In a recent city planning meeting, the Deland Planning Board discussed a significant rezoning application for a 9.51-acre parcel located at 1338 West Plymouth Avenue. The proposal seeks to change the zoning from Volusia County's A-3 transitional agriculture to the City of Deland's R-1A, which allows for single-family residential development. This change is intended to align the property with the city's comprehensive plan and future land use designations, which support low-density residential development.

Emily Kunkel, a city planner, presented the application, highlighting that the site has been vacant since its annexation into the city in 2006. The property currently retains its county zoning despite being within city limits, which has raised concerns among local residents about potential future developments. The applicant, represented by Cody Bogart from Newkirk Engineering, indicated that the site is anticipated to be developed for institutional use, likely a church, which would be tax-exempt.

Public comments during the meeting reflected significant community concern regarding the proposed zoning change. Residents expressed fears that the R-1A designation, which permits up to 5.28 homes per acre, could lead to dense residential development that would disrupt the character of the neighborhood. Casey King, a local resident and co-owner of an adjacent property, voiced skepticism about the need for the zoning change, suggesting that the request might be a precursor to more extensive residential development rather than solely for church use.

Another resident, Michael Carbonous, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the rapid growth and development in Deland and urging the board to consider the long-term implications of increased housing density on the community's character and infrastructure.

In response to public concerns, Kunkel clarified that the city requires a special exception for church use, which is being processed concurrently with the rezoning application. The board ultimately voted to recommend approval of the rezoning to the city commission, with members expressing confidence in the applicant's intentions to develop a church on the site.

The next steps include a first reading by the city commission scheduled for August 19, with a second reading to be determined. The outcome of this application will be closely watched by community members who are concerned about the future development of the area and its impact on local traffic and neighborhood dynamics.