Board of County Commissioners,

We are submitting formal comments in opposition to the proposed rezoning west of Siedel Road/South of Summerlake Park Boulevard, in Winter Garden (Village F, PD Parcel N-5, Case Number CDR-17-06-207). As residents of Horizon West, we strongly urge Orange County to deny the application and proposal to rezone this parcel.

The proposed rezoning request highlights the very reason why counties need zoning rules and regulations to ensure smart growth and development that makes sense in the context of the surrounding area. The proposed re-zoning is expected to affect local residents due to increased traffic, constrains on emergency services, pollution, noise, and lower property values, while providing little benefit for the local community. Additionally, allowing this commercial property will further delay the need for additional educational resources, since there will be no children living in the proposed commercial business.

We believe that the proposed use will also diminish the character of Horizon West, a cherished and growing development. The proposed rezoning is in direct conflict with the reason we chose to move to this location; because of its quiet, residential essence. And as Horizon West continues to grow, the location of this business will also be reason for potential new homeowners and residents to look elsewhere when selecting a new residence. The overall neighborhood experience and planned development would be severely compromised by the addition of a 24-hour a day staffed assisted living facility in this particular location.

For these reasons, we are collectively strongly opposed to the rezoning and sincerely hope you will consider the impacts to the surrounding community including property values, public parks and open space, traffic, already strained resources, and wildlife when you evaluate the application and ultimately make a decision on this extremely important matter.

Thank you for your consideration.