Terra Ceia cruise terminal

A Terra Ceia Island resident argued the cruise port proposal doesn't comply with zoning or the comprehensive plan, stressed the aquatic preserve's Outstanding Florida Waters protection, and asked the commission to recommend denial when the application arrives. He also condemned reported threats toward county employees.

A Palmetto Point resident explained how dredging and ship prop wash would stir up phosphorus-rich soil and combine with nitrogen from county sewage discharges, fueling algae blooms and red tide in a manatee breeding area.

A Terra Ceia resident compared placing an industrial port in the aquatic preserve to a malignant tumor, citing irreversible impacts on water quality, wildlife, traffic, and quality of life, and cited Policy 2.1.2.7 on compatibility.

A 30-year Palmetto resident said a cruise port is a high-impact industrial use inconsistent with the comp plan, warned of traffic surges, seagrass and habitat destruction, hazardous materials, noise, and a binding precedent for future industrial expansion.

A Terra Ceia resident shared her family's connection to the island — manatees, pelicans, kayaking — and warned of pollution, dredging, flood risk from storms like 2024, traffic, taxes, and flood insurance costs, asking the commission to oppose zoning changes or expedited permitting.