02/24/2004 - Laserfiche WebLink

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PROJECT - LAND ACOUISITION ADVISORY COMMITTEE (LAAO) (Legislative) PROOF OF PUBLICATION OF ADVERTISEMENT FOR HEARING IS ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK TO THE BOARD Environmental Planning Chief Roland DeBlois displayed an aerial view of the site for purchase detailing the adjacent conservation areas. He explained the purchase would give the County the opportunity to directly connect the Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area (ORCA) with the South Oslo Conservation area. Staff intends to remove Brazilian Pepper trees and other exotic plant pests and restore the property to its native vegetation. He reviewed the details outlined in his memorandum (copy on file) stating that the Land Acquisition Advisory Committee approved this request 11-0. He explained that the owner Stella Arendas had the property listed at $399,000 and has received offers at that price. He said the purchase price of $396,000 (20% over the appraised value) was negotiated. He presented the main reasons for this request: development pressure, a 40% funding grant, the proximity to the other conservation areas, and provisions of a good link between the two projects. Due to the fact that they negotiated the purchase price of $396,000, the purchase would require a super majority vote of 4 out of 5 in favor and he recommended approval in coordination with our cost -share partnership with the Florida Communities Trust. Commissioner Macht said the Land Acquisition Advisory Committee had been looking to buy this property for five years. He praised the Committee for taking this land out of development and reducing density and pollution to the river. He felt it is an important decision and he encouraged the Board's support. The Chairman opened the public hearing and asked if anyone wished to be heard with regard to this matter. Brian Heady of Vero Beach repeated his opinion that when you turn private property over to public property; we should receive something in return. February 24, 2004 - 11 -