Synagogue’s prayers answered by Orange leaders
Commissioners approve request for special exception to zoning code
An Orthodox Jewish congregation, which had converted a home near Bay Hill into its temple in violation of zoning rules, won the unanimous blessing of Orange County commissioners this week to continue holding its worship services there.
The Orlando Torah Center racked up over $93,000 in fines since August 2018 when its directors were notified of the rule.
But commissioners on Tuesday granted the center’s request for a special exception to Orange County zoning codes which forbid the primary use of a single-family residence for religious worship of any creed. Most but not all neighbors backed the appeal.
Dozens said the Torah Center has been a good neighbor who takes better care of the property than the former owner did.
The small but growing congregation of about 35 Orthodox Jewish families bought the three-bedroom, two-bath ranch-style home on Banyan Boulevard about five years ago for $184,000 and wor
shiped there until COVID-19 halted many in-person services of all faiths.
They also improved the appearance of the home which had been in disrepair.
Incorporated as the Orlando Torah Center in 2011, the group began as a few families who took turns hosting worship services in their homes, all located in the Sand Lake Hills neighborhood, said the center’s attorney Derek Bruce of the Gunster law firm.
Many of the worshipers still live in the subdivision, which is northeast of Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge.
Commissioners attached several conditions to their approval, including no on-street parking or amplified outdoor music.
Though the property has the greatest attendance on the Sabbath, the services generate little traffic.
Orthodox Jews heed strict rules of Sabbath and generally do not drive, but walk to services.
Edward Muscantell, who lives next door, described the religious group as “nothing but an excellent neighbor.”
“The Orlando Torah Center is a welcome improvement compared to the drug house of the past,” he wrote.
Another neighbor Dov Ocken also supported the center’s request.
“In my experience, the families who attend services there are warm, friendly and respectful,” he wrote to county commissioners. ”The families and children walking together Saturday mornings add a vibrant, wholesome feeling to the community.”
Gavriel Wittlin, a neighborhood resident and a member of the Orlando Torah Center congregation, said neighbors of all beliefs have written letters of support and attended zoning appeal hearings to speak up for the Jewish house of prayer and study.
He said he and his family have always felt accepted and respected in Sand Lake Hills.
No one opposed to the request provided public comment in writing or through a video-conference option.
As for the code fines, which piled up at $150 a day, the religious group can ask Code Enforcement to forgive them.