County approves settlement agreements for Pinelands Preserve access issues

St. Lucie County officials are poised to resolve ongoing legal disputes concerning the Pinelands Preserve, a popular 750-acre area known for its trails and birdwatching opportunities. During the April 8, 2025, Board of County Commissioners meeting, staff presented two proposed settlement agreements aimed at restoring public access to the preserve after a series of court rulings deemed a key easement invalid.

The county acquired the Pinelands Preserve in 1998, partially funded by a Florida Communities Trust grant. However, a lawsuit initiated by a neighboring property owner challenged the validity of a 1991 easement, leading to court decisions that stripped the county of both public and private access through that easement. In light of these developments, county staff have been actively seeking alternative access routes.

Currently, a temporary access arrangement exists with the South Florida Water Management District, which borders the preserve. Discussions are ongoing to establish a more permanent solution that would allow the county to connect its access to the preserve via the district's infrastructure.

The proposed settlements, reached on March 27, 2025, would require the county to forgo access through the plaintiff's property and seek a release of interest in the easements from the Florida Communities Trust. Additionally, the county must modify a mining permit and secure administrative approvals related to the plaintiff's property by June 25, 2025. If these conditions are met, the litigation will be dismissed, allowing for public access to the preserve.

The second settlement involves a $400,000 payment from the title company to the county, which would also lead to the dismissal of claims against the county. County staff emphasized that continuing litigation could be costly and time-consuming, making the settlements a practical solution to ensure public access to the preserve.

The board is expected to vote on these agreements in the coming weeks, with staff recommending approval to facilitate a swift resolution and restore access to this vital community resource.