Deeson Road development appeal
Summary
A developer wanted to build 150 homes on 153 acres in the Kathleen/Blackwater Creek drainage basin, which flooded badly during Hurricane Milton. Neighbors packed the hearing and the commission unanimously denied the project, saying the flooding risk and incompatible lot sizes outweighed the plan's technical compliance.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 2
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Sep 1, 2026.
Impact analysis
Residents say prior flooding destroyed homes and insurance is now unobtainable for some, while the developer promised sidewalks, a turn lane, and a waterline extension as public benefits.
Existing residents of the Deeson Road and Kathleen area who feared more flooding and traffic.
The developer and landowner, who spent years and significant money on the plan and may appeal to the Board of County Commissioners.
Mentions & discussions (2)
Board of County Commissioners — September 1, 2026
A developer appealing the Planning Commission's 7-0 denial asked to postpone the hearing, but neighbors showed up ready and the board said no — so the developer withdrew the case entirely. Expect it back.
Planning Commission — June 3, 2026
A developer wanted to build 150 homes on 153 acres in the Kathleen/Blackwater Creek drainage basin, which flooded badly during Hurricane Milton. Neighbors packed the hearing and the commission unanimously denied the project, saying the flooding risk and incompatible lot sizes outweighed the plan's technical compliance.
Related development
We'll email you when it's on an upcoming agenda and when it's voted on, at most once a day.
The weekly brief for Polk County
What the council decided, in plain English — one email a week.
Free. Unsubscribe with one click any time. We never sell your email.