Ocala developers propose 73 homes on former landfill site amid community concerns

The Marion County Planning & Zoning Commission meeting on January 27, 2025, focused on a proposed residential development that has sparked both support and opposition from local stakeholders. The applicant, represented by Myles Anderson of Myles Christian Anderson Consulting Engineers, presented plans for a development consisting of 73 single-family homes on a site previously used as a construction and demolition landfill.

The proposed development includes a mix of one- and two-story homes, with a maximum height of 35 feet for residential structures and 10 feet for accessory buildings. The plan features various amenities, including a dog park, playground, gazebo, restrooms, and a walking trail. The applicant has agreed to implement specific buffer zones, including a 30-foot wide buffer to the west and a 15-foot buffer along the right of way.

A significant concern raised during the meeting was the site's history as a landfill, which has led to apprehensions about environmental safety. The applicant assured the commission that they would work with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to ensure the site is safe for redevelopment. Documentation from FDEP will be required before moving forward with the master plan, which must also undergo a traffic study.

Opposition to the project came from local residents, including owners of the nearby Peterson Smith Equine Hospital. They expressed concerns about the potential environmental hazards associated with the landfill and the increased traffic that the new homes could bring to the area. Residents highlighted the long-standing issues with unregulated dumping at the site and questioned the safety of developing on such land.

Despite the opposition, the commission recommended approval of the project with conditions, stating that it aligns with the county's comprehensive plan and is compatible with the surrounding area. The final decision will require further review and approval from the county commissioners.

The meeting underscored the ongoing tension between development and environmental safety in Marion County, as stakeholders weigh the benefits of new housing against the potential risks associated with the site's past. The next steps will involve further assessments and community discussions as the project moves forward.