Council defers decision on 24-acre riverfront parcel, seeks conservation options

Council discussed a 24-acre city-owned parcel adjacent to the Blackwater River that had been proposed for surplus and potential sale. Several council members urged conservation, citing proximity to Cooper's Basin and wetland concerns; the council asked staff to pursue conservation options and to return with a report at the February committee meeting rather than declare the property surplus tonight.

Councilwoman Jessica Farrow and other council members referenced prior conversations about offering the land to conservation organizations, including the Northwest Florida Water Management District and potential Florida Forever programs. Residents and environmental advocates in the meeting urged permanent conservation of the property and suggested deed restrictions or direct sale to a conservation agency.

City staff said marketing the parcel was an option in the agenda materials but recommended additional research and stakeholder outreach before any sale. Council consensus favored pursuing conservation conversations, asking staff and the city's contract real estate advisor to identify options and to brief the council in February. No sale or surplus declaration was approved during the meeting.