Wilton Manors commissioners said they are very close to taking control of Site 92 from Broward County. The 1.43-acre property, which is located on the south end of Wilton Drive next to Fort Lauderdale, has been the subject of conversation for over a year. Commissioners have spoken, off and on, about acquiring the land, which is undeveloped and contains a lot of Cypress trees.

Now, it seems as though the city is on the verge of getting it.

“They are going to give us the property,” said Commissioner Tom Green, who called Site 92 “a valuable addition to our inventory of green space.” If the city does get the land, Green said he hopes it becomes a passive park and is not developed much. “I can’t wait for this to happen,” said Vice Mayor Justin Flippen. Both Green and Mayor Gary Resnick said they met with Dist. 7 County Commissioner Tim Ryan, who represents Wilton Manors, who was in favor of the transfer.

But commissioners were as cautious as they were enthusiastic, and asked city staff to do a review of all the costs associated with the city maintaining the site once the county transfers ownership.

The possible concerns range from police services to environmental problems to upkeep of a bridge on the property that connects to a residential neighborhood.

“It’s a beautiful site, but I also want to know what the implications are,” said Commissioner Julie Carson. “The expense may be very trying for this city,” said Commissioner Scott Newton.

In November 2016, Patrick Cann, Leisure Services Director, estimated it would cost about $15,000 a year for general maintenance, such as emptying garbage cans and landscaping. If the city added amenities, that would increase the cost. At the Feb. 13 commission meeting, commissioners said they would also ask for funding from the county to help maintain the property.