MINUTES
VOLUSIA FOREVER ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Wednesday, April 20, 2005
3:30p.m. - 5:30p.m.
Thomas C. Kelly Bldg., Training Rooms 1 & 2
123 W. Indiana Avenue, DeLand, Fl 32720

Also in Attendance

Meeting Called to Order
Carrie Stewart, Chair, called the meeting to order at 3:32p.m.

Roll Call
Carrie Stewart, Chair, instructed the Recording Secretary to record the roll of the Members in attendance, in which nine (9) Members were present after Members Anne Hallum and Robert Williams arrived late.

Approval of Minutes
Carrie Stewart, Chair, called for a motion to approve the January 19, 2005, Minutes. Member Phil Maroney made a motion to approve the January 19, 2005, Minutes, as presented. Member Reid Hughes seconded the motion that carried by unanimous voice vote.

Introduction of New Member
Rob Walsh announced that on March10,2005, the last appointment was made by Council Member Carl Persis, District 4. The new member is Dennis Bayer, who had previously served on the Committee.

Recognition of Former Member
Rob Walsh explained that staff had a Certificate of Appreciation to present to former Committee Member Gordon Kipp for his contribution as a “founding” member. However, Mr. Kipp was not available to attend this meeting to accept the certificate. County staff intends on hand delivering the Certificate of Appreciation to Mr. Kipp.

After welcoming Member Dennis Bayer, Carrie Stewart, Chair, asked for introductions from Committee Members, staff and public participants.

Election of Chair and Vice-Chair
Chair Carrie Stewart advised the Committee that she could not be re-elected as Chair, since she has served for two (2) consecutive one-year terms, which is the maximum term allowed by Resolution 2001-69, Section X, Paragraph B. Chair Carrie Stewart called for nominations and a motion to elect a Chair.

Member Reid Hughes made a motion to elect Member Phil Maroney as Chair. Member Dennis Bayer seconded the motion that carried unanimously by voice vote.

Chair Carrie Stewart called for nominations and a motion to elect a Vice-Chair.

Chair Carrie Stewart made a motion to elect Member Alan Alshouse as Vice-Chair. Member Anne Hallum seconded the motion that carried unanimously by voice vote.

After a brief discussion, the Committee decided that Chair Carrie Stewart would continue as Chair for the remainder of this meeting.

Newly elected Chair Phil Maroney presented a plaque to Chair Carrie Stewart in grateful appreciation for her “Outstanding and Dedicated Service” as Chair from April 16, 2003 until April20,2005.

Evaluation and Ranking of Eligible Applications – Rob Walsh explained that the first three (3) properties listed on the Agenda, which were deemed as eligible during the 2nd Cycle of 2004 (7-1-04 through 12-31-04), were being ranked to determine their placement on the Group "A" or "B" List. The ranking determination of each property (Group "A" or "B" List) would be handled one at a time with a voice vote.

Rob Walsh and Randall Sleister provided a PowerPoint presentation with pictures and location maps, and a brief overview of each property as follows:
Holiday Haven Campsites Property - This property is approximately 49 acres in size consisting of two (2) undeveloped parcels located on the St. Johns River south of Lake George in the Lake George State Forest. It can only be accessed from Hitchens Creek, a tributary of the St. Johns River. County staff was unable to access to this property; therefore, information about it was based upon aerial interpretations. The habitat consists primarily of floodplain swamp, which is dominated by Bald cypress and blackgum. However, a small portion of the property is considered to be hydric hammock. Management issues are minimal to non-existent. However, the existence of exotics is possible and may need to be addressed. The management of the property could be turned over to the St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD) or the Department of Forestry (DOF) as part of the Lake George State Forest. The property is also adjacent to the Progress Energy Property, which is currently on the Volusia Forever Group “A” List. The owners have indicated a willingness to sell the property for the 2004 Just Land Value, which is $11,520.00.

Discussion ensued after Member Pat Northey asked if there would be any public use as the property is only accessible from the water.

Member Phil Maroney added that he also raised the question concerning public use and staff indicated that this acquisition would be a Lake George Wildlife Management Area fill-in.

Rob Walsh reminded the Committee that one of the overall goals of the Volusia Forever Land Acquisition Program is to complete projects begun under previous land acquisition programs, which this property is as it is part of the Lake George State Forest.

Randall Sleister added that this property is primarily swamp. Therefore, it would not be good for any type of public use.

Member Dennis Bayer asked how the selling price of this property would affect the price of the Progress Energy Property.

Rob Walsh explained it should not affect the selling price of the Progress Energy Property as it is a smaller tract of land consisting primarily of floodplain swamp.

Member Dennis Bayer asked if the process would be held up to find a funding partner, given the proposed selling price of $11,520.00.

Rob Walsh responded that it is County staff’s recommendation to solely acquire the property before seeking a funding partner. However, obtaining a partner would not be necessary, given the selling pricing.

Chair Carrie Stewart suggested utilizing the County’s Small Lot Acquisition Program to fund the acquisition of this property.

Rob Walsh stated that the County’s Small Lot Acquisition Program would not be the funding source to acquire this property. He explained that the Small Lot Acquisition Program was designed to acquire small parcels within antiquated platted subdivisions (i.e., University Highlands, Cape Atlantic Estates, etc.).

Member Reid Hughes made a motion to add the Holiday Haven Campsites Property to the Group "A" List of eligible properties. Member JoAnn O’Bannon seconded the motion that carried by unanimous voice vote.

Raulerson Road (Day) Property – This property is approximately 62 acres in size consisting of a single undeveloped parcel located off Raulerson Road in Seville. Access to this site was not possible. Based upon aerial interpretations, the habitat consists primarily of baygall swamp, which is dominated by loblolly bay. It is suspected that the property has been damaged by fire and/or last year’s hurricanes. Public usage, access and management of the property could be an issue because of its size. It is also adjacent to the Double B Ranch/Baylor Property, which is currently on the Volusia Forever Group “A” List and is being offered as a conservation easement.

Member Phil Maroney asked for an update on the acquisition of the Double B Ranch/Baylor Property.

Rob Walsh explained that County staff has contacted the property owner and it is anticipated that the acquisition process will begin by the fall. He added that there are several other properties from the Group “A” List that are in the negotiation stage of the acquisition process.

Member Alan Alshouse asked if the Raulerson Road (Day) Property would be a fee simple acquisition.

Rob Walsh responded that the Raulerson Road (Day) Property would be a fee simple acquisition and the Double B Ranch/Baylor Property is being offered as a conservation easement.

Member Pat Northey asked if there would be public access to the Double B Ranch/Baylor Property because of the conservation easement.

Rob Walsh explained that there would not be public access to the Double B Ranch/Baylor Property because of the conservation easement.

Member Pat Northey stated that with the conservation easement on the Double B Ranch/Baylor Property there would not be a public corridor even though there could be a resource/wildlife corridor.

Member Dennis Bayer publicly disclosed that he represented the Days over 10 years ago regarding an access issue on the Timberlands Consolidated/Lafayette Landings Property, which is currently on the Volusia Forever Group “A” List. He added that he has not represented them since that date. Therefore, there wouldn’t be a conflict of interest.

Douglas Weaver explained that a resource corridor would be created even though there isn’t a public access corridor. He reminded the Committee that conservation easements may lead to full fee acquisitions and is a tool that shouldn’t be overlooked because of public access issues.

Member Robert Williams asked if a contingency could be included in the motion, which would be based on the status of the conservation easement for the Double B Ranch/Baylor Property.

Douglas Weaver acknowledged that the Committee could make that recommendation.

Member Phil Maroney added that this property would not be as appealing without the Double B Ranch/Baylor Property. Both properties would help make one large contiguous resource corridor through the St. Johns River Water Management District’s property to the county line and beyond.

Member Anne Hallum asked if a funding partner had been identified.

Rob Walsh explained that the St. Johns River Water Management District’s staff has indicated that they are interested in being a funding partner on the Double B Ranch/Baylor Property. Therefore, staff would approach them to also be a funding partner for the acquisition of the Raulerson Road (Day) Property.

Member Anne Hallum asked if there were any listed species (i.e., black bear) on this property.

Mr. William Day, property owner, was present and explained that until recently he had not had access to the property. He further explained that it was too wet and he has not visited the property more than a couple of times to investigate what type of wildlife exist.

Rob Walsh added that pictures of listed species (i.e., black bear) had been provided by the owners of the Double B Ranch/Baylor Property. Therefore, there is a likelihood that they would also exist on this property.

Member Reid Hughes opposed adding a contingency to a motion as this property alone would not be a Group “A” List property.

Discussion ensued regarding public access, connectivity to other conservation lands and management issues.

Member Robert Williams made a motion to add the Raulerson Road (Day) Property to the Group "B" List of eligible properties. Member Anne Hallum seconded the motion that carried by a voice vote of 8 to 1 with Member Pat Northey opposing.

MacFarlane Property - This property is approximately 8 acres in size consisting of four (4) undeveloped parcels located in Ormond Beach off Hammock Lane and adjacent to the City’s Central Park. The property would be an addition to Central Park, which is currently 174 acres in size with 61 acres being man-made lakes. The majority of the habitat is considered to be hydric hammock with cabbage palms and various hardwoods such as live oaks. If this property was acquired, management would not be an issue as it would be turned over to the City of Ormond Beach.

Loretta Moisio, representative for the City of Ormond Beach, was present and provided additional information to the Committee. She stated that Central Park has been divided into four (4) phases, with this property being adjacent to Phase III. An ECHO grant application has been submitted for the development of trails, fishing areas, restroom improvements for ADA access, etc. in Phases I, III and IV. The City intends to connect all four (4) phases by trails, which would be approximately one (1) mile long. This property would be part of the trails system, but the City intends on keeping it in its natural state. The City has also submitted an application for a Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program (FRDAP) Grant and this property has been ranked third.

Member Pat Northey asked if there is a commitment from the City of Ormond Beach to be a funding partner for the acquisition of this property and at what level (percentage/amount).

Loretta Moisio explained that the City Commission has committed funds in the 04/05 Budget in the amount of $37,500.00 for the acquisition of this property. This amount was based on an estimated cost of $100,000.00. However, the City understands that the cost of land has increased and other revenues could be used to provide additional funds for this proposal. She added that the City Commission has made this their #1 priority.

Member Pat Northey asked for clarification regarding the type of trails the City intends to install on this property.

Loretta Moisio responded that the City intends on installing trails that would be wheel chair accessible in all the Phases, except this area. Designs for trails in this area have not been developed.

Member Dennis Bayer asked if there were other vacant properties in the area that could be purchased as an addition to Central Park.

Loretta Moisio explained that this was the last tract of vacant property to complete Phase III. However, there are other smaller vacant properties in the area that the City may target at a later date. At this time, the City considers the acquisition of this property a priority.

Member Robert Williams asked why the City was applying for funding from Volusia Forever if they have qualified for a FRDAP Grant.

Loretta Moisio explained that the City applied for a specific dollar amount in the FRDAP Grant application. However, the City intends on leveraging for as much monies as possible.

Member Reid Hughes asked if the City included the fees for acquisition in the ECHO grant application.

Loretta Moisio responded that the City had not as they were looking at development rather than acquisition.

Member Alan Alshouse asked if there was an uplands/wetlands breakdown.

Randall Sleister replied that the property is approximately 86% wetlands.

Member Alan Alshouse asked if the proposed trail system would impact the wetlands.

Loretta Moisio explained that the City does not intend on impacting the wetlands with the proposed trail system.

Discussion ensued after Member Dennis Bayer suggested that the County assist the City by showing some form of support for this project, which could aid in securing funding from other sources.

Douglas Weaver added that the City and County would enter into a joint participation agreement if a contract is accepted and the City receives FRDAP funds. This agreement would outline how much the City would contribute to acquire this property and the responsibilities each party has for its management. It would also require an approval from the County Council and City. He further added that the County is showing interest in the acquisition of the property by listing it on the Group A/B List regardless of which list it is finally placed on.

Member Robert Williams also suggested that the County form some type of support (i.e., letter, resolution) to assist the City in an effort to better their chances for funding from FRDAP.

Discussion ensued regarding access and trails after Member Anne Hallum expressed a concern over the potential loss of the conservation element with the City’s proposed installation of concrete trails to meet ADA requirements for an urban park.

Discussion continued regarding issues as to which funding source (Volusia Forever or ECHO) should be used for acquisition of environmentally sensitive lands that would be an addition to an urban park.

Member Phil Maroney suggested using the Small Lot Acquisition Program’s funds for the acquisition of this property.

Member Reid Hughes made a motion to add the MacFarland Property to the Group "B" List of eligible properties. Member Phil Maroney seconded the motion that carried by unanimous voice vote.

Rob Walsh stated that County staff would write a letter of support to FRDAP after County Council approves the Committee’s recommendation for the 2004 2nd Cycle Ranking of eligible properties.

Douglas Weaver explained that the property owners are notified in writing when the Committee and County Council are meeting, so they could be available to provide additional information.

Group B Properties
Russell Ormond Beach Property - Rob Walsh explained that this property has been on the Group "B" List for four (4) cycles. Per Resolution 2004-80, the Committee has the authority to recommend to the County Council the removal of any property from the Group "B" List upon the expiration of four (4) ranking cycles. He added that there has been no change in the status of the property (i.e., no funding partners). Therefore, County staff would recommend the removal of this property from the Group “B” List.

Discussion ensued regarding status changes for properties on the Group “B” List after Members Pat Northey and Phil Maroney asked for clarification on the term “no traction” and if County staff was proactive with these properties.

Rob Walsh explained that “no traction” means that there are no funding partners and the asking price is too high for the County to purchase it alone. He added that County staff typically is not proactive with these properties. However, they ask the property owners to inform them of any new information that would make the property a higher priority. He further added that there has not been any contact with the property owners.

Member Reid Hughes made a motion to remove the Russell Ormond Beach Property to the Group "B" List of eligible properties. Member Phil Maroney seconded the motion that carried by unanimous voice vote.

Group A Properties
Hamlin-Dann Property – Rob Walsh explained that during the title search a utility easement over the entire property was revealed. County staff has been in contact with the property owners to resolve this issue, but nothing has been resolved to date. Also, there is no funding partner for this proposed conservation easement acquisition. Therefore, it is staff’s recommendation to move this property to the Group “B” List until the utility easement issue is resolved.

Member Phil Maroney asked if the property owners would be notified that their property has been moved from the Group “A” to the Group “B” List.

Rob Walsh replied that the property owners are notified in writing and are fully aware of the staff’s recommendation to move their property to the Group “B” List because of the utility easement issue.

Discussion ensued regarding conservation easements and public access after Member Anne Hallum asked if public access could be provided with conservation easement acquisitions.

Douglas Weaver replied that it may be possible to negotiate public access on conservation easement acquisitions. He added that conservation easements are another tool in the toolbox to acquire lands for conservation purposes and to prevent development of the property.

Member Pat Northey stated that she would not support conservation easement acquisitions unless they were in the Volusia/Flagler Conservation Corridor, as there are public access issues.

Douglas Weaver again stated that conservation easements may lead to full fee acquisitions and shouldn’t be overlooked because of public access issues.

Member Anne Hallum made a motion to move the Hamlin-Dann Property to the Group "B" List of eligible properties. Member Alan Alshouse seconded the motion that carried by unanimous voice vote.

Eagan DeBary Property -– Rob Walsh explained that the funding partners (City of Debary and the St. Johns Water Management District) were no longer interested in the acquisition of this property after the appraisal revealed how costly the Murphy DeBary Property would be. These two (2) properties are contiguous. It is staff’s recommendation to move this property to the Group “B” List until a funding partner is obtained.

Member Pat Northey made a motion to move the Eagan DeBary Property to the Group "B" List of eligible properties. Member Dennis Bayer seconded the motion that carried by unanimous voice vote.

Murphy DeBary Property – Rob Walsh explained that the funding partners (City of Debary and the St. Johns Water Management District) were no longer interested in the acquisition of this property after the appraisal revealed how costly this proposal would be. It is staff’s recommendation to move this property to the Group “B” List until a funding partner is obtained.

Member JoAnn O’Bannon made a motion to move the Murphy DeBary Property to the Group "B" List of eligible properties. Member Pat Northey seconded the motion that carried by unanimous voice vote.

Staff Updates –
Smith Property – Douglas Weaver provided a map of the property and explained that the St. Johns River Water Management District purchased this 800-acre tract of land, which is located north of S.R. 44 near I-4. It is adjacent to other conservation lands and to other properties currently on Volusia Forever’s Group “A” List. The District purchased this property with mitigation funds and will not be seeking a funding partner.
American Timberlands Property – The appraisals have been completed and County staff is in the process of negotiating with the property owners on this 4,700-acre tract.
Festival Property – The appraisals have been completed on this 3,000-acre tract and County staff has been in contact with the property owners to start negotiations. However, this property may already be under contract with another buyer. The St. Johns River Water Management District’s staff has indicated an interest in being a funding partner for this acquisition, if the County can acquire it at appraised value.
Townsend/Schroeder Property – This property has been sold to the Ansbachers, an investment group, who are interested in offering it to the County as a conservation easement acquisition. County staff is in the process of having it appraised.
Lunsford Property – This 2,200-acre tract of land is located on the north side of Pioneer Trail near S.R. 44. The Trust for Public Land (TPL) is the lead agency for the acquisition of this property, which is still in the negotiation stage. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has been identified as a potential funding partner, as they need to purchase lands for gopher tortoise mitigation. This acquisition would allow public access and outdoor passive recreational uses.
Ocklawaha/Ford Property (DLSCP) – The appraisals for this 86-acre tract have been completed and forward to the District for review. An offer for the property should be forthcoming.
Stanaki Property – The State, as the lead agency, made an offer to the property owners, but it was rejected. It has subsequently been sold to a developer.
Timberlands Consolidated/Lafayette Landings Property – The County is in the process of appraising this 370-acre tract, which would be an addition to the Plum Creek Property.
Progress Energy Property - The County is in the process of appraising this 1,600-acre tract, which would be an addition to the Lake George State Forest.
Double B Ranch Property - A funding partner has been identified, which is the District. However, the appraisals for this property have not been started.
Russell (Port Orange) Property – The City of Port Orange has submitted an application to Florida Communities Trust (FCT) and the County is waiting on the results to proceed. The potential funding contribution from the County is 25%.
Ponce Preserve Properties – The Town of Ponce Inlet has a contract for purchase on the Parker Mynchenberg parcel, which should close near the beginning of May with the County contributing approximately 50% of $250,000.00.
Charlene Strawn Old Growth Forest Property – The County is waiting on the property owner to move forward.
14. Akers Quail Ranch Property – This property was sold before it could be appraised. However, County staff has contacted the new property owners to determine their willingness to participate in the Volusia Forever Land Acquisition Program.

Discussion ensued regarding the real estate market and its effects on the County’s efforts to acquire conservation lands.

Comments
Chair Carrie Stewart praised and thanked County staff and Committee Members for their dedication and professionalism.

Adjournment
Meeting adjourned at 5:25P.M.