Fallout from Controversial Florida Land Sale: Parker Collier vs. Former Adviser

Introduction

The real estate landscape in Florida has been shaken by a highly publicized legal battle involving Parker Collier, matriarch of the prominent Collier family, and her former adviser, Sonja Eddings Brown. The allegations center on a $30 million land deal that critics claim involved toxic properties. This article unpacks the details behind the conflict, the legal ramifications, and the impact on reputations.

Background: The Controversial Sale

In 2022, Sonja Eddings Brown, a public relations consultant, leveled serious accusations against Parker Collier. Brown alleged that Collier manipulated Florida’s Gov. Ron DeSantis’ administration into purchasing contaminated land near Everglades City. A federal lawsuit claimed the sale involved thousands of acres contaminated by chemicals, specifically creosote, a substance historically used as a wood preservative.

Chemical Concerns

• Creosote has been linked to health risks, including:
  • Liver and kidney damage
  • Neurological issues
  • Increased cancer risk

Legal Proceedings: A Dismissal and a Counterclaim

The initial lawsuit filed by Brown was dismissed in August under an offer of judgment, which suggests a formal settlement strategy. However, Parker Collier is not finished. She has launched a new lawsuit in Utah against Brown, seeking $75,000 in damages for defamation along with attorney fees and a request for a jury trial.

Accusations of a Smear Campaign

Collier’s new lawsuit contends that Brown engaged in a calculated smear campaign aimed at damaging her reputation and extorting money. Key allegations include:

• False accusations regarding the sale of creosote-contaminated land
• A coordinated effort to promote these claims to major media outlets, misleading the public

The Land Sale: Details and Context

In 2023, Collier Enterprises sold over 11,000 acres of land to the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) as part of the state’s Green Heart of the Everglades project. This acquisition connects critical conservation areas, including:

• Big Cypress National Preserve
• Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park

A significant portion of the land, approximately 8,000 acres, had previously housed the C.J. Jones Lumber Co., which ceased operations nearly 70 years ago. The state mandated environmental cleanup efforts prior to the sale.

Environmental Assessments

• The SFWMD conducted a comprehensive environmental assessment before finalizing the purchase, dismissing Brown’s claims as unfounded.
• Ernie Cox, a lobbyist for the environmental nonprofit involved in the deal, labeled Brown’s narrative as “just wrong.”

Brown’s Claims and Collier’s Defense

Brown’s lawsuit sought damages for emotional distress, loss of business opportunity, and reputational harm, asserting that Collier terminated her employment after she began raising questions about the land sale. According to Brown, soil and water tests she commissioned indicated the presence of creosote.

Collier’s Stance

• Parker Collier has consistently refuted Brown’s claims as “completely baseless.”
• A spokesperson emphasized Collier’s commitment to defending her family’s reputation against what they argue are malicious attacks.

Conclusion: Implications for All Parties

The unfolding legal saga between Parker Collier and Sonja Eddings Brown underscores the complexity of real estate dealings, environmental concerns, and personal reputations interwoven with them. As this case progresses, the implications extend beyond the individuals involved, potentially affecting public trust in land acquisition processes and environmental stewardship in Florida.

For ongoing updates on environmental issues and legal matters in Florida, check out the Miami Herald and Naples Daily News.