The Brief
- A controversial proposal for a 280-home community in Lithia is moving forward following a close vote by Hillsborough County commissioners.
- Dozens of residents dressed in red opposed the project, citing concerns about flooding and housing density.
- This project will head to Tallahassee for a state-level review before returning to local leaders for a final vote.
TAMPA, Fla. – After hours of opposition from longtime residents, a controversial development proposal in Lithia is moving forward.
Lithia land development
The backstory:
Hillsborough County commissioners voted 5-2 on Thursday night to advance the project. The proposal calls for a 280-home community on roughly 190 acres near Dorman Road and Lithia Pinecrest Road.
Over a hundred Lithia residents attended the meeting, most affiliated with Preserve Rural Lithia, a grassroots community organization that has repeatedly mobilized residents to oppose development projects in the area.
Among them was Clinton Childress, who believes the proposed housing community would not fit with the surrounding properties.
Flood and compatibility fears
What they’re saying:…