The expansion of Lakewood Ranch Southeast in Sarasota County has become a contentious topic as residents oppose zoning changes that could transform cattle fields into residential areas.
The Sarasota County Planning Commission recently approved a zoning change for Lakewood Ranch Southeast, a decision that has sparked significant opposition among local residents. The proposed changes would rezone rural land, currently designated for one housing unit per ten acres, to accommodate up to 3.5 units per acre. This move could result in the development of approximately 5,000 new homes, significantly altering the region’s landscape.
Michael Hutchinson, a resident of the area, is at the forefront of the opposition against these changes. Hutchinson, who embraced the rural lifestyle upon moving to the country, argues that such a lifestyle is quickly disappearing. ‘It’s a way of life that’s going away,’ he remarked, highlighting the irreversible impact that increased urbanization could have on the area’s charm and tranquility.
Concerns extend beyond the loss of rural character. Residents like Hutchinson are worried about increased traffic, potential flooding issues, and the effect on local schools. Hutchinson has taken legal action against Sarasota County, challenging changes made in 2022 to the comprehensive plan, which he believes favor development interests over community needs.
Despite a judge ruling in favor of the county, Hutchinson is appealing the decision. Planning commissioner Justin Taylor expressed that while he initially voted against the rezoning, the proposal aligns with established county criteria. ‘When using the Planning Commission’s finding of fact, I don’t have the ability to make a vote against it at this point,’ Taylor explained.
The planning commission’s approval is just one step in the process, as the final decision rests with Sarasota County commissioners. Some members of the planning commission noted that legislative changes to the comprehensive plan left them with limited discretion. ‘We aren’t up here to vote with our personal opinions. We are up here to uphold the comprehensive plan,’ said commissioner Emmalee Legler.
Meanwhile, Hutchinson continues to voice concerns about the rapid development consuming rural areas not just in Sarasota but across neighboring counties as well. ‘The ability to have a rural lifestyle, the way we are going, there won’t be any left in the county; it’ll be totally gone, and the surrounding counties have the same problem,’ he warned.
As the debate over the future of Lakewood Ranch Southeast continues, the outcome will ultimately depend on the final vote by the Sarasota County commissioners. Residents like Michael Hutchinson remain resolute in their effort to preserve the rural character of the area, battling against the tide of expanding development.
Source: Fox13news
