In a recent meeting of the Volusia Forever Advisory Committee, discussions centered around the eligibility of two properties for conservation funding, highlighting the complexities of land acquisition in the region. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of hope and skepticism as committee members weighed the merits of Trumbull Bay and Deberry Point.

The meeting began with a debate over Trumbull Bay, a 20-acre parcel priced under $300,000. While some members expressed concerns about the financial implications of the purchase, others argued for its potential value. “It’s a pretty low price,” one member noted, suggesting that owning the land outright could be beneficial despite the committee's mandate to focus on quality rather than cost. Ultimately, the committee voted on the property’s eligibility, resulting in a narrow 5-2 decision against it.

Following this, the committee turned its attention to Deberry Point, a significantly larger area of approximately 95 acres. With a staff score of 11 out of 21—just above the required threshold—the property was discussed in relation to its proximity to the Lower Ocuyeva River Preserve State Park. However, access issues arose as it was revealed that the land is bordered by a gated community, limiting public access.

As the meeting progressed, members emphasized the importance of following up on easement discussions, indicating a collective desire to ensure that community interests are considered in future land acquisitions. The committee's deliberations reflect ongoing efforts to balance conservation goals with practical considerations, a challenge that will continue to shape Volusia County's environmental landscape.