the two-year collaboration with city officials, resulting in a less intense solution than initially proposed. The development includes tree buffers, walking trails, a Tot Lot, and dog parks strategically located away from main roads. Central picnic areas will offer barbecues and fire pits. A public restaurant, with indoor/outdoor dining and poolside delivery, will serve both residents and the public.

Concerns arose about traffic, particularly at intersections of County Road 48 and Highway 33. A speaker highlighted over 30,000 approved residential lots in the city, arguing against further residential developments and advocating for maintaining industrial zoning. The potential for increased traffic from residential development was contrasted with the higher traffic volumes anticipated from industrial use. A commissioner countered, emphasizing property owners’ rights and the alignment of the proposed development with city goals for affordable housing and amenities.

The meeting also addressed the comprehensive plan amendment for Leesburg, with the final version of the city’s 2045 comprehensive plan presented for approval. This plan, developed over two years with input from city departments and consultants, aims to clarify language and objectives for future development. The comprehensive plan will be submitted to the state, pending a legal challenge period.

Discussions extended to the future land use map and annexation policies. A commissioner queried whether the map included all city properties, with a response confirming it only covered properties within city limits. Annexation criteria focus on proximity to major corridors to manage traffic. The comprehensive plan, projected for a 20-year horizon, requires state-mandated updates every ten years, emphasizing adaptability to changing land uses.

Challenges related to the city’s consumptive use permit (CUP) also emerged. The city’s request to expand the CUP from 9 to 15 million gallons per day was rejected by the water district due to insufficient evidence of rapid growth. The city plans to return for reconsideration in 2030, when the current permit expires. The comprehensive plan includes elements on conservation and intergovernmental coordination for CUP approval.

Administrative matters included a disconnect between the fire assessment fee consultant and the tax collector’s office, with efforts underway to rectify this issue. The meeting concluded with acknowledgments and updates, including gratitude for public works’ responsiveness and successful community events like the Flapjack 5K. The upcoming Christmas festival and parade were highlighted, and vacancies on the Electric Advisory Board were announced.