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Panel advances bill to transfer Tequesta Park to village with public-use conditions
Summary
The Natural Resources & Disaster Subcommittee reported HB 4025 favorably after Rep. Gentry said the bill would transfer about 41.1 acres known as Tequesta Park to the Village of Tequesta, requiring it remain a public park and revert to state trustees if sold.
A Florida House subcommittee voted to report HB 4025 favorably after a brief presentation and unanimous support from members and public proponents.
Rep. Gentry, presenting the bill on behalf of Rep. Snyder, told the Natural Resources and Disaster Subcommittee the measure would direct the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund to transfer roughly 41.1 acres currently identified as Tequesta Park to the Village of Tequesta. The bill would require the village to manage the property continuously as a public park and green space for recreational, educational and conservation uses. Any subsequent sale, Gentry said, would trigger reversion of the property back to the trustees.
Gentry said the village has operated the park under a 50-year lease since 2005, paying utilities, maintaining roads and buildings, and holding liability insurance. He estimated the transfer would occur within about 60 days of the bill becoming law.
Public supporters signaled their backing during the committee hearing. Keith Pruitt and Molly Young were recorded as waving their support for the bill; no opponents signed up to testify.
With no amendments offered and no debate recorded, the clerk called the roll and the committee approved the bill 15-0. The committee chair said HB 4025 was reported favorably to the next stage.
The committee did not specify implementation tasks or reporting deadlines tied to the transfer during the hearing.
