Commission backs rezoning for 11637 Immanuel Cemetery Road despite environmental objections

The Pasco County Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of a zoning amendment for 11637 Immanuel Cemetery Road, changing the parcel from AR (agricultural-residential) to C-2 general commercial to allow an 8,000-square-foot retail building. Staff recommended approval with conditions including a deed restriction limiting development to commercial uses and prohibiting residential units.

“Future land use is ROR, and the purpose is to allow for C-2 general commercial district uses,” staff member Jenny said during the presentation, summarizing the request and the recommended conditions. Staff further described required transportation assessments and noted a county-required deed restriction to limit building size and uses.

Several nearby residents urged denial at public comment, citing concerns about wetlands and the accuracy of the listed-species survey. One resident pointed to county code and state statutes and asked the commission to “please deny agenda item APC 9,” arguing the packet lacked an owner signature on an exhibit and saying the parcel includes category‑A wetlands. Staff and the applicant responded that listed species and wetland protections are addressed at the site-permit stage and the master plan shows a 25‑foot buffer around mapped wetlands.

After discussion, commissioners moved and voted to approve the rezoning recommendation; the chair announced the motion carries. The recommendation now goes to the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners for final action.