Visions Golf LLC, owner of Walden Lake Golf & Country Club and its two 18-hole courses, has submitted plans for constructing more than 300 homes on the site of The Hills course in Walden Lake.
Last winter, Visions Golf submitted an application to the City of Plant City for a rezoning of The Hills, in preparation for its development. Visions Golf submitted a revised proposal earlier this month that specified development plans, including 154 single-family lots, 156 four-plex units, a 7-acre park and a 100-unit assisted living facility.
The submission came shortly after a group of residents filed to sue Visions Golf if the rezoning and development are completed. Facing property value losses, residents united under Walden Lake Community Preservation don’t think developing The Hills is the answer.
“The rezoning application … is intended to provide for new investment into the community, which is critical to any future success of Walden Lake Golf and Country Club,” Steve Mercer, general manager of Visions Golf, said.
Because Visions Golf was suffering financial strain from a struggling economy, The Hills first closed in May 2013. Representatives of Visions Golf have said they hope to sell The Hills for development to pay off the company’s debt and pour more money into its sister course at Walden Lake, The Lakes. Membership is sagging at the country club and many feel the community can’t support two 18-hole golf courses.
If the rezone is approved by the city, Visions Golf will continue to operate The Lakes golf course at Walden Lake, but it will be renovated, along with the clubhouse.
“Timing on all future plans for golf course and amenities renovation … is tied directly to city zoning approval,” Margie Martin, a communications representative for Visions Golf, said. “Visions Golf is waiting on Plant City’s confirmation for (a) zoning hearing date.”
Phillip Scearce, director of planning and zoning for the City of Plant City, said he also is unsure of a timeline. The city first has to consider the stormwater analysis that was submitted in the plan, and an independent consultant for this task has not been chosen yet.
If the rezone is considered, residents near the courses will be alerted to a public hearing.
Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver.com.
