By GARETT VALCOURT
The Holmes County Board of County Commissioners (HCBOCC) continues to face public scrutiny and discussion following its February purchase of about a half-acre parcel at Lake Cassidy. The transaction, totaling $300,000, remains the subject of debate due to its cost, access regulations, and the conduct of county officials during negotiations.
The land, previously owned by Smith family under the name Fountain of Youth Ranch, LLC, had been leased for public use before the family closed it off amid what they say were rising concerns over alcohol use, overnight camping, and traffic. Three members of the family still own property along the lake, including Jim Smith, who claimed during a recent meeting that although the family originally sought to lease the property to the county, the process ultimately led to a sale after what he described as “pressure and aggravation” from the district’s commissioner.
That commissioner, Brandon Newsom, who currently faces possible removal from his post by the Governor due to recent felony charges, is the elected representative for District 2, which includes Lake Cassidy. According to county records, the county paid $300,000 for the parcel through a settlement with the Smiths. The Smiths’ LLC also donated an additional 75 feet of land to widen the entrance at no cost, as well as including the lagoon area for public swimming at the request of the county.
Public concern over the acquisition and access plans prompted HCBOCC to hold a June 24 workshop at Ponce de Leon High School to gain more input from the public. Approximately 80 residents from both Holmes and Walton counties attended the workshop to address the board with comments, questions, and suggestions.
Several speakers cited long-standing family traditions at the lake, including baptisms, boating, and swimming. A 10-year-old Holmes County resident identifying herself as a “future Holmes County taxpayer” spoke in favor of preserving public access, reflecting the emotional and generational ties the community holds to the site.
Other comments focused on financial concerns and the county’s plans moving forward. Some residents questioned whether state or federal grants had been considered as funding options, while others raised the idea of selling the land to the state for conservation. One speaker suggested the county use eminent domain to expand the property and criticized the property owners involved in the sale.
Commissioners Earl Stafford, Clint Erickson, and Wilmer Stafford addressed the audience, affirming that at this time, the land would not be resold and that their focus would remain on managing the site for public use. The board stated ongoing discussions would be necessary to determine sustainable funding sources for maintenance and safety measures.
Earlier last week, commissioners also debated various access models. Initial plans included a permit system with key fob entry, pricing annual passes at $140 for Florida residents and $500 for non-residents. That model was later reconsidered.
Commissioner Wilmer Stafford proposed eliminating annual passes in favor of a weekly lottery system, which would issue a limited number of boat and vehicle passes for weekend use and sell weekday passes for $20. Commissioner Newsom suggested a separate model with $5 passes for Holmes County residents and $100 annual passes for non-residents.
Earl Stafford noted that no final decisions have been made, and that the commission will continue discussions at its next meeting on July 1.
Future workshops are also being planned, with debate over the next location. Commissioner Wilmer Stafford suggested holding the next session in Bonifay, while Commissioner Erickson advocated for returning to Ponce De Leon.
The Lake Cassidy matter remains an active topic for both HCBOCC and the public, with decisions still pending on access regulations, funding strategies, and potential improvements to the property.
Terra Maples 