Orange County Says No to 33,000 sq ft Hindu Temple in Gotha

By Dhivya Easwarasamy On Jan 25, 2024

Orange County Says No to 33,000 sq ft Hindu Temple in Gotha

Orange County commissioners’ recent decision to deny a proposal for a 33,000-square-foot Hindu temple in Gotha has sparked heated controversy in the community.

Congregation’s Hope Deferred

The rejection has left members of the BAPS Hindu congregation in Orlando disheartened. Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, a dedicated member of the congregation, expressed their resilience, stating, “We still aspire to have a place in Orlando, and we won’t let this one disappointment deter us.”

Orange County commissioners reject proposed 33,000 sq ft Hindu temple in Gotha:

Orange County commissioners reject proposed 33,000 sq ft Hindu temple in Gotha https://t.co/Cb5TMBMEDQ

— FOX 35 Orlando (@fox35orlando) January 24, 2024

Size and Space Debate

The proposed temple, intended to replace the current one near West Oak Ridge Road and South Orange Blossom Trail, offered not only substantial space but also approximately 300 parking spots and seating for 800 individuals.

Supporters argued that this new temple would be a more efficient utilization of their current space.

However, concerns were raised by the Orange County Board of Zoning Adjustment last July, contending that the temple would be the largest building in Gotha, conflicting with the local development pattern.

Community Divisions

During the recent meeting, many local residents echoed these concerns. One opponent questioned, “If we allow a 35,000-square-foot temple here, what’s next? A 50,000-square-foot one? It doesn’t seem like a big leap, and I think that’s a real issue.”

Read some of the latest Orange County news:

Most Commissioners Agree: No Temple in Gotha

In the end, a majority of county commissioners concurred with the board’s recommendation to deny the temple’s construction. This decision forces the congregation to revisit their plans for a new temple and leaves their aspirations uncertain.

Despite the setback, Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt emphasized the congregation’s positive values, saying, “Our values have always guided us to find the silver lining in every situation, to seek the goodness in people, and to grow and move forward in the face of challenges.