Residents of Fort Pierce voiced significant concerns during a recent Planning Board meeting regarding proposed developments in their community, particularly the addition of new homes and an RV park in the Tall Pines area. The discussions highlighted issues related to safety, infrastructure, and the overall quality of life for current residents.

One resident raised alarms about the condition of existing homes, describing them as resembling construction trailers with fake windows and inadequate safety features. This resident emphasized that the current facilities, including a pool designed for 258 people, would be overwhelmed by the proposed increase in occupancy to 721 people, leaving many without access to essential amenities.

Another speaker pointed out the challenges of accessing the park, particularly on weekends when traffic congestion from parties and school buses makes navigating local roads difficult. This concern was echoed by others who noted that the infrastructure is not equipped to handle the increased traffic from construction vehicles and new residents.

The meeting also saw residents expressing frustration over rising rents and the management of the mobile home park. One resident shared her experience of unexpected rent increases and concerns about the potential for back taxes affecting current tenants. This sentiment was common among speakers, many of whom felt misled about the future of their community when they moved in.

Concerns about public safety were also raised, with one resident highlighting the understaffing of the Fort Pierce Police Department. The projected need for additional officers to manage the growing population was noted as a significant financial burden on the city.

As the meeting concluded, many residents urged the Planning Board to reconsider the proposed annexation and development plans, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the quiet, friendly atmosphere that initially attracted them to Tall Pines. The discussions reflect a community grappling with the implications of growth and development, seeking to balance progress with the preservation of their way of life.