The city of Inverness won Citrus County (Florida) commissioners’ backing for a $2 million state funding request to develop an RV campground at Whispering Pines Park, after a discussion that highlighted differing views on the project’s fit with the park’s character.
The approval positions the city to seek state funding during the 2026 legislative session while advancing plans to enhance local recreation and economic activity.
The commissioners voted 4-1 in favor of the RV campground request, alongside two other city requests: $500,000 to replace aging fencing at Whispering Pines Park and $2 million to $3 million for a trail connector linking the park to the Withlacoochee State Trail 3. Both of those requests passed without opposition.
With the county commissioners’ approval, Citrus County will submit a letter to State Rep. JJ Grow and the forthcoming District 11 senator endorsing Inverness’ legislative appropriations request for the 2026 session.
Inverness Mayor Bob Plaisted, City Manager Eric Williams, and city council members thanked the board after the vote.
Commissioner Diana Finegan cast the sole “no” vote, saying the campground would not align with the park’s natural character. “I have not heard anyone, honestly, but you that likes the idea,” Finegan told Williams, as reported by PMG Paxton Media Group on October 8.
“Sometimes parks just need to be parks,” she added. “I’d rather see Whispering Pines stay as is and used by local kids and families throughout the county.”
Williams explained the project as a potential economic driver, estimating it could generate $1.2 million annually to fund long-term park maintenance and improvements.
She also raised concerns about the parking difficulties the project might create for local residents and park users.
Williams addressed ongoing concerns for other locations, saying, “We’ll still be behind your appropriation request for Chassahowitzka campground.” Finegan responded, “That’s a little bit different, Eric. We’re not having all of our kids across the county going there.”
Plaisted also said that Whispering Pines’ location near city amenities makes it ideal for actual campers and noted the economic benefits.
Whispering Pines Park encompasses 300 acres and has been managed by the city since 2020, when Inverness assumed control from the state. With the Florida Forest Service lease nearing expiration, city leaders are exploring funding options for park upgrades.
The proposed RV campground would occupy roughly 10 acres. If approved by the state during the 2026 legislative session, the project would receive $2 million from the state, with the city contributing $1 million for design and partial construction.
Commissioner Jeff Kinnard also voiced support, emphasizing Inverness’ history of successfully completing quality projects.