October 12, 2001
Below is a response that was sent to a homeowner from the Chief Cabinet Aide for Gov. Bush. Please take note of the text in red. It does not appear that St. Joe is willing to come back to the table and renegotiate at this time. I will keep you posted on any further info that I receive.
Vicki Barnett
Thank you for writing to Governor Bush regarding the possible acquisition of
the St. Joe Corporation parcel on Alligator Point for inclusion in Bald
Point State Park. The Governor has asked me to respond on his behalf.
Governor Bush has worked to increase funding for state land acquisition and has encouraged the acquisition of environmentally sensitive lands across the state. Last year, he supported the acquisition of 1,213 acres on Alligator Point. Balancing economic growth with the need to protect the beautiful places that make Florida so attractive is one of the most challenging tasks facing our citizens, visitors and decision makers. Additionally, the Bush administration has concentrated on spending your tax dollars in the most efficient manner, especially in land acquisition matters. We believe that we should pay a fair value for the land and that principle guides DEP's negotiation.
More recently the Department of Environmental Protection has been in
negotiations with St. Joe Company to acquire a 3000-acre tract. However,
St. Joe Company recently ended those discussions and is exploring other
options for this parcel. The state's land acquisition program relies almost
exclusively on a "willing seller" premise. It is possible that the
landowner will re-open talks with the Department and Governor Bush would
certainly welcome that development.
Rest assured, we will keep a close watch on this parcel and its possible
acquisition by the state. Thanks again for your email.
Sincerely,
Colleen M. Castille
Chief Cabinet Aide
Executive Office of the Governor
Room 210, The Capitol
Tallahassee, FL 32399-0001
