Hillsborough County Planning Commission rejects Lutz Lake Fern Road urban service area expansion

A proposed expansion of the urban service area in Hillsborough County is stirring significant debate among local officials and residents. The Board of County Commissioners held a public hearing on May 9, 2025, to discuss two large-scale map amendments affecting approximately 603 acres in the Lutz Lake Fern Road area.

The first amendment, HCCPA 25-03, seeks to change the land use designation from agricultural to residential, potentially allowing for an increase of over 1,100 dwelling units. The second amendment, HCCPA 25-04, aims to bring 295 acres into the urban service area, which would require connections to public water and sewer utilities. However, concerns were raised regarding the existing infrastructure's capacity to support such development.

The Planning Commission has voiced strong opposition to both proposals, citing inconsistencies with the Hillsborough County comprehensive plan and the Keystone Odessa community plan, which emphasizes maintaining the area's rural character. The commission highlighted that the proposed changes do not align with the community's vision and could disrupt the established rural development pattern.

Environmental concerns were also a focal point of the discussion. The area contains wetlands and significant wildlife habitat, and the expansion could increase the wildland-urban interface, raising public safety issues. The public utilities department noted that the current water and wastewater infrastructure may not be sufficient to accommodate the proposed developments.

Supporters of the amendments argue that the area is already surrounded by suburban developments and that the expansion is necessary to accommodate future population growth. They emphasize the importance of transitioning from septic systems to public utilities to protect water resources.

As the debate continues, the Board of County Commissioners will need to weigh the potential benefits of urban expansion against the community's desire to preserve its rural character and environmental integrity. The outcome of this hearing could set a precedent for future development in the region.