This is true for certain retail but not all.Retail is actually picking up speed.The issue isn't the stores are not doing sales.The issue is they built a really big footprint and then things went online not requiring the same space anywhere.Retail development has downsized more now for many aspects.Brick and mortar is not going away but evolving.

Born and raised in FL, and like you said those are just "environmental norms" in the area. 

I will say that the environmental regulations for drinking water are no joke.

Real rents, real lending issues, environmental issues, crime and other problems.  

Rents will be current and be prorated as of the date title transfers.FINANCING: This purchase is subject to the Buyer and Buyers’ Partner ability to secure the necessary financing.DEFECTS:Seller warrants subject property to be free from hazardous substances and from violation of any zoning, environmental, building, health or other governmental codes or ordinances.

Environmental engineers, heavy equipment, destroyed yards all the way around the house (because of course it's not buried where it's easy to yank out).

The majority member wants me to take the land for $1, and assume the environmental and back property taxes of $52,000. 

You may do better overall by partnering with one of them rather than running into unexpected issues after opening up a can of worms on a property with environmental issues.

Are there legitimate environmental concerns?

It will also show you any environmentally sensitive areas.