Pinellas County commissioners announced on September 20 that the county will retain full operational control of Weedon Island and Shell Key preserves for the 2027 fiscal year. The decision reverses an earlier proposal to return the two state‑leased preserves to Florida control on Jan. 1, 2027, and restores $555,000 to the FY 27 budget.
Budget adjustment saves the preserves
During the first public hearing on the $1.1 billion FY 27 budget, officials highlighted a projected $42 million shortfall. Among the cost‑saving measures considered was the removal of $555,000 earmarked for the two preserves. County Administrator Barry Burton wrote to the commission, noting that the $490,000 for the Parks Department and $65,000 for the Construction and Property Management Department would be reinstated as directed at the August 20, 2026 work session.
Burton also explained that $4.237 million will be re‑allocated to debt service, creating capacity for a future bond payment tied to the new administrative campus on Ulmerton Road. The funding shift was championed by Commissioner Chris Scherer, whose proposal received unanimous approval.
Commissioner Scherer’s vision for long‑term support
Speaking to local outlet Poliverse, Scherer recalled personal memories of fishing and kayaking at Weedon Island, emphasizing the preserve’s role in conservation and community recreation. “I was extremely pleased that my fellow county commissioners approved my recommendation,” he said. Scherer added that his focus for the coming year will be to secure state funding to sustain Weedon Island’s operations indefinitely.
Community response and future funding hopes
Local advocates welcomed the decision with guarded optimism. Bill Fehring, president of the nonprofit Friends of Weedon Island, praised the commission’s action, stating, “We look forward to working with the County to identify longer‑term solutions to fund the Preserve in future years, so its many benefits to Pinellas County residents can continue.”
Representatives from the state legislature have also expressed interest in augmenting county support, particularly as first‑responder pension mandates strain local budgets. Rep. Linda Chaney (R‑St. Pete Beach) reiterated her commitment to assist in securing additional state resources.
Other budget changes affect park users
While preserving the two natural areas, the commission approved a parking fee increase at Fort De Soto, Sand Key, and Fred Howard parks, raising the daily rate to $6 with a $12 cap. Funding for lifeguard programs at Fort De Soto and Sand Key was removed, citing staffing challenges in recent years.
Overall, the revised budget trims just over $6 million from the original proposal, lowering the property‑tax millage rate from 4.5423 to 4.5037 mills. A second public hearing and final budget vote are scheduled for September 24, with the fiscal year beginning Oct. 1.
Original reporting: St. Pete Catalyst — read the source article.
