As I am sure you know, all of us who have had the privilege over the past many years to enjoy the trail system within the Doris Leeper Preserve in New Smyrna now have an immediate challenge.
The Volusia County Council has decided to basically clear-cut a majority of the trail system to make a Scrub Jay habitat. The contract has already been signed, the equipment is in place, and the destruction will begin, possibly within the next week. This arbitrary action on behalf of our elected officials threatens all of us who use this fabulous nature area for recreation including, running, trail biking, horse riding, and hiking. It is my understanding the process will include "roller chopping" all of the trees and foliage in the designated area. After this it will sit for six months and then be burned to create the new habitat for the Scrub Jays. One of the most beautiful and scenic areas in our county will be forever lost. What a tragedy!
I don't know about everyone else who uses this area, but I know I want to do everything in my power to try and stop this madness. If you agree with me, would you be so kind as to send this letter out to everyone on your master email list. I would ask anyone who receives this email and agrees it should be stopped to do two things as soon as possible:
1. Call or email our local State Representative for the Florida House of Representatives, Ms. Dorothy Hukill
2. Call or email any and all members of the Volusia County Council.
I have listed below the names and email addresses of the members of the Volusia County Council and also contact information for Ms. Hukill.
I know everyone is very busy but I would ask you to please make this a priority. Time is quickly slipping away but I believe with prompt action by those of us who treasure this area and who like me, have enjoyed running, biking, etc. on these trails for many years, can make a difference. If you could take the time today or tomorrow to make these contacts, I am certain we can succeed. Please let our officials know this action, which was done as quietly as possible, is not favored by those of us who vote.
As a way to further the cause, anyone who receives this email please forward it to anyone and everyone you know as quickly as possible. We will succeed but we must hurry.
Thanks in advance for everyone's response to this request.
Dorothy Hukill, State Representative
(386) 322-5111
info@dorothyhukill.com
>> County Chair Frank Bruno
>> fbruno@co.volusia.fl.us
>>
>> Council Member Joyce Cusack, Vice Chair
>> jcusack@co.volusia.fl.us
>>
>> Council Member Andy Kelly, District 1
>> akelly@co.volusia.fl.us
>>
>> Council Member Joshua Wagner, District 2
>> jwagner@co.volusia.fl.us
>>
>> Council Member Joie Alexander, District 3
>> jalexander@co.volusia.fl.us
>>
>> District 4 (vacant)
>>
>> Council Member Patricia Northey, District 5
>> pnorthey@co.volusia.fl.us
