A recent community meeting sparked controversy and concern among local residents regarding a potential development project in Marineland, despite no formal application being submitted.
The gathering took place at the GTM Research Reserve, attracting a crowd so large that the venue could not accommodate everyone seated. Attendees were bracing for discussions about a proposed development by Atlanta-based Jacoby Development, which plans to introduce 241 residential units, alongside options for 35 condos or 70 beachside hotels. The project would also include a town center and significant commercial space, potentially extending with over 300 additional units.
Marineland Mayor Gary Inks, however, dismissed initial presentations at the meeting, labeling the circulating information about the site plan as ‘fake news.’ This statement came after a speaker attempted to address the rumored development plan. Despite the agenda not listing this item, whispers of its discussion had proliferated through the community, exacerbated by an ongoing petition on Change.org against the project, which has amassed 4,377 signatures.
Resident Debby Duenow voiced strong environmental concerns, questioning the project’s impact on existing infrastructure and ecosystems. ‘How would the roads go? How would the water treatment go?’ she asked, reflecting worries over potential environmental degradation.
In the meeting’s aftermath, confusion persisted as both Mayor Inks and town officials refrained from commenting to The News-Journal, and representatives for Jacoby Development also remained silent. Meanwhile, the Town of Marineland, governed by a slim administration of three commissioners, seemed caught off guard by the burgeoning rumors.
The town, though small — with only seven residents registered on its voting polls — continues to be a focal point for larger discussions on urban development and community impact. The next town meeting is anticipated to be held on December 19 at 9741 Ocean Shores Blvd. in St. Augustine, providing a formal platform for any future submissions or discussions related to this development.
As the community awaits clarity, the push-and-pull between development aspirations and environmental preservation remains a central theme, with residents keenly vigilant of any updates.
Source: News-journalonline
