Proposed State Park Legislation's Language Not Clear Enough

Proposed State Park Legislation's Language Not Clear Enough

As we recall, last summer there were protests across the state opposing the proposals to build golf courses, pickleball courts, even massive hotels and more in Florida State Park System, including Jonathan Dickinson State Park here in Hobe Sound, South Martin County.

Now we are becoming aware of two recent law proposals, one in the state senate and the other in the house of representatives. Each were proposed by our local elected officials. They seem well-intentioned but miss the target.

We have seen the Director of Friends of the Everglades and a board member of many conservation groups, including Protect Johnathan Dickinson State Park, point out the weaknesses/failings of the proposals. Jessica Namath (yes, Joe's daughter) and Gil Smart (formerly of the Stuart News) both believe development proponents will see the obvious gaps and proceed with their plans to pave over the parks.

It is too bad that our senator, who has spent many years in political offices, came up with a proposal ripe with gaps - which builders (or their attorneys) will spot - were the legislation to pass.

These two specialists identified something amiss immediately and have proposed “tweaks” to ameliorate each proposal. One would be to ensure representation from various historical societies and cultural groups are seated on the advisory boards to the State Parks.

Obviously, there are a few more specifics which can be outlined by the Friends of the Everglades and/or Protect J. D. State Park Facebook Page.

For the sake of the future of state parks, please investigate this warning from conservation experts.

In liberty,

Audrey Taggart

Hobe Sound

This is an editorial and not the official position of the Martin County Republican Executive Committee.