ORANGE PARK – The discussion about the Rob Bradley Conservation Park at Nelson Point was so intense it forced several delays during the Town Council meeting Tuesday night.

The heart of the heated debate revolved around two critical factors: naming the park and determining which entity, the town or the county, should control it. The decision could have implications for taxpayers, depending on how it unfolds.
In her opening comments, Vice Mayor Susana Thompson said taxpayers don’t have exclusive use of the space. Since they are already paying taxes for the town’s parks and the county’s parks and recreation, following the town charter must be considered to protect the residents’ interests. She suggested Mayor Randy Anderson pursue an interlocal agreement with the county.
Thompson questioned the park’s name and why the county didn’t request to put “Nelson” at the front of the parcel in honor of John Nelson, a veteran that bought the park in 1948 after moving to the town after World War II and his family.
She also wondered why residents weren’t polled before the final decision.
Councilwoman Winette Sandlin was uncertain about the best course of action.
She said some residents prefer the park to be controlled by the town, while others support county management, suggesting that fellow council members not rush into making a decision. Sandlin emphasized that the control and naming of the park were separate issues.
Councilman Daniel Corbreiro had a similar message. He said that he needed more background information before making a final decision. He said he needed more time to explore the facts and asked that residents give their inputs at the next meeting on Aug. 1.
Anderson then proposed a motion to demolish a house on the park property to save funds long-term, but council members decided against taking a vote.
The council also unanimously approved the proposed millage rate for the 2023-24 Fiscal Year, which is set at 5.8781 mills. To put this in perspective, Corbreiro said the annual rate for the upcoming year would equate to $2,351 on a $400,000 home.