Riverbend residents tell EPC wetlands and springs are being harmed

Multiple neighbors and local environmental advocates told the Environmental Protection Commission during public comment that the wetlands near 6111 Rome Avenue are connected to springs and the Hillsborough River and warrant protection.

Paul George Hillis described 34 years living opposite the subject property and said, "I have personally seen the water running off that environment from the springs and wetlands that are there." An unnamed commenter presented video exhibits (numbered 20–26) and said the footage shows running water entering the Hillsborough River. Gail K. Harris, a retired science teacher, said she observes water flowing daily north of the lift station and asked the commission to protect the environment: "Your title is environmental protection, please. It's your job to protect this environment."

Lisonbee Date, a member of local tree advocacy and Sierra Club groups, argued construction practices that reduce permeable ground threaten live oaks and increase flood risk, and asked the commission to require construction that preserves these natural features. Henry Kramer, representing the Riverbend Neighborhood Civic Association, described the neighborhood's technical review efforts and criticized limits on admitted evidence at the hearing.

Speakers repeatedly raised concerns about mitigation: appellants said mitigation banks and off‑site credits do not compensate for local ecological functions and claimed mitigation often shifts impacts to other basins. EPC counsel and staff maintained mitigation choices are governed by standards and state law, and staff said the commission pushes to minimize impacts and prioritize on‑site or basin‑appropriate solutions when feasible.