They declined reporters’ repeated requests for comment.

“I think this is junk,” Commissioner Michael Cox said after looking at the site plan.

Berry Hill Estates, the 266-home subdivision proposed for 403 hilly acres across from Pasco-Hernando Community College, had been a political hot potato for months.

Landowner Harris had proposed building homes on various lot sizes, with one area of higher density — 134 homes — that would be hooked up to Dade City water and sewer.
That area was the main sticking point with opponents, who dubbed it “the worm farm” based on how it looks on maps.

The squiggly lines were what made commissioners squirm in November — and led to a two-hour struggle over how to handle the request. Whatever happens to the area will set the tone for development in rural northeast Pasco.