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Warm Mineral Springs Park to remain closed due to public safety concerns
Francesco Abbruzzino, The Uncensored Report, LLC
CITY OF NORTH PORT, FL – Hurricane Ian caused significant damage to Warm Mineral Springs Park. Upon inspection, it has been determined that the park at this time cannot meet the criteria for safe reopening.
To safely reopen to the public, the facility must have:
- Reliable power
- A safe supply of drinking water
- Windows, roofs and exterior walls that prevent severe water intrusion
- Working air conditioning
- Indoor air quality that has been assessed by an industrial hygienist
- Water quality that has been assessed by State Certified (Florida Department of Health) contractor
- Storm debris must be removed and stored in a secure location
- Professional assessment of buildings that deem them safe to occupy
After inspection by a structural engineer and electrical contractor, the City of North Port Building Official completed a professional assessment of the buildings and posted a placard of condemnation. As a result of the extended closure and significant storm damage, the City Commission will review the site management agreement with the vendor who operates the facility, National and State Park Concessions, Inc., at its Oct. 25 meeting.
“We know how passionate many of our patrons and residents are about the springs, but please, do not try to enter the facility or pass the safety fencing to get to the water,” said Sandy Pfundheller, Director of Parks & Recreation. “In addition to damage sustained by the buildings, there is a risk of debris in the water. These hazards may not be visible from the surface.”
City staff have continued to pursue a possible public-private partnership for the future development and enhancement of Warm Mineral Springs Park and are working on a conceptual proposal with WMS Development Group, LLC, which remains committed to the process.
Further information will be shared as it becomes available. To learn more, visit NorthPortFL.gov/WMSPMasterPlan.