Rally held to save Sand Hill Reservation
Get personalized newsletters for any city in the world with Headline, sign up here.
In Brooksville, Florida, a significant rally was held by residents and Eagle Scouts to protest the possible sale of the Sand Hill Scout Reservation, a 1,400-acre property. This land was gifted to the Boy Scouts by Larry Die Polder in 1978, who expressed in his will a wish for the property to be cherished and, if ever sold, converted into a public park. The Boy Scouts of America Greater Tampa Bay Council recently sought judicial clarification regarding their ownership rights, which were confirmed by the Hernando County Circuit Court in January 2024. This has sparked community concern as many locals believe the land serves as an essential resource for future generations. The rally highlights the strong emotional and historical ties the community has with the property.
Protesters argue that any sale would undermine the legacy of the land and its intended purpose. As discussions unfold, the future of the Sand Hill Scout Reservation remains uncertain, with advocates emphasizing the importance of preserving the site for public use. Local leaders are being urged to consider the wishes of the original landowner and the community's desire to keep the reservation intact.