Board advances rural-enclave study for three areas, asks staff for more stormwater and economic-impact detail

Staff from Development Services and consultant Eliza Harris Giuliano of Kimley‑Horn presented a pilot small‑area study for three proposed rural enclaves: Orange Boulevard, Lazy Acres and Ocala. The presentation described the study process, community meetings, and preliminary polling that showed majority support (often above 80–95% among meeting respondents) for a rural enclave designation in the three areas.

The consultant reviewed parcel-size distributions (median and average parcels often north of two acres, with Ocala showing many parcels of four acres or larger), character observations (well & septic, private roads, wetlands and adjacent conservation areas such as the Black Bear Wilderness), and policy options: minimum lot sizes from one acre up to five acre minimums, transition‑area standards (e.g., 1–2.5 units/acre in a buffer zone), enhanced landscaping and buffer requirements, and potential dark‑sky standards where appropriate. Staff noted stormwater and flooding concerns raised repeatedly by residents and recommended further basin analysis before final ordinance language. Many residents urged protections against gated, wall‑like planned developments and asked for detailed maps, clearer notices and additional meetings.

Commissioners expressed support for proceeding with the community‑driven study but asked for additional economic‑impact analysis (property‑value and county revenue projections) and basin/stormwater overlays. Staff committed to return with draft ordinances and additional data; the county attorney said staff will attempt to present ordinance language to the board before the end of the calendar year so the board can consider changes well before any adoption hearing.