Residents in South Naples, Florida, are actively opposing a proposal to rezone the 169-acre South Naples Citrus Grove for the development of an exclusive private golf course. The grove, a long-standing local landmark known for its fresh citrus and roadside charm, faces a future that many fear will disrupt the area's rural character and negatively impact local wildlife.
The Collier County Planning Commission is scheduled to review the rezoning application on August 6, with county commissioners set to make a final decision on September 22.
This is not the first development proposal for the site. Earlier this year, developer SWJR Naples LLC sought approval to build up to 423 homes on the agricultural land, which is situated near the Picayune Strand State Forest. That proposal generated significant public opposition. Environmental experts raised concerns that the land is critical habitat for endangered Florida panthers and black bears, and plays a role in water management. County commissioners ultimately postponed a decision on the housing development, exploring instead the possibility of acquiring the land for preservation through the county's Conservation Collier program.
The developer has since returned with a revised plan, proposing an 18-hole private golf course, a clubhouse with a restaurant, and up to 10 overnight cabins for members and guests. However, many residents view this new proposal as a precursor to future residential development.
"It's just a ploy to turn the land to residential," resident Gwen Ransone told Realtor.com. "Once that land is rezoned, that's it. Then they're going to build the 423 houses."
A representative for the developer, Rich Yovanovich, has reportedly stated that the project cannot include residential components and that there is a strong demand for private golf clubs. Supporters also claim the course would seek Audubon International Gold environmental certification, though opponents note this certification is unrelated to the National Audubon Society.
Concerns about increased traffic, noise, lighting, water usage, and pollution are central to the opposition's arguments. The citrus grove borders Picayune Strand State Forest, which is home to endangered Florida panthers, black bears, white-tailed deer, and other native species.
"A private golf course with guest cabins would increase traffic on Sabal Palm Road… and add noise, lighting, and activity," said resident Susan Scalf. "I do not see it as clearly better for the community."
Some residents argue that Collier County already has ample residential land for sale and that this agricultural property is unique and valuable. "All I see is development. Ever since Covid occurred, they have been building like crazy," Ransone stated. "This is different; this is agricultural land, and it is precious and it is rare."
While citrus farming has faced challenges, including citrus greening disease, preservation remains a possibility. Commissioner Rick Lo Castro has announced that the county is initiating a formal appraisal to assess if the land qualifies for purchase using Conservation Collier funds. An agreement with the landowner could lead to the permanent protection of the property.
Residents have organized through social media, urging neighbors to attend upcoming hearings. "Do not let the change of plans fool you. Once this land is rezoned, anything can happen," wrote campaign organizer Susie Que in a local Facebook group. "Approving this rezoning weakens the county's long-standing rural fringe protections and sets a dangerous precedent for every other agricultural parcel in the corridor."
Despite the ongoing debate, Ransone expressed a commitment to fighting for what she believes is right, stating, "If we lose, we lose, but at least I did something, and I fought for what I thought was right."