MINUTES OF JULY 25, 2006, MEETING
Board Members Present: Betty O’Laughlin, John Baker, Robert
Haviland, Don White (Flagler Audubon), Sharon Rich(Paw-Paw Chapter of Native
Plant Society), Dot Carlson (Edgewater Citizens Alliance for Responsible Development
- ECARD), Brynn Newton
Group Representatives Present: Barbara Samler (West Volusia
Audubon)
Members Present: Charles Carlson
The minutes of the June 27, 2006, meeting were approved as corrected (changing “guest editorial” to “op-ed piece”).
Charter Review Commission -- Betty O’Laughlin presented the Environmental Council’s “no change” position regarding growth management amendments to the County Charter by the Commission.
Don White noted that Halifax River Audubon Society has published in its newsletter a comprehensive article by David Hartgrove about the Charter Review Commission.
Plantation Oaks -- A report has been received by Volusia County Environmental Management Director Stephen Kintner’s report on gopher tortoise entombment, which was prompted by Betty O’Laughlin’s presentation to the Volusia County Council.
Plantation Oaks developer Parker Mynchenberg’s initial application, for a relocation permit, was denied because of the risk of spreading upper respiratory tract disease (URTD), which is now considered to be more controllable. The report recommends that the County impose a ban on entombment and require instead testing and relocation.
Dot Carlson noted that the biggest obstacle will be finding suitable lands for relocation. John Baker recommended arranging for gopher tortoise experts to appear at the first hearing on the proposed County ordinance, to avert a delay attributed to the need for more information. Don White stated that similar action is needed in Flagler County.
Toll Road -- A letter is being sent to Representative John Mica stating (1) the problem that he asserts a toll road would solve exists due to previous lack of planning and foresight; (2) we should not look exclusively at known solutions; (3) future gas prices will limit a toll road’s viability; (4) the true need is for low-energy transportation; (5) light rail could be built in the same time with less environmental impact and for less money for the commuter; (6) the environmental problems are real and must be taken into account; (7) he should abandon his position on highway transportation; and (8) light rail would encourage infill development whereas motor vehicle highways encourage sprawl.
Flagler County -- Don White reported that Flagler Beach is still looking at options regarding beach erosion.
At a Flagler County Commission hearing on “Hammock Beach River Club,” Ginn Company asked to be relieved of its pledge to donate Bulow Creek wetlands acreage, which was understood to have been part of the consideration for approving the project months ago.
Lenholt Property -- Barbara Samler reported that the Lenholt Property on Cummer Road off State Road 44 at Whitehair Bridge, a favorite location for birding, has gone on the market for sale.
Leffler Annexation -- Betty O’Laughlin appeared at the Deltona Planning and Zoning Commission, which took no action due to a lack of a quorum. She will attend the next meeting on behalf of the Environmental Council. Edgewater.
Dot Carlson reported that Edgewater Citizens Alliance for Responsible Development has gathered the 3,500 signatures necessary to place the building height limitation ordinance on the 2006 ballot.