Collier County housing plan faces backlash from environmental groups

COLLIER COUNTY - A proposal to develop rural land in Eastern Collier County is stirring up local environmental groups.

The project aims to build more than 400 housing units, including affordable housing, on land currently used as a citrus grove.

At a recent Board of County Commissioners meeting, about 75 people signed up to voice their opinions.

Naples resident Jean Pollom, who has cherished the area since childhood, said, "It is the one place left in Naples, Florida where you can go still on a cold, foggy day, you can still see deer, turkey, owls, the brown sheltered hawk."

Pollom added, "I'm here today to fight for the things that have no voice."

The landowner plans to sell, and developers are eager to start a project they claim meets environmental standards while addressing community needs.

A local nurse supported the proposal, saying, "This proposed community would offer a realistic opportunity for nurses and other essential workers to live closer to where we serve."

However, many attendees opposed the project due to environmental concerns.

Bradley Cornell, policy director at Audubon Western Everglades, said, "Issue one - this development is in the wrong place."

Harrison Black expressed concern, saying, "There's no practical replacement for this habitat, once we lose it."

Sophie Amaya added, "I feel like this development will greatly, greatly reduce our water quality."

Audience members expressed frustration as the discussion lasted over six hours. 

The Board of County Commissioners decided to delay the decision to explore alternative options for the zoning amendment. The county manager stated there is no set date for when this topic will be revisited.