The Orange County Board of County Commissioners recently conducted a public hearing to approve Springhill PD Phase 5, which is an additional phase for Storey Grove that is adjacent to Waterleigh. The case number is PSP-20-12-353.

During the hearing, which is the final step in the approval process, Commissioner Wilson inquired with Orange County legal counsel on any alternative options besides approving or denying the motion. This request was started before Commissioner Wilson was elected and therefore she was not involved in many of the earlier approvals. Council stated that the motion is to approve or deny the application based on Orange County regulations.

Commissioner Wilson expressed her concern regarding mass grading and impacts to the wetlands regarding this development, and made a motion to not approve, but did not receive a second motion.

Commissioner Bonilla then inquired with the BCC if Commissioner Wilson and the applicant engaged in any discussions to make changes to their application. Commissioner Wilson responded that there was no conversation regarding changes to their application.

A discussion then took place between Commissioner Bonilla and County Staff on the process for mass grading and development approval, as the Development Review Committee already approved mass grading. Commissioner Bonilla then expressed her disappointment with the current process that allows for construction to be started before full approval by the Board of County Commissioners. Mayor Demings stated that if there are opportunities for process improvements, the Board should convene and evaluate those improvements and get them in place.

Commissioner Bonilla made a motion to continue, which would reschedule the vote allowing Commissioner Wilson and the applicant time to discuss the proposal for modifications. This motion was seconded by Commissioner Gomez, but the vote failed 4-3. The BCC then approved the motion in a 5-2 vote.