What's an Evaluation & Appraisal Report (EAR)?

Local governments are required to determine if any updates are needed to the comprehensive plan of that governing body. This process is known as an Evaluation & Appraisal Report, or in short, an 'EAR.' Under Florida Law, a comprehensive plan - at a minimum - must address 10 & 20-year planning horizons.

Our team is committed to making our county’s vision a reality, which includes making a long-term commitment to preserving our natural resources, promoting awareness & consideration of cultural resources, & facilitating the protection & enhancement of the quality of life in Marion County.

EAR overview presentation

What is a Planned Service Area?

Planned service areas (PSAs) are parts of the county where infrastructure (roads, water, & sewer) already exists or is planned.

PSAs help focus growth by:

• Expanding mobility options

• Supporting central utilities

• Encouraging jobs

• Guiding commercial development to areas where infrastructure exists or is planned

PSAs align public & private investments to promote smart, efficient growth.

2025 EAR workshops

All workshops were held at the McPherson Governmental Campus auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala.

Feb. 24 | 2 p.m. Step-down approaches, protection of rural land, & rural neighborhoods

Mar. 11 | 2:30 p.m. Transportation level of service

Mar. 27 | 2:30 p.m.  Landfills & solid waste

Apr. 1 | 2:30 p.m. Density & public service areas 

Apr. 21 | 2:30 p.m. Transfer of development rights process

May 1 | 2:30 p.m. Open space & active recreation

May 14 | 2:30 p.m. Definitions

Jun. 9 | 2:30 p.m.  EAR recap

Jun. 23 | 2:30 p.m. Held for additional discussion

View the 2025 EAR update overview here.

The workshops were livestreamed, then published to our agendas webpage.

Project process

View our project schedule below.

2024 EAR workshops

Sept. 12 | 2 p.m. Initial discussion of the comprehensive plan evaluation & appraisal report (agenda only, video unavailable)

Oct. 1 | 1:30 p.m. EAR update & input session, beginning on page 39 (video)

Oct. 29 | 2 p.m. EAR element discussion, beginning on page 42 (video)

Nov. 7 | 3 p.m. EAR discussion, beginning on page 55 (video)

Dec. 9 | 3 p.m. EAR discussion,  beginning on page 

View the EAR 2024 update overview here.

Thank you for joining us at the 2024 community engagement meetings!

We brought the conversation to you by hosting community engagement meetings at various times & locations in hopes of providing a variety of options for you to be included.

Thank you to all who have voiced their vision for our county's future so far!