Commission considers quarter-acre annexation tied to future Hickory Ridge development; growth manager contract extended
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Summary
The commission discussed a 0.25-acre annexation to make the Hickory Ridge subdivision contiguous with city utilities, and considered renewing a professional services agreement for interim Growth Management director Autumn Coachella while a national recruitment continues.
City planners presented a request to annex a 0.25-acre parcel adjacent to the Lake Wales Country Club so the city can later annex Hickory Ridge, an 85-lot single-family development that already has city water under a binding annexation agreement.
Autumn Coachella, the city’s growth management administrator, explained that the quarter-acre parcel was parceled off in 2021 to create contiguity so the county-approved Hickory Ridge project can rely on city utilities and later be annexed. Coachella said the subdivision was designed and approved in the county; annexing the quarter-acre now would make future annexation of Hickory Ridge simpler because lots will not be sold off in the interim.
Commissioners asked whether sewer service would be available; Coachella said the city does not have municipal sewer in that area and she did not have details on whether the subdivision would use septic or a private system. Deputy Mayor Gibson asked staff to confirm sewer arrangements before final action.
During the same discussion the commission considered a one-year renewal of a professional services agreement with Autumn Coachella. The city manager said a national recruitment firm, Strategic Government Resources, is completing a nationwide search for a permanent growth management director; the city manager recommended reappointing Coachella to provide continuity while interviews conclude.
Staff said they will return with any necessary follow-up on utilities and the formal annexation ordinance as the item moves toward final reading.