In a pivotal meeting held on January 28, 2024, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners gathered to address the pressing issues surrounding TimberScan on the Lake, a subdivision plagued by decades of neglect and safety concerns. As the afternoon sun streamed through the windows of the county hall, Jason Reynolds, manager of the neighborhood services division, presented a comprehensive overview of the dire conditions faced by residents.

TimberScan, once a thriving community of luxury condos built in the early 1970s, has deteriorated significantly over the years. Reynolds highlighted that many buildings are now dilapidated, with some lacking basic water services. The county currently owns 38% of the units, a situation that arose from tax deed sales due to unpaid taxes. The presentation detailed the history of mismanagement, including the failure of condo associations to maintain the properties, which has led to rampant public safety issues, including unmaintained fire hydrants and frequent dumping.

The county has invested approximately $3.5 million over the past few years to stabilize the community, which included demolishing 41 of the 49 buildings that once stood in TimberScan. Despite these efforts, the remaining structures continue to pose significant risks to residents, with ongoing code violations and a looming threat of water service disconnection.

Reynolds emphasized the need for a compassionate approach to resolve these issues, proposing the termination of the condo association and the appointment of a receiver to manage the properties. This would allow for a more effective strategy to address the community's needs and facilitate the sale of the remaining units. However, he cautioned that any legal processes would take time, potentially extending over a year, during which the county aims to work closely with residents to provide necessary services.

The meeting concluded with a call for action from the board, seeking authority to move forward with the proposed measures. As the commissioners deliberated, the weight of the community's struggles hung in the air, underscoring the urgent need for a resolution that prioritizes the safety and well-being of TimberScan's residents. The path ahead remains uncertain, but the county's commitment to addressing these long-standing issues offers a glimmer of hope for a brighter future in TimberScan on the Lake.