Scouting in the Greater Tampa Bay Area Council is thriving. Youth membership is growing, exciting programs are occurring among Scout units and at council camps and activities, outreach efforts are expanding to serve more at-risk youth, and the Council is positioned for more success.
There has been recent news and social media discussions focused on Sand Hill Scout Reservation. Our commitment to transparency and the continued success of Scouting in our community prompts us to provide this clarity:
The Sand Hill Scout Reservation has been a cherished part of our Council since it was generously gifted by the Die Polder family in the late 1970s. Following the passing of Larry Die Polder in 1978, there was a family dispute regarding his will, which was ultimately resolved with Main Henderson, Die Polder’s son, being named the Personal Representative of the estate. In 1979 and 1981, Main Henderson transferred two deeds of the property to convey fee simple title to the Boy Scouts free and clear of any use restrictions.
To reaffirm our clear title and unrestricted use of the property, the Council sought judicial clarification from the Hernando County Circuit Court. In January 2024, the Court confirmed the Council’s full rights over the Sand Hill property.
In June 2024, the Council was approached by the Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative regarding a potential sale of an approximate 50-acre parcel located at the northwest corner of the camp, fronting Cortez Boulevard. While discussions are ongoing, no purchase agreement has been executed, and there is no set timeline for finalizing any agreement. If a sale proceeds, it will be followed by a thorough six-month due diligence period. Withlacoochee River Electric has been a steadfast supporter of Scouting, and we believe this could be a mutually beneficial collaboration.
Additionally, the Council Executive Board is exploring the potential to market approximately 450 acres on the northeast and eastern side of the camp. This evaluation is in the early stages, and no decisions have been made. We have engaged land planning consultants to assist with this process to ensure any actions align with our mission and benefit our Scouting programs.
As the governing body of the Greater Tampa Bay Area Council, the Executive Board is charged with directing the Scouting program under the obligations of the local council charter granted by the Boy Scouts of America. Those responsibilities include making the Scouting program available to all eligible youth, providing camping opportunities, and ensuring the fiscal sustainability of the Council. The Executive Board continually evaluates the Council’s programs, membership services, properties, and allocation of assets. The Executive Board consists of volunteer members elected annually by the voting members of the Council.
Significant investments are being made at Sand Hill and other Council facilities. Any proceeds from property actions will be reinvested into improving our facilities and programs, ensuring ongoing benefits for Scouts now and in the future.
