Community Development presents Auburndale 2050 Comprehensive Plan update; staff outlines housing, conservation and infrastructure elements

Community Development Director Julie Womble presented a non‑action overview of the Auburndale 2050 Comprehensive Plan update to the Planning Commission on April 8.

Womble began by explaining the purpose of a comprehensive plan: "What is a Comprehensive Plan? It is a document designed to guide the future actions of a jurisdiction," and outlined the plan elements to be updated, including Future Land Use, Transportation, Housing, Conservation, Recreation & Open Space, Intergovernmental Coordination, Capital Improvements and Infrastructure. She described the plan's goals for housing — noting seasonal and part‑time residences, rising median home values in Auburndale, and objectives to provide safe, adequate and affordable housing — and conservation goals that emphasize protecting lakes, groundwater and meeting or exceeding Florida Department of Environmental Protection standards.

Womble reviewed infrastructure objectives (municipal water/wastewater, level‑of‑service standards and stormwater protection) and the anticipated timeline for presentations, formal recommendations on June 3, 2025, state transmittal June 16, state review in summer, and potential adoption by late summer with completion by Nov. 1, 2025. Commissioners asked about invasive‑plant rules and whether a workshop would be scheduled; Womble said invasive‑species guidance is in the Land Development Regulations and offered to provide red‑lined documents and a workshop. On affordable housing she said the state requires jurisdictions to allow affordable housing and offered to walk through the relevant policies with commissioners in more detail.

No formal action was taken; staff will provide red‑lined materials and follow the schedule discussed.