Residents press Clay County planners to protect Black Creek; commission continues rezoning to July 7

At a May 5 Clay County Planning Commission meeting, residents urged the commission to preserve a 50‑acre primary conservation area around Black Creek and opposed a developer’s request to change land use and zoning. After nearly two hours of public comment the commission voted to continue the agenda item to a July 7 public hearing so the applicant can appear and the record can be completed.

Allison Bramlett, a Lake Asbury resident, told commissioners she and her family have lived along Black Creek since the 1980s and asked the commission to “give due respect” to the neighborhood and to ensure any changes adhere strictly to the applicant’s site plan. A resident who identified herself as Britney recounted repeated flood damage at her Black Creek property — including during Hurricane Irma — and warned that further tree removal and development would worsen flooding and erosion: “It floods… I was stuck for days,” she said.

Other speakers echoed those concerns. Erin Sayer, who has spoken at prior meetings, said the applicant has sought multiple continuances and urged commissioners to review materials closely before final action. Susan Youngblood said past floods had destroyed homes on Hill Road and argued the area should remain conservation. Helena Cormier and David Huff reported petitions and organizing in nearby neighborhoods and urged commissioners to deny indefinite continuances that would effectively allow the applicant to wait out public scrutiny.

Staff told the commission the applicant and staff had requested a continuance because of scheduling conflicts and outstanding materials. Commissioners debated the rights of applicants to be heard in person and residents’ interest in timely review. Commissioner Burey moved to grant the continuance so both sides could present their cases; the motion carried. Chair Pete Davis said the commission understands the issue’s importance and expects the item back for a July 7 public hearing.

What happens next: The item will be formally noticed for July 7, and the commission’s recommendation will go to the Clay County Board of County Commissioners (which holds final authority on comprehensive‑plan and rezoning decisions). Residents and the applicant may file materials for the record before that hearing.