Last week there was an important vote to decide if Tomoka Oaks will be expanding. What did the Planning Board decide?
The Ormond Beach Planning Board has denied a proposal to rezone the Tomoka Oaks golf course, effectively putting a halt to plans to build 272 homes on the property. This decision came after a public hearing where residents and the homeowners association (HOA) voiced strong opposition to the development project.
The developers, represented by DR Horton, argued that the rezoning was necessary to allow for the construction of much-needed single-family homes. They also claimed that the project would generate significant tax revenue for the city and create jobs. However, residents and the HOA countered that the development would strain the city’s infrastructure, lead to increased traffic congestion, and harm the character of the neighborhood.
Ultimately, the Planning Board sided with the residents and the HOA, citing a lack of sufficient evidence from the developers to justify the rezoning. The Board members expressed concerns about the impact of the project on traffic, schools, and the environment. They also questioned whether the proposed density was compatible with the surrounding low-density residential neighborhoods.
The developers have not yet announced their next steps, but they could potentially appeal the Planning Board’s decision to the City Commission. If they choose to do so, the issue could be put before Ormond Beach voters in a referendum.
This decision by the Planning Board is a significant victory for residents and the HOA who have been fighting the development proposal for months. It remains to be seen whether the developers will appeal the decision or whether the project will ultimately move forward.
Thanks for reading,
Chris
