Residents of Harbor Hills voiced significant concerns during a recent government meeting regarding a proposed marina and gas depot near their community. One resident, who lives on the Orange Canal, highlighted the existing issues with boaters not adhering to no-wake zones, fearing that the addition of a marina would exacerbate these problems and threaten local wildlife, including a growing family of manatees.

The speaker expressed worries about increased noise from boats and potential environmental hazards associated with a gas depot, questioning the impact on property values and the overall quality of life in the area. They emphasized a desire to maintain the rural character of their neighborhood, acknowledging the need for growth but urging caution regarding this specific development.

Another resident raised concerns about traffic access to the proposed site, noting that current roads are already congested and may not support the influx of additional vehicles. They described their daily struggles navigating narrow roads and expressed fears that the development would disrupt the tranquility that attracted them to Harbor Hills in the first place.

The meeting underscored a growing tension between community development and environmental preservation, as residents seek to protect their homes and the natural ecosystem from potential negative impacts of increased boating activity and infrastructure changes.