Deer Lake State Park [update - not closing]

[Smiling JOe]

I didn't see mention of the fact that the Florida State Park System charges people for annual Park Passes. At least a portion of money collected goes to fund the Parks, including Deer Lake SP. I am outraged that this Gulf Front Park, which operates on less than $6,000 per year, is being considered for closing. As mentioned, a tiny local fundraiser could generate the money needed to keep it in operation, if that was really why it was being considered for closure. I think that is a bunch of horse-pooh. I guess that Prominence is about to lose their closest beach access, as the idea of shuttling owners and guests to Deer Park, was their plan for getting people to the beach.

I will certainly be writing Gov Charlie Christ on this issue, and strongly encourage everyone else to do the same.

 

[Matt J]

I guess the ultimate question here is if they are closing the park does that mean that they will lock the gates and restrict access or someone just won't clean the toilet?

 

[Smiling JOe]

First, there is closure. Then, after several years of no use, the State declares the property as "surplus" land. Every once in a while, the State will map out and sell off parcels which it can no longer manage/maintain. I'm beginning to see the writing on the wall, and I'm not liking what I see.

 

[GoodWitch58]

I didn't see mention of the fact that the Florida State Park System charges people for annual Park Passes. At least a portion of money collected goes to fund the Parks, including Deer Lake SP. I am outraged that this Gulf Front Park, which operates on less than $6,000 per year, is being considered for closing. As mentioned, a tiny local fundraiser could generate the money needed to keep it in operation, if that was really why it was being considered for closure. I think that is a bunch of horse-pooh. I guess that Prominence is about to lose their closest beach access, as the idea of shuttling owners and guests to Deer Park, was their plan for getting people to the beach.

I will certainly be writing Gov Charlie Christ on this issue, and strongly encourage everyone else to do the same.

I have already written the Governor; perhaps it would be wise for us to write to our local Legislative Delegation as well.

 

[AAbsolute]

I'd be willing to forego a blue sign or 2 (or 3) and put that $ towards keeping a park open.

I will be SOOOOOOO pissed if St. Joe or another developer takes/buys this park!!!! :angry:

Just let a developer buy it already. We could put the money into some sort of investment vehicle that pays the bills at all the other gulf front parks in perpetuity.

 

[TreeFrog]

Response from the Gov's office to my EMail.

Dear Mr. TreeFrog:

Thank you for writing to Governor Charlie Crist regarding funding for the State Parks in Florida. The Governor appreciates receiving your comments and asked that I respond on his behalf.

The Governor and the Legislature work together to develop budget priorities with a focus of maximizing the use of existing programs and ensuring that Floridians are getting the best value for their dollar. Within this context, please be assured the Governor will carefully consider your comments and those of other concerned Floridians regarding the Fiscal Year 2008-09 budget.

Again, thank you for taking the time to share your views with Governor Crist. You may also wish to share your comments with your local legislative delegation.


Sincerely,




Aundra Bryant

Office of Policy and Budget

Executive Office of the Governor



Here's another source suggesting you write your local legislators.

 

[Smiling JOe]

In addition to writing our local State legislators, I will also be writing our County Commissioners, urging them to also make a push, on behalf of the County, to keep the Park open. I hope others will join me. Seriously, we should be able to locally raise $6000, to keep the Park open, if costs was the reason why it was being considered for closure.

 

[2bohemians]

Why is it that we don't have to pay to enjoy this park? We've often wondered this. We would be more than happy to pay a few bucks each time we visit to enjoy such an incredible view.

 

[Smiling JOe]

good question, and the answer it would likely cost more to staff someone to collect the money from the box, account for it on paper, make deposits, etc, on a daily basis. In reality, it is likely cheaper to not collect money.

 

[AAbsolute]

In addition to writing our local State legislators, I will also be writing our County Commissioners, urging them to also make a push, on behalf of the County, to keep the Park open. I hope others will join me. Seriously, we should be able to locally raise $6000, to keep the Park open, if costs was the reason why it was being considered for closure.

Sorry, once again I'm questioning the statement that this has to do with the operating budget of the park. If you want to keep the park Public longterm you might want to consider this as well. It's more probable that this has to do with something other than the State budget.

I'm fine with it going private if the State and County use the proceeds for something that will have budgetary permanence. I'm completely against closing the gate strictly because of next years budget.