Orange Park zoning board addresses business friendliness and road paving concerns

During the recent Town of Orange Park Planning and Zoning Board meeting on April 10, 2025, members engaged in a robust discussion regarding the town's business climate and infrastructure challenges. A key point raised was the perception of Orange Park as a "pass-through town," with concerns about attracting new businesses and improving local roads.

One board member expressed frustration over the allocation of funds, highlighting a pattern of spending on switching firms rather than investing in community development. The member suggested that the town could better utilize its resources to attract businesses, emphasizing the need for a strategic approach to economic growth.

The conversation also touched on the state of local roads, with complaints about uneven paving and the prioritization of certain streets over others. A board member pointed out that many roads fall under the jurisdiction of the Florida Department of Transportation (DOT), which limits the town's control over maintenance and improvements.

Zoning regulations were another focal point, with discussions about how they impact property owners and business opportunities. A former board chair noted that despite claims of being "business unfriendly," no business owners had come forward to voice specific grievances about the zoning laws. This sentiment was echoed by other members, who encouraged community members to engage with the board and present their concerns directly.

The meeting concluded with a call for further dialogue with the town council, suggesting that a collaborative approach could lead to more effective solutions for the community's challenges. As the town looks to the future, the discussions from this meeting underscore the importance of addressing infrastructure needs and fostering a business-friendly environment to enhance the overall quality of life in Orange Park.