The most newsworthy item was the rezoning proposal for the Leburg Lakefront site under case number PUD 25687. This proposal involves transforming a property currently designated for RV park use into a mixed-use development with multifamily residential units and commercial spaces. The planning and zoning department recommended approval, citing compatibility with surrounding zoning districts and the alignment of the future land use with adjacent designations. The development is expected to enhance economic activity in Leesburg, replacing the prior Harbor View RV Park zoning, which allowed for a campground with some commercial uses.

Michael Rankin, representing the Land Planning Group, clarified that the development would not be an RV park but rather a comprehensive project featuring three- to four-story buildings and two-story townhouses. The project will include 580 parking spaces and a 12,000 square-foot commercial area intended for businesses like eateries. Rankin assured the board and community members that a fence and landscaping would buffer the development from neighboring residences, with particular attention to Building Five being set back 155 feet from the property line.

Environmental considerations were also highlighted. The development will not encroach on wetlands, and all structures will adhere to flood elevation standards. The building height will not exceed 55 feet, consistent with four-story structures. Public comments, including those from Frederick David Spangler, a resident concerned about noise and traffic impacts, were addressed. Rankin confirmed that core samples were taken to determine the appropriate building footprint and that noise regulations akin to those in other residential developments would be enforced.

The meeting also covered the potential inclusion of a marina in the development, catering to local boaters with amenities such as fuel stops and food options. However, specifics about the marina were not detailed.

Additionally, the board discussed the Legacy Commerce Small Scale Comprehensive Plan Amendment and Small Scale Planned Unit Development (PUD), proposing annexation and rezoning of approximately 7.3 acres for multi-use office and warehouse buildings. The planning department found the proposed zoning compatible with surrounding areas, and the board unanimously approved the recommendations.

The Legacy Commerce project will include flex space units for varied uses, notably benefiting local tradespeople by providing storage and parking for commercial vehicles. A projected buildout cost of $3 to $4 million was noted, with financing in progress. The board considered the potential addition of daycare and worship facilities to the project.

The meeting also addressed long-term planning issues, including a proposal from the economic development group Lake 100 to replace the planning commission with a magistrate system. This suggestion prompted varied opinions, with some expressing skepticism about the effectiveness of a single decision-maker compared to a collaborative board.

The departure of a long-serving board member, Stuart, was acknowledged, with gratitude expressed for his contributions, particularly in streamlining architectural standards documentation. Looking forward, the board discussed updates to planning commission membership and potential local fiscal changes, such as a proposed 5-cent gas tax aimed at funding road improvements. Concerns were raised about the tax’s implications on property taxes and the economic landscape, with an emphasis on public input and awareness.