Editor: Our county is being overrun by developers. The growth that has occurred, and that which soon will occur, is spoiling the county's Nature Coast image, as well as the quality of life, such as water use, road congestion and school crowding. In addition, this year, we have already noticed a big increase in proposed property taxes, which does not benefit any county resident.
Are the county and its residents better off with or without excessive growth? This really is the question.
Perhaps a new comprehensive plan should restrict growth in all parts of the county, at least the rural areas that make this such a great place to live. The minimum lot size could be increased to say a half-acre or more (with a much higher minimum in rural areas, say 5 acres) to slow the overall growth down to a manageable level.
And we need a community pool. We have, or soon will have, pet and skateboard parks. All the high school swim teams are scrambling to find suitable pool space to train for this year's competition. All the pools around are private and not open to the public for use. If a community pool park were created, the whole county could enjoy the benefits, both younger and older residents, for fitness and relaxation. Surrounding areas have such pool facilities in abundance.
If developers contribute to the adverse effects of growth already stated, they should help us pay for improvements, including schools, road improvements, a pool and other county necessities, with increased impact fees.
-- Doug Sheffield, Brooksville
[Last modified August 29, 2004, 01:42:22]
