The Dade City Commission held a regular session on October 22, 2024, addressing several pressing community concerns, including development moratoriums, flooding issues, and public safety.

One of the most significant discussions came from resident Margaret Woods, who urged the commission to impose a moratorium on new developments until the city completes its comprehensive plan. Woods emphasized the need for updated land use and zoning categories, arguing that ongoing approvals for developments could exacerbate existing flooding problems. She noted that while some areas have historically flooded, new regions are experiencing flooding for the first time, likely due to increased impervious surfaces from recent developments.

Flooding was a recurring theme during the meeting, with multiple residents expressing their frustrations. Amanda Brand and her father, James Patriots, detailed ongoing issues with clay runoff from a nearby construction site, which has damaged their properties. They reported that despite promises from the construction company to address the situation, the problems persist, leading to significant property damage and a lack of communication from the developers.

Additionally, resident Erin McKnight inquired about the city’s lead inventory, highlighting concerns about older homes with lead pipes. The city officials confirmed that the inventory includes all water services served by Dade City’s water system.

Public safety was also raised, with Bill Schauff pointing out that overgrown trees near a stop sign on Ninth Street could pose a danger to drivers unfamiliar with the area. He urged the commission to address the visibility issue to prevent potential accidents.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from city officials to follow up on the various concerns raised by residents, particularly regarding flooding and public safety measures. The discussions underscored the community's need for proactive measures in urban planning and infrastructure management to ensure the safety and well-being of Dade City residents.