Village Airport Van and Taxi is planning to build a new facility on Hermosa Street in Lady Lake.
The business, which has outgrown its current facility in Lady Lake thanks to its rapid growth, won approval for the new construction from the Lady Lake Commission on Wednesday evening.
About a dozen residents showed up at the meeting to complain about Village Airport Van and Taxi’s plans to have liquid propane gas tanks on the premises of the new facility. However, an attorney for the company said the proper safety procedures would be in place.
Those who voiced opposition had been influenced by the massive Blue Rhino fire earlier this summer. In that fire in Tavares, numerous propane tanks exploded, creating a massive fireball.
Ultimately, the construction was approved on a split vote. Commissioner Dan Vincent voted against it and Mayor Jim Richards abstained as his son works as a mechanic at the company.
“It’s great to see an existing business expand its operation in Lady Lake,” Richards said.
Currently, Village Airport Van and Taxi has 22 employees and 80 drivers.
Last year, the company transported 81,700 passengers.
