submitted by Lexie Farmer, Lake County
The Lake County Public Lands and Trails Acquisition Advisory Committee (PLTAAC) voted to forward three properties, including Wilson Island in Groveland, to the Lake County Board of County Commissioners for consideration.
The Board will now determine whether to authorize appraisals of the three properties. Four other properties are already moving through the appraisal process.
The PLTAAC was established following voter approval of a $50 million bond referendum in November 2024 to help preserve and protect Lake County’s natural areas and water resources. The County-appointed committee reviews potential acquisitions and makes recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners.
Once appraisals are completed, the properties will return to the PLTAAC for further review. The committee will then determine which properties, if any, to recommend to the Board for a potential purchase.
Wilson Island has generated significant public interest. More than two dozen residents and representatives from the City of Groveland spoke in support of acquiring the property.
Development plans have already been approved for the 177-acre property, which is currently listed for $18 million. The property owner has delayed a potential sale to allow local officials additional time to explore conservation options.
The City of Groveland-approved development plan allows for the construction of 181 homes and 85,592 square feet of commercial space. If the property is ultimately acquired for conservation, it could potentially serve as a community park with opportunities for trails, kayaking and fishing. Wilson Island also contains wetlands, floodplain areas and groundwater recharge areas.
The County’s land acquisition program is designed to enable Lake County to preserve environmentally significant properties as the community continues to grow. Each property will move through a deliberate review process that includes appraisal, committee consideration, and final action by the Board of County Commissioners before any purchase is made.
