ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The Winter Park City Commission has tabled a proposal by Chabad of Greater Orlando to build a new synagogue in downtown Winter Park for the second time, delaying a decision until Oct. 28.
The proposal drew more than 25 speakers during public comment at City Hall.
Supporters said the project would provide a long-awaited home for Jewish worship in Winter Park, while opponents raised concerns about the size and mix of uses planned for the site.
The project includes a synagogue, a daycare for 60 children, a parking garage, a rooftop venue and five townhomes on 0.6 acres. The site backs up to a residential area and would include drop-off and pickup lines.
Molly Losey, a Winter Park resident of 53 years, said before the meeting that she was excited about the project. After the vote was tabled, she said she was disappointed by the delay.
“It’s a town with 47 churches and has never had a temple, ever. I think it’s time. I think it’s more than about a building,” Losey said.
Winter Park Mayor Sheila DeCiccio said she believes the proposal includes too much activity for the size of the property and surrounding area.
“No one can stand in that area and say it is not a mess now, plus I am sure that the synagogue will be successful and is going to grow. Saturday mornings are already congested with the farmers market. Parking and traffic are a real problem,” DeCiccio said.
Commissioner Warren Lindsey said he was concerned about the proposed use of the rooftop venue for rentals up to four days a week.
Since the commission’s last meeting on the proposal a few weeks ago, conditions have been added to the plan.
They include limiting rooftop deck rentals to no more than four days a week and requiring at least two staff members to have intermediate maintenance of traffic certification to help manage traffic flow on the site.
Chabad of Greater Orlando did not comment on the commission’s decision.
The next meeting to discuss the proposal is scheduled for Oct. 28.