Commission approves rezoning at 120–124 Avenue H SE to mixed-use; duplex allowed on vacant parcel

By voice vote April 27, the Winter Haven City Commission approved Ordinance O-26-10, rezoning two adjacent parcels at 120 and 124 Avenue H Southeast from a commercial highway (C-3) zoning district to a mixed-use (MX) zoning district.

City staff said the eastern parcel contains a single-family home built in 1932 that currently exists as a legal nonconforming use; rezoning to MX would make that dwelling a permitted use. The western parcel has been vacant for at least 20 years and the petitioner proposes to construct a duplex there, a use allowed in the MX district.

The planning commission recommended approval at its March 3, 2026 meeting, where no members of the public spoke. Staff recommended the City Commission approve the ordinance on second and final reading.

The city manager noted required public notifications were made; the commission opened a public hearing, heard no speakers on the item, and approved the ordinance by voice vote.

What happens next: With second-reading approval tonight, the rezoning takes effect according to the ordinance’s effective date language; staff and the petitioner may proceed with required permitting and site development consistent with MX zoning standards.