06:26The Vision 2045 plan, set to replace the outdated comprehensive plan from 2002, was a focal point of the meeting. This plan, developed over two years with input from various city departments and public feedback, aims to modernize the city’s approach to land use, housing, and infrastructure to support sustainable growth. The plan introduces new land use categories, such as mixed-use and low-medium density residential, to better accommodate future development needs while addressing the anticipated population growth to 74,500 residents.

01:10:16A discussion point during the meeting involved public comments on the mixed-use development aspect of the Vision 2045 plan. An individual representing a property development project expressed frustration over a moratorium that prevented them from submitting formal applications. They sought clarity on whether mixed-use designations would require a residential component alongside commercial or other uses, which could impact their project’s design and costs. This concern highlighted the need for clearer definitions and conditions within the Land Development Code to avoid potential delays and costs due to the ongoing legislative processes.

15:50The meeting also delved into the city’s population projections and land use analysis, comparing Ocoee to neighboring municipalities like Winter Garden and Apopka. The analysis revealed that Ocoee could absorb only a fraction of the projected demand for new residents, even at the highest allowable density under current land use categories. This sparked a conversation about the need for innovative solutions to accommodate growth, such as the introduction of mixed-use developments, particularly in the downtown district, where 887,000 square feet of commercial and residential space could be developed.

44:48Transportation and mobility were other critical areas of focus. The commission discussed efforts to enhance connectivity and reduce congestion, emphasizing the importance of context-sensitive standards and avoiding cul-de-sacs to improve travel choices. This approach aims to create a resilient and well-connected transportation system that considers the needs of cyclists and pedestrians, as well as addressing gaps in sidewalks to improve walkability and accessibility.

35:48On the infrastructure front, the meeting addressed the city’s water supply and drainage systems. The utilities sub-element stressed the need for new developments to connect to central sewer services and emphasized the importance of reducing nutrient loads in water systems through responsible land use practices. Additionally, the discussion covered stormwater management and the use of GIS technology to improve drainage systems.

30:25Parks and recreation were also topics, with the commission addressing the goal of increasing the city’s level of service for parkland from 4 acres to 8 acres per 1,000 residents, a target already surpassed at 8.2 acres. Objectives for the parks element include promoting health and well-being, ensuring accessibility for all users, and employing nature-based solutions to remove barriers in park systems.

01:00:27The meeting concluded with a discussion on the capital improvements plan, emphasizing the need for fiscal responsibility and ensuring that development projects bear the proportionate costs of their impacts on public facilities and infrastructure.