One notable issue discussed was the rezoning request for the Enclave at Livingston MPUD, which seeks to shift zoning from Agricultural Residential to MPUD, allowing for 178 townhomes on a 46-acre site. Concerns centered on the project’s impact on local infrastructure, particularly traffic and drainage systems. A resident, Jonathan Hec, highlighted existing flooding problems exacerbated by nearby developments. Hec argued that the proposed development’s retention ponds were inadequate, designed only for normal rain conditions, and would overflow during substantial rain events, worsening the flooding situation on his property. He requested that the council deny the rezoning request until these drainage issues were addressed.

Council members acknowledged that engineers must comply with state and county regulations. Despite these assurances, residents remained skeptical about the adequacy of the drainage infrastructure and the potential environmental impacts of the proposed development.

Traffic congestion was another major concern, with multiple residents expressing frustration over the lack of a comprehensive traffic study for the proposed developments. The absence of a traffic analysis in the application packet prompted requests for staff to provide this critical information. It was confirmed that a traffic report was in preparation and would soon be distributed to the planning commission. However, existing traffic conditions at intersections like Livingston Avenue and State Road 54 were already problematic, with a volume-to-capacity ratio exceeding acceptable limits, leading to significant delays.

Discussions also touched on the interconnectedness of traffic issues, particularly the congestion at the Collier Parkway and State Road 54 intersection. Proposed improvements, including possible interchange upgrades, were mentioned but relied on future funding and may not address immediate traffic problems.

Another topic was the proposed development near 20-Mile Level Road, involving plans to extend Livingston Road instead of utilizing 20-Mile Level Road. Drainage concerns were addressed by Jeremy Couch from Tampa Civil, who reported that their project had received approval from both the water management district and Pasco County. Couch claimed their design would reduce discharge rates significantly, asserting a 30% reduction in a 25-year storm event. Despite these assurances, residents remained apprehensive about flooding risks, particularly in areas with a history of drainage issues.

The conversation also included discussions about school capacity and its potential impact on the area. This point aimed to address concerns about the influx of new residents due to development.

Residents called for greater transparency and consideration of their needs and safety, with some urging the council to delay zoning changes until the necessary traffic management solutions were in place.