I am opposed to the construction of a 1.3 Acre Sports Practice Field on CDD Property North of The Shires 

·      The extent of the unmet need for additional practice field space in Westchase has not been quantified.  Deciding that a football field size footprint is required is premature; risks unnecessary expense; and eliminates from consideration other possible sites or enhancements to existing sites such as Glencliff Park.

·      The cost of constructing a sports field at this site will be significant. There is no infrastructure— no parking and only a one lane gravel road that stops at the cell tower. The proposed area is heavily wooded and contains wetland. Clearing and preparing the site while also ensuring that the area’s capacity to retain storm water will not be diminished will add greatly to the cost of this location

·      The location at the Northern-most corner of Westchase means that individuals and teams from Westchase will have to compete for field time with many communities from outside our CDD who have easier access to the property.  Mandolin, Windsor Park, Sheffield, Coventry and Newcastle (collectively more than 500 homes) all are located closer to the proposed site than are 33 of the 34 Neighborhoods in Westchase.  Rather, the selection of a more central location within Westchase for a new practice field site will ensure that my annual CDD assessment benefits my fellow Westchase residents, first and foremost.

·      The area behind The Shires is already an unmonitored party playground.  Adding a manicured grassy plot, secluded in the woods, will only increase these unsanctioned activities.  At a minimum, the CDD will have to install cameras and other expensive measures to protect its investment from damage and ensure the safety of nearby residents. 

·      The suggestion that lighted practice fields will permit more effective use of these spaces completely ignores the adverse impact that such lighting and noise will have on the property values in neighborhoods adjoining these fields.  I expect the CDD to protect and enhance the value of my investment and to not take actions that will diminish it.

      Practice Field Lighting?…. Absolutely Not!