In a recent meeting of the Citrus County Planning and Development Commission, community members voiced strong concerns regarding a proposed RV park that could significantly impact local residents and the environment. The meeting, held on November 7, 2024, drew passionate testimonies from residents worried about traffic, safety, and the preservation of their neighborhood's character.

As the sun set outside the county's administrative building, the air was thick with apprehension. Residents from nearby Kingston voiced their fears about the RV park's potential entrance onto their narrow, poorly maintained road. One speaker highlighted that Kingston is not designed for heavy traffic, especially with the RV park expected to accommodate numerous vehicles. “The good folks that live there have a right to know,” he stated, emphasizing the need for transparency and community input before any decisions are made.

Concerns extended beyond traffic. Residents expressed worries about the park's proximity to their homes and the potential for increased noise and disruption. One speaker, recalling his mother's long-standing connection to the area, lamented the loss of tranquility that such a development could bring. “We like the neighborhood. It's quiet. It's peaceful. We all know each other,” he said, underscoring the community's tight-knit nature.

Environmental implications were also a focal point of the discussion. Several speakers raised alarms about the impact on local wildlife, particularly the manatees that frequent the area. One resident passionately argued that increased human activity could disturb these gentle creatures, which are vital to the local ecosystem and economy. “What are they gonna do? They’re gonna throw things at it? They’re gonna try to feed it?” she questioned, highlighting the delicate balance between development and conservation.

The issue of flooding was another critical concern. A resident pointed out that parts of the proposed site are in a flood zone, raising questions about how stormwater management would be handled. “Is there going to be some kind of a berm and swell going around the perimeter of this property?” he asked, seeking clarity on how the development would mitigate potential flooding risks.

In response to the community's concerns, the applicant for the RV park proposed several measures, including a buffer zone and a potential privacy fence to address worries about trespassing and noise. However, many residents remained skeptical, insisting that these measures would not adequately protect their homes or the environment.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the proposed RV park has sparked a significant debate in Citrus County. Residents are determined to protect their community and its natural surroundings, while developers seek to move forward with plans that promise economic benefits. The outcome of this discussion will likely shape the future of the area, as both sides continue to navigate the complexities of growth and preservation.