A lot of new information about the future of Horizon West was learned at the recent Town Hall, hosted by our Commissioner Betsy VanderLey. One of the questions to Commissioner VanderLey was on the possibility of adding an additional library location in the Horizon West area. The region is currently undeserved by the Orange County Library, as the closest branch is located at downtown Windermere or Winter Garden, which could be up to a 30 minute drive for some residents living in Horizon West.
Will Horizon West get a Library?
Yes! According to Commissioner VanderLey, the Orange County Library has received funding for a new branch location in Horizon West. The Library is desired to be located close to the Town Center of Horizon West, which primarily consists of the Hamlin development. However, while funding is available, a new library still could be more than several years away. For other new locations, Orange County Library first opened a “temporary” location, then secured a permanent location several years later. While this strategy provides library services quicker, the amount of money for the new location is the same, resulting in the permanent location having less available due to funds being spent to open the temporary location.
Commissioner VanderLey recommends against this approach for Horizon West, instead using all funds for the new branch on a permanent location. This will ensure the library will be in the most ideal location and be built to the maximum size and amenities as possible. So while a Horizon West Library may be far off, our Orange County leadership is planning on making it as best as it can be.
Current Library Locations:
Tell us what you think about this development in the Horizon West Development Discussion group.
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If you receive a public hearing notice or zoning change request in the mail, please share it in the Horizon West Development Discussion Group.