Orange County — Board of Zoning Adjustment

SE-18-12-157 — JOSH TAYLOR

Request: Special Exception in the A-2 zoning district to permit an agricultural component to an existing elementary/high school which includes a 40,000 sq. ft. greenhouse on 2.25 acres and a boardwalk connecting the school building with the agricultural area, and modifying conditions of a prior Special Exception regarding use of modular units for classrooms.

Decision: Approved

Hearing: Staff explained that the proposed agricultural operation would normally be permitted by right. However, since it is in conjunction with a school, it needs to go through the Special Exception process. The intent of this program is to let the students take on the responsibility, under the applicant's supervision, of taking care of the planting, the maintenance, and the harvesting. Most of the food will be used in the school's lunch program. Excess will be donated or sold to support the program. Staff did add a condition prohibiting any road-side stands, as the adjacent roadway is narrow, curving, and heavily travelled. Staff noted that while the site is adjacent to both the City of Winter Garden and the City of Ocoee, neither community commented. It was also noted that staff had not received any correspondence in favor or opposition to this application. The applicant indicated their agreement with the staff recommendation and conditions. There being no one present to speak on the application, the public hearing was closed. The BZA concluded that the proposed use would be a good addition to the school and the area. A motion to recommend approval of the Special Exception passed unanimously.