TO: Environmental Advisory Board
FROM: Stefan Kalev, MS, Natural Resources Manager, Development Services
Shanell Bosch, Environmental Planner, Development Services Department
SUBJECT: Discussion and Possible Recommendation Regarding City of North Port Land Acquisition Program Utilizing the Environmental Protection Fund
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Recommended Action
Option 1 (Staff Recommendation): Recommend that the City Commission Pursue all identified properties by priority ranking and availability.
Recommendation Options
Option 1: Pursue All Identified Properties by Priority Ranking and Availability
Pros:
?Maximizes flexibility by allowing the pursuit of all ecologically valuable parcels.
?Increases the likelihood of acquiring multiple parcels that meet conservation goals.
?Ensures use of Environmental Protection Funds is directly tied to ecological benefit.
Cons:
?Could lead to extended timelines as staff negotiate with multiple property owners.
?A less targeted approach may dilute focus across too many properties.
?Potential administrative burden associated with evaluating and negotiating numerous parcels.
Option 2: Pursue Only the Top 10 Highest-Rated Parcels
Pros:
?Targets the most ecologically valuable properties, maximizing conservation impact.
?Allows for efficient use of staff time and resources.
?Provides a clear, data-driven prioritization process for decision-making.
Cons:
? Limits flexibility if few or no top-ranked property owners are willing to sell.
? This could result in unspent Environmental Protection Funds if no transactions are successful.
? May overlook moderately ranked parcels that could provide critical connectivity or flood mitigation benefits.
Option 3: Focus Exclusively on Wetlands, Floodplains, or Stormwater Benefit Parcels
Pros:
? Concentrates resources on areas that directly support flood mitigation and stormwater management goals.
? Simplifies prioritizat...
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