Q: Can you give an update on the proposed Pulte development on Aladdin Road?
A: This request by Pulte to develop 62 homes on 43 acres (16 acres of which would remain in conservation) was unanimously approved by the Planning Department, the Planning Commission and the LUZ. What we are seeing here is a rare example of infill development and this is the third attempt to get the rezoning approved. Each time the developer at the time attempted to be responsive to feedback from the community. I was very diligent in making sure our constituents knew when this application was being heard at the various stages, and it was formally approved by the City Council at the March 11 meeting.
Q: What is the latest on the Arpen farmhouse and attempts to save it by relocating it?
A: Due to the demonstrated effort and sufficient progress to move it, I requested a second two-week postponement of the vote on the appeal. It will come before the council on March 25 and I think the appeal will likely be approved with conditions which require the house to be moved within 60 – 90 days.
Q: What is happening with the Mandarin Road sidewalk extension?
A: I’m awaiting the official response, but apparently the cost of this extension is significantly higher than the $3 million we have in funds from the federal government. We are now working with Congressman John Rutherford’s office to secure additional funding. I imagine the sidewalk will be delayed at least a year due to this. We still want to go ahead with the planned community meeting to share the proposed extension and we are looking to hold it in late April.
Q: What can you tell us about Duval DOGE?
A: There have been a lot of conversations about a local version of DOGE. Councilmember Salem introduced the idea for a review, which is fitting in his role as chair of the Finance Committee. Some of this is politics as usual; that being said, efficiency is something we all aspire to see, in tandem with the administration.
Q: Will Losco Regional Park be renamed?
A: Yes, it was unanimously approved by City Council to rename Losco Park to Richard H. “Dick” Kravitz Regional Park in recognition of his long time public service. It could be said that there would be no parks in Mandarin without Dick Kravitz. We will continue to honor the Losco family with a marker inside the park.
Q: What’s the latest on your attempt to fund a preservation and beautification effort for Mandarin?
A: An appropriation of (up to) $152,000 from the council’s Contingency Account in order to engage a consulting entity to bring together various homeowner and neighborhood associations within the district for the purpose of creating an organization/plan that advances the well being of our community was approved by the full council. I’m now working with the Neighborhoods Department in drafting an RFP.
Q: What is the best way for our readers to contact you?
A: Community members can email me at MBoylan@coj.net or call (904) 255-5206.
