Residents rally against controversial Hontoon development plans

Residents of the Hontoon Peninsula voiced their concerns during a recent government meeting regarding the proposed Hontoon Deland Conservation subdivision. The development, which plans to utilize 80 acres with 60% designated as conservation land and 40% for home sites, has sparked debate among local residents who fear it may disrupt the character of their long-established community.

One resident, who has lived in the Hontoon area for 30 years, highlighted that the neighborhood has largely avoided overdevelopment until now. They pointed out that the proposed subdivision does not align with the existing properties in the area, which predominantly feature larger lots with active agricultural uses. The resident expressed frustration over the lack of public forums for community input, noting that meetings have primarily involved developers and county staff, leaving little room for local voices.

The resident emphasized that many in the community feel powerless to challenge the development due to financial constraints, stating, \"It's all about the money.\" They called for better communication from both the developer and the county to ensure that neighboring property owners are informed and involved in discussions that directly affect their environment.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the concerns raised reflect a broader anxiety about maintaining the unique character of the Hontoon Peninsula amidst pressures of development. The community's call for transparency and engagement underscores the need for local governance to consider the voices of residents in future planning decisions.