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Auburndale approves rezoning for 19.32-acre SunTrax parcel amid questions about 'air mobility' testing
Summary
The Auburndale City Commission unanimously approved Ordinance No. 1851 to rezone a 19.32-acre parcel adjacent to FDOT's SunTrax testing facility to Commercial Highway, aligning the site with adjacent uses; a nearby resident asked whether proposed 'air mobility' testing involves flying vehicles and FAA oversight.
The City of Auburndale Commission on July 20 approved Ordinance No. 1851 on first reading to reclassify approximately 19.32 acres from Industrial Planned Development to Commercial Highway to match zoning on adjacent SunTrax property.
City Attorney Frederick J. Murphy Jr. read the ordinance title by way of introduction, and Commissioner Travis Avery moved, with Commissioner Crystal Tijerina seconding, to approve the ordinance; the motion carried with all ayes. Community Development Director Julie Womble told the commission the proposed zoning is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and compatible with adjacent SunTrax uses.
During the public hearing resident Dennis Young, 2092 Summerlake Drive, asked for clarification about "air mobility testing technology," asking, "Is that flying cars?" and whether the activity would involve FAA regulations or radar. Young said he was concerned about safety given his proximity to the site. Community Development Director Julie Womble and Nicholas Hartley, a representative of SunTrax, provided additional explanation of autonomous and air-mobility testing and FDOT's intentions for research, development and testing bays at the facility.
The change permits commercial highway uses including hotels, restaurants, retail, laboratories and other uses described in the Land Development Regulations, and staff described the amendment as compatible with existing zoning and land-use on adjacent parcels. The commission approved the reclassification on a unanimous vote.
