Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 10.07.2025 - Planning and ZoningCITY OF CLERMONT PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION MINUTES OCTOBER 7, 2025 CALL TO ORDER Chair Bain called the meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission to order on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. MEMBERS PRESENT: Chair Bain, Vice -Chair Nielniec, Commissioner Cramer, Commissioner Tidona, Commissioner May MEMBERS NOT PRESENT: Commissioner Colby and Commissioner Hoisington ALSO PRESENT: Planning Manager Kruse, Planning Economic Development Officer Nicholas Gonzalez, Planner I Justine Day, City Attorney Waugh, Planning Coordinator Rae Chidlow PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE MINUTES MOTION TO APPROVE the September 2, 2025 minutes of the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting as amended, made by Commissioner Cramer, seconded by Vice -Chair Niemiec. Motion passed 5-0. REPORTS Commissioner Tidona acknowledging 9/11, the death of conservative voice Charlie Kirk, and the second anniversary of the massacre in southern Israel. He highlighted traffic and safety concerns. He shares personal observations about a problematic intersection on Citrus Tower Road and Hammock Ridge Road, where congestion and drivers' unsafe behaviors cause backups into main roads, urging residents to be cautious. He discussed hazards at a new commercial area near Bob Evans, pointing out blind spots and the lack of safety measures like crosswalks and speed bumps. He emphasizes the need for better traffic safety awareness, especially in light of rising crash fatalities in Lake County, which have already surpassed previous records in 2025. He concludes by advocating for city planning and infrastructure changes that prioritize the safety of Clermont residents, stressing the importance of adjusting codes to benefit the community over developers' interests, and warning against becoming known for high bicycle accident rates. Commissioner May shared about a new consultant working on Clermont's comprehensive plan and code. She attended a kickoff meeting with USA BMX and DPZ CoDesign, where various community members, business representatives, and sports enthusiasts gathered to discuss Clenmont's potential. The meeting focused on identifying what makes Clermont unique, with attendees highlighting the city's natural beauty, lakes, hills, and community atmosphere. She stated that ideas for future development included BMX facilities, connecting trails like the Sugarloaf Mountain to Lake Louisa Trail, and multi -use paths around local lakes. She said the meeting encouraged further community feedback, with a dedicated email C2Architect@gmail.com and Facebook page for submitting ideas. She mentioned attending a Page - 1 Planning & Zoning Commission October 7, 2025 session on the "Live Local Act," noting that cities must decide by January whether to opt out. She referenced ongoing discussions about state legislation related to housing and potential changes to how the "Live Local" law would be applied, particularly regarding population thresholds. Vice -Chair Niemiec expressed strong support for Commissioner Tidona's presentation on road safety in Clermont, emphasizing his shared commitment to improving local traffic conditions. He clarified that most of the roads in question, such as those near Chick-fil-A, are owned by the state or county —not the City of Clermont —limiting the City Council's direct authority. He urged residents not to blame the Council for these issues and encouraged the public to voice concerns by contacting the appropriate agencies, such as the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) or Lake County Commissioners, whose contact information is available online. Commissioner Cramer reflected on recent events that showcased both the strengths and challenges of serving the Clermont community. He highlighted the success of the National Night Out event at Waterfront Park, praising the strong community turnout and participation from local public safety agencies, including the Clermont Police Department, Lake County Sheriffs Office, Fire and Rescue, and military representatives. He stated the event was described as a powerful display of unity and civic pride. He also commended Vice -Chair Vince Niemiec for his advocacy at the county level, specifically his impactful remarks before the Lake County Commission regarding the Hartwood Marsh Road expansion, recognizing his dedication to safety, accessibility, and the well-being of Clermont residents. He expressed concern over a recent City Council decision to approve a Land Development Code amendment related to the display of the American flag. While affirming a shared respect for patriotism, he criticized the move as political pandering rather than sound governance. He noted that the flag in question was installed without proper permitting or compliance with existing regulations, and instead of enforcing those rules, the Council changed them retroactively. He stated this undermines the integrity of the city's planning process, erodes public trust, and compromises fairness and consistency in governance. He stated his remarks are not of disrespect for anyone's patriotism, but out of respect for our due process and accountability. Chair Bain expressed appreciation for recent community events in Clermont, such as Sips and Salsa, Latinfest, National Night Out, the Mayor's lunch, encouraging residents to stay engaged. He talked about the upcoming Lake County Board of Commissioners meeting, where the long - delayed Hartwood Marsh Road expansion will be discussed. Commissioner Niemiec emphasized the road's importance as a major thoroughfare and urged residents to contact County Commissioners to support funding a small loan to finally move the project forward. He noted that the project was funded as early as 2007, and delays have worsened the area's traffic issues, especially with growth from developments like Wellness Ridge. Chair Bain mentioned October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with local firefighters selling shirts to raise funds for affected families. He concluded with reflections on a recent workshop, where city leaders addressed how development impact fees —especially from the Page - 2 Planning & Zoning Commission October 7, 2025 Wellness Way area —are collected and how those funds should be more transparently and effectively used for essential services like parks, fire stations, and infrastructure upgrades. Planning Manager John Kruse introduced Planner I Justine Day. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Item No. 1 — Resolution No. 2025-026R — Lakehaven on Grand Conditional Use Permit Planning Economic Development Officer Gonzalez presented as follows: The applicant, Joe Zagame, Jr., is requesting a Conditional Use Permit to allow for a condominium development in the R-2 Medium Density Residential Zoning District. The vacant parcels are located east of South Grand Highway and north of East Highway 50. The subject property is designated for Medium Density Residential use under the City's Future Land Use and is zoned R-2, which permits multi -family development subject to Conditional Use Permit approval. The proposed project includes a 20-unit condominium development that is consistent with both the density allowances and the intent of the R-2 zoning district. No waivers or variances have been requested by the applicant at this time. The site is located adjacent to residential and commercial uses, with frontage and access from South Grand Highway. The proposed development will serve as a compatible transition between existing single-family neighborhoods and commercial corridors. The site is located directly behind the At Home store and down from an existing stormwater pond. The development could be considered infill development since majority of the surrounding area has been developed. When evaluating a request for a Conditional Use Permit, the Land Development Code, Section 101-212, requires specific development standards that are required to be met. Staff have reviewed the application as submitted in accordance with the development standards criteria and find the proposed use can meet the general criteria for granting a Conditional Use Permit. The proposed use will not be detrimental to the health, safety and welfare of the surrounding community. Staff recommend approval of the Conditional Use Permit, Resolution No. 2025- 026R. Joe Zagame, 230 Mohawk Rd., stated that he was present to answer any questions. The floor was opened for public comments. With no speakers present, the floor was closed. Commissioner Tidona expressed appreciation for several improvements made to the development plan, including the addition of a landscape buffer, a walking path, and extra parking. He raised concerns about the absence of clearly designated ADA parking spaces on the Page - 3 Planning & Zoning Commission October 7, 2025 drawings provided and emphasized the importance of accessibility. He also questioned whether any effort had been made to improve walkability to a nearby shopping center. While acknowledging a previous traffic study that suggested minimal impact, he voiced ongoing concerns about the cumulative traffic effect of adding 40 to 60 vehicles from the proposed two - and three -bedroom units, especially given the existing and upcoming developments in the area, all relying on single access lane. He thanked the developer for addressing some of the issues discussed previously. Commissioner May expressed appreciation for changes made to a residential project, including its shift from rental to fee simple ownership, which allows for different regulatory considerations. They sought clarification on the trash enclosure, noting that while it is not required for fee simple projects, a centralized enclosure may still be the most practical option for the small site. Parking was also discussed, confirming that the plan meets the required 50 spaces to accommodate both two- and three -bedroom units. She raised a suggestion about extending the planned walking path to encircle the property rather than ending at a community deck, which the applicant agreed was a worthwhile enhancement. She acknowledged the effort to preserve natural features and limit tree removal, expressing satisfaction with the conceptual plan and support for moving the project forward. Gonzalez explained that with fee simple they have the option to use trash bins but are not required to use trash bins. Commissioner Niemiec acknowledged improvements made since the last meeting. He asked whether the community would be gated and confirmed that there would be a homeowner's association (HOA). He raised safety concerns about the lack of a secondary fire egress, noting that with 20 homes, the current design includes only one access point. Another concern was the size and functionality of the one -car garages. He stated without clear garage dimensions and noted that similar garages often become unusable for parking due to HVAC systems or water heaters occupying the space so he could not confidently support the project, especially considering that on -street parking would not be allowed. Mr. Gonzalez stated that fire regulations require a secondary egress starting at 25 units, and the fire department had approved the current conceptual plan. Mr. Zagame stated that he was unsure if the community would be gated at this time. He stated that there would be an HOA. He stated that he could not provide exact square footage, but it would be a standard one car garage. Commissioner Cramer expressed appreciation for the changes made to the proposed development, with some still holding concerns about key details. He emphasized the need for clarification on ownership structure, access, and drainage before moving forward with construction. He raised questions about egress options, especially with only one access point for 20 homes. Page - 4 Planning & Zoning Commission October 7, 2025 Chair Bain discussed several key concerns regarding the development, particularly around waste management, parking, and egress. He expressed concerns about the potential for individual waste bins at each unit, questioning whether this would affect the aesthetic and serviceability of the neighborhood, especially considering the limited space in the garages and the narrow access road. He commented on the potential impact of on -street parking. He suggested that if the applicant agreed to restrict on -street parking and complete the walking path, it could help address concerns, especially with emergency services and overall neighborhood aesthetics. He recommended working through these details before final hearing. Mr. Zagame stated he wanted to stay flexible, expressing a willingness to accommodate either a centralized dumpster system or individual bins, depending on future residents' preferences. He stated that on -street parking is not intended for the community. MOTION TO RECOMMEND APPROVAL of Resolution No. 2025-026R Lakehaven on Grand Conditional Use Permit to include no on street parking and to require dumpster trash pickup; moved by Commissioner Cramer, Seconded by Commissioner May. Motion passed 5-0. NEW BUSINESS Item No. 2 — Ordinance No. 2025-034 — ProActive Auto Small-scale Comprehensive Admendment Item No. 3 — Ordinance No. 2025-035 — ProActive Auto Rezoning Planner I Justine Day presented as follows: These are staff -initiated requests. City Council approved annexing the site on September 9, 2025 via a utility agreement with the understanding that a small-scale comprehensive plan amendment and rezoning would be done at a later date. The City, as the applicant, is now moving forward to complete the process to designate the property with the applicable future land use and zoning designations. The property is located at 13550 Granville Ave, east of Granville Ave and south of State Road 50, and is approximately 2.35 +/- Acres. The property is currently improved and used as an Auto Repair Shop. The utility agreement was based upon the facility upgrading their fire protection system and needing the City's water service. The current zoning of the property in Lake County is Heavy Industrial (HM) with a Regional Office future land use. The property is currently used as an auto repair facility. The compatible zoning within the City would be Industrial (M-1) with a future land use of Industrial as well. The majority of the surrounding future land uses in the area consist of Industrial (North and South) future land use. The change in the future land use to the Industrial designation along with the zoning change to M-1 Industrial does not propose a conflict to the existing uses and land uses in the area. The changes appear to be similar to existing uses within the area. The property owner is aware that any future improvements or expansions would result in the site meeting the City's Land Page - 5 Planning & Zoning Commission October 7, 2025 Development Code. Staff recommends approval of the Small -Scale Comprehensive Plan Amendment, Ordinance No. 2025-034 and the Rezoning, Ordinance No. 2025-035. The floor was opened for public comments. With no speakers present, the floor was closed. Commissioner Tidona stated that he had no questions. Commissioner May asked if they were upgrading the fire system or expanding. Planning Manager John Kruse stated that they are upgrading the fire system to get a better insurance rate. He stated that the well they currently operate off of does not produce the volume or enough pressure that is required for the new fire system. Commissioner Niemiec stated that he had no questions. Commissioner Tidona had no questions. Commissioner Cramer questioned if this would allow other industrial activity in the future. Mr. Kruse stated that previously it was heavy industrial in Lake County and the city does not have heavy and light industrial. He stated that it would match the nearby industrial use. Chair Bain stated that he had no questions. MOTION TO RECOMMEND APPROVAL of Ordinance No. 2025-034 ProActive Auto small- scale comprehensive plan amendment, Moved by Commissioner Niemiec, Seconded by Commissioner May. Motion passed 5-0. MOTION TO RECOMMEND APPROVAL of Ordinance No. 2025-035 ProActive Auto small- scale comprehensive plan amendment, -moved by Commissioner Cramer, Seconded by Commissioner Niemiec. Motion passed 5-0. Item No. 4 — Resolution No. 2025-037R — 7-Eleven Wellness Way Conditional Use Permit Planning Manager Kruse presented as follows: The applicant, V3 Capital Group, is requesting a Conditional Use Permit to allow for a convenience store and gas station as the primary use and an ancillary carwash use. The subject parcel, approximately, 6.69 +/- acres, is located at the southeast corner of the Wellness Way and Schofield Road intersection. The property is governed under the Wellness Ridge Planned Unit Development, Ordinance No. 2019-06. The request would encompass the entirety of the subject parcel with the future intent to split off the proposed convenience store, gas station, and carwash during final site plan approval. The proposed use will be located on the west side of the subject parcel. Due to the potential of a lot Page - 6 Planning & Zoning Commission October 7, 2025 split the applicant is also requesting a waiver to allow for a zero (0) foot internal landscape buffer instead of the shared ten (10) foot wide minimum along the proposed internal lot line as required per Ordinance No. 2019-06, section 7. The proposed site is within the Wellness Way Neighborhood Center Land Use that is designated for C-1 Light Commercial uses that complement the adjacent residential uses. Convenience stores and gas stations are a conditional use under the C-1 Light Commercial use, Section 125- 313. Carwashes are not permitted as a conditional use under the C-1 Light Commercial District (per Land Development Codes, Section 125-312) and are specifically prohibited by Ordinance No. 2019-06, Section 5(2). A review of the current convenience store and gas station locations within the City indicates that majority of them are located along an arterial roadway, such as US 27 or SR 50, and they are located within the C-2 General Commercial zoning. Only one is located on a collector road at Hancock Road and Highland Ranch Boulevard. This was an exception that Council approved due to an existing entitlement granted under Lake County. In addition, a review of carwash locations indicates they are also located along arterial roadways, such as US 27 or SR 50. All of these uses are auto dependent and are more desirable along roadways with higher levels of service. The Neighborhood Center is more suited for walkability from the nearby residences that provides a variety of services that are less intense and dependent on vehicles. The Wellness Way area plan was designed as a master planned community of approximately 15,000 acres with the focus on healthy communities, economic opportunities, and improved quality of life for its residents and visitors. It was designed with specific uses at specific locations with an intended outcome that is more than another suburbanized area that is prevalent in Central Florida. One goal is to provide high wage jobs while emphasizing health and wellness. The City adopted Wellness Design Standards in 2022 a set of form -based codes. While the original Planned Unit Development was adopted prior to these standards, the applicant's request for a conditional use permit can be subjected to these standards. The proposed project does not meet several of the design standards. One such standard is 2.3.2 that requires buildings on corner parcels to be located up to and address the corner. Another standard is Table 2.2.2 that doesn't permit these uses (Services, Automotive) in the Neighborhood District. The proposed convenience store, gas station, and carwash would be more appropriate in the Multi -Use District that fronts US 27. When evaluating a request for a Conditional Use Permit, the Land Development Code, Section 101-212 requires specific development standards that are required to be met. Staff has reviewed the application as submitted in accordance with the development criteria and finds the proposed use is in conflict with Planned Unit Development Ordinance No. 2019-06, the Land Development Regulations for C-1 Light Commercial, and the Wellness Way Design Standards. Page - 7 Planning & Zoning Commission October 7, 2025 The proposed use is not considered desirable at this particular location since there are several standards within the Wellness Way Design Standards and the City's Comprehensive Plan for the Neighborhood District that are in conflict. In addition, the character and type of development at this location is auto dependent and does not reinforce the Neighborhood District's walkability for uses with the adjoining residential neighborhood. The right in and right out on Schofield Road with comments from Lake County not allowing an access point from Wellness Way as indicated on the conceptual site plan causes concern over ingress/egress from the site. Staff recommends denial of the Conditional Use Permit, Resolution No. 2025-037R. Trey Vick, 3349 Holiday Ave., Apopka, emphasized that while gas stations are inherently auto oriented, they also provide valuable neighborhood services by supplying fuel for vehicles and other equipment. He stated that the proposed site, located on a lighted corner within a largely commercial area, seeks to balance functionality with thoughtful design by enhancing landscape and hardscape buffers to protect adjacent residential areas and improve aesthetics. He stated that the team aims to merge the PUD requirements with modern form -based design principles to create a hybrid approach. He highlighted existing signage and landscaping examples within Wellness Ridge as design references. He explained the proposed development includes an ancillary car wash which is smaller and quieter than standalone car wash facilities and aims to serve residents conveniently, given that the nearest gas station is 2.5 miles away. He said that while county approval for access points remains unresolved, the developers plan to collaborate closely with local officials to meet transportation and design requirements while maintaining compliance with all conditional use processes. The floor was opened for public comments. Luan Rodovalho, 2659 Runners Circle, spoke in opposition to the proposed development, emphasizing his deep personal connection to the community and concern for his family's health and quality of life. He stated having served overseas and recently settled in Clermont to raise his young daughter, he expressed fears of exposure to fumes, noise, and pollution from the planned gas station and car wash. He explained that his two-story home sits directly behind the proposed site, with his daughter's bedroom overlooking the area, and that only a flimsy vinyl fence separates his property from the development. He urged commissioners to prioritize the well- being of existing community members over commercial convenience. Michael Curtis, 2725 Runners Circle, spoke in opposition to the proposed gas station and car wash, echoing concerns about noise, traffic, and the incompatibility of a 24-hour business within a wellness -focused neighborhood. He stated he has lived in the area for nearly two years, he emphasized that constant activity, such as car stereos and late -night customers, would disrupt the peaceful, family -oriented environment residents moved there to enjoy. He supported gas stations located on Highway 27 and suggested that instead of a fuel station, the site should host local, wellness -oriented businesses such as coffee shops, yoga studios, or Pilates centers, that align with the community's character and operate during normal business hours. Page - 8 Planning & Zoning Commission October 7, 2025 Shawney Lombarski, 2707 Runners Circle, stated she is a mother of two young boys and voiced strong opposition to the proposed 7-Eleven gas station and car wash, citing major safety and traffic concerns for her family and neighbors. She explained that one of the planned entrances would connect directly to Blissful Street within their residential development, which she believes would bring additional traffic through neighborhood roads where children walk to school and play. She also raised concerns about dangerous driving conditions on nearby Schofield Road and Jumping Jack Way, noting that adding fuel station traffic would worsen existing safety issues. She emphasized that the project contradicts the wellness vision that attracted families to the community and pointed out that, in other parts of Clermont, no existing gas stations directly back up to residential homes. Joe Fumasi, 2693 Jumping Jack Way, raised concerns about traffic and access issues related to the proposed 7-Eleven gas station and car wash, specifically questioning how drivers would safely enter and exit the site given the proximity to major intersections and limited access points. He stated that without proper barriers, drivers might make illegal left turns into the property, worsening congestion near the busy Schofield Road and Wellness Way intersection, especially as new connector roads open and traffic increases. He also noted that if county access is denied, vehicles including delivery trucks would be forced to use neighborhood streets like Blissful Street, endangering residents and children in the community. He emphasized that a gas station would bring excessive car traffic, noise, and potential hazards, contradicting the area's intended purpose. With no further speakers present, the floor was closed. Commissioner Tidona commended a resident for raising the issue of human nature in the discussions. He emphasized that drivers often ignore rules and find their own shortcuts, which could worsen safety issues near the proposed 7-Eleven site. He noted that Wellness Way is primarily a single -lane road in each direction and drivers will be making illegal turns and traffic congestion without proper dividers in place. He questioned why the gas station wasn't proposed along Highway 27 where it would be more suitable for high -volume traffic. He also raised safety concerns, suggesting that the site would be better used for essential community services, such as a fire station or police substation, especially given the area's rapid growth of 12,000 to 15,000 planned homes, equating to roughly 30,000 vehicles. He concluded that the development could not reasonably handle the resulting traffic and stated his full support for staff s recommendation to deny the proposal. Commissioner May commended city staff for their thorough analysis and alignment with the city's comprehensive plan in recommending denial of the proposed 7-Eleven gas station and car wash. She emphasized that the Wellness Way area was designed to embody themes of health, tranquility, and community wellness values reflected even in the street names. She stated that having driven the area daily, a gas station at that prominent corner would conflict with the intended walkable, wellness -oriented vision. She cited Section 101.212 (c) of the City's code and found that the proposal failed multiple standards such as it conflicted with the City's comprehensive plan, posed health and safety risks to nearby residents, and was not desirable for the location. She stated that the project was too car -centric for a neighborhood district meant to Page - 9 Planning & Zoning Commission October 7, 2025 support small, local, pedestrian -friendly businesses and concluded by affirming her decision to support staffs recommendation of denial. Commissioner Niemiec questioned whether the HOA or developer, Lennar, was present to represent residents. He questioned the applicant about the proposed 24/7 operating hours, expressing concern about nighttime noise and safety. He questioned staff whether the developer had been warned in advance about the project's incompatibility with the site. He voiced concerns about the dangerous design of the surrounding road network, predicting severe traffic congestion and potential accidents due to poor county planning. He acknowledged the developer's right to pursue business, although the project might be beneficial elsewhere as this location is unsuitable. He disclosed his prior employment with the HOA and confirmed with counsel that he did not need to recuse himself from voting. Commissioner Cramer began by confirming that public notices had been properly sent out regarding the proposed 7-Eleven project, noting the moderate community turnout. He then asked whether environmental impact studies had been conducted due to the underground fuel tanks. He confirmed that all four corners of the intersection were zoned for commercial and agreed with fellow Commissioners that the location would face significant traffic challenges, making it unsuitable for a gas station. He stated that he typically supports development, but is struggling to back this proposal due to safety, traffic, and neighborhood compatibility concerns. Chair Bain questioned the applicant about the access request to the Lake County Board of County Commissioners for a right-in/right-out connection to Wellness Way. He noted that under city code, the facility could operate 24 hours a day, though it would still be subject to noise regulations. He emphasized the importance of compatibility with the surrounding residential area, citing concerns about fumes, noise, and late -night activity. He expressed that while he understood the developer's intentions, the project was not an appropriate fit for the community's Wellness Way vision. He discussed the need for broader resident notification, stronger community engagement, and alternative uses such as restaurants or a small neighborhood retail center that would better align with residents' expectations. He stated he could not support the gas station proposal at this location. MOTION TO APPROVE of Resolution No. 2025-037R 7-Eleven Wellness Way Conditional Use Permit; moved by Commissioner Niemiec, Seconded by Commissioner Cramer. Motion failed with a 0-5 vote. Item No. 5 — Ordinance No. 2025-031— Olympus Planned Unit Development Amendment Planning Manager Kruse presented as follows: The applicant, Mike Carroll, is requesting City Council approval for an overall master signage plan, as part of the existing Olympus Planned Unit Development ordinance. The original Planned Unit Development was approved by City Council on May 14, 2019. The current Planned Unit Development, Ordinance 2021-027, included a condition, Section 9, Item 1 that required specific approval for the master signage plan once it was developed. A comprehensive master signage Page - 10 Planning & Zoning Commission October 7, 2025 plan has been prepared by Creative Sign Designs and has been submitted for Council consideration. The submitted document is quite extensive, encompassing 87 pages of signage applications within the Olympus development. In reviewing the document, sign specification tables are included that indicate sign type, sign classification, sign location, max height, and much more. It has been noted that all signs must comply with dark sky lighting rules. The Olympus project is a master planned community that has a unique vision with adopted architectural standards in place. Currently there is an Architectural Review Board (ARB) that reviews projects and plans prior to City submittal and provides a sign off as part of permitting. Due to the complexity of the proposed signage package, with City Council approval, staff would request a signed letter or stamp of approval from the Olympus Architectural Review Board (ARB) as part of the sign permit process. This would allow staff the ability to cross reference the sign type within the master signage plan while going through the permitting process. If a sign permit doesn't include the ARB signoff, then the sign permit would halt until one was approved. Staff does not oppose the master signage plan. If City Council decides to approve, staff would request the ARB signoff as a tool to ensure compliance with the master signage plan during the permitting process. To document the approved master signage plan, it was determined that the Planned Unit Development ordinance would have to be amended to include language the master signage plan was approved by City Council and where to find the recorded document. This change is found under Section 9, Item 1 in Ordinance 2025-031. Mike Carroll, 14292 Shocklach Dr., Winter Garden, presented the comprehensive sign plan for the community. He stated that while fulfilling a PUD requirement, this establishes a cohesive and high -quality signage and wayfinding system reflecting Olympus's identity as a premier sports, wellness, and lifestyle community. He explained that the plan provides a unified visual language from perimeter monuments and roundabouts to the sports campus and town center, ensuring intuitive navigation, visual consistency, and long-term brand integrity. He showed specific highlights including gateway monuments, roundabout identity markers, internal directional and multi -tenant signage, digital and fagade signage for major venues, town center pedestrian signage, and detailed tenant sign guidelines. He emphasized the role of the Architectural Review Board and the Olympus Property Owners Association in enforcement and compliance. He expressed appreciation for the city's partnership in establishing a benchmark community and noted that his team is available for any questions. The floor was opened for public comments. Dylan Torres, 15514 Firelight Dr., Winter Garden, raised concerns about traffic impacts of the Olympus development, noting that major events could create congestion on highways and local Page - 11 Planning & Zoning Commission October 7, 2025 roads, potentially affecting commuting and economic activity. He suggested exploring alternative transportation options, such as light rail or partnerships with Brightline, to improve connectivity between venues within Olympus and nearby cities or theme park areas. He also asked about the affordability of mixed -use housing, questioning whether it would cater to middle-class or luxury buyers. He recommended incorporating traditional American architecture, similar to downtown Winter Garden, to create a timeless, walkable aesthetic that tells a story and could endure for future developments. With no other speakers present, the floor was closed. Commissioner May asked who was on the Architectural Review Board. She also asked what dark sky lighting meant. Mr. Carroll stated that the Architectural Review Board consisted of Mickael Carroll Sr., the senior land planner Brian Wheeler, and himself. Brian Wheeler, 9822 Cypress Green Dr., Jacksonville, explained that dark sky lighting means low level backlit lighting designed to minimize upward light pollution. Commissioner Niemiec asked about the arena lighting, to verify that lighting would not be overly bright. He questioned about the size and height of signage, noting that some perimeter and wayfinding signs exceed typical city code, with heights up to 17 feet and areas up to 85 square feet, designed for visibility at higher speeds and distances. He questioned about electric signage. Mr. Kruse clarified that these signs prioritize branding and wayfinding rather than exceeding code arbitrarily. He stated that they are outside the city's signage code. Addie Mentry, 13266 Byrd Drive, Odessa, mentioned that commercial signs are typically allowed 8 to 12 feet in height. She stated that most of theirs is 17 feet in height which are the kind of beacon perimeter signage that feature Olympus with a wayfinding aspect. She said that commercial square footage of signage is typically 32 to 64 square feet, and their maximum is 85 square feet. Mr. Wheeler confirmed that the electric signage will avoid flashing lights, strobes, or variable messaging, ensuring safety for motorists. Commissioner Cramer praised the dark sky compliant lighting implemented in Olympus, highlighting its aesthetic appeal and practical benefits in reducing light pollution. He emphasized the importance of this approach for Clermont as a whole, noting how proper dark sky lighting enhances visibility for walkways while minimizing intrusive glare into homes, and expressed hope that the city would adopt similar standards citywide. Commissioner Tidona expressed both appreciation and concern regarding the proposed Olympus development, acknowledging thoughtful features such as additional parking lanes, potential pedestrian crosswalks, and safety measures like a fire station and police substation. He raised Page - 12 Planning & Zoning Commission October 7, 2025 issues about the placement of key amenities being buried away from main roads, potential traffic congestion during events, and limited walkability, stressing the need for better integration of transportation solutions, including mass transit options. He questioned how the project's signage would maintain a distinct Olympus identity while achieving visual congruency with surrounding developments. Chair Bain expressed excitement about the potential of the Olympus development and its impact on Clermont and South Lake County, highlighting opportunities for enhanced transit, parking, and connectivity with nearby attractions. He emphasized the importance of signage that clearly identifies Olympus while maintaining visual congruency with surrounding developments. He stated with reassurance that the ARB review and processes would ensure the project's long-term consistency, connectivity, and adherence to the approved plan. Mr. Carroll responded that they had coordinated extensively with the city, county, and neighboring projects to create a cohesive signage plan that balances a distinct Olympus identity with broader area integration with Wellness Way. MOTION TO APPROVE of Ordinance No. 2025-031 Olympus Planned Unit Development Amendment; moved by Commissioner Niemiec, Seconded by Commissioner Cramer. Motion passed 4-1. DISCUSSION OF NON -AGENDA ITEMS There were no discussions of non -agenda items. ADJOURNMENT — 9:25 pm I N4�-- V Chair Niemiec ATTEST: "U,Z� Rae Chidlow Page - 13