The Dade City Planning Board meeting on December 4, 2024, featured significant community concerns regarding ongoing development projects in the area. Residents expressed frustration over the construction of new homes, which they described as cramped and lacking essential community amenities.

During the meeting, a resident voiced strong opposition to the current housing developments, stating, "Nobody in this room would wanna live in that development." This sentiment echoed throughout the discussion, as attendees highlighted their desire for a rural lifestyle characterized by open spaces and natural beauty, including local wildlife such as bald eagles.

Another resident, Mary McKnight, raised questions about the legality of ongoing construction work. She pointed out that preliminary plans for developments should be approved before any construction begins. McKnight noted that significant earth-moving activities had been occurring for months without apparent compliance with local regulations. She requested clarification on why this was allowed and emphasized the need for oversight in development practices.

Concerns were also raised about the lack of community features in the new developments. Residents expressed disappointment that the projects did not include amenities such as clubhouses or playgrounds, which are typically expected in planned communities. Instead, they described the developments as merely a collection of houses without the necessary infrastructure to support a vibrant community.

The meeting underscored the tension between development and community values in Dade City, with residents calling for more stringent oversight and adherence to planning regulations to preserve the character of their neighborhoods. The Planning Board is expected to address these concerns in future discussions, as community members continue to advocate for a development approach that aligns with their vision for the area.