Marion County leaders approved a request from a local business owner who plans to use a historic hotel in Ocklawaha to create a new deli and tavern that sells fresh meats, cheeses, beer, and wine.
A special use permit for The Inn Spot was approved by the Marion County Board of Commissioners during its planning and zoning meeting on Monday. The measure was passed by a vote of 4 to 1, with Commissioner Craig Curry the lone dissenter.
The special permit, which comes with several conditions, is valid for three years and may be extended for three additional five-year periods.
During Tuesday’s meeting, Commissioner Matt McClain lent his support to the business before making a motion to approve the request.
“This whole area is never going to be up to what our development review standards are. This is somebody who’s just trying to make something work out there and it’s a building that I would like to see being used. It is a unique area. So, I’m in favor of giving somebody a shot at making it work,” said McClain.
With the approval the business, which is owned by Wise’s Enterprises, LLC, will be able to sell beer and wine for on-site consumption at the old Oklawaha Inn, which is located at 13490 E. Highway 25 in Ocklawaha. Wise Enterprises is registered to Justin Wise and Edward Wise, and the property is currently owned by JRB Property Management, LLC.
The Inn Spot’s menu will feature freshly made traditional and specialty sandwiches, along with homemade sides and desserts. The business will also offer different entertainment options, including a pool table, electronic dart board, and arcade games.
The site in question is located north of Gator Joe’s and just west of Ocklawaha Liquors. Marion County property records show that the building at the site dates back to at least 1931, with some historical photos suggesting the structure may date back as early as 1927.
During the November 24 meeting of the Marion County Planning and Zoning Commission, members voted 4 to 2 to recommend conditional approval of the request.
What are your thoughts on the new business? Share them in a comment or, if you have more to say, write a letter to the editor.