City approves rezoning for commercial development at Dundee Road and Overlook Drive

A proposal for a new child care facility and a significant zoning change took center stage at the Winter Haven Planning Commission meeting on February 4, 2025. The commission unanimously approved a special use request for a child care facility at 121 Bates Avenue, a move that highlights the city's commitment to expanding early childhood education options.

The request, presented by Tina Grama Chishoon, covers an area of approximately 0.21 acres and received strong support from the commission, with members expressing confidence in the facility's potential benefits for the community. The motion to approve was met with a resounding "aye" from the commission, signaling a clear endorsement of the project.

In addition to the child care facility, the commission also discussed a rezoning request from Avid Group LLC. The company sought to rezone a 4.89-acre parcel from Industrial Light (I-1) to Commercial Highway (C-3) at the southwest corner of Dundee Road and Overlook Drive Southeast. This change aims to facilitate the development of a three-lot commercial subdivision, aligning with the ongoing commercial growth in the area.

Senior planner Heather Reuter emphasized that the rezoning is consistent with the neighborhood's future land use designations and will not increase infrastructure demands. The commission noted the importance of maintaining adequate buffers between the new commercial uses and nearby residential areas, with specific requirements depending on the type of commercial use established.

Both proposals will now move forward to the city commission for final approval, marking a significant step in Winter Haven's development strategy. The decisions reflect the city's proactive approach to accommodating growth while ensuring community needs are met.