Philippine Cultural Foundation seeks rezoning for Bayani Arts Center to expand community services

The Hillsborough County Zoning Hearing Master meeting held on July 22, 2025, focused on a significant rezoning application from the Philippine Cultural Foundation, which seeks to expand its operations at the Bayanihan Arts and Events Center. The foundation aims to rezone its property to allow for broader use beyond the Filipino community, enabling it to host a variety of events and activities that would benefit the local economy and community.

During the meeting, staff members expressed no objections to the proposed variations, noting that the application aligns with the county's future land use objectives. The Planning Commission highlighted that the proposal meets the intent of local policies aimed at ensuring new developments are compatible with surrounding neighborhoods. The foundation's plans include hosting smaller events primarily indoors, with strict adherence to noise ordinances and event timing to minimize disruption to nearby residents.

Joey O'Mila, a founder of the Philippine Cultural Foundation, presented a compelling case for the rezoning, detailing the foundation's history and its role in fostering Filipino culture in the Tampa Bay area. He emphasized the center's importance as a cultural hub that has hosted numerous events, including the annual PhilFest, which attracts thousands of attendees and contributes significantly to local tourism.

Support for the application was robust, with multiple community members voicing their experiences and the center's impact on their lives. They described the foundation as a vital resource for cultural connection and community engagement, arguing that its continued operation is essential for preserving Filipino heritage in the region.

However, some opposition was noted, with critics arguing that the foundation already operates effectively under its current zoning and that the request for broader use could lead to potential over-commercialization of the site. They expressed concerns that the rezoning might not align with the original cultural mission of the foundation.

The meeting concluded with a clear indication of community support for the foundation's request, highlighting its significance not only to the Filipino community but also to the broader Hillsborough County area. The outcome of the rezoning application will be pivotal in determining the future of the Bayanihan Arts and Events Center and its role in the local cultural landscape.