Citrus County Commissioners Announce Significant Increase in Impact Fees Amidst Rapid Growth
Citrus County, FL—In response to unprecedented growth and substantial infrastructure needs, Citrus County Commissioners have approved a substantial 65% increase in impact fees for new construction. The new fees will rise to $13,109 for single-family homes, with similar increases across other categories, particularly for transportation and educational facilities.
Commissioners expressed concern that the increased fees, while essential, will not sufficiently cover the county’s most pressing transportation issue—the estimated $175 million need to widen County Road 491. “This impact fee is not going to be enough for 491,” remarked Commissioner Jeff Kinnard during discussions.
Moreover, a recent impact fee study omitted significant costs related to right-of-way acquisition, indicating that the fees might need to increase by an additional $3,800 for single-family homes once these costs are factored in. Historically, commissioners have hesitated to implement fees at full consultant recommendations due to worries about affordability for homebuyers.
The revised fee schedule has raised concerns among builders, particularly regarding its impact on affordable housing. Katrina Leturno, president of the Citrus County Building Alliance, indicated that the fees would adversely affect lower-income residents, while some commissioners noted that multi-family age-restricted units may deter traditional workforce housing.
Despite apprehensions about the new fees’ implications for housing availability, Commissioner Diana Finegan contended that it is preferable to raise impact fees, which affect new residents, rather than increasing overall property taxes.
With a vote passing 4-1, the new fees will take effect 90 days following notification to builders. While the commission is open to re-evaluating transportation fees in the next year, the current fee structure reflects a crucial step in addressing the county’s rapid growth and related infrastructure demands.
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