The City of Dade City Planning Board convened on December 4, 2024, to discuss the preliminary plan for a new subdivision, following the approval of its zoning. The meeting featured public comments expressing concerns about the potential impact of the development on local traffic and flooding.

The session began with a resident voicing worries about the loss of peace and quiet due to the construction of new homes nearby. The resident highlighted past flooding issues and questioned how the new development would affect water drainage and property safety. They raised concerns about the emergency exit planned for the subdivision, fearing it could become a regular thoroughfare rather than serving its intended purpose.

In response, Simone Savino, representing the applicant, clarified that the meeting was not to approve the development but to review the preliminary plan. She explained that the city defers to Pasco County for traffic management and that the entrance location had been established during the zoning phase. Ed Mazer, the project engineer, added that two traffic studies had been conducted, and the emergency exit would primarily serve emergency vehicles, equipped with a gate for controlled access.

Board members engaged in discussions about the traffic studies and the placement of the entrance. Some expressed frustration over the lack of flexibility regarding the entrance's location, suggesting it might not be optimal given current traffic conditions. They emphasized the importance of ensuring that the final engineering plans address these concerns adequately.

The board considered the possibility of recommending that the final approval of the subdivision be contingent upon compliance with updated traffic studies and engineering reviews. They acknowledged the residents' valid concerns but noted that the board's authority over county roads and traffic management was limited.

The meeting concluded with a consensus that further discussions and recommendations would be made to the city commission regarding the subdivision's final approval, ensuring that all necessary studies and regulations are adhered to before moving forward. The board's next steps will involve reviewing the feedback from the public and the applicant's responses as they prepare for the upcoming commission meeting.