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// Q&A
Current Hot Topics
How will you manage Marion County's rapid population growth and development?
Marion County is growing fast—we can’t stop it, but we can guide it smartly. Require infrastructure (roads, drainage, sidewalks) before approving new projects. Developers pay their share via impact fees and building upfront. Use moratoriums in overloaded areas, limit clusters to outlying spots (not major highways), and add buffers like small farms to protect rural land. Monitor the TPO closely for better planning. Goal: Balanced growth that keeps us safe, affordable, and family-friendly.
What are your specific plans for improving local roads and easing traffic congestion?
Traffic on Highway 484, SR 200, and Marion Oaks is a priority. Push FDOT to add lanes/auxiliaries where needed and treat us as a fast-growing county. Require developers to fund/build matching infrastructure—no approvals without it. Plan Highway 484 for four lanes + sidewalks now; halt development until done. Add service/frontage roads on SR 200. Use night construction to cut daytime backups. Rely on engineering for roundabouts. No tax hikes—developers cover their demand.
How will you ensure adequate water quality and manage the impact of new development on our springs and water systems?
Silver Springs and our aquifers face nitrate risks from development, septics, and industry—we’ll protect them. Increase oversight on bottled water plants and polluters. Mandate proper stormwater drainage/sidewalks in new developments to prevent runoff/flooding. Require thorough environmental reviews near waterways. Prioritize sewer connections over septics to cut long-term pollution and homeowner costs. Infrastructure first, no exceptions—hold developers accountable so our springs stay clean.
What is your approach to affordable housing, given the rising costs in Ocala?
Ocala/Marion housing costs are up—families and essential workers need relief. Require mixed-size homes in developments for low/middle-income buyers to live together. Build more in outlying areas to cut congestion and keep prices down (homes near jobs cost more). Enforce zoning on short-term rentals to avoid unapproved businesses driving up costs. Push true affordability so teachers and workers can buy, not just rent—through responsible growth with infrastructure first.
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