Planning and Development Commission - August 20, 2026

The Citrus County Planning and Development Commission held a public hearing on August 20, 2026, primarily focused on two key agenda items: a sign variance application and a major amendment to the Bets Farm Development of Regional Impact (DRI) master plan submitted by Bravo Land Group LLC. The commission denied the sign variance application due to multiple unpermitted uses and code violations on the property, and referred the matter to code compliance for remediation. The bulk of the meeting was devoted to the detailed review and public input on the proposed amendment to the Bets Farm DRI, which involves reducing the number of residential units, increasing open space, and updating development standards. Extensive testimony was heard from the applicant's representatives, county staff, intervenors, and numerous public speakers expressing concerns about environmental impacts, traffic congestion, flooding, and the adequacy of submitted plans and studies. The commission debated procedural issues including intervenor status and a requested continuance, which was ultimately denied. After deliberation, the commission voted to recommend denial of the DRI amendment application to the Board of County Commissioners, citing inconsistencies with the county comprehensive plan and land development code, and concerns over incomplete information and potential adverse impacts. The meeting included significant discussion of infrastructure requirements, environmental protections, and community concerns related to this large-scale development proposal.