Picturesque Lake Mary Property To Be Developed
By Doug Packard
Lake Mary’s L and L Acres Ranch
I’m all for capitalism and for the free alienation of land, and God knows we need the inventory of potential homes for sale, but I am saddened by the news that Taylor Morrison has finally closed on Lake Mary’s L and L Acres. The property, located near the southwest intersection of I-4 and Lake Mary Blvd., was owned by Jeno Paulucci’s sister and brother-in-law. After the owner’s death, the property passed to a trust set up for Jeno and his wife. After both of their recent deaths, the ranch was inherited by Jeno’s heirs, whom sold the land to Taylor Morrison.
This 116 acre parcel is truly one of the prettiest pieces of real estate in the Orlando area. The rolling land dotted with grandfather oaks creates a bucolic scene long admired by residents of the area, users of the Seminole Wekiva Trail, and outdoor diners at Panera Bread and Peach Valley Cafe. As a resident of the area, every time I’d drive by L and L I’d say to my myself, “This is such a beautiful and calming scene. I sure hope it stays that way.” Now, Taylor Morrison plans to build a gated community with single family homes. I’m sure there are no local residents who have thought, “Gee, you know what would really look good here? Taylor Morrison rooftops.”
I don’t blame Taylor Morrison for leaving no development stone unturned. Their job is to maximize return for the shareholders. I get that. But could the Paulucci family not have set aside this pastoral land as a gift to the county and the residents of the area. This area was very good to the family, and was an important part in helping them amass a sizeable fortune. Jeno’s net worth was often estimated over the years at around half a billion dollars. How much is not enough? How do you put a price on the Lake Mary/Longwood area’s quality of life? That’s just it. It’s priceless. So sad.
