The Shields Painting Difference: Perfection with Every Brush Stroke
Many painting companies in Florida rely on flashy marketing and big promises to try and attract new clients. But when it comes time to work, they fall short of their promises. This is often due to a lack of experience, qualified painters, and a drive to overachieve. At Shields Painting, we do things a little differently than other painting companies in Citrus County. We believe that a professional paint job should be as close to perfect as possible. Our goal is to leave you 100% satisfied, whether we're touching up an old residential paint job or performing a complex commercial project. It might sound simple, but we achieve that goal through honesty, hard work, beautiful results, and reasonable pricing.
As a family-owned and operated painting company in Spring Lake, FL, we strive to provide personalized, professional, and friendly service. Shields Painting has been in business since 1968 for a good reason. Whenever possible, we go the extra mile to make sure our customers are happy. Unlike some of our competition, we want to know all about your house or business painting project: your vision, your preferences, your challenges, and your goals. When we understand your needs, we can present you with a fantastic final product - one that you're proud to show off to friends and neighbors.
At Shields Painting, we combine our extensive experience with time-tested, meticulous painting processes, resulting in the highest quality painting results around. As a painting contractor in Citrus County, we can take on a variety of residential, commercial, and industrial projects in Florida.
A few of our most popular painting services include:
- Interior Painting
- Exterior Painting
- Residential Painting
- Commercial Painting
- Cabinet Painting
- Ceiling Painting
- Fence Painting
- Sign Painting
- MUCH More!
Our commercial, industrial, and residential painting contractors take the proper steps to protect your property and belongings while we work. Our team will clean up after ourselves, so your property is left clean and free of debris when we're done. After all, we think there's only one way to do a job, and that's the right way.
Painting Services
Eco-friendly & clean work area.
PDCA Certified Member.
Your Go-To House Painting Company in Spring Lake, FL
Your home is a haven of relaxation and solitude. It is uniquely you - a place where you can express who you are through style and design. Whether you need interior touch-ups for your crown molding or a new exterior coat of paint, hiring a reliable painting contractor is the best way to get quality results.
At Shields Painting, we know how important it is to have a home that highlights your tastes and personality. That's why we offer an extensive array of residential painting services in Citrus County. As tempting as it might be to try a DIY paint job, without the proper skills and experience, there is a good chance that the results will turn out less than satisfactory.
High-quality painting requires skill, experience, and patience. If you're a homeowner who needs residential painting services but doesn't have the time, patience, or skills to handle the job, look no further than Shields Painting. We offer accuracy, precision, and longevity with each paint job we perform. Our customers choose Shields Painting for their home because they receive:
- Free Quotes with Detailed Project Breakdowns
- Affordable Pricing
- Expert Painting Contractors
- High-Quality Paint Products
- Combo of Traditional and Modern Techniques
- Well-Maintained Tools
- Unmatched Craftsmanship
- Friendly, Personalized Service
- Good Old-Fashioned Hard Work!
The majority of our house painting services come in two forms: interior and exterior.
Interior Residential Painting
As an interior painting contractor with decades of experience, our expert technicians have developed an interior painting process that maximizes quality and emphasizes customer satisfaction. We understand that interior painting goes beyond aesthetics. It protects your ceilings and walls and helps you sustain a healthier place to live for your family. When only the finest craftsmanship will do inside your home, Shields Painting is here for you.
Our seasoned team of painting experts and craftsmen is dedicated to respecting your space and providing you with the look and feel you're craving inside your home. Whether you bought a new house and want to make it your own or need minor touch-ups but have no time, Shields Painting is ready to tackle the job, no matter how small or large.
Unlike some painting companies, our interior house painters take the time to get the details right, every time. For instance, color is only one aspect of your interior paint job. The paint sheen or finish is just as important. Certain finishes are better for living rooms and bedrooms than in kitchens and bathrooms. We'll help you find the right finish and paint colors for your home, so you don't have to worry about touch-ups or repainting.
Some of our most popular interior house painting services include:
- Ceiling Painting
- Popcorn Ceiling Removal
- Living Room Painting
- Bathroom Painting
- Basement Painting
- Color Consultations
- More
Cabinet Painting
Citrus County cabinet painting deserves its own section on this page because it requires more time, skill, and quality paint than most sections of your home. If your home's cabinets are built into its woodwork, replacing them can be obnoxiously expensive. Compared to the cost of installing new cabinets, painting your kitchen cabinets is much more affordable.
At Shields Painting, we specialize in transforming old cabinets into new, gorgeous features that are just as usable as they are beautiful. Each step of our cabinet painting process is meticulous and thorough. And we'll take care of the entire job, from cleaning, prep, and sanding to priming, painting, and reassembly. This unique service lets you enjoy a brand-new look in your kitchen without having to go into debt by replacing your cabinets.
Whether your cabinets are new, but you want to change their color or you'd like to transition wood cabinets to a painted finish, Shields Painting has the expertise and experience to give you a new look you'll love.
Exterior Residential Painting
Your home - it's a place that not only keeps your belongings safe. It protects your family and loved ones, too. It's one of your largest investments, and like anything else of value, it should be protected. However, Florida weather can take a toll on your home's structure and paint, lowering your home's value and even putting your family at risk.
While it's true that a beautiful exterior affects your house's value, it shouldn't take thousands of remodeling dollars to make a positive change to your home. There's a fine line between reasonable pricing and top-quality painting, and that sweet spot is what Shields Painting aims for. If you want to transform how your friends and neighbors see your home, never underestimate the power of a professional paint job.
Our exterior residential painting services are designed to boost curb appeal, give your home a fresh look, and help it stand up to Florida's unique weather. But we provide more than that. When you hire Shields Painting for your outdoor painting project, you will enjoy peace of mind in knowing that your home is in truly capable hands. Our goal is to exceed your expectations and help bring out the best in your property, whether you need to re-stain your deck or remove old, peeling paint from your siding.
If you're on the hunt for the very best exterior painting contractor in Spring Lake, FL, look no further than Shields Painting.
Some of our most popular exterior house painting services include:
- Vinyl Siding Painting
- Deck Painting and Staining
- Stucco Exterior Painting
- Wood Exterior Painting
- Porch Painting and Staining
- Soffit Painting
- Fascia Painting
- Window Painting
- Front Door Painting
- Thorough Painting Prep
- More
The Premier Commercial Painting Company in Spring Lake, FL
When it comes to first impressions, your businesses' appearance plays an important role. Your commercial property's paint job factors into its overall aesthetics. A great-looking, well-maintained paint job can mean the difference between a customer walking in your storefront and passing by. Conversely, an old, worn-out commercial paint job can send the wrong message to prospective customers. If you can't take the time to keep up your property's appearance, why would a customer spend their hard-earned money on your products?
The same goes for your businesses' interior paint. Would you want to do business with a company that has peeling paint or unsightly crown molding? At Shield's Painting, our goal is to create a beautiful environment that your customers and employees will love inside and out. When you work with our business painters, you can rest easy knowing we treat your business like it were our own. We always clean up after ourselves and know that operations cannot come to a halt just because we're painting. As such, we'll work with your busy schedule to ensure the job gets done right the first time without disrupting your day-to-day commitments.
With decades of commercial painting experience, we know the demands of a commercial painting project necessitate a disciplined and focused approach from the start. Our team of business painters is committed to delivering quality, on-time results on every project, every time - no excuses
We offer professional business painting services to a variety of building types, including:
01
Industrial Painting
A high level of care and finesse are required to effectively paint an industrial property. At Shields Painting, we know that industrial paint jobs involve much more than aesthetics. That's why our industrial services are customized to your specifications, using industrial-grade materials that stand up to heavy-duty operations.
02
Retail Store Painting
Our commercial painters apply effective, yet appealing interior and exterior paint that stand up to the daily rigors of busy retail environments.
03
Small Business Painting
Do you own a restaurant franchise? Have a small "mom and pop" location that needs a fresh coat of paint? Shields Painting has the resources and reliability to efficiently get the job done the first time. That way, you can focus on serving your customers, not having your business repainted.
04
Healthcare Location Painting
From walk-in clinics to long-term care facilities, Shields Painting is sensitive to your patients' needs. We know you must protect your patient's privacy while maintaining productivity. Our approach to healthcare location painting centers around your schedule to avoid disruptions in care.
05
Apartment Complex Painting
Erase signs of wear and make your apartment complex or multi-family building a more desirable place to live with a stunning, professional paint job.
Florida's Most Trusted Painting Contractor
Shields Painting has been in the business since 1968. In a world where so much has changed, we are proud to uphold the ideals that make us successful: hard, honest work, getting the job done right, and excellent customer service. Providing you with trustworthy, quality work will always take priority over rushing through a project to serve the next customer. That is just not the way we choose to do business.
As professionals dedicated to perfection, we strive to provide a unique painting experience for every customer - one that focuses on their needs and desires instead of our own. Whether you need residential painting for your home or commercial painting for your business, we encourage you to reach out today to speak with our customer service team. Whether you have big ideas about a new paint project or need our expertise and guidance, we look forward to hearing from you soon.
352-212-1533Free Consultation
Latest News in Spring Lake, FL
Discover The 3 Cleanest Lakes in Florida
Jennifer Gaenghttps://a-z-animals.com/blog/discover-the-cleanest-lakes-in-florida/
Water quality in Florida’s lakes can be interpreted in many ways, but clarity is a standard metric. However, it may come as a surprise to visitors that most Florida lakes are not so clean or clear. This is heavily due to strong winds and heavy rain, which can stir up bottom debris, causing murky water. Remember that murky water does not necessarily indicate pollution or danger. Additionally, it doesn’t affect the edibility of most fish.That being said, most of the cleanest and clearest freshwater lakes ...
Water quality in Florida’s lakes can be interpreted in many ways, but clarity is a standard metric. However, it may come as a surprise to visitors that most Florida lakes are not so clean or clear. This is heavily due to strong winds and heavy rain, which can stir up bottom debris, causing murky water. Remember that murky water does not necessarily indicate pollution or danger. Additionally, it doesn’t affect the edibility of most fish.
That being said, most of the cleanest and clearest freshwater lakes in Florida are spring-fed white sand bottom lakes. These lakes are often smaller in size and privately owned or have limited access. They tend to be less fertile than larger lakes, which results in less boating and fishing pressure. Many of these lakes are located in residential areas or state parks. Some even have large luxury homes built along the shoreline.
In this article, we explore three of the cleanest lakes in Florida, two of which are spring-fed. These lakes are the cleanest in the state due to their unique characteristics and low potential for contamination.
1. Rainbow Springs Lake
Rainbow Springs, along with its lake and river system, are all generally clean and naturally beautiful. The water is clear and produces an aquamarine-type color, making it a marvel to look at. Located in Florida State Park, several regulations are in place to maintain clean air and water sources for visitors.
Rainbow Springs State Park is a popular tourist destination offering visitors a range of aquatic activities. The park boasts a crystal-clear headwater that provides opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing downriver.
Visitors can also enjoy swimming and snorkeling in Rainbow Springs Lake. The park offers rentals of canoes and kayaks for exploring the beautiful waters. Visitors should be aware of the recreational guidelines for the Rainbow River, as it is an aquatic preserve.
2. Wakulla Springs Lake
Located in Wakulla Springs State Park, Wakulla Springs is clean and clear. There are several efforts being made to maintain the cleanliness of the water. It is one of the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs. The waters within the park offer aquatic activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The park also provides rentals for paddleboats and canoes.
Wakulla Springs is home to a myriad of diverse wildlife, including manatees, alligators, and other creatures. Visitors can view them from either a riverboat or the diving platform, surrounded by crystal-clear sapphire-colored water. There are also various hiking and equestrian trails for exploration of the park’s diverse ecosystems and observing wildlife and birdlife. Visitors can indulge in family-friendly activities like picnicking and wildlife viewing. Ranger-led programs provide educational and entertaining experiences for all ages.
Overall, Wakulla Springs State Park is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys aquatic activities. It offers a great chance to experience the stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife of the park.
3. Alligator Lake
Alligator Lake is a very clean Florida lake. The US Army Corps of Engineers monitors and controls the lake’s water quality. This lake is home to various animals, including alligators, largemouth bass, bluegill, bowfin, gar, redear sunfish, insects, small mammals, and reptiles.
The park, located in Lake City, offers hiking, bicycling, fishing, and kayaking. However, there is no mention of swimming. The park also has a playground, pavilion, and picnic tables, making it a suitable spot for family outings.
Hunting activities are also available in the area, and visitors can hike the James H. Montgomery Trail which has a high rating from reviewers.
In Conclusion
Florida is home to many beautiful and unique lakes, but a few stand out for their impressive cleanliness. The three lakes highlighted here serve as shining examples of the natural beauty and ecological diversity that Florida offers. Whether you’re a local or vacationer, visiting one of these clear lakes is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Please keep in mind that it is always a good idea to consult with local authorities or experts for more accurate and up-to-date information on any lake you want to visit.
Summary of the 3 Cleanest Lakes in Florida
The photo featured at the top of this post is © Alexander Lukatskiy/Shutterstock.com
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About the Author
Jennifer Gaeng is a writer at A-Z-Animals focused on animals, lakes, and fishing. With over 15 years of collective experience in writing and researching, Jennifer has honed her skills in various niches, including nature, animals, family care, and self-care. Hailing from Missouri, Jennifer finds inspiration in spending quality time with her loved ones. Her creative spirit extends beyond her writing endeavors, as she finds joy in the art of drawing and immersing herself in the beauty of nature.
Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.
The GSH Group Purchases The Preserve at Spring Lake
The GSH Grouphttps://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-gsh-group-purchases-the-preserve-at-spring-lake-301321682.html
CLAWSON, Mich., June 29, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The GSH Group, an experienced team of highly qualified and innovative multifamily real estate investors, acquired its first Florida property on June 25, 2021, for $62.8 million. The Preserve at Spring Lake is a 320-unit multifamily community in Altamonte Springs, FL, which is within the thriving and diverse northern suburban Orlando market located in Seminole county. ...
CLAWSON, Mich., June 29, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The GSH Group, an experienced team of highly qualified and innovative multifamily real estate investors, acquired its first Florida property on June 25, 2021, for $62.8 million. The Preserve at Spring Lake is a 320-unit multifamily community in Altamonte Springs, FL, which is within the thriving and diverse northern suburban Orlando market located in Seminole county.
GSH plans to elevate this well-maintained 1970's vintage property, with capital improvements budgeted at over $3.8 million. Residents of The Preserve at Spring Lake already enjoy the use of five swimming pools and a low-density site plan, and GSH signature renovations will further amplify the residents' comfort and lifestyle. The upgrades contracted with Multifamily Commercial Construction LLC, headquartered in Oak Park, MI run the gamut from renovating unit interiors and exteriors to installing exterior lighting and updating parking to implementing cost-saving efficiencies via human touch and tech touch.
"We are thrilled to have hired Bainbridge, a best-in-class third party property manager of this property, and we are confident they will help us push this property to its fullest potential," said Gideon Pfeffer, the managing partner at The GSH Group.
This acquisition and its capital improvement strategy align perfectly with GSH's goals to bring strong and steady returns to its investors and partners while enhancing the lives of its residents and all stakeholders through well-planned and measured value-add upgrades to its properties and via innovative social impact programs. The GSH Group's concierge approach to real estate investing allows investors to participate in the lucrative multifamily real estate market with ease and assurance that all the hard work and challenges are being managed and executed with expert stewardship.
To learn more about The GSH Group, visit gshrealestate.com. There you can download a free eBook "7 Insights That Prove Multifamily Real Estate Investing is a Smart Move," as well as their prospectus "Investing with Purpose: A Deep Dive." Stay tuned for more innovative updates from The GSH Group.
About The GSH GroupThe GSH Group is a team of passionate investors with a laser focus on providing superior returns while offering high-quality housing for our essential workers. We partner with like-minded individuals and companies that share this goal. GSH is a Verivest Gold sponsor, the gold standard in sponsor verification and monitoring.
Media Contact:Donna DeMarcoDirector of Marketing248.408.5086313252@email4pr.com
SOURCE The GSH Group
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The 5 Best Florida Lakes for Swimming
Niccoy Walkerhttps://a-z-animals.com/blog/the-best-florida-lakes-for-swimming/
Florida is one of the most popular vacation spots in the world. Its warm, sunny weather and palm trees offer a tropical paradise year-round. And there is never a shortage of activities, whether visiting the theme parks or lounging at one of the many beaches. But Florida also has breathtaking rivers, marshes, ponds, and lakes that dot the entirety of the state.But we’re not going to lie, finding a Florida ...
Florida is one of the most popular vacation spots in the world. Its warm, sunny weather and palm trees offer a tropical paradise year-round. And there is never a shortage of activities, whether visiting the theme parks or lounging at one of the many beaches. But Florida also has breathtaking rivers, marshes, ponds, and lakes that dot the entirety of the state.
But we’re not going to lie, finding a Florida lake or river to swim in is challenging. Most of the natural lakes in the state offer limited visibility due to their dark waters. And when there are over a million alligators that live in freshwater habitats across the state, swimming in a Florida lake can be dangerous.
There are plenty of crystal clear, spring-fed swimming holes in Florida perfect for diving and splashing around. But lakes that can be used for the same purpose are not easy to come by. We’ve narrowed down our list of the top five best Florida lakes for swimming, including where to find public access beaches and other activities to participate in.
Even though you are less likely to encounter dangerous wildlife at these lakes, you should always take precautions and use your best judgment when entering a Florida lake, pond, marsh, or river. Alligators and snakes can easily hop from one water source to another, including private swimming pools!
Check out this article for more information on whether it’s safe to swim in Florida. And read this statement at Floridahealth.gov that tells you how to keep safe while swimming in Florida.
1. Lake Tohopekaliga – Osceola County
Located in Central Florida, Lake Toho is the largest lake in Osceola County near Kissimmee and St. Cloud. The lake is 22,700 acres, with a circumference of 42 miles. And it is a premier bass-fishing and bird-watching destination. But this lake has something to offer everyone, including boating, hiking, picnicking, and a splash pad for kids. Two areas offer public swimming: Chisholm Park and St. Cloud Lakefront. While alligators can occasionally find their way to the public access areas, officials are quick to remove them if one is spotted. But precautions should always be taken, even in lakes that allow swimming. Ensure no pets and small children are left unattended.
2. Lake George – Volusia/Putnam Counties
Lake George is the second-largest lake in Florida, covering 46,000 acres. Lake Okeechobee is the first, but it’s not advisable to swim in its waters. Lake George is a brackish lake that lies on the St. Johns River in Northern Florida. It is five miles wide, 18 miles long, and features an average depth of ten feet. The lake offers many activities, including fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and camping. The towns near the lake also provide eating and shopping destinations. The lake does offer swimming due to its relatively clear waters, but you must choose the right spot. Look for the spring-fed channels that feature crystal-clear water. There are also a few spots that are roped off for swimming purposes. As always, use extreme caution when swimming in any Florida freshwater.
3. Winter Haven Chain of Lakes – Polk County
The Winter Haven Chain of Lakes is a series of spring-fed lakes and canals in West Central Florida. It is a famous tourist destination that has provided fun outdoor activities for a hundred years. Many people use the canals for boating, fishing, and jet-skiing. But the area also offers plenty of opportunities for sailing, kayaking, camping, golfing, sunning, swimming, and even playing at amusement parks. There are many public access areas in the northern and southern parts of the chain, where you can enjoy the beaches and boating ramps. Stay away from the smaller aquatic areas, like retention ponds, as this is where alligators like to hang out.
4. Lake Stella – Polk County
Lake Stella, located in Auburndale, is a four-acre natural lake created by a sinkhole. The lake is deep, but its max depth is unknown. It’s a popular spot for paddling around lush coves in kayaks and canoes. But people also come here for its excellent fishing. There is a public swimming beach perfect for catching rays and splashing in the clear, warm water.
5. Lake Tulane – Highlands County
Lake Tulane is another natural lake that occupies a sinkhole. It is located in Highlands County in Avon Park, Florida. This picturesque lake provides many activities, such as fishing, boating, and jet-skiing. Lake Tulane Park features several pavilions for eating and gathering and white, sandy beach areas for relaxing. You can also swim in the lake. And at the south end of the swimming area, you will find a place for diving. Many divers report seeing sunken boats and plenty of golf balls!
Summary of Best Florida Lakes for Swimming
The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/Dronegb
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About the Author
Niccoy is a professional writer for A-Z Animals and her primary focus is on birds, travel, and interesting facts of all kinds. Niccoy has been writing and researching about travel, nature, wildlife, and business for several years and holds a business degree from Florida State College. A resident of Florida, Niccoy enjoys hiking, cooking, reading, and spending time at the beach.
Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.
New Owners of Spring Lake Golf Resort announce Rebranding and Redevelopment Plans
XUDE Hospitality; Signature H Property Grouphttps://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-owners-of-spring-lake-golf-resort-announce-rebranding-and-redevelopment-plans-300986902.html
SEBRING, Fla., Jan. 14, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Signature H Property Group, which purchased the Spring Lake Golf Resort in November 2019, announced they are rebranding the resort to "Sebring International Golf Resort.""We believe the new branding will embolden the property as the premier golf resort in Sebring, while broadening its exposure to US and international markets," said Helmut Wyzisk III, President of Signature H. "This is the first step of a comprehensive plan to revitalize and reposition the resort.&qu...
SEBRING, Fla., Jan. 14, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Signature H Property Group, which purchased the Spring Lake Golf Resort in November 2019, announced they are rebranding the resort to "Sebring International Golf Resort."
"We believe the new branding will embolden the property as the premier golf resort in Sebring, while broadening its exposure to US and international markets," said Helmut Wyzisk III, President of Signature H. "This is the first step of a comprehensive plan to revitalize and reposition the resort."
Signature H Property Group, the parent company to New Spring Lake Partners, formed a strategic partnership with XUDE Hospitality, lead by golf industry veterans Mike Miraglia and Jerry Moore, to manage resort operations. Plans for redevelopment include the transformation of two existing 18-hole golf courses into one 27-hole Steve Smyers designed championship course, which will take place in phases over the next two summers. The property will also feature a 12-hole short course which is currently under construction and opening this year.
The resort's existing clubhouse will also undergo major renovations and the addition of new commercial, residential and resort amenities are planned; including a small home village, single family homes, multi-family apartments, a senior campus and a town center with retail and commercial businesses. Numerous parks, trails, and outdoor amenities will also be included. Further information will be released when plans are finalized and approved by local municipalities.
Wyzisk III describes Signature H's consideration when developing such a special property, "As native Floridians, we have a true appreciation for the character of this property. It is natural and authentic Florida. We're honored to be the stewarding the property into sustainability so its essence can be enjoyed by generations to come."
Signature H Property Group is a real estate company specializing in the design and development of livable, sustainable communities and is a collaboration of some the most experienced planners, designers, engineers, developers and construction managers. The company has made its mark on a multitude of development projects in both the public and private sectors; including hotels, retail centers, municipal projects, and urban communities. For more information, visit www.signatureh.com.
XUDE Hospitality is headquartered in Miami with offices in Naples and Sarasota. The XUDE team has a proven track record in revenue generation, membership growth, operating efficiency, construction and renovation in properties of all sizes – including golf courses, country clubs, resorts, hotels, and real estate developments. For information visit: www.xudehospitality.com.
SOURCE XUDE Hospitality; Signature H Property Group
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New mobile homes coming to Spring Lake after vote by Board of Aldermen
Ivey Schofieldhttps://www.fayobserver.com/story/news/2022/04/26/new-mobile-homes-coming-spring-lake-after-vote-board-aldermen/7395625001/
More than 250 mobile homes will be available to rent soon in Spring Lake, after the Board of Aldermen on Monday approved a rezoning request.In a 4-1 vote, the board rezoned 5.67 acres on Dacha Lane from R5A residential district to R6A more restrictive residential district to accommodate additional mobile homes.Time Out Communities, a Florida-based company that manages mobile home parks, has proposed putting 288 new mobile homes in a vacant park on Dacha Lane. The land, which people now use as a trash dumping ground, has been em...
More than 250 mobile homes will be available to rent soon in Spring Lake, after the Board of Aldermen on Monday approved a rezoning request.
In a 4-1 vote, the board rezoned 5.67 acres on Dacha Lane from R5A residential district to R6A more restrictive residential district to accommodate additional mobile homes.
Time Out Communities, a Florida-based company that manages mobile home parks, has proposed putting 288 new mobile homes in a vacant park on Dacha Lane. The land, which people now use as a trash dumping ground, has been empty since Hurricane Matthew, according to attorney Richard Fox.
“This is all done by Time Out Communities for the betterment of the community,” Fox said.
Last week, the Cumberland County Joint Planning Board recommended approval of the rezoning request in a 4-3 vote. Annette Massari, senior planner of Cumberland County, said that there were concerns about this request because “mobile home development was not something the town wanted to prioritize.”
Fox replied that concerns about aesthetics were unfounded, since the homes by Time Out Communities would be newly built in 2023 with “modern, upscale” amenities. “These defy that stereotype,” he said.
The Florida company is planning to invest more than $6.2 million in the mobile home park — without using Spring Lake tax dollars, according to Fox. This will include 24-hour security patrols and potentially a gate.
The monthly rent for mobile homes with two-, three- and four-bedrooms would cost at least $550, according to the Time Out Communities website.
While there were concerns about a mobile home park in general, the rezoning request was only for 5 acres out of the 32-acre lot. Fox said that about 240 mobile homes were coming to Spring Lake regardless of the vote on Monday. The board was just deciding if the park would have an additional 40 homes.
“If this rezoning doesn’t happen, it’s not the end of the world,” Fox said. “But it is a waste of income for the community.”
Fox added that the additional 40 homes would boost retail in the town and increase the tax base.
In addition, the town had already spent tax dollars constructing water and sewer lines on Ducha Lane, which the current property owner Kenneth Smith said would be “money spent down there that you’re not getting money back on.” The property has been on the market for years.
Fox did not say when the company expected the homes to be ready for occupants. He gave the board documents with additional information on the proposed development, which he did not hand out to members of the public.
Alderman Raul Palacios said it was “refreshing” to see new development. He made a motion to approve the rezoning request, with Robyn Chadwick, Sona Cooper and Adrian Jones Thompson supporting and Marvin Lackman opposing.
More apartments in the works
The board also approved rezoning 2 acres on Shell Drive from commercial to residential to allow for a future apartment complex. The property is currently vacant.
The complex will be an expansion of Waterford Apartments, also located on Shell Drive. A one- to two-bedroom apartment costs between $1,210 and $1,540 per month, according to its website.
"It's a nice little development out there," Palacios said.
The rezoning goes against the town's land use plan, which calls for light industrial in that area. However, Massari said that planning staff can update the map to reflect that change.
The 2-acre lot is adjacent to a residential area, which is why the joint planning board unanimously recommended its approval, which the Spring Lake board did.
New interim town manager
In addition, the board officially hired Joe Durham as interim town manager.
This approval was a last-minute addition to the agenda. The agreement, which Palacios said was dated April 18, was not included in the background information before the meeting.
The board swore Durham into office on March 28.
On April 5, the state Local Government Commission, which took over the town's finances in October, said that the board dismissed an interim town manager and swore in a new interim manager without taking a public vote on either. The LGC also said that the board swore Durham in without a contract in place.
On April 12, Mayor Kia Anthony responded with a letter that said the board had not officially hired Joe Durham as interim town manager because the contract had to be approved by the commission. She also said that the previous interim town manager resigned and that the manager's contract was ended by the Mid-Carolina Council of Governments.
The board on Monday said the LGC had consented to the agreement with Durham.
In other news from the meeting, the board:
Reporter Ivey Schofield can be reached at ischofield@gannett.com.