SARASOTA, Fla. ( WWSB ) - Sarasota County commissioners denied a proposed housing development next to the popular celery fields and bird sanctuary during Tuesday’s meeting.

Developer D.R. Horton wanted to build 85 homes on the Smith Farm property adjacent to the celery fields. Commissioners rejected the proposal, citing environmental and flooding concerns and their desire to protect the birds.

The meeting included public comments from residents strongly opposing the development.

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“I’m here as a Sarasota County resident and a taxpayer who strongly opposes D.R. Horton’s proposal to rezone and build on the Smith family farm property across from the celery fields,” one resident said.

The resident

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