Dave Axam of Axel Real Estate provided a synopsis and historical background of the Water Tower District, which encompasses properties owned by the Evans Family. Axam highlighted the significance of the district in Oviedo’s overall development landscape. He noted that a developer’s agreement and a master lease plan for the area are forthcoming items that will require the board’s recommendation. Axam also referenced previous presentations to the LDC committee and the board, which covered the district’s development plans.

A thorough presentation on the historical development of Oviedo, with emphasis on the Water Tower District, outlined the area’s growth trajectory, including population increase, commercial development, and infrastructure enhancements. The presentation stressed the importance of the Geneva Drive realignment project for future redevelopment efforts and the master stormwater regional ponds initiative, which aims to integrate green spaces within the urban fabric effectively.

The proposed development scheme’s challenges were discussed, focusing on achieving target densities and floor area ratios. The potential necessity for structured parking facilities to support projected population increases was a key point. The concept of mixed-use development was also explored, with strategies to attract technology firms and enhance employment opportunities within the district. Financial aspects were touched upon, with the urban 3 financial analysis indicating the need to concentrate density in specific areas to support city infrastructure.

Questions arose from attendees regarding the scope of the Water Tower District development plan, particularly concerning the boundaries and impact on existing properties. It was clarified that Fairwinds was currently outside the development scope, highlighting the complexities of coordinating redevelopment across various property owners and stakeholders.

The agency also examined the challenges associated with developing areas with wetlands and high mitigation costs. Concerns were raised about the residential densities needed to support nonresidential uses. The creation of a walkable mixed-use downtown area was underscored, with a focus on comfortable pathways and wider sidewalks. A debate over the design of roadways, particularly the implementation of backing angle parking, ensued. Some members had reservations about this design, while others advocated for its safety and convenience benefits. The concept of a parking benefit district was discussed, considering variable parking charges to ensure parking space availability.

Further discussions included innovative technology to support tree growth and mitigate conflicts between trees and pavement. The closure of a lodge and its impact on the construction of the Connector Road were also mentioned.

Additionally, the agency touched on sidewalk widening on the North side of a street, with concerns about the limited space due to nearby buildings. The future plans for roundabouts and road widening, especially concerning a new hardware store’s location, were queried. A presentation on the difference between quasi-legislative and quasi-judicial functions of the planning agency emphasized the need for substantial competent evidence in decision-making and transparency in project-related communications.

Lastly, the board approved a deviation request for 1266 Burgundy Court, submitted by Kevin Hypes, for a home addition and an existing screen enclosure. The staff had recommended the approval of the deviation with three conditions, which the board ultimately accepted after discussing the project’s impact on the surrounding area.