Zoning changes clear the way for new hotels; Chick-fil-A coming to US 27

In July, Lake Wales city commissioners voted unanimously to raise the maximum building height in the BP Business Park and C-3 Highway Commercial zoning districts from 35 to 45 feet, to make room for two proposed hotels. They also allowed convenience stores with gas sales in the I-1 Industrial district. (Daily Ridge)

On US 27, Chick-fil-A received site plan approval for a roughly 1.9-acre site next to Wawa. The city says it's the fifth restaurant chain to come recently, after Slim Chickens, Panera Bread, Starbucks and Freddy's. No opening date has been announced. (The Polk Squeeze)

For founders: zoning rules change. Check the current rules for any site before you sign a lease. The directory has the zoning map and the Planning and Zoning contact.