Leesburg commission approves donation of Palmetto Street parcel to Forward Paths after narrow amendment to building timetable

The Leesburg City Commission voted Aug. 25 to transfer a city-owned parcel at 309 S. Palmetto St. to Forward Paths Foundation, a nonprofit that operates housing and services for young adults exiting foster care or experiencing homelessness. The resolution passed after commissioners amended the deed covenants to shorten a construction-timeline requirement from five years to 2.5 years.

The transfer prompted extensive public comment. Members of the Leesburg Shuffleboard Club, local residents and retirees urged the commission to preserve the facilitya0—the site includes 24 shuffleboard courts and a clubhouseas a historic recreational asset and tourist draw. They said the courts host state tournaments, attract out-of-town visitors, and support local businesses. Speakers provided petitions and asked the city to identify alternative sites.

Representatives of Forward Paths described the organizationas operating transitional housing programs: Forward Paths told the commission it would fund the build and provide case management, supportive services, and vocational guidance. Jacob Bonning, president of Forward Paths, said the plan calls for 10 two-bedroom tiny homes to house up to 20 youth and ancillary storage; Forward Paths said it would fund construction without requesting city capital funds.

Commission debate touched on competing community priorities: preserving a recreation and tourism facility versus adding locally based housing and services for vulnerable young adults. Several commissioners and staff noted Forward Pathshas existing programs in the area and argued that the site offers walkable access to jobs, transit and training resources. Critics said the city had been opaque in its process and asked that other city-owned surplus parcels and the cityresource center be considered as alternatives.

Ethics concerns were raised publicly because a Forward Paths founder is a relative of a commissioner; the city attorney reported that staff had reviewed the situation and concluded it did not create a statutory voting conflict under Florida law. Commissioner Connell voted no; Commissioners Peterson, Burry, Berry and Mayor Reisman voted yes. The commission also approved an amendment to the deed covenants that shortens the construction requirement so Forward Paths must apply for permits for at least 50% of planned units within 2.5 years (previously five years). The deed includes nontransferability provisions, utility and parking easements and a reversion clause if Forward Paths fails to meet requirements.

Forward Paths and shuffleboard supporters said they would continue discussions about alternative sites and mitigation; the resolution authorizes the mayor and city clerk to execute a special warranty deed subject to the conditions adopted by the commission.