Several readers submitted letters to Ocala-News.com to weigh in on the topic of growth in Ocala/Marion County.
“I agree with Sandra Norcrosa. Developers want to build houses, condos, apartments, and shopping centers on every square inch of land. They don’t care about traffic, overcrowded schools, crime, etc, just dollar signs. The city’s mayor and council keep approving new building. They don’t seem to make builders pay for infrastructure upgrades first. That’s why our taxes are going up so fast. Wake up, Ocala, and elect new politicians that will protect the city from developers,” says Ocala resident Larry Hyman.
“Traffic has gotten bad here. It does take longer to get to places. I just read a letter on Ocala-News.com that someone wants it to be controlled who can live in Marion County. How do you propose that officials vet who can live here?” says Ann Tucker, Ocala resident.
“I agree with the person that said to stop the growth of Ocala. I’m 77 years old and grew up in Ocala, and I have said for years that Ocala was growing way too big. They didn’t grow smart, they just grew bigger. They tore down all our history and built ugly buildings to replace them. Everything in downtown that is new is ugly. Why did they have to tear down our courthouse and old post office? The courthouse would have made a wonderful “History of Marion County” museum, and the post office would have made a wonderful downtown YMCA. Instead, we have an ugly park and a parking lot. Everyone that had a hand in those decisions should be run out of town on a rail. I could say more but, being a lady, I’ll stop now before I get my Irish up,” says Ocala resident Kay Voge.
“A lady recently wrote an absolutely beautiful letter about keeping Marion County small. The sad truth is that the country, not just Marion County, is being destroyed in the name of progress. They told the Indians to get off their lands in the name of progress, bringing in the trains. It’s a never-ending battle, and the wealthy and powerful always win. Common man has to live with what he’s dealt. It’s supposed to be we the people and it is – “we the people” stands for the powerful and wealthy that run the country. The rest of us just keep the wheels greased and turning,” says Vance Larsen, Ocala resident.