Hull Island project is stalled in Oakland

There was an abundance of frustration at the Jan. 9 Oakland Town Commission meeting regarding a proposed 73-acre development on the west end of town.

Nearby residents, many in attendance that night, are upset that this subdivision will likely alter their rural way of life. Town officials are frustrated that the project had gotten this far when there were still so many unanswered questions. And the developer isn’t happy that his project is being further stalled.

The neighborhood in question is planned for Hull Island and, at present, proposes 115 homes. Town officials consider this pristine land and want to make sure a quality development is built there.

The applicant/developer, John Laga, of Laga Enterprises, is working his way through the nine-step process and went before the Town Commission for approval of the preliminary subdivision plan. The Planning & Zoning Board had recommended approval at its Dec. 19, 2017, meeting, but commissioners are now questioning the lot sizes on the properties abutting Lake Apopka.

The lots are 65 feet wide, and commissioners say that is too small and want to see a minimum of 100 feet in that area of the neighborhood.

Commissioner Rick Polland said the smaller width will make the area too dense and will take away from the charm of Oakland.

Commissioner Sal Ramos doesn’t like the fact that boat docks will be built so close together.

“We want to do this right,” Mayor Kathy Stark said.

Laga said he expects to sell these lakefront lots for about $800,000 each.

“What’s key is how big of a house will you put on a 65-foot lot,” asked Commissioner Mike Satterfield.

Laga said the types of homes are still being determined, “but they won’t be as intensive as in Oakland Park.”

After the preliminary site plan goes back to the P&Z for changes, it will return to the Town Commission for another vote. Then it goes through four more steps before the commission votes on the final plat.