To: Manatee County Board of County Commissioners and Planning Commissioners

Subject: PA-24-10 / PDR-24-18(Z)(P) - Petition for Responsible, Infrastructure-Ready Development at 4973 & 4985 Lorraine Road

We, the undersigned Lorraine Lakes residents and neighbors, respectfully urge the Board to reject the proposed 232-unit development at 4973 & 4985 Lorraine Road based on the following critical concerns:

A. REGULATORY COMPLIANCE GAPS

The application relies on affordable housing density bonuses to achieve 11.9 units/acre (232 units on 19.51 acres), yet lacks binding enforcement mechanisms. The county's own staff response confirms that "the applicant is required to enter into a Land Use and Deed Restriction Agreement" - but no draft agreement has been provided for public review. Without verified affordability terms, AMI targets, and minimum 30-year restrictions, this density cannot be justified under RES-6 standards.

B. TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE DEFICIENCIES

County records show Lorraine Road widening (CIP Project J6107660) is still in "design phase" with no completion timeline. The Traffic Impact Analysis requires turn-lane improvements, but adding 450+ daily vehicle trips before road improvements creates dangerous conditions. The applicant requests a 35-foot to 30-foot agricultural setback deviation, further compromising safety buffers along an already inadequate roadway.

C. STORMWATER AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

While the Environmental Narrative claims "no wetlands," the project sits in the Braden River Watershed requiring 25% runoff reduction. Complete stormwater calculations are deferred to Final Site Plan review, leaving residents without assurance that flooding impacts will be properly addressed. This premature approval approach violates sound planning principles.

D. COMMUNITY COMPATIBILITY FAILURES

The proposal creates an isolated high-density enclave surrounded by single-family neighborhoods, agricultural operations, and Nate's Honor Animal Rescue. At two stories with minimal buffering, these 11 buildings will fundamentally alter the rural character that drew families to Lorraine Lakes. The 30-foot setback reduction request demonstrates the site's unsuitability for this density. 

RECOMMENDATION

We request the Board reject this application until:

Lorraine Road improvements are completed
Binding affordability agreements are executed and made public
Complete stormwater analysis is provided
Enhanced compatibility measures address the rural-to-urban transition
Our community supports appropriate development, but not at the expense of infrastructure adequacy, environmental protection, and neighborhood character.

Respectfully submitted,

[Signatures]