Lake Helen leaders are expected to consider a proposed mixed-use development Thursday for property near Interstate 4 and Orange Camp Road, an area once targeted for the unsuccessful DeLand auto mall plan.
The new proposal includes fast-food restaurants, a sit-down restaurant, a 120-room hotel and an apartment complex with 348 total dwelling units. The commercial and residential project has not been approved.
The site drew debate in 2018, when plans for the DeLand auto mall were ultimately rejected. The latest proposal is again dividing residents over how much growth fits the community.
Resident Chris Lumley told ClickOrlando he opposes the project, citing concerns about added vehicle traffic and Lake Helen's small-town character. He said the city is not set up for that level of traffic.
Other residents see potential benefits. Kenneth Smith told ClickOrlando that residents now travel to DeLand or Daytona Beach for many dining options and said added development could bring convenience and city revenue. Another resident, Mike, said he was not particularly concerned about more traffic and viewed growth positively.
Thursday's discussion will determine the next step for a proposal that would reshape the I-4 and Orange Camp Road property with both housing and commercial uses.
