Community member challenges connected city plans and zoning decisions in local meeting

The Pasco Board of County Commissioners convened on April 10, 2025, for a morning session focused on community development and planning issues, particularly concerning the Connected City initiative. The meeting featured public comments that highlighted concerns from local residents regarding the impact of new developments on existing neighborhoods.

One resident addressed the board, expressing frustration over the changes in land use near their property. They recounted their experience of moving to the area a decade ago, where they had envisioned a rural lifestyle, only to find that neighboring land was being developed into townhomes. The speaker emphasized that promises made during the initial planning stages of the Connected City project, which included assurances of a gradual transition between high-density developments and smaller properties, have not been fulfilled. They warned that continued encroachment on small farms would likely lead to significant pushback from the community.

The resident also raised a second issue regarding the proposed community hub zone, specifically mentioning developments in the Faza and Tall Timbers areas. They pointed out that the current land development code prohibits apartments in these zones, allowing only for small family detached courtyard houses and row houses. The speaker questioned the rationale behind proposals for apartment complexes in these areas, asserting that such developments do not align with the established zoning regulations.

The meeting underscored the ongoing tension between development goals and community preservation, with residents urging the board to adhere to existing land use policies and consider the long-term implications of their decisions on local neighborhoods. The board is expected to continue discussions on these topics in future sessions, as they navigate the complexities of urban planning and community needs.