The city has been exploring the sale or long-term ground lease of a 0.9 acres site, located next to Lilly’s on the Lake Restaurant on Osceola Street, and part of the Waterfront Activation Zone in the city’s https://www.clermontfl.gov/MasterPlan/
Late last year, three proposals were submitted by developers and an evaluation committee was formed to rank the proposals. The evaluation criteria included:
Consistency with the Downtown/Waterfront Master Plan; The ability of the proposed use to generate further private investment in the downtown area; The economic viability/sustainability of the proposed use for long-term success; The number of users/customers that will visit the proposed project, The average length of each stay; The projected Increase in land value; Parking solutions; Urban design; and Price.
At last Tuesday’s Clermont City Council Workshop, councilmembers considered the three proposals submitted by Victory Coast, LLC; VP Development Enterprises, LLC and Peacock Capital, LLC.
Victory Coast, LLC (Ranked #1) The site plan included an event center on the ground floor of the building which would provide an opportunity to hold special events, such as weddings, fundraisers, and city functions. Plans for the second floor would include a fully operational restaurant with sky deck rooftop lounge and observation viewing deck. Guests would be able to arrive by boat, seaplane, or vehicle and enjoy the downtown area. Darren Johnson, a long-time local resident, owner of Clermont Brewing Company and Corporate Event Planner gave his presentation to Clermont City Council, emphasizing, “I will be the owner and operator of the project and I’m here for the long haul.”
VP Development Enterprises (Ranked #2) The project is described as a small version of Disney’s Boardwalk. The developer’s plan includes lodging, retail and entertainment. The plan is to bring new, diverse business opportunities to the downtown area, such as a coffee shop, retail and eatery, along with short-term rental accommodations which would be available on the second floor.
Peacock Capital, LCC (Ranked #3) The third proposal provides for a 24-unit apartment complex with 18 one- bedroom and 6, 2- bedroom apartments, bringing approximately 30 full-time residents to the area. All parking would be completely onsite.
Due to COVID-19 guidelines restricting full capacity attendance in public venues, only a small percentage of those attending the meeting were able to enter the council chambers. However, the lobby was filled with the remaining attendees who listened to the meeting via speakers.
Mayor Gail Ash reminded those present that workshops allow councilmembers to publically discuss issues. Public comments are not required unless requested by council.
“This topic is a hot issue and everyone should have a chance to be heard”, said councilmember Jim Purvis. Council agreed that there should be 2-3 public hearings before any final action is taken. (Councilwoman Diane Travis was unable to attend the meeting).
After determining whose proposal is best suited for the prime location on Downtown Clermont’s Lakefront property, two major issues remain: leasing vs. purchasing the property and the impact the project will have on the fragile Lake Minneola Lakefront.
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