Board chair set to sign $3M land acquisition deal with Radiant by February 28

During the Flagler County Commission Workshop held on February 10, 2025, significant discussions centered around the acquisition of land from Rayonier Radiant, a move that could preserve over 200 acres of vital natural resources. The meeting highlighted the urgency of finalizing a $3 million legislative appropriation, which is set to expire at the end of the month.

The commission has been actively pursuing this acquisition for several years, with the Radiant property being the last remaining option from an initial list of potential sites. The urgency stems from the need to close the deal by February 28, 2025, to avoid losing the funding. The commission is currently working on appraisals, surveys, and title work to ensure the purchase aligns with the allocated budget.

The proposed purchase agreement, which will be discussed in a special meeting following the workshop, aims to secure the land at a price not exceeding $3 million. This acquisition is seen as a crucial step in preserving the environment and managing local water resources, as the parcels will connect with existing water management district lands.

Additionally, the commission expressed interest in further discussions with Rayonier regarding a potential well field, although no agreements have been reached on that front. The meeting also touched on a separate $10 million funding opportunity from the Florida Wildlife Conservation, which could provide more flexibility for future projects, although it is not directly tied to the current acquisition.

In summary, the workshop underscored the commission's commitment to environmental preservation and the pressing timeline to secure funding for the land purchase. The outcome of the upcoming special meeting will be pivotal in determining the future of these critical natural resources in Flagler County.