The Planning and Development Commission Board of Citrus County convened on November 7, 2024, to discuss a significant application proposing the establishment of a new RV park on a 29.6-acre site located on the west side of US 19 in Homosassa. The proposed project aims to amend the future land use map and the Land Development Code (LDC) Atlas map, transitioning the current designations of General Commercial (GNC), Low Density Residential (LDR), and Commercial Limited (CL) to a Recreational Vehicle Park (RVP) designation, allowing for up to 196 RV sites.

During the meeting, Mike Wilburn from Local Engineering Inc. presented the project details, highlighting the inclusion of two laundry facilities, a recreation building with a pool, and additional outdoor sports courts. The design accommodates 6.6 RV sites per acre, which is below the allowable density per the LDC. The project will connect to public water and sewer systems, with a lift station planned for the northeast corner of the property.

Wilburn addressed environmental considerations, noting the presence of wetlands on-site, which have been incorporated into the master plan with a maintained buffer. Access to the RV park is proposed via Atlas Drive, which is intended to minimize impact on neighboring properties and enhance user experience. The design of internal roadways adheres to a width of 24 feet, exceeding the minimum requirement.

A key point of discussion involved the requested deviation from the LDC requirement for a bathhouse, which has been a common request in previous hearings. Wilburn indicated that the project complies with all other conditions outlined in the staff report, except for the buffer along Atlas Drive, where they are willing to meet the required 10-foot type B buffer instead of the proposed 5-foot buffer.

Concerns were raised regarding potential flooding impacts from recent weather events. Wilburn assured the board that the project would comply with stormwater management regulations, emphasizing that RV parks do not require fill for infrastructure, thereby reducing flood risk. He noted that the design would retain more stormwater than the current site conditions.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for questions from the board and public input, indicating a commitment to addressing community concerns as the project moves forward. The board's decision on the application will be pivotal in shaping future land use in the area, balancing development needs with environmental and community considerations.