Several members of the public used the Aug. 15 public-comment period to urge the council to block a proposed rezoning and to press for immediate action to address chronically high water at Miller Lake.

Residents from the Spruce Creek Fly-In and nearby Quiet Place in the Country described a proposed Cross Creek development that would add about 130 homes adjacent to a mapped wetland and a FEMA Zone AE floodplain. Speakers said county planning and the zoning board had recommended a 50-foot buffer but warned that even that buffer would not protect neighboring properties and feeder creeks.

Maureen Letta and Cindy Harris (District 3) urged the council to reject the change of zoning when it reaches the council and to prioritize wetland protection, stormwater studies and stricter conditions if development moves forward. Letta said the county had approved stormwater studies totaling $8.6 million and asked how much developers would pay; she urged the council to “stand against” the change.

Separately, Miller Lake residents, including Peggy Hill and Maurice Linton, told the council the lake was very high and at risk for hurricane-season flooding. They asked the council to (a) direct staff to pump the lake down, (b) revoke a 2017 permit they blame for increased flows toward Miller Lake, and (c) seek additional permits or approvals from the St. Johns River Water Management District. One resident requested the county mow a county-owned retention area to reduce overgrowth and pest problems near private property.

County staff did not take action during public comment, but council members acknowledged the concerns and said staff would follow up. Planning staff later noted portions of the Cross Creek matter remain in the planning review process and that the council will see formal materials as the application advances.

What’s next: Residents said they will participate in upcoming planning and PRDC (Planning and Regulation Development Commission) hearings; council members asked staff to monitor the permit history and pump/permit options for Miller Lake and to provide follow-up to the council and residents.