Hotel may be the first Apopka City Center Project

A five-story hotel could be the first business to open at the Apopka City Center, according to Jeff McFadden, Managing Director for Taurus Southern Investments. McFadden went on to describe the hotel as a "hot prospect."

McFadden also revealed Taurus' thoughts about incorporating the Highland Manor into the Apopka City Center project when he said, "I don't see how you keep the Highland Manor on this site."

McFadden's comments were made at a City Council Workshop on Wednesday afternoon. Approximately 25 people attended the workshop.

Under the proposed Development agreement Taurus would have 18 months to decided the fate of the Highland Manor. If it is not incorporated into the design of the City Center they would have to give the City 12 months to either move the Manor to another location or demolish the Manor. If the Manor was not moved or demolished within the 12 months the City would incur a $500 per day penalty.

The design of the Apopka City Center would incorporate an architectural style known as "Florida Vernacular," in an effort to maintain the historic character of Apopka. In addition to the 5-story hotel the Center would feature wide sidewalks, public gathering places and a boardwalk. A central parking area plus smaller parking lots are envisioned.

Taurus is proposing to have a minimum of 30,000 square feet of restaurant space which would include two stand-alone restaurants. If the hotel has a restaurant it would not be considered "stand-alone."

The rest of the Center would contain a variety of retail businesses. Some of the business types mentioned included; day spas, a grocery store, coffee shops, bakeries, and dentists.

Use this link to view the entire Apopka City Center presentation from Taurus.

The City Council is scheduled to vote on the proposed Development Agreement at the next City Council meeting on Wednesday, July 20th. The meeting begins at 7:00 PM. Public comment on the proposed Apopka City Center will be heard at this meeting.