Ocala Ranch still is battling to build a 5,400-home community in southwest Marion near the Withlacoochee River. Now it says that if the dispute heads to trial, then it wants a non-local jury.
The County Commission voted down Ocala Ranch's plan almost four years ago, despite approval recommendations from county professional staff and the Planning & Zoning Commission. The developer filed suit in circuit court, seeking more than $20 million in damages.
There hasn't been much movement, at least publicly, in the legal action. But earlier this month, the developer filed a motion seeking a change in venue.
Simply put, the plaintiff argues that since Marion County residents are taxpayers – and since their tax money would be used to pay any damages – then Marion residents have an unavoidable and insurmountable conflict of interest.