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City signs fundraising agreement with Big Waters Land Trust to finish Bobby Jones Nature Park
Summary
The City of Sarasota approved a fundraising agreement with Big Waters Land Trust to close an estimated $3.5 million shortfall for amenities at Bobby Jones Nature Park, including a boardwalk and wetland pavilion. The commission unanimously approved the partnership after staff and the land trust detailed scope and fundraising approach.
The Sarasota City Commission on Feb. 17 authorized a fundraising agreement with Big Waters Land Trust to help complete planned amenities at Bobby Jones Nature Park, staff said.
The agreement responds to a roughly $3.5 million shortfall to finish features such as a boardwalk, a wetland‑discovery pavilion, a nature‑immersion walkway and a “Feathered Friends” sanctuary at the park and adjacent golf course. Jerry Fogel, Parks and Recreation, told commissioners the concept is intended to strengthen an existing conservation easement and improve public access and habitat.
"This is probably one of the most important properties the city has," Fogel said, citing the site’s environmental value and planned amenities. Christine Johnson, president of Big Waters Land Trust, said the nonprofit will pursue naming‑right gifts and private donations to fill the gap.
Commissioners asked for details about the project cost and the fundraising approach. Johnson said the trust expects to pursue a mix of restricted gifts and larger naming opportunities and will transfer previously received small restricted donations into the campaign account once the agreement is in place.
The agreement allows the city to pursue grants for which municipalities are eligible; staff noted some state grants are restricted to government entities. Commissioners also discussed an administration fee for handling donations; Johnson and staff said a roughly 10% administrative charge is standard when nonprofits work with governmental partners.
Vice Mayor Ulrich moved approval; the measure passed unanimously. City staff said the work will be phased and that any larger future donations would be applied according to donor restrictions and nonprofit law.
The decision authorizes the mayor and the city auditor and clerk to execute the fundraising agreement. Construction timing will depend on fundraising milestones and the city’s construction schedule.
