Planning Commission recommends land-use and zoning changes for Everest Property in Auburndale

On Sept. 10, 2024, the City of Auburndale Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend that the City Commission approve a Future Land Use map amendment and a zoning map amendment for the Everest property, located near U.S. Highway 92 W. and the Polk County Parkway. Community Development Director Julie Womble told the commission the petitioner, Charles Booker, P.E., of Traditions Engineering on behalf of MF Partners, LLC, submitted binding site plans showing a 96‑bed assisted living facility and 12 duplexes (24 units) for a total of 120 dwelling units. "Staff recommends approval of the proposed Future Land Use Medium Density Residential and Zoning classification of Planned Development - Housing 2 ( PD- H2) to the City Commission," Womble said.

The requested Future Land Use designation is Medium Density Residential and the requested zoning is Planned Development – Housing 2 (PD‑H2). Womble said PD‑H2 allows a mix of housing types compatible with the proposed assisted‑living and multifamily uses and that the request is consistent with the City of Auburndale Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Regulations. Commissioners posed questions about whether the project related to an existing outpatient facility and about access; Womble said the outpatient facility is separate and explained that access will be via an easement to Saddle Creek Road with the developer responsible for connections and that the hospital portion obtained an FDOT entrance and turn lane. The commission’s recommendation will be forwarded to the City Commission for final consideration.