After two rounds, the County Commissioners unanimously denied the Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust proposal for the SpringHills development in Northwest Alachua County.

Tuesday, the Alachua County Staff and the developers presented their positions on the possible project, but Thursday evening, it was the public's chance to enter the ring.

The Coalition for Responsible Growth, the most vocal contender against the amendment, presented their side of the issue, and then the floor was re-opened to residents of the county to offer their own one-two punches for their respective corners. According to Coalition President John Jopling, residents realize the development of that area is imminent, the bout started over finding the right development.

"We're certainly not against growth in this location," Jopling said. "We'd like to see growth that works in this location, a win-win situation that works for the community."

Prior to the vote, P.R.E.I.T.'s attorney, Patrice Boyes said the project was a good fit for Alachua County, but few people are willing to give it a chance.

"The project itself is a good project for the community," Boyes said. "That hasn't been talked about enough."

And it will not be talked about again for some time. Following the vote, Boyes said she could not give a statement until she discusses future courses of action with the developers, but that does not mean they are down for the count.

Several county commissioners said their decisions were based in part on the possible jabs and uppercuts the State Legislature could land on Alachua County residents with the votes coming up in Tallahassee.

By Ted Latiak, WCJB TV20 News.