DEBARY -- Are the residents of DeBary ready for a horse track and poker rooms? Some say no, but some think it is just good business.
The city council was expected to make a decision Friday night on a zoning request regarding a large parcel of land. However, officials were forced to cancel the meeting because they didn't have enough room to allow everyone to speak. More than 300 people showed up.
The property in question is on the corner of U.S. 17-92 and Dirksen Drive in DeBary, which is used for the DeBary Town Center and Equestrian Park, also known as DeBary Downs.
Green Bridge Development out of Bettendorf, Iowa, said it has plans for the acreage, including a commuter rail station, a farmer's market and even a hotel. However, the centerpiece of the complex would be a horse track and poker room.
Green Bridge Development is just looking for rezoning for the quarter horse track.
The company has state permits for parimutuel betting but needs the rezoning approval to get the track and poker room.
Business owners in the area say the development would bring more than 100 jobs, a $2.5 million payroll and $300,000 in city taxes.
One of the strongest opponents is the Daytona Beach Kennel Club, which has the only poker room and parimutuels in the county. The kennel club has retained an attorney to represent them in the fight.
A new date on the meeting has not been set.
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