MINUTES
VOLUSIA FOREVER ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
3:30p.m. - 5:30p.m.
THOMAS C. KELLY BLDG., TRAINING ROOMS 1 & 2
123 W. INDIANA AVENUE, DELAND, FL 32720
 

Meeting Called to Order
Phil Maroney, Chair, called the meeting to order at 3:35p.m.

After welcoming all, Phil Maroney, Chair, asked for an introduction of the two (2) new Committee Members by County staff.

Rob Walsh introduced Members Kenneth Russell and Alan Long, and welcomed them to the Committee.

Roll Call
Phil Maroney, Chair, instructed the Recording Secretary to record the roll of the Members in attendance, in which six (6) Members were present. Members Dennis Bayer, Alan Alshouse and Anne Hallum were recorded as an Excused Absence.

Approval of Minutes
Phil Maroney, Chair, called for a motion to approve the April 19, 2006, Minutes. Member JoAnn O’Bannon made a motion to approve the April 19, 2006, Minutes, as written. Member Reid Hughes seconded the motion that carried by unanimous voice vote.

Discussion and Determination of Eligibility for Submitted Applications
Rob Walsh explained that the Committee would be reviewing thirteen (13) properties that have been submitted for the 1st Cycle of 2006 (January 1, 2006 thru June 30, 2006), and determining whether these properties are eligible for further consideration under the Volusia Forever Land Acquisition Program. All properties that are determined eligible for the 1st Cycle of 2006 will be ranked on September 20, 2006. He reminded the Committee that Resolution 2004-80 requires a property to meet at least four (4) of the Primary Criteria, and have an affirmative vote of at least five (5) Members in order for a property to be determined as eligible.

Randall Sleister explained that the information contained in the “Initial Review Report” is preliminary and very general. He added that a site visit was not conducted to evaluate each property. However, after the property has been determined “eligible,” staff will conduct a site visit to collect additional information for an in-depth report that will be provided for the ranking process.

1. Lake George Road Property – Rob Walsh provided the following information about this property:
   1. it is approximately 53 acres in size;
   2. it is located off Lake George Road within the Lake George Wildlife Management Area near the Town of Seville;
   3. it adjoins other public lands owned by the St. Johns River Water Management District (District);
   4. it completes acquisitions under previous land acquisition programs; and
   5. it meets 8 of the 13 Primary Criteria.

Rob Walsh also stated that this application would fill-in some of the in-holdings of Lake George Wildlife Management Area. It is staff’s intention to combine this property with the McBride Road Property Application to make one (1) project, as both properties are owned by the same property owner.

Member Pat Northey requested clarification on the issue of connectivity after reviewing the map that had been provided in the Committee’s package.

Rob Walsh and Randall Sleister replied that both properties have connectivity to other public lands. However, the McBride Road Property has connectivity on the south side of the property, where as, the Lake George Property has connectivity on the north, south and west sides of the property.

Member Pat Northey asked what type of habitat exists on the property.

Rob Walsh responded that this property is undeveloped, and deferred the question to Randall Sleister.

Randall Sleister added that this property consists primarily of pine.

Member Alan Long added that this property consists of a well developed natural stand of long leaf and slash pine.

Chair Phil Maroney asked if a funding partner had been identified.

Rob Walsh replied that the property owner contacted the District prior to submitting the applications, and the District indicated that they would be a funding partner with a contribution of 25% of the acquisition costs.

Member Reid Hughes made a motion to accept the Lake George Road Property Application as an eligible project. Member JoAnn O’Bannon seconded the motion that carried by unanimous voice vote.

2. McBride Road Property – Rob Walsh provided the following information about this property:
   a. it is approximately 10 acres in size;
   f. it is located off McBride Road within the Lake George Wildlife Management Area near the Town of Seville;
   g. it adjoins other public lands owned by the St. Johns River Water Management District;
   b. it completes acquisitions under previous land acquisition programs; and
   c. it meets 7 of the 13 Primary Criteria

Member Reid Hughes made a motion to accept the McBride Road Property Application as an eligible project. Member JoAnn O’Bannon seconded the motion that carried by unanimous voice vote.

3. Copeland (Lake Gertie) Property – Rob Walsh provided the following information about this property:
   1. it is approximately 24 acres in size;
   2. it is located off North Stone Street, and Lake Gertie Road near West International Speedway Boulevard Extension in the City of DeLand;
   3. it is an undeveloped tract of land in an urban area;
   4. it is part of a 100 acre area identified by the County’s Public Works Department to preserve for stormwater/flood control;
   5. there is no connectivity to other public lands; and
   6. it meets 5 of the 13 Primary Criteria.

Rob Walsh added that after reviewing the application, flooding issues in the area were revealed. At that time, contact was made with Mr. Gary Cook, Stormwater Manager for the County’s Public Works Department. During discussions with Mr. Cook, he explained that the Public Works Department had identified a 100 acre area, including this property, for stormwater/flood control. He expressed the need for keeping these properties in a natural state to yield the benefits for stormwater/flood control.

Member Reid Hughes pointed out that a large portion of this property is encompassed by Lake Gertie. He asked if there were any issues regarding sovereign lands.

Randall Sleister responded that the water levels of Lake Gertie fluctuate greatly based upon amounts of rain, and there shouldn’t be any issues regarding sovereign lands.

Discussion ensued after Member Reid Hughes asked why this application should be determined as eligible given the fact that most of it is encompassed by Lake Gertie.

Rob Walsh pointed out that this property would provide green space for an urban park, and stormwater/flood control.

Member Pat Northey expressed a concern regarding the use of Volusia Forever funds for stormwater/flood control.

Rob Walsh referenced the Primary Criteria, which states: “the property contains quality water bodies and wetlands, thus providing protection of natural flood plain functions and preventing or reducing flood damage,” to alleviate Member Pat Northey’s concern regarding the use of Volusia Forever funds for stormwater/flood control.

Member Alan Long asked if the lake was attached to an aquifer.

Randall Sleister responded that there is a possibility, but could not confirm that fact. He added that this area has been identified as a water recharge area.

Discussion ensued regarding potential management issues, as this property is located in an urban area.

Richard Copeland, property owner, was present to provide additional information and answer any questions.

Member Reid Hughes made a motion to deny the Copeland Lake Gertie Property Application as an eligible project. Member Pat Northey seconded the motion that carried by unanimous voice vote.

4. Lake Beresford Yacht Company Property – Rob Walsh provided the following information about this property:
   1. it is approximately 10-13 acres in size;
   2. it is located off Hontoon Road on Lake Beresford;
   3. it is surrounded by single-family residential properties;
   4. the property owners are offering a portion of the property for conservation, but intend on expanding the current marina; and
   5. it meets 3 of the 13 Primary Criteria.

Chair Phil Maroney asked if any improvements exist on the portion of the property being offered for conservation.

Rob Walsh replied that the portion of the property being offered is undeveloped, natural land.

Member Pat Northey made a motion to deny the Lake Beresford Yacht Company Property Application as an eligible project. Member JoAnn O’Bannon seconded the motion that carried by unanimous voice vote.

5. Florida Acres, Inc. Property – Rob Walsh provided the following information about this property:
   1. it is approximately 380-400 acres in size consisting of approximately 185 parcels varying in size from 1 ¼ to 2 ½ acres;
   2. it is located off Ranchette Road, south of S.R. 44 and west of S.R. 415;
   3. it is within Howe & Currier, an antiquated platted subdivision, which has been targeted by the Small Lot Acquisition Program;
   4. the Howe & Currier subdivision abuts the Volusia/Flagler Conservation Corridor to the west;
   5. there are management issues; and
   6. it meets 5 of the 13 Primary Criteria.

Rob Walsh added that staff would recommend that the Committee turn the acquisition of this project over to the Small Lot Acquisition Program, if they determine this project to be eligible for further consideration. He further added that unlike other small lot acquisitions, these parcels are owned by one (1) owner, and are closer together with some lots being contiguous to each other.

Discussion ensued regarding development of this area after Member Pat Northey asked about roads and infrastructure.

Randall Sleister responded that a road system with today’s standards would have to be in place in order for a building permit to be issued.

Douglas Weaver added that this project offers some contiguity of the parcels, where other projects have been very scattered.

Randall Sleister also added that this acquisition could bring forth a more concentrated effort by County staff to acquire additional lots to make one large contiguous area for conservation.

Discussion ensued regarding the Small Lot Acquisition Program, and how this project qualified for acquisition under that program rather than Volusia Forever.

Member Pat Northey asked if there was a cap in the amount of monies set aside for the Small Lot Acquisition Program.

Rob Walsh explained that there currently is a cap of $125,000.00 per year for the Small Lot Acquisition Program. He further explained that staff foresees the need for raising the cap in order to fund this project along with other small lot acquisitions.

Member Pat Northey asked if there was a cap on the amount of monies to purchase each lot.

Rob Walsh responded that the standard operating procedure would be to offer up to two (2) times the appraised value, according to the County’s Property Appraisers Office website. He added that these lots are being assessed at $500.00 to $1,000.00, which means they could be purchased for up to $2,000.00.

Member Pat Northey asked how many of the lots in the area were developed.

Rob Walsh replied that the development was scattered, and primarily on the main roadways. However, there wasn’t any in this area.

Randall Sleister concurred that the development is scattered, and not in this area.

Member Kenneth Russell asked if this project would have value without acquiring additional lots.

Rob Walsh explained that the acquisition of this project would have value because it could prevent development of this area.

Randall Sleister added that the acquisition of these small lots would also handle issues such as poaching and timber theft.

Member Reid Hughes made a motion to accept the Florida Acres, Inc. Property Application as an eligible project, and turn the application over to the Small Lot Acquisition Program, which is a subsection of the Volusia Forever Land Acquisition Program, for acquisition. Member Kenneth Russell seconded the motion that carried by unanimous voice vote.

6. 1675 Perch Lane Property – Rob Walsh provided the following information about this property:
   1. it is approximately 12 acres in size with approximately 700 feet of lake frontage;
   2. it is located off Lake George Road within the Lake George Wildlife Management Area near the Town of Seville;
   3. it adjoins other public lands owned by the St. Johns River Water Management District (District);
   4. it completes acquisitions under previous land acquisition programs;
   5. it primarily consists of oak hammock;
   6. there is an active greenhouse on the property;
   7. it provides opportunities for outdoor recreational activities; and
   8. it meets 4 of the 13 Primary Criteria

Rob Walsh also stated that this application would fill-in some of the in-holdings of the Lake George Wildlife Management Area.

Member Alan Long asked if there were any other structures on the property.

Steven Oxier and Marshall Hoerl, property owners, were present to provide additional information, and to answer any questions. They replied that the only structure that exists on the property is the commercial greenhouse, which is currently operational.

Chair Phil Maroney asked if there was access to the property.

Steven Oxier and Marshall Hoerl responded that there is access off of Lake George Road.

Member Pat Northey made a motion to accept the 1675 Perch Lane Property Application as an eligible project. Member Kenneth Russell seconded the motion that carried by unanimous voice vote.

7. Salanitro Property – Rob Walsh provided the following information about this property:
   1. it is approximately 29 acres in size;
   2. it is part of the 150 acre Charlene Strawn Old Growth Forest Property, which is currently on Volusia Forever’s Group “A” List;
   3. it is located on Lake Dias; and
   4. it meets 6 of the 13 Primary Criteria.

Rob Walsh reminded the Committee that there were ownership issues with the Charlene Strawn Old Growth Forest Property. As a result of this issue, this property was purchased by David Salanitro, who has resubmitted a Volusia Forever Application to include this property with the Charlene Strawn Old Growth Forest Property.

Chair Phil Maroney asked if there was access to this property.

Rob Walsh explained that access would be obtained through the Charlene Strawn Old Growth Forest Property.

Douglas Weaver stated this property would have to be acquired along with the Charlene Strawn Old Growth Forest Property.

Member Kenneth Russell added that the acquisition of this property would enhance the acquisition of the Charlene Strawn Old Growth Forest Property by not leaving a “hole in the donut.”

Member JoAnn O’Bannon made a motion to accept the Salanitro Property Application as an eligible project. Member Alan Long seconded the motion that carried by unanimous voice vote.

8. Buckhorn Ranch Property – Rob Walsh provided the following information about this property:
   1. it is approximately 100 acres in size consisting of 33 parcels;
   2. it is within Cape Atlantic Estates, an antiquated platted subdivision, which has been targeted by the Small Lot Acquisition Program;
   3. it is adjacent to Turnbull Hammock, which is owned by the St. Johns River Water Management District;
   4. it is inside the Indian River Lagoon Blueway Project boundary, which is a Florida Forever Group “A” Project; and
   5. it meets 4 of the 13 Primary Criteria.

Rob Walsh provided another map depicting the location of these parcels with regards to connectivity to other public lands. He added that staff would recommend that the Committee turn the acquisition of this project over to the Small Lot Acquisition Program, if they determine this project to be eligible for further consideration.

After Member Kenneth Russell noticed that this project only meets 4 of the 13 Primary Criteria, he asked for clarification on staff’s recommendation to handle the acquisition of these scattered parcels under the Small Lot Acquisition Program.

Rob Walsh explained that the Small Lot Acquisition Program was designed to acquire smaller lots that meet the goal of conservation, but don’t meet most of the criteria of the Volusia Forever Land Acquisition Program. He added that most of these small lots have issues relating to connectivity, access, and management. Typically, staff handles the title search, and makes offers without going through the appraisal process. Surveys are also not done.

Member Alan Long asked how much of this area has been developed.

Rob Walsh and Randall Sleister responded that there was limited development in this area, which is along Maytown Road.

Member Reid Hughes stated that the St. Johns River Water Management District (District) has an active interest in this area.

Rob Walsh added that lands in this area lying east of I-95 are part of the Indian River Lagoon Blueway Project, a Florida Forever Group “A” Project. Although these lots are in an area of interest by the District and State, a funding partner would not be necessary to acquire these lots under the Small Lot Acquisition Program.

Member Reid Hughes made a motion to accept the Buckhorn Ranch Property Application as an eligible project, and turn the application over to the Small Lot Acquisition Program, which is a subsection of the Volusia Forever Land Acquisition Program, for acquisition. Member JoAnn O’Bannon seconded the motion that carried by unanimous voice vote.

9. Kicklighter Property – Rob Walsh provided the following information about this property:
   1. this application was developed and is being presented by the City of Lake Helen;
   2. it is approximately 18 acres in size;
   3. it is located off East Kicklighter Road and adjacent to the Lesher Property;
   4. it is adjacent to other public lands, Lake Colby Park;
   5. it is currently on the real estate market for sale as a package deal with the Lesher Property; and
   6. it meets 6 of the 13 Primary Criteria.

Rob Walsh added that the County’s Leisure Services Division has expressed an interest in the property. It is staff’s intention to combine this property with the Lesher Property Application to make one (1) project, if the Committee determines them to be eligible for further consideration.

Randall Sleister stated that this project would allow access to the peninsula area of Lake Colby Park, which currently is only accessed via water.

Member Pat Northey asked if the City of Lake Helen would be a funding partner for the acquisition of this project.

Rob Walsh replied that the City of Lake Helen is willing to be a funding partner, but they have limited resources.

Douglas Weaver added that a Florida Communities Trust (FCT) application could be submitted as an after the fact purchase, which would provide additional points on the FCT application. He further added that this method has been used with other purchases to maximize points in the very competitive FCT grant process.

Randall Sleister stated that the original purchase of the Lake Colby Park properties was facilitated by FCT grants.

Member Pat Northey made a motion to accept the Kicklighter Property Application as an eligible project. Member Alan Long seconded the motion that carried by unanimous voice vote.

10. Lesher Property – Rob Walsh provided the following information about this property:
    1. This application was developed and is being presented by the City of Lake Helen;
    2. it is approximately 3 acres in size;
    3. it is located off East Kicklighter Road adjacent to the Kicklighter Property;
    4. it is adjacent to other public lands, Lake Colby Park;
    5. it is currently on the real estate market for sale as a package deal with the Kicklighter Property; and
    6. it meets 6 of the 13 Primary Criteria.

Rob Walsh added that the County’s Leisure Services Division has expressed an interest in the property. It is staff’s intention to combine this property with the Kicklighter Property Application to make one (1) project, if the Committee determines them to be eligible for further consideration.

Member Kenneth Russell made a motion to accept the Lesher Property Application as an eligible project. Member Pat Northey seconded the motion that carried by unanimous voice vote.

11. Stone Island Property – Rob Walsh provided the following information about this property:
    1. it is approximately 80 acres in size with 6 acres being water;
    2. it is located on Lake Harney off Lake Harney Road in the Osteen area;
    3. there is a ridge and landing strip on the property;
    4. historically, it was used as a celery farm;
    5. it was homesteaded in the 1800s;
    6. it has been identified as part of an environmental corridor; and
    7. it meets 7 of the 13 Primary Criteria.

Randall Sleister added that this property is not adjacent to other public lands, but it is in very close proximity.

Rob Walsh stated that an article about this property, and its history was published in the July 26, 2006, Orlando Sentinel.

Chair Phil Maroney asked if there were any other structures on the property besides the fire tower.

Rob Walsh replied that there had been a house on the property, but it was destroyed by fire.

Chair Phil Maroney observed that the property has been heavily impacted with most of the property consisting of improved pasture.

Rob Walsh agreed, but explained that this property provides outdoor recreational opportunities because there is a boat ramp that provides access to Lake Harney.

Member Pat Northey asked if there was access to the property.

Randall Sleister replied that access would be via Lake Harney Road.

Member Alan Long asked what the major uses of the property would be because it consists primarily of improved pasture.

Rob Walsh explained that the property could provide outdoor recreational opportunities such as boating and picnicking.

Randall Sleister also explained that restoration of the pasture area to a more natural state would be an objective. He further explained that nature trails could be installed.

Member Pat Northey made a motion to accept the Stone Island Property Application as an eligible project. Member JoAnn O’Bannon seconded the motion that carried by a roll call vote of five (5) to one (1) with Member Alan Long opposed.

12. Dawnview Square Property – Rob Walsh provided the following information about this property:
    1. this application was developed, and is being presented by the City of Port Orange for the second time;
    2. it is approximately 3.6 acres in aggregate consisting of 12 single family homes on single family lots located in the City of Port Orange off Spruce Creek Road;
    3. these lots historically have had flooding problems, which were exaggerated after the 2004 hurricane season;
    4. this project would increase the green/open space of the City’s active park, Spruce Creek Road Park, which is adjacent to this project;
    5. the City is seeking funding (50%) from Volusia Forever to acquire these lots with single family homes that would be demolished in an attempt to restore the lots to a more natural state, and remedy the flooding problems; and
    6. it meets 3 of the 13 Primary Criteria.

Chair Phil Maroney reminded the Committee that this project does not meet the program’s minimum Primary Criteria requirement of four (4).

Rob Walsh added that during the initial review process, staff found it difficult to complete the Initial Review Report as this project is a subdivision, and there aren’t any environmental issues related to this project. However, staff took into consideration the City’s intention to return these lots to a more natural state. The application states that the City intends to use the area as open/recreational space for the surrounding neighborhoods during dry periods, and as a stormwater area during the wet season. The City now has approved funding from FEMA for the acquisition of these 12 single-family homes.

Ken Parker, City Manager, and Kent Donahue were present to represent the City of Port Orange, and answer any questions.

Member Pat Northey recalled that this project would involve demolishing the single-family homes, and creating a retention area for stormwater to resolve the flooding issues in the area.

Ken Parker replied that the City initially intended for this area to be a retention area for stormwater in an effort to resolve these flooding issues. However, the City now intends on restoring this area to a hardwood hammock. It would not be part of the natural area retention pond system, but part of the open space program. However, this project is a part of the Rose Bay restoration project. He stated that these homes were constructed between 1974 and 1978, which is believed to have been prior to the implementation of state or county building regulations. He added that these homes would not be constructed today based on the current rules and regulations. The City has received funding approval from FEMA for a $1.5 million hazard mitigation grant. The City intends on demolishing the homes, and taking out the infrastructure (i.e., road system) at their expense, and would seek funding aide from Volusia Forever for the purchase of the land.

Chair Phil Maroney asked Ken Parker how much money would be required to acquire these properties above the $1.5 million from FEMA.

Ken Parker explained that the estimated acquisition cost would be around $3 million, which would leave a balance of approximately $1.5 million. He also explained that under FEMA’s criteria the value of a home would be what it was valued at the day prior to the storm.

Douglas Weaver asked if the City had a time table for this project.

Ken Parker replied that the City anticipates beginning the acquisition process in October 2006.

Member Pat Northey asked if the City would be a participating partner for the acquisition of this project.

Ken Parker responded that the City would be a participating partner for the acquisition of this project.

Member Pat Northey noted that the City’s application indicates the presence of trees that are over 100 years of age, which are mainly oaks and palms. She asked if the City intends on preserving these trees.

Ken Parker explained that the City intends on preserving the trees to create a hardwood hammock.

Member Pat Northey inquired about the condition of the Spruce Creek Road Park land that abuts this project.

Ken Parker replied that there is a wetlands area at the center of the Spruce Creek Road Park, which historically ran from Spruce Creek Road Park through the proposed project.

Member Reid Hughes asked how the project would be a part of the Rose Bay restoration/cleanup.

Ken Parker explained that once the area is returned to a hardwood hammock, the water flow should be reduced by allowing the hammock to naturally filter the water. The Cambridge Canal, which flows into Rose Bay, is approximately two (2) blocks away from this project area.

Chair Phil Maroney asked Ken Parker if the City intends for Volusia Forever to fully fund the $1.5 million, which is the difference between the estimated acquisition costs ($3 million) and the FEMA grant award ($1.5 million).

Ken Parker stated that the City intends on contributing funds towards the acquisition costs of this project along with in-kind sources along with other funds, such as Florida Communities Trust (FCT) and other grants.

Discussion ensued regarding the proposed restoration of this project area back into a natural area.

Member Reid Hughes made a motion to accept the Dawnview Square Property Application as an eligible project. Member Pat Northey seconded the motion that failed by a roll call vote of four (4) to two (2), as Resolution 2004 80 requires an affirmative vote of at least five (5) Members to pass. Chair Phil Maroney and Member Alan Long were opposed to the motion.

13. Thornby Property – Rob Walsh provided the following information about this property:
    1. this application was developed, and is being presented by the City of Deltona;
    2. it is approximately 38 acres in size with 1,000 feet of lake frontage;
    3. it is located off Lakeshore Drive and Providence Boulevard on Lake Monroe in the Enterprise area;
    4. the City of Deltona would be a funding partner along with FCT; and
    5. it meets 7 of the 13 Primary Criteria.

Kathy Culligan, representative for the City of Deltona, was present to provide additional information, and answer any questions.

Member Reid Hughes asked if an application had been submitted to ECHO.

Kathy Culligan replied that an ECHO grant application had not been submitted because the City is working on the land acquisition phase of the project. She added that the City has submitted an application to FCT for funding along with potential funding from Volusia Forever. Once the property is acquired, the City intends on installing nature trails, bike trails, etc. for passive outdoor recreation and education.

Member Reid Hughes suggested that the City seeking funding from an ECHO grant.

Member Kenneth Russell, who is also a member of the ECHO Committee, stated that it was the City’s decision whether an ECHO grant should be applied for, and not something that a Committee Member should recommend.

Kathy Culligan again stated that the City was working on the land acquisition phase of this project. Therefore, an application had been submitted to Volusia Forever. After the land has been acquired, then the City would determine whether an ECHO grant application was needed for the other development needs. She also stated that the City does not foresee major development of this project as they intend on keeping it as natural as possible.

Member Pat Northey stated that the Community has been working for years to put this property into public ownership. She added that Green Springs, a County park, is in very close proximity of this property.

Janet Deyette, City Commission for the City of Deltona, stated that this property was a biologists dream, according to the City’s biologist. She added that the property owner has conducted an archeological study on the property, but has not provided the results to the City.

Member Pat Northey made a motion to accept the Thornby Property Application as an eligible project. Member Alan Long seconded the motion that carried by unanimous voice vote.

Staff Updates -
After thanking the property owners for their willingness to participate in the Volusia Forever Land Acquisition Program, Douglas Weaver provided the following updates:

1. Mynchenburg Property – this was a joint acquisition effort between the Town of Ponce Inlet and the County for a 21 acre parcel. This property is now in public ownership. The Town of Ponce Inlet with the support of the County has filed a Florida Communities Trust (FCT) Grant Application.
2. Festival Property – this 2,900 acre piece of property, which is located within the Volusia/Flagler Conservation Corridor on SR 44, is currently being appraised.
3. Stanaki/ ICI Property – this property abuts the Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve. The Department of Environmental Protection is the lead agency for this acquisition. Negotiations are on-going.
4. Ocklawaha – this property is within Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve. At this time, there isn’t any progress in the land acquisition process.
5. Charlene Strawn Old Growth Forest – staff is currently working with the property owners. At this time, there isn’t any progress in the land acquisition process.
6. Double B Ranch – this is a 3,700 acre piece of property, which is adjacent to the Haw Creek State Preserve, owned by the SJRWMD. Staff is currently negotiating with the property owners.
7. Russell (Port Orange) – this 17 acre piece of property is in the final stages of acquisition.
8. David Strawn – staff is currently negotiating with the property owner for this 1,200 acre piece of property located in the DeLeon Springs area off Lake Winona Road and U.S. Hwy. 17.
9. Hughes/Huntington Trust – these properties are currently being appraised. An FCT grant application has been tendered.
10. Krol – the appraisal process is forthcoming on this 660 acre piece of property located on S.R. 415.
11. Eubank/Rosier – this 30 acre piece of property located in the Doris Leeper Spruce Creek preserve is moving forward in the acquisition process with the St. Johns River Water Management District as the funding partner.
12. Ford – staff is currently in negotiation with the property owners. This property is also located in the Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve,

Discussion ensued regarding the impact to the projected revenues for the Volusia Forever Land Acquisition Program by the real estate market.

Member Pat Northey asked for clarification on the next steps of the Volusia Forever Land Acquisition Program.

Rob Walsh explained that the next step in the process would be for the Committee to rank all applications that have been determined as eligible. County staff will provide an in-depth report on each property to assist the Committee in determining the placement of each property on either the Group “A” or “B” List. This ranking determination will be conducted at the next meeting, which will be held on September 20, 2006. Once the Committee has determined the ranking of each property, the list will be presented to the County Council for final approval. After this approval from County Council, County staff will begin the acquisition process on the Group “A” List properties.

Adjournment
Meeting adjourned at 5:17p.m.