SUBJECT
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Approve Grazing Lease Agreement between Polk County and Bern Kinard Auctioneer, Inc. ($11,000 annual revenue)
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DESCRIPTION
Gator Creek Reserve, located at to the east of U.S. Highway 98 in the northwest portion of the County is part of the County’s Environmental Lands Program. Gator Creek Reserve has areas that are scheduled for future restoration, however until this occurs grazing has been utilized as a beneficial restoration management tool. The Parks and Natural Resources Division requested Procurement solicit proposals from qualified vendors to lease approximately 750 acres of land within Gator Creek Reserve for cattle grazing purposes. Request for Proposal (RFP) 23-364 was issued and two proposals were received. On November 7, 2023 the Board approved the selection committee’s recommendation to enter lease negotiations with the highest ranked proposer, Bern Kinard Auctioneer, Inc. (“Bern”). Negotiations with Bern have resulted in a proposed lease agreement with an annual lease amount of $11,000 for a term ending September 22, 2028 and Bern has executed and delivered a Grazing Lease Agreement. Approving the aforementioned Grazing Lease Agreement will allow Bern to utilize the property for its grazing operations and assist the County with maintenance of designated areas of the property not currently being utilized for recreational purposes.
RECOMMENDATION
Request Board approve the above-mentioned Grazing Lease Agreement with Bern Kinard Auctioneer, Inc.
FISCAL IMPACT
Annual lease proceeds in the amount of $11,000 to be deposited in the Special Revenue Fund.
CONTACT INFORMATION
R. Wade Allen, Administrator
Real Estate Services
863-534-2577