During a recent government meeting, discussions centered around the future of senior living communities in DeLand, particularly focusing on the proposed changes to the Cloisters facility. The meeting highlighted the challenges faced by the Retirement Housing Foundation (RHF), which previously operated the site as an assisted living and independent living facility. Due to low demand and high vacancy rates, RHF sold the property, prompting a request for a change of use to multifamily housing.

Jack Straw, representing DeLand Land Holdings and Pacifica Companies, outlined the history of the site, which was built in 1985 and spans 13 acres. He emphasized that maintaining the facility as an assisted living center was no longer viable, leading to the proposal for multifamily use while retaining the option to revert to assisted living in the future if necessary.

Concerns were raised regarding parking requirements for the new development. The current code mandates 596 parking spaces, but the projected need is only 334, resulting in a shortfall of 262 spaces. The developers had previously been approved for deferred parking, which allows for the construction of additional spaces if demand increases, but this option has not yet been triggered.

The meeting also touched on the potential for other 55-plus communities in the area, with Banyan Cove being the most recent development. However, there was uncertainty about any upcoming projects, as no new 55-plus communities have been confirmed in DeLand.

As the meeting progressed, the planning board expressed hope that the applicant would address various concerns raised in previous discussions, particularly regarding parking and the implications of the proposed change in use. The outcome of this proposal could significantly impact the local housing landscape for seniors in DeLand.