The most pressing topic of the meeting was the proposed RV park development, which was met with strong opposition from numerous residents. The developer presented the project as beneficial, highlighting features like a new entrance road, retention ponds, and a trail system aimed at enhancing the town’s amenities. They emphasized efforts to maintain the area’s natural beauty, including preserving the tree canopy and implementing a reforestation plan along the canal. The developer also offered to construct a two-acre retention pond for the town’s use and proposed an Eco Trail for biking, hiking, and horseback riding.

However, residents were not convinced by these assurances. One resident, Cynthia, who recently purchased nearby property, criticized the council’s engagement with community members, stating, “In my opinion, you’re not listening.” She expressed concerns about the impact of the RV park on property values and questioned the developer’s traffic projections, citing the large size and weight of Class A RVs. Cynthia also referenced police calls to a nearby KOA campground, doubting the necessity of a new RV park given the underutilization of existing facilities.

Another resident, Bianca, presented a petition with 90 signatures opposing the project, stating, “Every person except one for me that I went around and got… I think 90 signatures against this whole thing.” She echoed concerns about property values and traffic. Noise pollution from events such as barbecues was also a concern.

Further public comments reiterated skepticism about the need for the RV park, with residents questioning the developers’ optimistic projections. One resident suggested that the developers’ claims were “aspirational” and lacked solid evidence. Concerns about security and potential crime were prominent, with one resident stressing the lack of on-site security and its implications for community safety.

Environmental concerns were also raised, particularly regarding wildlife in the area. Virginia highlighted the presence of gopher tortoises and the potential harm from development without adequate wildlife protections, stating, “Let’s make sure we’re doing the wildlife status.”

A council member disclosed prior communication with a citizen about the application, asserting that it did not affect their impartiality. Another council member had recused themselves during a previous workshop due to owning nearby property but consulted with the ethics commission to participate in this meeting.

In addition to the RV park discussion, the meeting covered several other topics. The council addressed the ongoing issues related to road maintenance and drainage, particularly focusing on a contentious culvert. Residents had been pumping water from their properties, causing erosion along canal banks, prompting intervention by town officials. The council discussed the need for clearer maintenance responsibilities and the importance of addressing drainage issues to prevent further erosion.

The meeting also featured a debate on the Business Tax Receipt (BTR) process and compliance enforcement. Concerns were raised about businesses operating without proper BTRs and the difficulty in shutting down illegal operations. The council explored the potential for better outreach regarding exemptions and the need for clearer communication with businesses about their obligations and rights.

Another discussion revolved around the HR manual, with council members expressing frustration over the review process. The manual had undergone numerous revisions, and there was a push for transparency and clarity in documenting the changes. Specific content changes, such as extending bereavement leave and redefining family, were considered.

Lastly, the council addressed abandoned properties, focusing on establishing a framework for the town manager’s authority to intervene when necessary. This included provisions for due process and maintenance responsibilities, particularly in cases where properties are under bank control. The introduction of citation programs to expedite compliance and the potential implementation of a camera program to tackle illegal dumping were also discussed.