Ending, after five years, a futile battle with its own zoning code, Orlando finally has agreed to allow the Fairvilla Mega Store to expand on North Orange Blossom Trail. Orlando also will pay Fairvilla $275,000 in exchange for the retailer dropping its federal lawsuit against the city. This on top of at least $200,000 the city has spent fighting the store, which sells sex toys, adult videos and such.
The battle began after residents near the store objected to its expansion plans on the grounds of immorality. The City Council, despite knowing the city would lose, decided to fight -- and waste taxpayers' money. Only the late Commissioner Nap Ford voted sensibly not to pick a fight. Mayor Hood skipped the vote.
