Serving as the county seat, Sanford boasts an imposing courthouse and city hall near the lakefront, nestled in the heart of the downtown business district.  Ideally located on the shores of scenic Lake Monroe, Sanford is a growing waterfront community with a distinctive, hometown atmosphere. Housing choices in Sanford range from modest bungalows shaded by mature trees to handsome new construction in well-planned developments like Lake Forest.  Lush parks dot the community and complement the landscaped greenery around the marina.  For several decades, the Sanford Naval Air Station contributed to the area's growth and expansion.  However, when a large expanse of the government facility transformed into the Orlando Sanford Airport, the real population explosion began.  Sanford became one of the select gateways to the international entertainment mecca of Greater Orlando.  Because of its manageable size, the airport can accommodate international visitors with speed and efficiency, drawing steadily increasing traffic from Europe.  A growing number of companies now surround the airport's industrial park, adding to the tax base of the community and driving even more residential growth.