Letter to the Editor: Let’s be All in for All Lakelanders

Written by Saga Stevin

In regard to this 244 unit proposal. Keep in mind that what starts as “Luxury Apartments” now has been known to turn into Blighted section 8 housing in years to come.

So in keeping with the values of Lakeland let’s do this in a well thought out way. As opposed to “We can’t do a little, we have to do a lot. Let’s be as aggressive as possible.” How about let’s be as smart as possible.

Let’s try a wee bit of planned growth to keep the charm of Lakeland intact. While honoring the community and constituents who live there.

Let’s look at some options. And ask some valid questions.

1. Does a 4 story complex fit in with the current community?

The only 4 story building near is a bank – with a substantial setback from the road. Far more than the proposed 15’.

The Publix shopping center and every other structure in this community are at 2 stories. Cap the apartments at 2 stories to fit in with the current community.

• Parking.

The proposed plan allows 1.7 parking spots for all units 2 bdr or less.

It should be at 1.7 for the studio units and 1brd units with

2.25 for the 2 bdr units

With these parameters that would require 456 parking spots.

I would propose eliminating the 3bdr units altogether as they could potentially house 3 families in the years to come. Parking for 3 bdr units should be at 3.5 which would add an additional 112 spots.

• Public Safety concerns

With Lakeland being one of the 2 fastest growing cities in America as we grow our population by additional housing we need to be diligent about staying up to speed with our public safety. Ie Police and Fire.

As of 2020 the average ratio of Police in the state of FL was 2.59 Officers per Thousand citizens. Lakeland is at 2.22.

It is wonderful that more hiring was recently approved. How about we be as aggressive as possible to, at the very least, keep up with the state of FL average ratio before knowingly, painfully, building Lakeland into a high-density community ala World Economic Forum suggested parameters.

I can assure you people are not moving here in hopes of living in another high-density area.  They are moving here because of the unique charm and family values Lakeland currently offers.

Let’s grow smart. Let’s grow at a steady, not aggressive, pace where we take care of Public Safety first, then plan accordingly.

To recap:

Grow smart. Fit in with the community.

Cap the building at 2 stories.

Cap the number of bedrooms at 2.

Have parking at 1.7 spots for all units up to 1 bdr. 2.25 spots for 2 bedroom

As to the change of buffer – keep it at a minimum of 60’ for safety and community standards.

As a general rule for the intended continued growth of Lakeland let’s be as aggressive as possible to be at least on par with the State average ratio for Police and Fire. Please do be all in for the safety of all Lakelanders.