Pasco County approves conditional use for new marina amid community concerns

The Pasco Board of County Commissioners convened on May 20, 2025, to discuss several significant developments impacting the local community, including a contentious conditional use request for a new marina and a major business park project.

One of the most debated topics was the proposed commercial marina by CNM Lowe Limited Partnership and Port Hudson Marina LLC, located at the intersection of Old Dixie Highway and Harbor Drive. The marina aims to provide 25 dry boat storage spaces and eight wet slips, but it has faced strong opposition from local residents. Concerns were raised about potential noise, traffic, and environmental impacts, particularly in light of recent hurricanes that devastated the area. Residents expressed fears that increased boat traffic would disrupt the previously quiet canal and negatively affect property values and quality of life.

Elizabeth Donatello, a resident directly across from the proposed site, highlighted the potential for noise pollution and traffic congestion, especially during the marina's proposed operating hours. Her husband, Pete Vito, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the community had not been adequately consulted and that the project seemed to prioritize the interests of a few over the many. The commissioners acknowledged these concerns and discussed the need for a hurricane preparedness plan as part of the marina's approval conditions.

In a separate agenda item, the board reviewed a master plan for a new business park, which is expected to generate approximately 1,800 jobs in West Pasco. This development, spearheaded by Saint John Properties, aims to transform a 92-acre site into a hub for light industrial and commercial use. The project has been praised for its potential to provide high-quality jobs and improve the local economy. The developers committed to maintaining a significant buffer between the business park and nearby residential areas, addressing concerns about noise and visual impact.

The meeting concluded with a vote on both projects, with the marina's approval contingent on further discussions regarding operational hours and environmental safeguards. The business park received a favorable recommendation, reflecting the county's ongoing efforts to balance economic growth with community interests.

As Pasco County continues to evolve, these developments highlight the importance of community engagement and the need for careful consideration of how new projects will affect local residents. The board's decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the area, ensuring that growth aligns with the needs and concerns of the community.