Citrus County officials gathered on October 30, 2023, to address pressing community issues, with a focus on homelessness, gun violence prevention, and the need for expanded recreational facilities.

Barbara Venditto, the incoming executive director of the Mid Florida Homeless Coalition, urged local representatives to support funding in the 2024 budget to combat rising homelessness. She highlighted the challenges faced by families struggling with increased rent and the importance of programs that provide housing assistance and case management. Venditto emphasized the need for continued support of the Sadowsky Trust Fund to ensure housing availability for vulnerable populations, particularly seniors and those on fixed incomes.

The League of Women Voters, represented by Rosemary Nilles and Maxine Connor, presented several requests, including funding for local election officials to educate voters about changes to mail-in voting and stronger laws to prevent gun violence. They called for increased awareness of child access prevention laws and urged the allocation of federal funds to enhance public education on secure firearm storage.

Environmental concerns were also a significant topic, with Devon Crillo from the Sierra Club advocating for action on climate change. She criticized the state’s decision to reject federal funding for energy efficiency programs, which she argued would have benefited low- to middle-income families. Crillo urged local leaders to prioritize regional resiliency planning and support for clean energy initiatives.

The YMCA, represented by Jerry Mulligan, highlighted its role in the community, serving over 7,000 seniors and providing essential programs for children. Mulligan requested a $2 million allocation to expand facilities to meet the growing demand in Citrus County, emphasizing the importance of community-driven initiatives.

As Citrus County continues to grow, the discussions from this meeting reflect a commitment to addressing critical social issues and enhancing community resources. Local leaders are urged to consider these requests as they shape the future of the county.