DeLand approves annexation and low-density land-use change for Blue Lake/Beresford site after heated debate over potential density

Summary

The City Commission voted 5-0 to annex roughly 21.07 acres along South Blue Lake Avenue and East Beresford Avenue and later approved a land-use amendment for 15.5 acres to City of DeLand low-density residential after discussion about access, an FPL easement, and whether the Transitional Residential Development option (TRD) should be required.

The City Commission of DeLand voted to annex about 21.07 acres on the northwest corner of South Blue Lake Avenue and East Beresford Avenue and later approved a separate ordinance changing the future land use on roughly 15.5 acres of that property to the city’s low-density residential designation.

Planning staff presented the two items in succession. Kendall Storey, city planning staff, told commissioners the annexation request was to provide access to city utilities and create contiguity and that staff recommended approval of annexation on second reading. The commission adopted the annexation ordinance (Ordinance 2025-01) by roll call: Commissioner Paiva — yes; Vice Mayor Jessica Davis — yes; Commissioner Dan Reed — yes; Commissioner Kevin Reed — yes; Mayor Clotman — yes.

Why it matters: the actions change municipal boundaries and the property’s future land-use rules, paving the way for subdivision-level review and city-provided utilities. Commissioners and staff debated how many homes the site would realistically yield and whether the city should require a Planned Development (PD) or the TRD path that ties density increases to required amenities.

Applicants, staff and commissioners gave…

DeLand approves annexation and low-density land-use change for Blue Lake/Beresford site after heated debate over potential density

Summary

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