Commission votes 4-1 to begin formal negotiations on sale of Ocean Palm golf course; deed restrictions and stormwater easements highlighted

The City Commission voted 4-1 to authorize formal negotiations and permit the city manager to sign a letter of intent (LOI) related to the possible sale of the Ocean Palm Golf Course, after hearing a presentation from the tenant-proponent and extensive public comment.

What the buyers proposed: Jay Livingston, attorney for Ocean Palm Golf Club LLC, told the commission the prospective owners have updated the LOI to reference the average appraisal value, include a deed restriction that would be terminable only by unanimous commission consent, and address drainage easements needed for an already-issued stormwater permit. The buyers said they have a permit in hand from the St. Johns River Water Management District for course renovation and irrigation work and proposed a phased build-out that the presenter estimated would cost about $6,000,000 overall.

Key factual points - Vote and motion: The Commission voted 4-1 to enter formal negotiations and to authorize the city manager to sign the LOI; Commissioner Cunningham cast the lone vote against entering negotiations. - Permit and site work: The…