City Weighs $2.5M Park Purchase

Ormond Beach city commissioners are set to vote on a $2.5 million contract to purchase the former Osceola Elementary School site. The acquisition would transfer ownership of the 11.6-acre property from the school district to the city, preserving the land for public use.

The school ceased operations in 2021. Before the current proposal, preliminary development plans indicated that the site could support the construction of 30 to 40 residential units if sold to private developers. City officials directed staff to explore the purchase after determining that the land was likely to be sold for housing.

The contract is currently ready for signature. It appears on the agenda for the city commission meeting scheduled for Wednesday evening. If approved, the city will take control of the vacant property to align with its parks and recreation master plan, which identified a need for additional recreation space on the beachside.

Residents living near the former school expressed support for the purchase. Larry, a neighbor who lives down the street, stated that he believes the $2.5 million investment is worth it for the city. He and his aunt have long advocated for keeping the land out of development. “Not an empty school sitting there, it’d be nice to have some places for our kids to go and play,” Larry said.

John Roy, who resides across the street from the property, also welcomed the city’s move. Roy expressed relief that the site would not become another housing development. “I really hope that they put a park in there for the kids. Not any housing,” Roy said. He noted that the school has a history of nearly 70 years, but he believes it is time to repurpose the land. “A park is really good to have and it’s good for everybody, and you got animals and just it’s just nice,” Roy added.

City officials have not yet determined the specific design for the future park. They have also not established a timeline for when construction could begin. The commission will address the purchase at its regular meeting on Wednesday.