Concerns over environmental protection took center stage during the Citrus County Legislative Delegation meeting on October 30, 2023, as local leaders addressed the ongoing construction of a 7-Eleven near the sensitive Homosassa Mainspring. The project has raised alarms among members of the Homosassa River Alliance, who reported discoloration in the water near the construction site, prompting calls for increased oversight from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).

The construction site, located within three-quarters of a mile from the Mainspring and adjacent to the Homosassa Spring State Park, has been criticized for its proximity to environmentally sensitive areas. A representative from the Homosassa River Alliance highlighted that the construction halted after workers encountered groundwater just three feet below the surface, leading to flooding at the site. This situation has raised concerns about the potential impact of fuel tanks being installed there.

Local officials expressed frustration over the lack of DEP involvement in the early stages of the project. They noted that the agency only began monitoring water clarity after issues were reported, rather than proactively assessing the environmental risks associated with the construction. The representative emphasized the need for DEP to be involved from the outset to prevent similar situations in the future.

In addition to the discussion on the 7-Eleven construction, the meeting also touched on broader environmental initiatives, including efforts to restore natural water flows disrupted by the construction of the Cross Florida Barge Canal. Local leaders are collaborating with federal representatives to address these long-standing environmental issues.

As the meeting concluded, officials reiterated the importance of safeguarding Citrus County's natural resources and ensuring that future developments consider the ecological implications. The community remains vigilant as they seek to protect their local springs and waterways from potential harm.