Blog Post

Community Meeting: Moving Windermere High's Stadium On Campus

Aug 21, 2023

Public Invited to Learn and Share Questions, Comments

On Wednesday August 23rd, a community meeting will be held at Windermere High School concerning an effort to relocate the school's off campus stadium, which is currently located at Deputy Scott Pine Park, to school property.

Representatives from Orange County's Zoning division and OCPS will present a request for an amendment to a Special Exception to allow for the construction of the stadium on school property. The proposed stadium would be located where the track and football practice field are currently.

This meeting is open to the public. Windermere High families and nearby residents are encouraged to attend to learn more and share their questions or concerns with County Commissioner Nicole Wilson and County officials.

Support for Stadium Relocation

Among other issues, parents have raised concerns about student and spectator safety as well as the additional burden on athletic teams, band and others to move their equipment between the school and the field. Many have expressed their desire to relocate the stadium to OCPS and County representatives since the time of Windermere High's opening in 2017.

In an email sent by Windermere High School Principal Andrew Leftakis, he said, "As this is the first official step in the process with the Board of County Commissioners, we need everyone to come out and show their support for the project. All parents, students, and staff are encouraged to attend to voice their opinion. Let’s fill the Performing Arts Center with navy and lime to show the community that Windermere is ready, and excited, to have an on-campus stadium."

A frequently asked question is "Why was the stadium built off campus to begin with?" The issue stemmed from the sizeable high school being constructed in the West Windermere Rural Settlement. The Observer shared a detailed article on the off-campus stadium, explaining the issues involved.

Upcoming Meetings

At the Horizon West Town Hall held in March 2023, District 4 OCPS School Board Member Pam Gould shared that the stadium relocation was contingent upon Orange County Board of Zoning Adjustment's (BZA) recommendation for approval as well as approval from the Board of County Commissioners (BCC).

This week's meeting is the Community Meeting for public awareness and feedback.

Wednesday, August 23
6:00pm - 7:00pm
Windermere High School Performing Arts Center at 5523 Winter Garden Vineland Rd.

The BZA hearing is scheduled for September 7, 2023. And the BCC hearing is scheduled for October 25, 2023. Public comment will be accepted at these meetings as well.

If you are unable to attend these, written comments may be emailed to the assigned Orange County Case Planner - Ted Kozak.

Share Your Thoughts!

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