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Staff outlines multi-project pipeline, DEP funding and uncertainty around Florida Forever allocations
Summary
Volusia Forever staff reported multiple acquisition updates — McMillan closing in late March, survey delays on Caraway Lakes (DEP providing $8 million), Riverbend under contract — and warned that state Florida Forever funding remains uncertain after the legislative session.
Staff briefed the committee on a portfolio of projects and the changing state funding picture. Tim Telfer, Volusia Forever program staff, said McMillan (a 213-acre agricultural easement) is deep in closing with draft documents circulating and a target closing of March 30. He said Caraway Lakes (493 acres) is in due diligence, with a survey delaying closing, and that the Florida Department of Environmental Protection has offered $8,000,000 toward that transaction while Volusia’s contribution is much smaller (stated as $379,000).
Telfer flagged legislative uncertainty for Florida Forever funding after the recent state session: he recounted that the governor had recommended $115 million for Florida Forever, the Senate $35 million and the House $0; he warned allocations remain fluid and that special sessions and potential sweeps could change availability. Staff also noted a strong governor and Senate recommendation for the rural and family lands protection program, creating additional partnership options for agricultural easements and fee-simple projects.
Why it matters: Several large transactions are near closing and rely on partnership funding; changes in state allocations could affect which projects proceed and how Volusia structures partnerships.
What’s next: Staff will continue due diligence, complete surveys, and prepare county-council agenda items for transactions that require council approval, including Riverbend.
