FLUEDRA HEARING ON SMITH FARM REZONE CANCELLED

On April 23, 2026, DR Horton withdrew its FLUEDRA petition on the Smith Farm Rezone.  So that process, which included mediation and a proposed settlement that was rejected by the Board of County Commissioners, has ended.

Instead of completing the FLUEDRA process, on April 23, 2026, DR Horton initiated a lawsuit against the County by filing a petition for writ of certiorari with the Circuit Court of the Twelfth Judicial Circuit in Sarasota County. DR Horton’s Petition for Certiorari asks the Court to quash the County’s denial of the rezone and to grant DR Horton’s development application for 126 dwelling units on the Smith Farm property. The next step in the process will be the County’s formal response to DR Horton’s Petition.  This litigation will then proceed in the normal court process.

Sarasota Audubon is currently evaluating how it can best protect the Celery Fields at this time and is exploring all available options.  We will update you as more information becomes available.

Thanks to all of you for your support and participation in the process up to now. We continue to fight to protect the Celery Fields.

It is our belief that any development of this property beyond its current zoning would be irreparably disruptive to birds and wildlife of the Celery Fields. Increased traffic, lights, noise and pets post-development would increase risk for all those visiting the Celery Fields as well as its resident wildlife.

During the October 1, 2025 hearing, the Special Magistrate asked if acquisition of the property has been considered by the County. Although it is not clear if this option was discussed during the mediation on that day, Sarasota Audubon wholeheartedly supports acquisition of this land for public purposes such as a park or stormwater facility, or a conservation easement that restricts use of the land in a manner that adequately protects and preserves the Celery Fields.