Pembroke Pines LLC’s New Times Development is under heat for a proposed planned unit development that includes 336 apartment units (consisting of 11 buildings on 22.57 acres) a common area with clubhouse, pool, playground and dog park; and a commercial element featuring a hotel, two restaurants, a gas station, and 37,400 square feet of retail space, according to a summary from Marion County government.
According to the Ocala Star Banner, County staff recommended approval, though it noted that a traffic study was needed to assess the impact on local roads, especially CR 318 and County Road 225. It also said that a plan for potable water and wastewater treatment had to be put in place.
"This is all the epitome of urban sprawl," Commissioner Kathy Bryant told David Tillman, who represents the applicant. However, the county's volunteer Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval of the plan.
Commissioner Carl Zalak said Tillman's client couldn't demonstrate a need for apartments in that rural part of Marion. Bryant said she would vote no. So did Commissioner Michelle Stone, who noted the lack of a developer's agreement for Sunny Oaks and the general lack of infrastructure, including a fire station, needed to support development.
