Developer Bob Zlatkiss has proposed Heritage Green, the first Rural Conservation Subdivision (RCS) in Lake County, Florida. RCS developments prioritize environmental preservation while allowing for residential development.
The Lake County Commission recently postponed a hearing on Heritage Green, expressing concerns about the level of detail in the initial proposal. The commission adopted design standards for RCS in January 2023, and Heritage Green must adhere to these standards, which aim to protect natural resources and maintain the rural character of the area.
Heritage Green, located near Mount Dora, proposes 265 homes on 217 acres, with over 130 acres designated as conservation areas.
However, the commission raised concerns about several key issues:
- Access Road Concerns: The proposed access points for the subdivision raised concerns, particularly regarding potential impacts on neighboring properties.
- Flooding Concerns: Residents expressed strong concerns about potential flooding impacts, given recent severe flooding events in the area.
- Insufficient Detail: The commission felt the initial proposal lacked sufficient detail in several areas, requiring further investigation and refinement.
Commissioner Leslie Campione expressed particular concern about the proposed main access road, which sits in a floodplain and would require significant tree removal, potentially undermining the project’s commitment to environmental conservation.
The commission postponed the hearing for 90 days, emphasizing the importance of setting a strong precedent for future RCS developments in the county.