The Grove subdivision passes first design hurdle in Oakland

Before approaching the town of Oakland with plans for The Grove, a 44-lot residential neighborhood in Oakland, developers took feedback elected officials made for another proposed community, making the approval process much smoother.

The Oakland Town Commission approved at its June 11 meeting the first reading of an amended developer’s agreement proposing design guidelines and architectural standards for the 19.2-acre upscale master-planned community. The guidelines will serve as the manual for the homeowners association.

There are four lot styles available, from 8,750 to 10,800 square feet, depending on location, and the community will have just two architectural styles, Florida Vernacular and French Farmhouse.

The Planned Development zoning was approved in 2022. The Grove is being constructed south of Oakland Avenue and east of Catherine Ross Road. It will have entrances on both roads and will feature walking trails, bike paths and parks.

The entrance off Catherine Ross will feature a larger monument sign, and the two Oakland Avenue entrances will include columns with small medallions to continue the visual theme of Oakland Park, which also has entrances on the main street.

The second ordinance hearing is at the June 25 Town Commission meeting.

IN OTHER BUSINESS

• The Oakland Town Commission approved the consent agenda, which included a resubmission of the Oakland Avenue Charter School Policy and Procedures Safety & Security document to the state of Florida with the addition of a policy for threat management.

• Elected officials assigned Commissioner Sal Ramos as the Oakland delegate for the Florida League of Cities conference to be held in August in Hollywood.

• Mayor Shane Taylor led a discussion about the materials placed on two dirt roads, Vick Avenue and Edgegrove Lane, to try to eliminate the dust created by motorists. He said the results of the study indicate the dust was cut down but still remained.

“We want the residents to know we are aware of the issue and are trying to do everything we can to mitigate that issue and cut down the problem,” Taylor said.

“A couple years ago, I headed up a committee to figure out what to do with the roads,” Commissioner Mike Satterfield said. “We have a new (community) now. Could we put together a committee to go door to door and see if people even want the dirt roads?”

Taylor said it might be time to look at the idea.

• Police Chief Darron Esan announced the first “Walk and Talk with the Chief” program, to be held after work Wednesday, June 26. As Esan walks the town’s streets, residents are invited to address any concerns and ask him police-related questions.

• The commission proclaimed June 17 through 23 National Pollinator Week and June 19 Juneteenth Day in the town of Oakland.