‘Leesburg’s time in the crosshairs:’ How The Villages is driving population growth nearby

[@wdh47211]

I live in Clermont....our town has been ruined by overpopulation and now it's Leesburg's turn. Damn shame

[@kennedy7955]

I must agree with you on Clermont. The urban sprawl is horrendous, and the traffic is even worse. I would say Leesburg traffic is already terrible much of the day. Inside the villages, however, there is zero problems with traffic.

[@TheHoppesl]

The Villiages tell prospective buyers that the new areas currently being developed will eventually be the middle of the Villiages once it's fully built out. Gives you an idea of how much growth toward the south to expect.

[@markdegrange6445]

I’m hoping to move to the villages next year

[@evanmcgrew400]

Anyone that lives around this area knows it’s a complete lie. Leesburg might be the saddest town in Florida.

[@kennedy7955]

There is no denying the city is growing, and gentrifying. It’s a process that will take time, but the improvements are easily visible.

[@evanmcgrew400]

@@kennedy7955 then how come half the buildings in Leesburg are empty / rundown? Explain why you go into downtown once the sun goes down and there’s not a soul out? And maybe 1-2 businesses open….

[@5265vic]

They should start at one end of downtown and bulldoze it, redesign it, and make it appealing , But they won’t. It’s horrible.

[@barbaraebner5889]

The building is insane. Their taxes are going through the roof.

[@hill3016]

What are the insurance costs there? Also, are there property assesemt fees as well?

[@kennedy7955]

It’s very difficult to answer your questions because it’s going to depend on the house and location but I can give you an example. My new 1300 square-foot home in the villages on the edge of Leesburg, the insurance is $705 a year. Yeah that’s super cheap. The taxes are about $3400 before Homestead rebate which I’ll be able to get next year.

[@susanhauke8164]

Kills me how people, especially people in The Villages, whine and cry how their town is being ruined by overpopulation yet they just moved from up north 2-3 years before. City managers with dollar signs for eyeballs are thrilled to pieces to approve MEGA developments. Who cares if the infrastructure can support new growth? Traffic backed up on 2 lane roads, water and power systems not adequate, overcrowded schools, not enough emergency or policing staff. Those downtown businesses can enjoy their jump in business until the plob a Walmart a mile away.

[@jeffro9276]

I feel sorry for them nothing good comes from population growth like that, money does not equal quality of life 😢

[@MissyMoe28]

Until the housing market crashes again!!

[@Dee_Rod]

What is the amount that the 50% population increase represent? Half of what number. 50% could be 2000 or 40000.

[@5265vic]

Do you know what else is coming---The crash, where no one will be able to afford these homes or apartments That they are jammin on the small pieces of property

[@maraartice1021]

Love my city Leesburg