On October 9, a conditional use permit was requested to construct Citrus Tower Charter School. The K-8 school would be built on approximately 5 acres, located at the northwest corner of Steves Road and Citrus Tower Boulevard. The single-story, 42,000 sq. ft. building would have the capacity to hold up to 700 students (the number changed to 765 students during the meeting).
There are three schools within ½ a mile of the site and two additional schools within 1 mile of the site. The three schools within ½ a mile, East Ridge High School, East Ridge Middle School, and Real Life Christian Academy, have a total enrollment up to 4,200 students (East Ridge High School: 2400, East Ridge Middle School: 1100, and Real Life Christian Academy: 700). The two additional schools, Family Christian Center School (600 Students) and Lost Lake Elementary School (1000 students) add another 1600 students for a total of 5800 students who are being transported within a mile of the proposed charter school site.
City staff voiced areas of concern if the school was to be built on that site, indicating excessive traffic and compatibility with the adjacent residential properties. After an emotionally charged discussion regarding the need for schools in Clermont’s fast-growing area, the council voted to approve the request. Ray Goodgame voted against the request saying that the site was not a good location for a school. The other council members supported the new school. Councilwoman Heidi Brishke wasn’t present to vote.
This Tuesday, Marc Dodd, Lake County School Board member, appeared before Clermont City Council to inform them of the many false statements made by the applicant and his opposition to the location of the school, stating that the need for a school is in the Four Corners Area.
Since the city council has already approved the permit, it appears that Citrus Tower Charter School has a green light to move forward.
[arve url=”https://youtu.be/Wdpn12zLSSE” /]
