Clay County proposes impact fees to help builders keep up with demand and fund new developments

Clay County, Florida – The Clay County Commissioner is considering introducing a new fee that will affect all new homes being built as a way to raise funds for development of roads, fire stations, sheriff’s offices, etc.

The city council held a meeting on Monday to hear purported plans to introduce an impact fee on top of other current fees.

Now, when new developments are built, counties charge mobility fees to people who use the new roads.

Residents have expressed their dissatisfaction with the rise of new developments.

Gary Fugelstad isn’t happy with his recently built new subdivision down the street from his home. He said subdivisions regularly push floodwaters onto his roads.

“The situation has worsened since they set up the new lot,” says Fugelstad.

The solution to this problem is not as simple as builders paying more, as price increases can be passed on to new homebuyers.

Other residents are also concerned about shock charges.

“Something has to be done. The push is coming, so something has to be done,” said resident Wiley.

There is also concern that the impact fee can be applied to future construction costs and will not solve existing problems in the county.

County Commissioner Betsy Condon said, “We never question the need, especially the need for fire rescues and sheriffs.” But I think they’re a little worried that they haven’t achieved that number.”

This fee will generate $144,792,568 between now and 2025.

The next city committee meeting is December 13th.

Read the Clay County Development Impact Fee study below.