The Lake County Commission voted Tuesday morning to deny a controversial rezoning request tied to a proposed residential development in the Clermont area, drawing applause from a packed chamber of residents who had urged officials to reject the plan.

Commissioners voted 3-2 to deny the request, with Commissioners Anthony Sabatini, Leslie Campione and Sean Parks supporting the denial. Commissioners Kirby Smith and Tim Morris voted against the denial.

The request, submitted by KB Home Orlando, sought to rezone approximately 40 acres at the northwest corner of Priebe Road and Log House Road to allow for a planned unit development featuring 79 single-family homes .

According to county documents, the proposal would have developed the vacant property into a subdivision with a density of just over two homes per acre, along with open space, stormwater ponds and infrastructure improvements .

Residents spoke in large numbers during the meeting, citing concerns over density, traffic, infrastructure and compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods. Commissioners noted they received numerous emails and letters ahead of the vote, along with significant in-person public comment urging denial.

When the final vote was announced, the audience responded with applause.

While the rezoning was denied, commissioners made clear the decision does not necessarily end the project.

Officials explained that the developer still has the option to pursue legal remedies, including challenges through the courts or other statutory processes, meaning the proposal could return in a different form.

Planning staff had previously determined the request was consistent with the county’s comprehensive plan and land development regulations, but commissioners ultimately sided with residents in rejecting the proposal.

The vote marks the latest example of growing tension between development pressures and community concerns in Lake County, where rapid growth continues to shape land-use decisions.