Uncertainty puts Florida Forever in jeopardy
Publication Date: 05/01/09
The uncertainty of Florida's revenue for the coming year, at least a $6 billion shortfall is forecast, has put many of the state's 'feel good' programs at risk. As the Florida Legislature today begins its final day of the 2009 regular session and awaits a special session on the proposed $65 billion budget next week, the threat level is elevated for programs like Florida Forever, the state's landmark land conservation program.
In St. Johns County, the benefit of Florida Forever and its predecessor, Preservation 2000, over 20 years has been $55 million in purchases of properties by local governments, for example, public parks, waterfront access sites, habitats for the protection of wildlife and environmental protection. St. Johns County, like other local governments, wants to see it continue. So do we.
But, a proposal to fund at least $12 million in Florida Forever purchases next year has flat lined. The leadership of the Florida House of Representatives and the Florida Senate eliminated it from their budget plans which usually is "the kiss of death" to a program.
Florida Forever has done a lot for St. Johns County and communities within it.
Alpine Groves Park in northwest St. Johns County on the St. Johns River was saved for the public by the state and the county, working with the Trust for Public Land.
Maratea, a great venue along the St. Augustine Beach front, is being purchased by the Beach city from owners who had hoped to develop it as a residential/commercial community. The Beach city holds out hope for reimbursement from Florida Forever funds.
Like many other people we had hoped the state's revenue picture would defy recent gloomy outlooks from state economists. But that doesn't look like it will happen any time soon. Instead debates continue over use of federal stimulus funds -- a short-term solution, and over cuts to state jobs, education, health and public safety. All enhance our quality of life.
We're in a quandary like lawmakers are. We find ourselves saying: "Don't cut that." In reality, some things have to be cut. We just hope that the Legislature and Gov. Charlie Crist will find some money to keep Florida Forever going, even on a smaller scale. It benefits our state's environmental protection, recreation, habitat conservation and tourism and much more.
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