Commission backs rezoning for 70‑unit Tatra Townhomes despite staff concerns over right‑of‑way

The Seminole County Planning & Zoning Commission voted Aug. 5 to recommend approval of a rezoning request (file 20260500604) from A‑1 agricultural to R‑3A multiple‑family for a proposed 70‑unit townhome development on approximately 11.97 acres along the west side of Tetra Street.

"The applicant is requesting the approval for a rezone from A‑1 agriculture to R‑3A multiple family dwelling for a 70 unit townhome development on approximately 11.97 acres," said Caitlin Apgar, Planning and Development Services, who recommended denial in her staff presentation because the existing 40‑foot right‑of‑way on Tetra Street does not meet the 50‑foot requirement in the Seminole County Engineering Manual (sec. 1.11.0.1.a) and raising transportation and safety concerns.

Applicant Chris Leppard of Kimley Horn told the commission the project would provide a 24‑foot pavement section with curb and gutter, connect utilities, and that the developer proposes to dedicate an additional 10 feet of right‑of‑way so the roadway can be brought into compliance. "We also applicant shall provide an additional 10 feet of right away for dedication to Seminole County for the construction of the Tatcha Street right away improvements," Leppard said during his presentation.

Board members pressed staff and the applicant on sequencing: commissioners questioned whether final engineering must be completed before Preliminary Subdivision Plan (PSP) approval (staff said PSP is first but conceptual engineering may be submitted concurrently). Applicant counsel said he expects PSP and final engineering to be coordinated so required improvements would be shown and enforced before development proceeds. Commissioners debated whether the straight rezoning can be approved without conditions — staff noted straight zoning cannot carry conditions but that development standards must be met at PSP/final engineering.

After discussion and public comment (including neighborhood concerns raised by Clay Archie about safety and truck traffic along a nearby industrial corridor), Commissioner‑9 moved to recommend that the Board of County Commissioners approve the rezoning; the motion was seconded and the body voted in favor. Chair announced the motion passed.

What happens next: the Planning & Zoning Commission’s recommendation will be transmitted to the Board of County Commissioners for a final decision; site plan, PSP and final engineering approvals remain required before construction can proceed.