Residents of the Horseshoe neighborhood in Palm Beach County voiced strong opposition during a recent government meeting regarding a proposed recovery center that they fear will disrupt their community. The meeting featured passionate testimonies from multiple residents, who expressed concerns about safety, property values, and the overall impact on their tight-knit neighborhood.
One resident, Bonnie Roberts, highlighted that the facility would be located directly across from her home, raising worries about increased traffic and noise from emergency vehicles. She emphasized the potential decline in property values and the safety of children in the area, stating, \"We want to keep it that way,\" referring to the peaceful environment they have enjoyed for decades.
Another resident, Bridal Mako, lamented the threat to her family's quality of life, arguing that the proposed facility would bring unwanted traffic and disrupt the tranquility of their neighborhood. Mako, who has lived in the area for 36 years, expressed frustration over the county's decision-making, stating, \"I feel like this whole thing has been now when I go to retire, this whole everything I work for has been taken away from me.\"
The residents also criticized the county's previous zoning changes, which they believe have set a precedent for developments that do not align with the character of their community. They urged the commissioners to reconsider their stance, with one resident questioning, \"How could you ensure that this project would not impede the quality of life for us long-standing residents?\"
The meeting underscored a growing tension between community members and local government, as residents called for greater consideration of their concerns. They expressed a desire for the county to prioritize the safety and well-being of its citizens over development interests, with one resident declaring, \"You guys keep us safe.\"
As the meeting concluded, the residents left behind letters detailing their concerns, hoping to influence the decision-making process regarding the proposed recovery center. The outcome remains uncertain, but the community's resolve to protect their neighborhood is clear.