A major focus of the meeting was the rezoning and development plans for a 66-acre parcel located on the eastern edge of Lake Sebring. The council considered Ordinance Number 1547, which proposed changing the land use classification from county medium density to city low density residential. This change reduces the potential number of dwelling units from 528 to 330, offering five units per acre instead of eight. Jennifer Cotto Salsbury from the Central Florida Regional Planning Council presented details of the amendment, emphasizing adequate capacity for schools and transportation.

During the public hearing, residents raised questions about land ownership, with clarification provided that Gapway Groves retained ownership and planned to develop the land. The conversation extended to the proposed zoning changes under Ordinance Number 1542, shifting zoning from county agricultural and residential to city planned unit development. This would allow for up to 234 homes at a density of approximately three and a half units per acre.

Throughout the discussions, concerns regarding access points, emergency services, and environmental considerations were raised. The primary access for the development is planned from Scenic Highway, with emergency access through Sparkling Drive. Shelton Rice, representing Gapway Groves, emphasized transparency and community engagement throughout the development process. The council approved the ordinance.

Another item involved the rezoning of a nearby 75-acre site, changing its future land use classification from county medium density residential to city medium density residential. This amendment, presented in Ordinance Number 1548, allows for a maximum of 12 units per acre, increasing potential dwelling units by 300 to a total of 900. The comprehensive plan amendment aligns with the city’s infrastructure service standards and was approved without opposition.

Public comments during the meeting revealed a divide among residents regarding the appropriateness of these changes, especially concerning commercial zoning proposals. Ordinance Number 1549 proposed changing the classification for a 38-acre site from residential to city commercial, potentially introducing non-residential uses. Residents voiced concerns about the encroachment of commercial development into residential areas, citing potential traffic implications and the integrity of their community.

In response to these concerns, Shelton Rice suggested tabling the ordinance to allow for further evaluation and community engagement. The council agreed.

The meeting also touched on other community matters, including a proposal for an open container policy on the circle and the sale of a local golf course and restaurant. Residents expressed strong opposition to the open container policy, raising concerns about regulation and costs for enforcement. Additionally, the potential $1-a-year sale of the golf course and Catty Shack restaurant prompted criticism, with residents emphasizing the importance of maintaining affordable community spaces.