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Port St. Lucie approves $2.5 million purchase of Rosser Lakes site, plans conservation and stormwater use

5964459 ยท August 25, 2025
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Summary

Council approved acquisition of about 104.9 acres at Rosser Lakes for $2.5 million, citing conservation, park expansion and stormwater storage as primary goals. The seller will retain a small parcel for a cell tower; the city will convey a ground lease and access easement.

The Port St. Lucie City Council approved an ordinance authorizing the city to acquire roughly 104.91 acres of the Rosser Lakes property for $2.5 million and to grant a ground lease and access easement for an existing cell tower. Staff said the purchase would prevent additional residential development on the parcel, add conservation and parkland to the city inventory and provide stormwater detention capacity.

City staff described two appraisals: the seller's appraisal included the active mining operations and development entitlements and valued the property at $6,270,000; the city's conservation-focused appraisal placed recreational value at $815,000. After negotiations, the two sides agreed on a $2.5 million purchase price. Staff said the seller would retain about 7.41 acres that include the cell tower and the access needed for its lease.

The acquisition ordinance also authorized a 30-year ground lease with five consecutive 10-year renewal options for the retained parcel. City officials said they expect a swift inspection period and closing and recommended the acquisition unanimously.

During public comment a resident asked who would pay for the purchase; the city manager said funds would come from reserves and current-year savings. Council members described the purchase as an opportunity to stop new residential rooftops on a large tract that had development rights and to create a future park and stormwater assets. The ordinance passed on a voice vote.

Staff said the property will be incorporated into the city's parks inventory and will be used for stormwater storage and passive park amenities; detailed design and programming will be brought forward in later agenda items and budget considerations.