Why Should the Course be Approved?

1. Consistent with existing PD-MU zoning. The site is zoned Planned Development – Mixed Use for a golf course, lighted tennis courts, a lighted pool and recreation center and accessory uses. Miniature Golf is an accessory use.

2. Consistent with surrounding uses. It is directly next to the lighted, outdoor Community Recreation Center and Pool that is itself even closer to residential uses than this project. It is also next to a shopping center and the golf club. A divided roadway separates most of the course from the few homes that are across the street.

3. Good fit for the Site. In the last 10 years, 3 of the 6 Hillsborough County miniature golf courses have closed. Because they are not a high revenue, high volume use, most have closed to other, more intense uses as property values rise. This site works because it is in a transitional area with existing recreational uses.

4. Preserves Existing Trees. It is one of the very few uses that will completely preserve the existing grandfather oaks on the site and most of the other trees.

5. Applicant is working with residents. The applicant has spoken at 2 homeowners association meetings, participated in a Miniature Golf Advisory Committee, held public information sessions, and made a number of concessions to work with residents. The applicant will continue to work with and involve residents.

6. Designed to Minimize Impact. The applicant has modified the design to preserve trees, upgraded lighting (no spill or glare), fencing, landscaping and adjusted hours to minimize impact.

7. The Majority of New Tampa Residents would favor the project. If a poll were taken today, most people would favor this project. New Tampa is starved for recreation and family activities.

8. It is just a Miniature Golf. It is a natural, golf-related accessory use that is no more commercial or intrusive than the golf course/bar/restaurant/banquet facility that has been there for over 40 years. It is family recreation proposed at an existing family recreation center.