Citrus County Commissioners deny mixed-use development over flood risk concerns

Concerns over flooding and community impact dominated the Citrus County Board of County Commissioners meeting on December 10, 2024, as the board voted unanimously to deny a proposed development project. The project, which aimed to build a multi-unit residential complex, faced significant opposition from both commissioners and local residents due to its location in a flood-prone area.

Commissioner Kennard led the charge against the proposal, emphasizing the inadequacy of the staff report and the potential for flooding to affect neighboring properties. "I put a lot more weight into the staff report than I do necessarily what the PDC did," he stated, highlighting the need for a more favorable assessment before any approval could be considered. His concerns were echoed by other commissioners, including Commissioner Davis, who acknowledged the project's appeal but questioned its feasibility given its proximity to coastal high hazard zones.

Public comments reflected similar apprehensions, with local resident Bob Waters expressing fears that the development would exacerbate flooding issues for nearby homes. Civil engineer Alex Goetz, representing the project, attempted to reassure the board by outlining plans for resilient infrastructure designed to mitigate flood risks. However, his assurances were not enough to sway the commissioners, who remained skeptical about the project's alignment with community needs and safety standards.

The board's decision to deny the application underscores a growing awareness of the challenges posed by climate change and extreme weather events, particularly in areas vulnerable to flooding. As the meeting concluded, the commissioners reiterated the importance of thorough planning and community input in future development proposals, signaling a cautious approach to growth in Citrus County.