The Lake County Board of County Commissioners held a significant meeting on August 5, 2025, addressing key zoning issues that could impact local communities. Among the nine items on the agenda, two major proposals drew considerable attention: the rezoning of land near Hartle Road and an amendment to the Bella Colina Planned Unit Development (PUD).

The first proposal involved Hartle Road Partners LLC, which seeks to amend the future land use map for approximately 10.5 acres from a mix of regional office and urban low density to entirely urban low density. This change would allow for the development of 26 single-family homes, with a minimum lot width of 75 feet and 25% open space. While the City of Clermont does not oppose the project, concerns were raised about traffic impacts and the need for a traffic study exemption due to the busy road nearby. Additionally, some commissioners questioned why the project was not being processed through the City of Clermont, given its proximity and need for city utilities.

The applicant, Jeff Summit of Summit Engineering, explained that previous attempts to work with Clermont had been stalled, leading them back to the county for approval. However, community members expressed worries about the compatibility of the proposed development with existing larger lot sizes in the area and the potential for future apartment complexes if the zoning was approved.

In response to these concerns, the board discussed the possibility of tabling the decision to allow for further discussions with Clermont regarding utility agreements and to reassess the proposed lot sizes. Ultimately, the board decided to postpone the decision until the applicant could provide more information.

The second major item on the agenda was the Bella Colina PUD amendment, which sought to shift certain allowed uses within the development and add irrigation wells for the golf course. This proposal was met with less controversy and was approved unanimously, as it did not increase the overall impact on the area.

Other items included a rezoning request for the Rupert Neuren property to facilitate agricultural uses and a conditional use permit for a hog farm in Groveland, both of which were also approved without significant opposition.

As Lake County continues to grow, the decisions made in this meeting reflect the ongoing balancing act between development and community concerns, highlighting the importance of local input in shaping the future of the area. The board's willingness to engage with residents and consider their feedback will be crucial as these projects move forward.