The Orange County Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA) has rejected a proposal to build a 249-site RV park within the Lake Avalon Rural Settlement. The decision comes after significant opposition from residents, who raised concerns about traffic congestion, noise pollution, and preserving the rural character of the area. The Board received over 300 comments opposed to the RV Park and Orange County Staff recommended denial in their Staff Report.

The project, intended to serve as a vacation destination, was deemed incompatible with the existing residential and agricultural surroundings of Lake Avalon Rural Settlement. The developers may consider revising the proposal, but many local voices remain firm in their desire to protect the community’s tranquility.

Local residents and environmental advocates have long voiced concerns about rapid development in the area, fearing that projects like this could open the door to further commercialization and urban sprawl. During the hearing, the board acknowledged these concerns, ultimately voting to deny the request based on its potential negative impact on the community’s infrastructure and overall way of life.

The denial is seen as a victory for those advocating for the preservation of Lake Avalon’s rural heritage. Future proposals for the land will likely face similar scrutiny as the community remains vigilant in protecting its landscape from large-scale developments.

The applicant has 15-days from the hearing to appeal the decision to the Board of County Commissioners.