Residents of Fort Pierce voiced strong concerns during a recent Planning Board meeting regarding the proposed development by Inspire, a company linked to the poorly rated Apollo. Community members expressed their dissatisfaction with the project, citing numerous ordinances that they believe are not being followed and highlighting the potential negative impact on their neighborhood.

One resident presented a cover page detailing the overwhelming opposition from locals against the sanitization plans associated with the development. They pointed out that both Inspire and Apollo hold an F rating from the Better Business Bureau, raising questions about their reliability and commitment to community standards. The resident emphasized discrepancies in the proposed plans, particularly regarding the removal of bocce courts and the inadequate infrastructure to support increased traffic and waste management.

Peter McEnber, a director of the Tall Pines Homeowners Association, likened the project to "trying to put a size 10 foot in a 9 and a half shoe," arguing that it would disrupt the established culture and lifestyle of the community. He urged the board to consider the long-term implications of the development on the quality of life for current residents, many of whom are retirees.

Concerns were echoed by other residents, including Alan Kinney, who expressed fears that the city may not be equipped to handle the additional demands on public services, particularly in light of recent issues within the Fort Pierce Police Department. Kinney and others stressed the importance of maintaining property values and the overall quality of life in Tall Pines.

Nancy Wall, another resident, highlighted ongoing maintenance issues within the current park, questioning the capability of Inspire to manage a new development effectively. She provided examples of disrepair and lack of responsiveness from the company, further fueling skepticism about their ability to meet community needs.

As the meeting continued, residents called for compassion and conscientious decision-making from the Planning Board, urging them to prioritize the well-being of the existing community over potential profits from new developments. The discussions underscored a significant divide between the interests of the developers and the concerns of long-standing residents, setting the stage for further deliberations on the future of Fort Pierce.