The unanimous decision by the Ocoee City Commission denied Vasant Sports’ special-exception request, concerning the city’s zoning regulations for their proposed development of 44 pickleball courts, 25 of which would be outdoors.
The location earmarked for this project lies near the intersection of West Colonial Drive and South Clarke Road.
The commission’s decision followed a presentation by the project manager, after which the floor was opened to public commentary.
Several residents voiced their opposition to the development, citing concerns about its potential impact on the neighborhood.
Kelly Walsh, president of The Hammocks homeowners association, expressed opposition to rezoning the property for commercial outdoor recreation.
She highlighted concerns about the potential for significant noise disturbance, which could adversely affect residents’ quality of life.
Lisa Stinson, another resident in the vicinity of the proposed site, echoed concerns about noise pollution generated by pickleball activities.
Stinson emphasized that while she didn’t oppose pickleball itself, she was strongly against rezoning due to the disruptive noise it could bring.
She mentioned the distinct sounds of paddle strikes and player vocalizations, which, compounded with the facility’s size, could create prolonged periods of high-frequency noise, impacting nearby residents’ ability to concentrate or relax.
Mike Rumer, the Ocoee Development Services Director, provided insights into the distance between the proposed facility and the nearest residences, emphasizing that it exceeded typical expectations.
However, concerns remained regarding the noise impact, especially with the Planning and Zoning Commission’s suggestion to reposition the courts.
Sravan Tummala, the project manager, addressed noise concerns by proposing the installation of noise barrier equipment and potential relocation of outdoor courts to increase distance from residential areas.
Tummala also suggested reducing operating hours and directing play to indoor courts after 8 p.m., expressing openness to community feedback.
Public comment also raised concerns about increased traffic congestion, especially with the concurrent construction of a Wawa gas station nearby.
| Point | Summary |
|---|---|
| Decision | Ocoee City Commission unanimously denies Vasant Sports’ special-exception request regarding zoning regulations for a proposed pickleball court development. |
| Location | Near West Colonial Drive and South Clarke Road. |
| Public Input | Various residents express opposition during public comment period, citing concerns about noise and traffic impact. |
| Concerns Raised | Noise disturbance from paddleball activities, potential traffic congestion due to the new Wawa gas station being built nearby. |
| Proposed Solutions | Project manager suggests noise barrier equipment, potential court relocation, reduced operating hours, and directing play to indoor courts after 8 p.m. |
| Commission Response | Despite denial, Mayor expresses hope for finding common ground and resolving concerns. |
| Key Figures | Kelly Walsh (The Hammocks HOA President), Lisa Stinson (Local Resident), Sravan Tummala (Project Manager), Mike Rumer (Development Services Director), Rosemary Wilsen (Commissioner), Rusty Johnson (Mayor) |
| Primary Issue | Noise impact on residential quality of life. |
Residents questioned whether the city had conducted studies to assess potential traffic impacts and whether proactive measures were being taken to mitigate congestion.
Commissioner Rosemary Wilsen aligned with residents’ concerns about noise, drawing attention to her observations of existing pickleball facilities’ noise levels.
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