The Citrus County Planning and Development Commission convened on January 2, 2025, to address community concerns regarding a proposed development project. The meeting featured several speakers who voiced their apprehensions about the potential impact of the development on local infrastructure and safety.

The session began with a brief acknowledgment of the ongoing issues related to sewer, electric, and traffic management in the area. A speaker highlighted the challenges posed by the current infrastructure, indicating a need for improvements before any new developments proceed.

Marie Broninski, a resident from West Justin Court, was among the speakers who expressed significant concerns about the planned development's implications for local traffic and school safety. She noted that her neighborhood has experienced increased congestion, particularly due to the nearby expressway construction. Broninski emphasized the strain on Rock Crusher Elementary School, citing a lack of adequate traffic management, including the absence of school crossing guards and traffic lights, which has led to unsafe conditions for children.

Broninski criticized the traffic analysis associated with the development plan, arguing that it fails to address the pressing need for turning lanes and road improvements. She called for a comprehensive strategy to tackle the existing traffic issues, enhance road conditions, and ensure the safety of students at the local school.

The meeting underscored the community's desire for thorough planning and consideration of environmental impacts, as residents expressed that the proposed development does not align with the character of the neighborhood. The discussions highlighted the importance of addressing these concerns before moving forward with any development plans.

In conclusion, the Planning and Development Commission will need to take into account the residents' feedback regarding traffic, safety, and infrastructure as they continue to evaluate the proposed development. Further discussions and analyses are expected to follow to ensure that community needs are prioritized in future planning efforts.