In a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the proposed development of a golf course and the transfer of 104 acres from the Harbor Hills Planned Unit Development (PUD) to the Old Hammock Cove project. Critics argue that the introduction of a golf course within the Emerald Marsh Resource Protection Area (RPA) poses severe environmental risks, including habitat destruction, excessive water usage, and harmful runoff from pesticides and fertilizers.

One speaker emphasized that golf courses are inherently detrimental to the environment, stating, \"there's no such thing as an environmentally friendly or green golf course.\" They highlighted the ecological damage caused by construction and maintenance, which often involves clear-cutting land and using significant amounts of water and chemicals. The speaker warned that the proposed golf course's proximity to delicate wetlands could exacerbate these issues, potentially leading to irreversible environmental harm.

The discussion also focused on the implications of transferring 104 acres from the Harbor Hills PUD. Critics described this move as \"pure greed\" and \"double dipping,\" arguing that it undermines the original development metrics established in 2011. They pointed out that removing this land would reduce the overall density and open space of the Harbor Hills project, which could lead to a higher density of housing than originally approved.

Concerns were raised about the potential for future developments if the current proposal is approved, suggesting that it could set a precedent for further encroachments into the RPA. The speaker urged the governing body to reconsider the approval process for such significant changes, advocating for a thorough review to protect the integrity of the original PUD and the surrounding environment.

In summary, the meeting underscored a strong opposition to the proposed golf course and the land transfer, with advocates calling for a denial of the applications to safeguard the ecological health of the region.