Mount Dora Business and Real Estate

PROPOSED MOUNT DORA DEVELOPMENT SET FOR DEC. 3 PUBLIC HEARING

12/2/2019

It’s the only tract of land of its kind within Mount Dora’s city limits. On Tuesday evening, December 3, Mount Dora City Council will hold a public hearing for rezoning of a proposed new development titled “Cottages on 11th," which would have a maximum of 27 luxury, single-family homes.

The hilltop 10.9-acre property with a view of Lake Dora is between 11th Avenue and Old U.S. Highway 441 near Helen Street, just west of downtown. The land can be identified by its old orange groves perched on the hill a short distance past the van Gogh House.

The application seeks approval to allow for narrower lots, but remain within the 2.5 acre density currently allowed. The applicant for the Planned Unit Development (PUD) rezoning is Florida Realty and Development, Inc.

The developer’s stated vision includes:

Prices ranging from $650,000 to over $1 million.
Two points of access on 11th Avenue. (One will be full access, while the other will only be an entrance)
Smaller lots for ease of maintenance.
Homes designed in the character and appeal of historic Mount Dora.
Varied lot sizes to provide a varied streetscape.
A park and recreational amenities for its residents.

Emphasis on landscaping
The area just north of Old Highway 441 will be used as open space and retention.
The 1.05-acre lakefront “parcel” located to the south of Old Highway 441 will be donated to the CIty and remain natural vegetation and serve as open space for the community.
A staggered contribution to the City’s Public Arts Fund totaling $54,000 once the development is completed and all lots are sold.

The development and its rezoning is not without public opposition. Several neighbors have voiced their concerns at public meetings throughout the rezoning application process.

The public hearing will be during the Mount Dora City Council meeting on Tuesday, December 3 at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall. Comments from the public are allowed.

ABOVE: Cottages on 11th site plan submitted by developer in August.

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MOUNT DORA'S BRITISH PUB PREPS FOR NEW LOCATION

12/1/2019

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After five successful years at its current downtown Mount Dora location, the city’s popular pub, Magical Meat Boutique, is relocating just a stone’s-throw away. The expansive new location, across from the Chamber of Commerce on Alexander Street, has been home to several restaurants over the last decade, most recently, the short-lived Jamaica Gardens.

The new 4,500 square-foot space will triple the pub’s size and provide plentiful covered, outdoor dining.

Over the years, the British pub’s client base has grown, not just with local residents, but also with visits from some of the 400,000 British expats who reside in Florida, according to Phil Barnard, who co-owns the restaurant with his wife, Kate. Over the years, the Barnards discovered that throughout the summer months, the pub could not accommodate many of their patrons, who found it too hot or wet to sit outside, according to Phil.

Magical Meat Boutique, named after Phil’s father’s famous 1960’s London butcher shop, currently sits alongside downtown’s railroad tracks. The current uncertainty about the railroad’s future posed potential issues for the restaurant since a portion of the eatery’s large deck and entertainment space was located adjacent to the tracks. Additionally, the vintage railcar they leased could also be affected.

As a result of the uncertainty that the weather and the railroad posed, the Barnards decided to make the leap across the street while the 170-seat space was still available.

ABOVE: Pub owners Phil & Kate Barnard outside the current, smaller location. (Photo provided by Magical Meat Boutique)

The larger kitchen and bar in the new space will enable Magical Meat Boutique to expand its menu and its draught beer offerings. The eatery currently offers authentic British pub fare, plus American favorites like juicy burgers and fries. The full bar serves cocktails, and of course, British beers on tap.

In keeping with its existing friendly ambiance, the interior of the sprawling space will be transformed into a traditional British pub and feature a large new bar in the center section of the space. Most of the pub’s popular live music events will be inside, but a separate dining room will be available for patrons who want to enjoy quieter meals. The Barnards plan to work closely with their friends that own the neighboring Olive Branch Mediterranean Grille to share outside entertainment to avoid any potential sound conflicts.

Magical Meat Boutique is currently located at 112 W. 3rd Avenue downtown. Sometime in December, the pub is expected to open in its new location at 322 N. Alexander Street.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here. Discover the area's online entertainment calendar here. Also download the area's free mobile app.

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THE NEW UPDATE ON MOUNT DORA'S WAWA

12/1/2019

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In the spring of 2017, it was announced that Wawa, a national convenience store and gas station chain, was slated to replace the small Shell station on the corner of U.S. 441 and Morningside Drive near Lake Gertrude. The chain of large gas stations has gained popularity in regions of the U.S. for its variety of take-out food options.

Although the Wawa project was approved early on by the City of Mount Dora, Wawa has revised its construction schedule for the location. The Pennsylvania-based company presently has scheduled construction to begin in the third quarter of 2020 with a potential opening in the first quarter of 2021.

“Wawa is continuing its exciting growth and expansion throughout the state of Florida. Right now, we have a number of stores already under construction and in our development pipeline throughout the state. Our construction timelines and grand opening dates are based on many factors, including timing of permits and approvals throughout the state,” Lori Bruce, Wawa Public Relations Manager, told Mount Dora Buzz.

In 2017, the city of Mount Dora acted promptly to annex the approximately 1.25 acre property and rezone it as necessary for Wawa. There are presently no issues or delays with the City of Mount Dora.

In 2020, Wawa will open 20 new stores throughout Florida and start construction on a number of others. The company’s goal is to reach 400 stores in Florida by 2028.

Wawa opened its first store in Florida in 2012 and had over 100 locations in the Sunshine State when it first announced its Mount Dora location.

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NEW PEDIATRIC E.R. OPENS AT ADVENTHEALTH WATERMAN ON DEC. 10

12/1/2019

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Emergency healthcare for kids just got better in Lake County. AdventHealth Waterman is celebrating the grand opening of the new pediatric Emergency Room (ER). The opening marks the completion of the second phase of a 111,000-square-foot, $85 million expansion at the Tavares hospital.

This construction project doubled the footprint of the emergency department and grew capacity from 35 to 58 beds, making it the largest ER facility in Lake County. It will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Read more

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TWO NEW EATERIES KEEP IT SIMPLE IN DOWNTOWN MOUNT DORA

11/1/2019

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As the diverse culinary options keep growing in Mount Dora, dishing up everything from authentic Indian and Cuban cuisines to Italian fare and a British tea room, two new downtown eateries have taken a decidedly different approach.

The Salted Fry and Duke’s Dogs, located within a block of each other in the city’s historic district, are keeping the menus simple with familiar foods that are easy to eat on the go.

Over the years, a small space tucked down a quaint downtown Mount Dora alley has been home to various popular coffee houses and even a home decor store. Now, after more than a year in the making, The Salted Fry opened with their take on an American classic.

From the walk-up counter inside the cozy small space, patrons can order hand-cut French fries served in easy-to-carry paper cones. Although the fries may be simple, customers can add a variety of toppings that include aged cheddar sauce, diced jalapenos, truffle and garlic aioli or even a blueberry pie filling. Patrons can opt to add a little sophistication to their snack by pairing it with a glass of wine.

Another new business focusing on an American classic, Duke’s Dogs, is opening on Alexander Street next to Maggie’s Attic and is currently in the build-out stage. The family-owned business is described as an old-fashioned hot dog shop and will offer all-beef hot dogs with a variety of toppings.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here. Discover the area's online entertainment calendar here. Also download the area's free mobile app.

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MOUNT DORA’S GUIDE TO EVERYTHING PUMPKIN: Lattes, Cocktails, Muffins and More!

11/1/2019

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It’s always one of the most anticipated delights of fall: pumpkin-flavored everything! Muffins and soups fly off menus, while homes fill up with the smell of pumpkin pie. In an effort to help local pumpkin lovers maximize the season, here’s the Great Pumpkin Tour of downtown Mount Dora with all the things you don’t want to miss.

COFFEES DRINKS

Pumpkin Spice Latte
These drinks are arguably the most anxiously awaited beverage all year as a rite of passage into Fall. Latte drinkers can get their fix with tasty variations whipped up at Cody's on 4th. (111 E. 4th Ave., downtown)

Pumpkin Spice Cold Foam Cold Brew
Serious coffee enthusiasts can head to Serendipity Coffee and belly up to their bar for one of these robust and flavorful cold beverages. (144 W. 5th Ave., downtown)

Spiked Lattes
These are delish! Served hot or cold, these adult beverages are perfect when the day calls for something a little stronger. Choose between a spiked Nutty Pumpkin Latte or an Irish Pumpkin Latte at Las Palmas Cuban Restaurant. (351 N. Donnelly St., downtown)

EDIBLE FAVORITES

Pumpkin Muffins
The homemade, generously-sized muffins at Cody's on 4th are always moist and have just the right amount of pumpkin spice. They may be large, but you won’t want to share. (111 E. 4th Ave., downtown)

Pumpkin Creme Brulee
Yep, it’s as good as it sounds. Be sure to save room after your favorite pizza or pasta dish for this decadent house-made dessert at PizzAmore on 5th Avenue. (722 E. 5th Ave., near uptown)

Pumpkin Bars
These fresh and scrumptious seasonal baked treats are brought to you by a new sweets and custom cake bakery in town, Aunt Gingibread’s Bakery located inside the new Mount Dora Marketplace. (100 E. 4th Ave., downtown)

Maple Pumpkin Butter
Who knew toast could be so good? Julianne's Coastal Cottage sells this heaven-in-a-jar condiment which is to die for when generously applied to toast or ice cream. (135 E. 4th Ave., downtown)

Spicy Pumpkin Bisque
The homemade recipe is absolute perfection at Cody's on 4th. Grab a bowl on a day with a chill because it has just a little kick. Be sure to call ahead because it’s a special. (111 E. 4th Ave., downtown)

ADULT BEVERAGES

Pumpkin White Russian
This is a seasonal spin on the creamy traditional favorite poured over ice at Las Palmas Cuban Restaurant downtown. It is akin to dessert in a glass. (351 N. Donnelly St., downtown)

Pumpkin Hard Cider
Perfect for the season, Swilled Dog’s Pumpkin Path hard cider at PizzAmore blends the perfect amount of fresh pumpkin and chai tea spices with its tart and sweet apples. (722 E. 5th Avenue, near uptown)

Pumpkin Pale Ale
Dubbed the mother of all pumpkin ales by the Beer Advocate due to its heartier, spicier pumpkin flavor, Imperial Pumpkin Pale Ale is brewed by Weyerbacher Brewery and served at Serendipity Coffee. (144 W 5th Ave., downtown)

Pumpkin Amber Ale
PizzAmore’s list of beers includes the season’s Isle of MaGourdo, an amber ale featuring pumpkin and spices brewed by Florida’s own Due South Brewery. (722 E. 5th Avenue, near uptown)

Spiked Nutty Lattes
Served hot or cold, these adult beverages are perfect when the day (or night) calls for something a little stronger. Choose between a spiked Nutty Pumpkin Latte or an Irish Pumpkin Latte at Las Palmas Cuban Restaurant. (351 N. Donnelly St., downtown)

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here. Discover the area's online entertainment calendar here. Also download the area's free mobile app.

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A PORTION OF MOUNT DORA MARKETPLACE OPENS

10/15/2019

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Almost half of a new food and retail hub, Mount Dora Marketplace, will open its doors on Tuesday, October 15. The opening of the corner building’s first floor is great news for the vendors who will be kicking off their businesses in time for the Mount Dora Craft Fair on October 26 and 27.

The two-story building, formerly home to Eduardo’s and The Lost Parrot restaurants, features a mix of vendors that offer a variety of fresh baked goods, sweets, craft beer, and ceviche, as well as orchids and tropical plants set in a country market decor.

After choosing their food and beverages, patrons can opt for take-out or dine outside at the new picnic tables in the cozy converted alley.

The anchor of the market is Wolf Branch Brewing, a local brewery and craft beer bar which is having its soft opening in the downstairs bar space of the building. The large bar with an inviting vibe provides plenty of indoor seating and stellar draft beer.

When completed, Mount Dora Marketplace will incorporate two separate buildings. The one-story building with its new street entrance on Donnelly Street, will feature more food vendors, but will also include a variety of small retailers. The individual businesses are creating their own build-outs, so each will bring its own unique style.

According to the City, it’s currently awaiting plans for that building from the building’s owner, but once the standard Change of Use guidelines are followed and the project has the necessary permits, the remaining work will continue and that portion of the marketplace will also be open for business.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here. Discover the area's online entertainment calendar here. Also download the area's free mobile app.

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BEST LOCAL PUMPKIN PATCHES

10/1/2019

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It’s arguably the most fun activity leading up to Halloween: the annual trek to the pumpkin patch in search of the perfect pumpkin.

Here’s a list of local pumpkin patches that run the gamut from a place to simply purchase good pumpkins to larger farms with fun activities for kids:

Community Pumpkin Patch
East Lake Chamber of Commerce (24214 SR 46, Sorrento)
Choose from a selection of pumpkins in a variety of shapes and sizes beginning the first weekend in October.
Dates/Hours: Monday-Sunday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. through October 30 or until the last pumpkin is sold. Cash and checks accepted.

Fall in the Field
Renningers Antique Center, 20651 US Hwy 441, Mount Dora
Every year this weekend show features an area with a very impressive selection of unique heirloom pumpkins.
Dates/Hours: October 5 & 6, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Long & Scott Farm
26216 CR 448A, Mount Dora
Plenty of pumpkins and photo opportunities outside the entrance to Scott’s Country Market. On weekends you can also take in the corn maze, bounce pillow, and more. Pumpkins are available beginning in early October.
Dates/Hours: Tues - Saturday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday 12 - 6 p.m.

A Lot of Pumpkins Patch
35317 Huff Road, Eustis (Santa’s Christmas Tree Farm)
352-357-9863
This farm with a shaded pumpkin patch also offers a carving station for visitors to carve their jack-o’-lantern at the farm; hayrides, maze, zip lines, bounce pillow, plus horse and pony rides and barnyard animals. Pumpkins are priced by size, and most range between $3 and $12. General admission on days when all activities are offered range from $3 to $6.

Atwood Family Farm
36111 N CR 44A, Eustis
In addition to purchasing fresh pumpkins, visitors can enjoy a playground, yard games and free face painting. Food and drinks are available for purchase. The farm is open on weekend, plus Wednesday and Friday afternoons through Halloween. Entry is $5 per car which is applied to pumpkin purchase.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here. Discover the area's online entertainment calendar here. Also download the area's free mobile app.

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SEASONED PROMOTERS OPEN NEW MOUNT DORA EVENT VENUE

10/1/2019

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Well known for its many festivals throughout the year, Mount Dora also has a reputation for playing host to a myriad of music concerts and other performances. Now, a brand new venue hopes to entice even more quality entertainment to this quaint Central Florida city.

Although the nondescript shell tucked inside the Mount Dora Plaza shopping center is far from the neon lights of Radio City Music Hall, the sprawling venue’s owners have completely transformed the interior space into a sparkling, 26,000 square-foot event facility that is flexible enough to be customized for virtually any type of entertainment, according to Brian Young, one of the venue’s co-owners.

In addition to its convenient location just a mile west from downtown, Mount Dora Plaza Live boasts impressive professional lighting and sound systems, as well as another asset that’s elusive in Mount Dora--plentiful parking.

Although the venue is available to rent for private and corporate functions, it also has a diverse schedule of regular events ranging from murder-mystery dinner theater and film screenings to an entertaining drag show called Brunch with the Broadway Bunch (see video), a group renowned for their Sunday brunch performances at Hamburger Mary’s in Orlando.

“Dinner style shows will be our primary focus, which will set the venue apart from other entertainment venues in Central Florida,” said Young. He anticipates offering as many as four dinner theater performances monthly. Currently the actors for the Murder Mystery Dinner are part of an in-house theater troupe.

In addition to featuring a full bar, Mount Dora Plaza Live also has a well-equipped commercial kitchen and a modern cafe space. Patrons can opt to grab a bite to eat on- site before the event, and cocktails will be served before and during performances.

The scale of the Mount Dora Plaza Live is impressive. The main room is more than 15,000 square feet, but can be partitioned to accommodate much smaller sizes. Dinner-style shows with tables will accommodate almost 400 guests, while concert-style shows with rows of seats and aisles can accommodate nearly 600 patrons. By comparison, the historic Mount Dora Community Building on Baker Street seats 633.

Young believes the timing and opportunity are perfect for such a bold venture. (article continues below)

ABOVE: Stage set for Lunch with the Broadway Brunch (see video below)

“I have enjoyed tremendous success with entertainment in Mount Dora and wish to continue that,” said Young. “Stan has been a music professional for more than 45 years and has owned and operated a production company for 11 years,” he said of his partner Stan Allen, owner of Allengang Entertainment. Both men are experienced at producing events in the city. Allen’s wife, Elyse, is handling the private rentals of the facility.

Young has promoted events for more than 30 years between his time in Florida and California. In Mount Dora, he coordinates one of downtown’s most established festivals, October’s annual craft fair, as well as newer events like the blueberry festival and the recent seafood festival.

Allen and Young made substantial improvements to the interior of the venue that include renovated restrooms, new furnishings, an upgraded electrical system and a fresh coat of paint throughout.

Private parties, corporations and other promoters can rent the versatile space starting at $1,450 daily. Catering, sound, lights, tables, chairs, etc. may incur additional costs as part of their rental fee schedule.

Mount Dora Plaza Live is located at 2728 W. Old Highway 441 in Mount Dora in the same shopping center as Mount Dora's post office.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here. Discover the area's online entertainment calendar here. Also download the area's free mobile app.

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MOUNT DORA CHIK-FIL-A CLOSES FOR RENOVATIONS

9/19/2019

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“Say it isn’t so!” That’s what a lot of fans of the national fast-food franchise, Chik-fil-A, will be saying when they pull into the Mount Dora drive-through on September 20 and discover the location is temporarily closed.

The popular restaurant, located on US. Highway 441 and headquartered in Atlanta, will undergo extensive renovations and remodeling and anticipates re-opening sometime in November. Among the improvements are a second drive-through lane which will help serve customers faster and help alleviate the frequent traffic tie-ups.

Mount Dora’s Chik-fil-A will also get 400 square feet added to its kitchen and a facelift to the interior that includes new seating and furnishings.

Until the renovations are complete, fans will have to get their fix at the closest Chik-fil-A located at 3050 E Semoran Boulevard in Apopka.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here. Discover the area's online entertainment calendar here. Also download the area's free mobile app.

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WOLF BRANCH BREWING TO OPEN DOWNTOWN MOUNT DORA LOCATION

9/10/2019

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ABOVE: Wolf Branch Brewing's downtown Eustis location (Photo By Mount Dora Buzz)

Beer lovers have good reason to celebrate with Wolf Branch Brewing selecting a second brewery and taproom location.

The local craft brewery will be expanding operations into downtown Mount Dora as the anchor tenant in the brand-new Mount Dora Marketplace on the corner of 4th Avenue and Donnelly Street. The brewery will increase its capacity with a three-barrel brewing system, aimed at increasing liquid volume to meet the marketplace demand.

The brewery, a family-owned and operated business, made the focused decision to expand its presence within Lake County. “We’ve been so thankful for the support we’ve received to date and are excited to open our second location in the heart of downtown Mount Dora” said Jose Villafana, Owner and Master Brewer. As one of the highest rated breweries in Central Florida with an existing location in downtown Eustis, the new taproom will continue to serve its “old world meets new world” beer portfolio, complete with affordable house-made brews, craft beer, and sangria.

ABOVE: Wolf Branch Brewing will occupy the downstairs bar in the marketplace building on 4th and Donnelly St. (Photo by Mount Dora Buzz)

Over its 2-year history, Wolf Branch Brewing has built a diversified portfolio of beer styles within Lake County, delivering memorable experiences for its patrons.

The brewery expects to open its doors in time for the 35th Annual Mount Dora Craft Fair in late October 2019. Read more about the businesses opening in the marketplace here.

Follow Mount Dora Buzz's Facebook page for updates on the Marketplace and scoop on new restaurants and stores in the area. For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here. Also download the area's free mobile app.

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NEW MOUNT DORA MARKETPLACE MAKES PROGRESS

9/9/2019

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ABOVE: New front door being added to 334 N. Donnelly Building. (Photo by Mount Dora Buzz)

Steady progress is being made on what may become downtown Mount Dora’s newest attraction. Mount Dora Marketplace, a community market with diverse vendors, will be the result of a transformational build-out of two adjacent buildings on Donnelly Street. The combined space is accommodating 37 confirmed businesses, including the anchor tenant, Wolf Branch Brewing, in the downstairs bar space. The target opening of the market is now early October, a few months later than originally planned.

The common areas of the Marketplace are designed with creatively repurposed items, including tin from a centuries-old barn and Edison bulbs, to create a warm, rustic vibe. The interior configuration of the old Lost Parrot building has been completely transformed into a more open space with separate areas for each food vendor. The floorplan of the old Every Nook & Cranny building (334 N. Donnelly Street) has remained very similar to its previous incarnation of small spaces in a maze-like floorplan, but the 4,440 square-foot, one-story building now features a neutral interior palette in the common areas that visually connect it to the two-story building of the marketplace.

The individual businesses are creating their own build-outs, so each will have its own unique appeal, according to Dawn Williams, the project’s leasing agent.

In addition to the interior renovations, Mount Dora Marketplace will also feature significant exterior improvements, which include a new entrance on Donnelly Street. The small alley between the two buildings will be converted into a garden dining area, and new outdoor seating will be added along the Donnelly sidewalk by this Christmas, according to Williams.

The varied businesses include 10 sweet and savory food vendors that range from French crepes and charcuterie platters to Keto and vegetarian options, as well as fresh baked goods and other treats.

ABOVE: 4th Avenue entrance to Mount Dora Marketplace. (Photo by Mount Dora Buzz)

Downtown Mount Dora’s established Olive Branch Mediterranean Grill will be launching two businesses inside the Marketplace. Its new Mediterranean Kitchen will offer build-your-own fresh Greek gyros, salads and bowls. Their second and adjacent space, Coffee Kitchen, will feature various coffee drinks using Trilogy Coffee beans.

The 25 confirmed individual retailers range from handmade jewelry, orchids, plants, boutique wines, handmade primitive folk art and French products to home fragrances, an apothecary vendor and a makeup company.
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Mount Dora Marketplace is located at 334 N. Donnelly Street in downtown. Follow Mount Dora Buzz's Facebook page for updates on the Marketplace and scoop on new restaurants and stores in the area. For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here. Also download the area's free mobile app.

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OLD MOUNT DORA POST OFFICE CHANGES HANDS

9/1/2019

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One of the most talked about downtown Mount Dora buildings, the old post office on Donnelly Street, has officially sold.

After a handful of prospective purchasers reached out, the owner, Barchester Corporation, received an unsolicited offer of $900,000. The offer was accepted on June 5 and in late August the transaction was finalized between Barchester and the buyer, Novo Brothers LLC.

Prior to the sale, the property had been touted as a possible solution to downown’s chronic parking woes. Barchester had been exclusively negotiating a perpetual land lease with Mount Dora city officials for 11 months and was awaiting the signed $65,000 annual lease agreement, but instead was advised on May 8 that the City was no longer interested in leasing the property, according to John Seravalli of Barchester Corporation.

The relatively last-minute notification left Barchester only two months to market the land lease before it was scheduled to lose its USPS tenant. That type of real estate endeavor typically requires a year of marketing due to lower demand, according to Seravalli. The new time constraint spurred the company to sell the property, which requires a fraction of the marketing window due to the higher number of interested parties.

The new owners plan to renovate the exterior and interior of the 6,000 square- foot building prior to leasing it to a single tenant or dividing it into two or three spaces, according to Walter (Steven) Novillo, one of the principals of Novo Brothers LLC. The building has approximately 20 parking spaces, which is a rare commodity for downtown Mount Dora.

Novillo and his brother, James, are no strangers to downtown Mount Dora. The brothers are principals of Resorts Nationwide Inc. and Rapid Solutions Team which lease office space at 140 W. Fifth Avenue and specialize in timeshares and telemarketing.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here. Also download the area's free mobile app.

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MOUNT DORA'S WAWA TO BEGIN CONSTRUCTION

8/1/2019

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In the spring of 2017, Mount Dora residents rejoiced when they learned Wawa, a chain of convenience stores and gas stations, planned to replace the small Shell station on the corner of U.S. 441 and Morningside Drive near Lake Gertrude. The large retailer gained popularity for its variety of fresh take-out food options including made-to-order hoagies, hot breakfast sandwiches, organic coffee, specialty beverages, plus soups, salads and snacks.

Two years later, those same residents are anxiously awaiting any signs of progress.
Mount Dora City Council approved the Wawa project quickly and in 2017 it promptly annexed the approximately 1.25 acre property and re-zoned it as necessary for Wawa to build. However, the City had no control over the company’s internal construction schedules of the over 90 new stores in Florida. Unfortunately for local fans, Mount Dora’s location wasn’t early in Wawa’s construction schedule.

The current timing projects construction to begin in August and an expected opening in the Spring of 2020.

"The timing of our site openings are carefully planned and take into consideration many factors in our overall expansion efforts," a Wawa spokesperson told Mount Dora Buzz last year when it broke ground on three stores in Ocala.

The company’s first Florida store opened in 2012 and it now has well over 100 locations in the Sunshine State including Apopka, Sanford and Altamonte Springs. There are over 790 Wawa locations in the eastern part of the U.S.

"Wawa" is a Native American word for the Canada Goose that inhabited the Delaware Valley over 100 years ago. The company’s original dairy farm that was built in 1902 was located there and that’s why a goose appears on Wawa's logo.

Sign up for the free Mount Dora Buzz' monthly updates here.  For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app.

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HOW WINTER GARDEN EARNED ITS VIBE

8/1/2019

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It’s unlike any other city in Florida. Downtown Winter Garden has the authentic vibe of small-town America, yet has integrated trendy dining and shopping options with family-friendly local attractions like the West Orange Trail and its impressive farmers market.

Winter Garden’s seemingly meteoric rise from blight to bustle has been anything but. Its masterful transformation was two decades in the making and required a gutsy vision and dogged commitment that other cities would find difficult to broach, let alone maintain. While other city governments floundered to find direction, Winter Garden officials stepped up with progressive planning, and its elected officials consistently supported the vision resulting in the vibrant Winter Garden of today.

Ironically, from 1960 to 1989, Winter Garden, located 14 miles west of downtown Orlando and a one-time hub for the citrus industry, was in a blighted decline with 80% of its downtown space unoccupied. In 1998 the West Orange Trail connected downtown Winter Garden to other communities and it became a popular destination for bicyclists. The city’s big boom began in 2007, a period when other cities were struggling economically nationwide. By 2012, Winter Garden’s infrastructure investments paid off when the once-blighted downtown business district boasted a 95 percent occupancy rate.

Fast forward to today and Winter Garden’s solid brand is secured with nearly two dozen eateries, a thriving Farmer’s Market, quaint and trendy shops, a brewery and community market and numerous lifestyle assets surrounded by historic or historically-inspired architecture. Mount Dora Buzz sat down with City Manager Michael Bollhoefer for a candid conversation about the secrets of Winter Garden’s success and what lies ahead.

1. critical groundwork

Bollhoefer was quick to cite a few critical first steps that began over two decades ago that helped the city prepare for launch.

In 1992, Winter Garden established a Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) to gain the tools needed to foster and support the redevelopment of the Downtown Historic District. The goal of the CRA is to promote sustainable economic growth and improve the commercial viability and residential livability of neighborhoods within the area through projects like streetscaping, parks, parking, infrastructure improvements, street trees and landscaping.
1994 - Engaged in collaboration with Main Street America.
In 1996 Winter Garden’s Historic District was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. This qualified properties for tax incentives to preserve the district. This is a significant milestone because vibrant business districts and quaint neighborhoods improve property values and quality of life. This in turn helps attract quality new businesses and industries to Winter Garden because they are able to lure and retain top talent at companies.
1997-1998 - The West Orange Trail was built through downtown Winter Garden which connected it to other communities and made it a popular destination.

2. a passionate visionary

ABOVE: Crooked Can Brewery

Like all prosperous rebirths, Winter Garden’s sustained success required a steady, driving force. For the City, that has been the focused guidance of Bollhoefer, Winter Garden’s longtime City Manager. He is quick to point out the initial groundwork for the city’s rebirth was done prior to his tenure and he humbly downplays his own importance. However, the results of his vision and policies as well as the praise of those around him say otherwise. City Managers typically have a tenure of two to five years at any given city due to changes in political climate as new city officials are elected. However, Bollhoefer has survived and even thrived under new commissions.

“The City’s success aside, his tenure alone is a testament to his expertise,“ said Amy Martello, Bollhoefer’s Executive Assistant.

Under his leadership the City waived impact fees and assisted with parking to ensure the development of Plant Street Market and Crooked Can Brewery where a rundown apartment complex once stood and is now a destination for residents and visitors.

Bollhoefer’s rise was serendipitous. He joined the City of Winter Garden in 1996 as a temporary employee. At that time the downtown was a shadow of the vibrant place it is today. Eventually, Bollhoefer worked his way up to Finance Director before becoming the City’s top administrator.

3. focus and commitment

ABOVE: Award-winning Winter Garden Farmers Market

Winter Garden’s strategic vision is to be the best small city in the state of Florida. These aren’t just words or a pie-in-the-sky dream, but rather a goal with a sound strategy that requires progressive planning, buy-in from residents, and the foresight and courage of elected commissioners to make thoughtful, difficult decisions to invest in their downtown.

The long-term vision for Winter Garden is to create an authentic place where people want to be. To date, that’s been achieved by making brave choices to continually invest in their community, so private investment will follow. The City also strives to provide the highest quality of life for residents by working diligently to practice sound fiscal management, hire top talent and continually provide quality services. All of these elements increase property values, which results in an increase in tax revenues. That is what is used to pay down the debt necessary for downtown Winter Garden’s strategic redevelopment.

To attract more young families and professionals into residential areas, Winter Garden builds local destinations like its splash pad, Farmers Market and the upcoming new downtown park. In alignment with its goal to attract families, Winter Garden has no businesses that are strictly bars, but rather requires the establishments to be restaurants with bars.

4. high design standards

Downtown Winter Garden has been preserved, in large part, due to its high architectural design standards and attention to details. In some cities, high standards result in project delays and frustrated developers. Not so in Winter Garden. Rather than simply deny a good project or place the burden solely on the developer, the City has provided designers to collaborate with developers in order to meet Winter Garden’s lofty requirements while preventing unnecessary delays. The result is a win-win for the City and the developer.

However, Winter Garden strictly adheres to development rules that ensure buildings fit in with and complement its historic downtown. As a result, the City has turned away developers seeking to build five- and six-story buildings. Interestingly, there are no buildings taller than three stories in the entire city, not just downtown, with the exception of the six-story hospital. Even in the new, larger shopping areas like WInter Garden Village, the architectural design standards are high.

To complement the downtown area’s architecture, the City allocates resources for beautiful landscaping and preservation of its mature oak canopy. It’s no accident that visitors are frequently seen snapping photos of the flowering, cascading vine that envelops the arbors around the fountain on the center median of Plant Street.

5. good public schools

ABOVE: Splash Pad in downtown Winter Garden

In order to attract young families and companies to an area, good public schools are critical. Winter Garden is fortunate to have A and B rated public schools.

6. continual redevelopment

ABOVE: The entrance to downtown Winter Garden on Plant Street

Bollhoefer steadfastly believes in continual redevelopment and that public investment in the community is necessary to attract private investment. These core principles have had impressive results for Winter Garden’s downtown, including successful public-private partnerships and a waiting list for commercial space and residential apartments. Some of downtown’s key redevelopment projects include:

2000-2003 - The $7 million streetscape improvements done during the summer months which included infrastructure, brick streets, wider sidewalks and other details.
2008 - Downtown’s new construction boom included a $10 million City Hall, Garden Theatre, Garden Building and 132 Plant Street Building.
2009 - The completion of the Boyd Street parking lot.
2011 - The opening of the public $250,000 Splash Pad located a stone’s throw from restaurants, shops and the weekly Farmers Market.
2011 - The completion of the 5,000 square-foot Pavilion which serves as part of the Winter Garden Farmers Market.
2015 - The opening of Plant Street Market and Crooked Can Brewery that replaced a run-down apartment complex. It’s now a popular destination for residents from across Central Florida.
2016 - The completion of the three-level, 526-space parking garage.
22 neo-traditional Tremaine Boyd apartments with restaurant and retail on the ground floor.
The award-winning Park Place at Winter Garden townhome development.

7. brand integrity

Winter Garden's authentic small-town brand is built on being a place people and families want to be. Its architectural details, high quality of life and downtown attractions are just some of its features that have built solid brand integrity:

The West Orange Trail runs through the center of downtown WinterGarden and has made it a cycling destination that draws an estimated 100,000 visitors a month.
The award-winning Farmers Market draws 6,000 people every Saturday and serves as a business incubator. It has become a top reason why people decide to move to the City.
The Garden Theater opened in 2008. The 9818 square feet venue has 299 seats, is programmed 365 days a year and draws 60,000 visitors a year.
Plant Street Market and the Crooked Can Brewery is a destination and gathering spot for young families and professionals.
The splash pad provides a refreshing family activity right in the center of downtown.
Fridays on the Plaza is a family-friendly weekly event featuring live music and local artists.
Winter Garden Heritage Museum connects residents and visitors to the city's past with comprehensive exhibits.

8. momentum

Winter Garden’s leaders want to sustain momentum by remaining focused on economic development, continual redevelopment, fiscal responsibility, housing, gateways, and the nurturing of public-private partnerships. These new projects will continue to sustain the city’s enviable momentum for the near future:

A proposed new three-story, 60-room boutique hotel is now in the works, as well as a new City park opposite the Plant Street Market.
Additional public parking near Plant Street Market as a result of swapping out property for the existing ball field.
Construction to begin in early 2020 of a new park across from Plant Street Market that will be designed for special events.
Improved gateways into Winter Garden.

Bollhoefer shared the main lessons he learned along the way, in case other cities wish to follow in Winter Garden’s big footsteps. His suggests for cities to have a clear vision, invest in downtown historic district, do the critical ground work, make architecture a priority, hire the best consultants, redevelopment never ends and it’s all about the details, details, details.

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