FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Mayors Express Relief and Gratitude as Proposed Guana River Land Swap Application is Withdrawn
May 20, 2025 – Mayors Christine Hoffman of Jacksonville Beach, Curtis Ford of Atlantic Beach, Cori Bylund of Neptune Beach, and Dylan Rumrell of St. Augustine Beach today expressed their deep satisfaction following the decision to withdraw the application for the proposed land swap involving property within the Guana River Wildlife Management Area (WMA).
The four mayors released the following joint statement:
"We're incredibly pleased that the application for the proposed land swap within the Guana River Wildlife Management Area has been withdrawn. This outcome represents a significant victory for our coastal communities and for the continued preservation of Florida’s invaluable natural resources.
"Our opposition, driven by profound concerns for the ecological integrity, recreational opportunities, and natural beauty of the Guana River WMA and the broader Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTMNERR), was clearly heard. We extend our sincere gratitude to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Division of State Lands, and the Acquisition and Restoration Council for their careful consideration of our concerns and for prioritizing the preservation of this critical environmental asset.
"This decision ensures the safeguarding of a vital ecological corridor, a crucial buffer against coastal erosion, and a significant driver of our local economies through nature-based tourism and recreation. It guarantees the continued protection of diverse habitats, contributes to the health of our estuaries, and preserves unparalleled opportunities for our residents and visitors to engage with Florida’s natural environment.
"We remain committed to working collaboratively with state agencies, environmental stakeholders, and the public to ensure the long-term stewardship of our cherished conservation lands."
Please Note:
Contact:
Kevin Hogencamp, Deputy City Manager
City of Atlantic Beach
(904) 247-5804.