Special Master Hearing (Lecanto Sand Mine) - June 05, 2026

The Citrus County Government held a Special Master Hearing on June 5, 2026, to consider an application by Lanto Sandmine for a land use and zoning change to extend the existing extractive designation on their property for sand mining operations. The hearing involved detailed presentations by the applicant and county staff, including discussions on environmental impacts, reclamation plans, buffer zones, water table concerns, and compliance with county codes and the comprehensive plan. Public comments raised concerns about dust, traffic, drainage, and the adequacy of buffers to protect residential areas. The special master found the proposal consistent with the comprehensive plan but recommended conditions including full compliance with financial responsibility requirements, adherence to buffer zones, and submission of a comprehensive reclamation plan clarifying post-mining land use, especially if the site does not become a landfill. The hearing concluded with the special master’s ruling and recommendation for approval subject to these conditions.