Moseley Homestead stewards seek more time; county asks for plan to unlock matching funds
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Summary
The Timberly Trust described preservation work at the Moseley Homestead and proposed low‑impact capital additions in place of a larger community center. The county asked the trust to submit a business and visitation plan and bids so board can evaluate a requested change in scope and public funding.
The board received a staff report and public testimony on the historic Moseley Homestead on Dec. 17 as the Timberly Trust requested a change in scope for capital funding.
Trust members and preservation specialists described the homestead's 143‑year history, conservation covenants and careful, phased preservation work supported in part by Hillsborough County and state grants. The trust proposed replacing a previously contemplated community center with two low‑impact structures — an eco center and a creative studio — to preserve landscape integrity and avoid altering covenants.
John Mueller, director of Facilities and Real Estate Services, told the board staff required two items before releasing additional capital funding: an updated business plan detailing visitation/operations and bids/quotes for the proposed work. Staff recommended a shortened timeframe for submittal (about three months) so the board can evaluate the change in scope and the public benefit for additional public funds.
Commissioners moved to ask the trust to submit a plan by March 31, 2026; the motion carried (6–0). Staff said preservation work funded to date will continue at the trust's pace and encouraged use of county preservation challenge grants for future pacing.