Council initiates annexation of Artistry Lakes area, citing statute compliance

WELLINGTON, Fla. — The Wellington Village Council voted unanimously Monday to initiate annexation of approximately 446.14 acres referred to by staff as Artistry Lakes.

Staff said the property — owned by KL Artistry Lakes LLC (the Coulter interests) — is adjacent to the village boundary near Southern Boulevard, meets Florida’s statutory contiguity and urban‑purpose tests, and that the owners submitted a letter of no objection. Because there are no electors in the area, staff said the uniform‑method annexation requires only two council votes to proceed under section 171 of the Florida Statutes.

A county letter of objection arrived shortly before the meeting and raised contiguity and 'urban purpose' concerns similar to earlier annexation challenges; staff told the council they had reviewed the county’s letter and still recommended initiation of the annexation. Staff noted the owner already holds county approvals for a planned unit development, which the owner intends to amend following annexation.

Council action: The council approved the initiation (first) reading vote without recorded opposition, 5–0. The item will return as required for final reading and ministerial actions (manager to take steps to effectuate annexation under statute).