Purpose: To convey our strong opposition to the proposed zoning changes and the development of a Home Depot in our residential community. The goal is to ensure that the Planning Coordinator, Bobbi Roy, fully understands the significant technical, environmental, and safety concerns associated with this development, and to advocate for the protection of our community’s integrity and character.
Message: Express your strong opposition to the rezoning of residential and agricultural land for commercial development and highlight the numerous concerns related to the proposed Home Depot project. Emphasize the potential for increased traffic, environmental damage, school safety risks, and the disruption of the community’s character. Request that these issues be thoroughly reviewed and considered in any planning decisions.
Email Template to Manatee County Planning Commission
To: Bobbi Roy, Planning Coordinator
Email: bobbi.roy@mymanatee.org
Subject: Opposition to Zoning Changes and Home Depot Development at Lorraine & Rangeland
Dear Ms. Roy,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed zoning changes from residential and agricultural to commercial for the three parcels at the corner of Lorraine and Rangeland, as well as the subsequent development of a Home Depot in this location. This area has been intentionally zoned to maintain the residential and agricultural character of our community, and introducing a large commercial project like Home Depot would fundamentally disrupt this balance.
As the Planning Commission plays a crucial advisory role in the decision-making process, I urge you to thoroughly review the significant concerns that many residents, including myself, have regarding this project.
Our community has already suffered from significant flooding, particularly during Tropical Storm Debbie, due to the overdevelopment in the area. The construction of a big-box store will only exacerbate these drainage issues, posing an even greater risk to our homes and properties.
Additionally, the proximity of the proposed site to several schools, including the new high school, Lakewood Ranch Preparatory Academy, Gullett Elementary, and Dr. Mona Jain Middle School, raises serious safety concerns. The increased traffic from semis and trailers near these school zones presents a clear danger to students who walk, bike, or drive to school.
Moreover, the 24/7 operations of a big-box store will lead to increased air pollution from vehicle emissions and diesel exhaust, as well as light pollution, which will further disrupt the peace and character of our residential neighborhood. This development will also harm local wildlife habitats, worsening the existing environmental challenges we face.
Given the advisory role of the Planning Commission, I ask that you strongly recommend against approving the proposed zoning changes and the development of a Home Depot at this location. The potential negative impacts on our community’s safety, environment, and quality of life are too significant to ignore.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Email Address]
The Planning Commission in Manatee County, Florida, serves as the Local Planning Agency under Section 163.3174 of Florida Statutes. It is a citizen’s advisory committee composed of Manatee County residents appointed by the Board of County Commissioners to four-year terms. The commission meets on the second Thursday of each month at 9:00 a.m. or as needed, playing a crucial role in making recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners on land-use items. Their responsibilities include reviewing and making recommendations on amendments to the Land Development Code, holding public hearings on Zoning Atlas Amendments and Developments of Regional Impact, and ensuring consistency with the Manatee County Comprehensive Plan
While you’re at it, also send email to these key officials and departments:
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Express your environmental concerns, including the impact on wildlife and air quality.
County Commissioners: Share your opposition to the zoning changes and emphasize the importance of preserving our community’s character.
Planning and Zoning Department: Highlight technical concerns such as traffic, flooding risks, and compliance with zoning laws.
Local Education Officials: Raise school safety concerns, particularly the risks posed by increased traffic near school zones.
County Planning Commission: Urge them to recommend against the proposed zoning changes and development, emphasizing the risks to community safety, environmental health, and overall quality of life.
Home Depot Investor Relations: Voice your concerns directly to Home Depot’s leadership, emphasizing how this development will negatively impact the community and potentially harm the company’s reputation. Encourage them to reconsider the proposed location and engage with the community to find a more suitable site.