The City of Groveland is launching a community‑wide campaign to keep Wilson Island, a 177‑acre parcel along the Palatlakaha River, in its natural state. Officials want residents to pressure the Lake County Public Lands and Trails Acquisition Advisory Committee (PLTAAC) to recommend the island for further conservation acquisition, rather than allowing a development plan that would add 181 single‑family homes and roughly 85,600 square feet of commercial and mixed‑use space.
Why the island matters
Wilson Island sits in the heart of the Clermont Chain of Lakes, a popular recreation corridor for boating, fishing, and wildlife observation. Preserving the island would maintain a public waterfront space where families can walk, hike, and enjoy the natural beauty of the region for generations.
Local leaders and supporters weigh in
“We have an incredible opportunity to really shape the future of this region for generations to come,” said Chloe Gentry, co‑owner of Cherrylake and a vocal advocate for the island’s preservation. “This opportunity is here today, but it’ll be gone once this island becomes houses and is developed.”
Property owner Dale Ladd, whose land borders the island, added, “We’ve been making progress towards development, but our preference is to see it stay as it is.”
Mayor Keith Keogh emphasized the urgency, stating, “This is our last chance to get an island, a place that our community can come and walk through and appreciate the chain of lakes.”
Funding and the bond referendum
Lake County voters approved a $50 million conservation bond in the 2024 election. The city says Wilson Island has already advanced to a site‑visit stage and is awaiting additional study. The PLTAAC is scheduled to discuss the project and possible funding on Thursday, September 24, at 9 a.m. in the Lake County Administration Building.
How residents can help
City officials are asking Groveland residents to contact PLTAAC members and express support for preserving Wilson Island. Calls, emails, and letters can be directed to the committee via the Lake County website. The city also plans to host informational meetings and distribute materials that outline the environmental and recreational benefits of keeping the island undeveloped.
Potential outcomes
If the PLTAAC recommends Wilson Island for acquisition, the recommendation will move to the Lake County Board of County Commissioners for final approval and funding allocation. A successful recommendation could transform the island into a waterfront park with nature trails, providing a lasting public amenity and protecting the local ecosystem.
Conversely, if the recommendation is not made, the previously approved plat could proceed, leading to the construction of new homes and commercial space that would alter the character of the lakefront and limit public access.
Next steps
The city will continue to monitor the PLTAAC meeting and keep the community informed of any decisions. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged, attend the upcoming meeting if possible, and share their support for conservation through the channels provided by the county.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
