Orange County — Board of Zoning Adjustment

SE-17-12-126 — DREAM BIG ACADEMY AND DAYCARE

Request: Special Exception in the A-1 zoning district to construct and allow a private school/daycare for up to 172 students grades Pre-K to 5th. THE BZA AMENDED THE REQUEST TO ALLOW UP TO 150 STUDENTS TOTAL.

Decision: Approved

Hearing: Staff gave a presentation on the case. It addressed the request, photos of the site, the zoning and a brief analysis. The applicant stated they are certified educators and want to make a difference in the community. The applicant also stated that they reached out to the 2 HOAs in the area and offered to meet with them, and they will provide privacy with vegetation and will work to accommodate the neighbors. One person spoke in opposition, stating they bought their house for the view, and they do not want to lose their privacy. They also stated that they work nights and want privacy and quiet during the day. The BZA confirmed that an opaque wall or fence adjacent to residentially zoned properties is required by code and discussed amending the number of students to 150. Staff received 3 commentaries in favor of the application and 2 in opposition. The BZA approved the Special Exception, amending the number of students to 150 and the addition of the requirement, "The applicant shall install a minimum 6 foot high opaque wall or fence along the north and east property lines that abut residential lots."