During a city commission meeting on August 6, Eustis officials took the first formal step toward the proposed Aquilo Project, directing staff to begin drafting a purchase‑and‑sale agreement for the lakefront property that currently houses the Eustis Community Center and an adjoining park on Northshore Drive.
City leaders describe the plan as an opportunity
Vice Mayor Gary Ashcraft called the initiative “a wonderful and very, very great opportunity for us,” emphasizing the potential for a boutique hotel, apartments, retail space and office buildings to revitalize the downtown lakefront area. The city has indicated that third‑party appraisals will be obtained to determine a fair market value for the property, and any final agreement will require commission approval.
Residents voice strong attachment to the center
Long‑time resident Gail Isaac‑Thomas expressed shock at the discussion, saying, “It’s wrong to try to take our memories, our cherished memories, away to build a hotel. It means a lot to me.” She noted that the community center has served as the backdrop for birthday parties, weddings and funerals for generations. Other neighbors echoed her sentiment, with Lisa Graves stating, “Everybody has a voice because this is everybody’s property.”
Developer outlines commitment to collaboration
Urban Hideaway Development, the firm behind the Aquilo Project, released a statement through CEO Danelle Hoffer affirming that the plan was conceived as a catalyst for downtown Eustis. “We remain committed to working collaboratively with the city and community as the project moves through the public development and approval process,” Hoffer said.
Next steps in the municipal process
The commission’s directive initiates a series of procedural milestones. City staff will commission independent appraisers, prepare a draft agreement, and present the terms to the commission for a vote. Public input will be solicited as part of the standard development review, allowing residents to comment on design, traffic impact, and preservation of community space.
While the sale and development have not yet been finalized, the commission’s action signals a clear intent to explore the project further. Community members who wish to stay informed or submit comments are encouraged to attend upcoming commission meetings or contact the city planning department.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
