Commission accepts Willowbrook South phase 2 improvements and authorizes release of performance bond

The Winter Haven City Commission on April 13 approved Resolution R26-13 to accept the remaining public infrastructure and dedications for the Willowbrook South subdivision after staff inspections found phase 2 improvements complete.

Staff told the commission that Willowbrook South encompasses about 152 acres with roughly 234 building lots and 10 common lots. The developer had posted a performance bond to guarantee completion of required improvements; staff reported the original bond amount was $4,315,750.45 and that, after partial acceptance associated with phase one, a reduced bond of $3,132,415.76 covered remaining guarantees prior to final completion. With staff inspections concluding that the phase 2 utilities (water, wastewater and reuse) are now complete, the city will accept those utilities and authorize release of the remaining performance bond consistent with the terms of the plat and the city's Unified Land Development Code. The city will not accept maintenance responsibility for internal road rights-of-way or drainage infrastructure inside the subdivision.

Staff recommended approval, the commission moved to approve the resolution and authorized the city manager to take necessary actions; the motion carried by voice vote.

Next steps: staff will process the final acceptance paperwork and release performance-bond funds as appropriate under city procedures.