Ocoee OKs annexation of Whitter Ave. property

During a short meeting Tuesday, Jan. 19, the Ocoee City Commission approved the annexation and rezoning of parcel of land located at 511 Whittier Ave.

The property, currently vacant, sits on 0.18 acres, has a 100-foot lot width and was zoned Orange County R-1 (single family). Based on its location and specifics, it was a logical choice for annexation and rezoning, said Kiel Gajadhar — the city’s zoning manager.

“The parcel is eligible due to the parcel to the west being recently annexed into the city, and it’s also within our Joint Planning Agreement with Orange County,” Gajadhar said. “Annexing will help reduce it as an enclave, so it’s a logical extension to the city limits so that water can be provided, as well as city services.” 

Gajadhar also noted the addition of the property was consistent with the city’s future land use — with the entire area around the parcel being low-density residential.

In a quick vote, the commission unanimously approved both the annexation and the rezoning of the property from Orange County R-1 to City of Ocoee R-1.
 

WILSEN WORRIES ABOUT DEVELOPMENT

During the comments from commissioners segment of the night’s meeting, Commissioner Rosemary Wilsen — who represents District 2 — brought up her concerns regarding the city’s industrial-development areas and the growth of said areas.

“I’m wondering if this is being looked at in totality by the city,” said Wilsen, reading from her notes. “I question if staff are prepared for this type of development where thousands of truck trips will be on the roadways. … This will be a dramatic change in the type of buildings, and we’re seeing huge impacts in more populated areas of the city.” 

Wilsen mentioned a plan — which has only been discussed and not submitted — regarding light industrial area being put on Clarke Road across from the mall. Wilson said she had seen large semis on local roads where they shouldn’t be and worried about locals having to deal with additional traffic, among other concerns.

“We are in a pivotal point in the city’s growth,” City Planner Michael Rumer said. “We do have several good developers with good intentions looking to build large, industrial uses, which will change our comprehensive-plan future land-use map.” 

Following the discussion, the commissioners agreed to revisit the topic at the next meeting.