During the recent Planning and Development Commission Board meeting in Citrus County, concerns about the rapid growth of housing developments were front and center. Residents voiced their apprehensions regarding the increasing number of homes being built, with one speaker noting a decrease from 85 to 80 homes in a specific project while questioning whether the developer would return next year for further construction.

The discussion highlighted that there are currently over 10,000 housing units in the planning stages across various developments, including Forest Ridge, Rock Crusher Canyon, and Terra Vista. This surge in housing comes at a time when the market appears saturated, with nearly 1,960 homes for sale in Citrus County and a reported 13% drop in home values compared to the previous year. The community is feeling the impact of this oversupply, as many homes in areas like Pine Ridge have seen price cuts, with 33% of listings on real.com adjusting their prices in March 2025.

Residents expressed their concerns about the implications of this growth on local infrastructure and quality of life. One speaker pointed out the potential traffic issues arising from new developments, particularly at busy intersections, suggesting that additional traffic lights may be necessary to ensure safety. The sentiment was clear: many community members feel that the county's building pace is becoming unmanageable.

The meeting also touched on the importance of preserving open spaces, with references to the rejection of proposals to build on golf course properties in Tallahassee. This decision was framed as a protective measure against changing zoning laws that could threaten recreational areas.

As Citrus County continues to navigate its development landscape, the voices of residents reflect a growing concern for maintaining a balance between growth and community well-being. The discussions from this meeting underscore the need for careful planning and consideration of the long-term impacts of housing developments on the community.