A controversial plan to build 280 homes in rural Lithia is moving forward despite strong opposition from nearby neighbors. The Hillsborough County Commission voted 5-2 on Thursday night to approve the proposal, which was met with nearly 60 speakers speaking out against the housing project during public comment.

Grassroots Group Response

Preserve Rural Lithia, a grassroots group, has been attending Hillsborough County Commission meetings all year, speaking out against development in the area. The group’s president, Jessica Scott, expressed her love for the character and agriculture of the area and the desire to preserve it.

The proposal, put forth by Homes by WestBay, aims to build 280 single-family homes on 190 acres north of Dorman Road. Kami Corbett, the land-use attorney representing the developers, stated that the site is suitable for the development, meeting the necessary criteria.

Housing Market Debate

Hillsborough County Commissioner Joshua Wostal pointed out that the proposal would allow fewer than two homes per acre, describing it as a low-density development with expensive homes. He believes that this could help free up existing housing for younger buyers, as the average age of new homeownership is approaching 40 years old.

Despite the opposition, the county commissioners voted in favor of the project. Shane Morris, a Lithia resident, expressed concerns that this development could lead to more development in rural areas, stating that there’s only so much land left and that once these developments start, it’s the next domino.

Preserve Rural Lithia plans to continue attending county meetings to oppose future development proposals in the area.

Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.