Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/239386
Sarasota News Leader January 10, 2014 Page 15 "I was thrilled," said Reid. both parties, they would have to arrange for the property to be transferred to the county Other spring supporters, such as North Port resident Jill Luke, voiced their excitement as through a state agency, such as the Florida well. "This year is starting out phenomenal!!" Department of Environmental Protection. Luke wrote in an email response. The transfer has to be handled that way But the deal remains far from official. Reid because of a 1982 requirement stipulating that put it this way: "We've had a good blast off, the property can only be turned over to a state but we haven't gotten to the moon yet." agency, with the premise that the spring would be preserved for educational and research County staff and university officials are negotiating a final agreement, which must be voted purposes only. The County Commission voted on by the County Commission, said Sarasota on Oct. 23 to operate the spring as an environCounty spokesman Curt Preisser. In addi- mental and educational preserve if the county tion to drawing up a contract agreeable to were to take over ownership. I didn't really anticipate UM saying, 'We will donate it.' Lawry Reid President Friends of Little Salt Spring Little Salt Spring encompasses 112 acres. Contributed photo by Steve Koski, University of Miami