Holmes County commissioners examined a mediated settlement over a parcel that includes public lake access at Lake Cassidy and debated whether to accept deed language that opponents say would restrict vehicle entry and trailer access.

The settlement under negotiation covers the lease and boundary lines around the swimming area, boat landings and access road. County legal counsel and commissioners described an unresolved sticking point: the property owners agreed to the county’s requested boundary for the swimming area but resisted widening the road entrance that would make turning a boat trailer safer, county counsel said.

Why it matters: Commissioners said the disputed roadway geometry could create safety and access problems for park users and boat trailers. Several commissioners warned that erecting a post or similar physical barrier at the contested point would risk collisions and liability if drivers could not safely turn. One commissioner urged that the county consider eminent domain to secure additional land if the owners would not permit widening.

Discussion highlights: Commissioners reviewed a 2019 boundary survey used for appraisal and a more recent survey that widened the county’s understanding of the disputed area. One commissioner summarized the concern: putting a post in the middle of the road would create a safety hazard and be “inconvenient” for large trailers. Another commissioner said the judge had already granted the county the road; the dispute centers on the point where the road “spills out” into the property being purchased.

Legal and financial context: Commissioners discussed prior mediation, the costs of pursuing litigation, and the alternative of eminent domain. Staff said the appraisal at the time showed a value in the mid-to-high $200,000 range and that eminent domain costs were estimated at about $303,000. Commissioners noted insurance funds and mediation expenses already spent; the board declined to close immediately and directed staff to seek additional legal and engineering input.

Next steps and possible outcomes: Commissioners agreed to continue discussions with counsel and the property owners, and to put the item back on a future agenda. A commissioner suggested contacting the county’s delegation and counsel in Tallahassee for guidance on eminent domain and state-level support. The board asked county staff to bring back legal options, cost estimates, and any remaining deed language for final consideration.

Ending: No settlement was finalized; the commissioners left the item open while seeking further legal review and cost details on eminent domain and potential impacts to park operations.