The Citrus County Planning and Development Commission Board convened on December 5, 2024, to discuss a range of issues, primarily focusing on a local resident's application for a plant nursery and the associated challenges he faced with permitting and inspections.

The applicant, Mr. Mathena, detailed his efforts to establish a small wholesale nursery on his property, which included revamping an existing shed for use as an office and honey extraction area. He explained that he had previously been a licensed beekeeper and sought to incorporate beekeeping into his new venture. However, he encountered significant hurdles with the property appraiser's office regarding agricultural exemptions and building permits.

Mathena expressed frustration over the inspection process, stating that he was advised to proceed with construction before receiving formal approval. He described a lack of communication between different regulatory bodies, which complicated his attempts to comply with local regulations. Despite his efforts to document every step of the construction process, he received a letter of denial for his application, citing insufficient evidence of compliance.

During the meeting, board members questioned Mathena about the status of existing structures on his property and the need for permits. Mathena clarified that he had built a garage and a chicken coop but was uncertain about the permitting status due to conflicting information from officials. He emphasized his commitment to following the rules and expressed concern about being perceived as trying to circumvent regulations.

The discussion also touched on Mathena's firearms training facility, which has been operational for nearly nine years without proper permits. He acknowledged that he was unaware of the need for specific approvals for this use and defended the facility's safety measures and training protocols.

Commissioners expressed empathy for Mathena's situation, recognizing the complexities faced by individuals unfamiliar with the permitting process. The board concluded the meeting without a definitive resolution but indicated that further discussions would be necessary to address the applicant's concerns and clarify the regulatory framework surrounding his projects.

The outcome of this meeting highlights ongoing challenges within Citrus County's planning and development processes, particularly for residents attempting to navigate agricultural and commercial regulations. The board's next steps will be crucial in determining the future of Mathena's nursery and training facility.