SWCC Forum: The incorporation of South Walton ~ Is Now The Time? FEB 26...

[Teresa]

Our little town is growing fast with full time residents moving from all over to live in our family friendly community. Our schools can hardly keep up with new buildings and classrooms - this has been going on for many years. I don't have stats.. But I know it's a very popular place to live full time. The only thing I know for sure is that South Walton will continue to grow, and along with that growth will come more need for a city government.

I believe our home deserves an excellent future. If you've ever attended a Walton County BCC meeting, you will understand that County govt is not going to provide the kind of leadership necessary to shape that future. If you prefer the good old boy system then you won't agree.

At some point, a community needs to self govern. Just as our neighboring cities such as Freeport, Destin, Panama City Beach, and many other coastal towns, each with unique needs for local services, infrastructure, growth management and leadership.

 

[Jackalope]

Was the post above directed at my comment? I am wholly against the good ol' boy system. I don't disagree that our community needs help. I wouldn't have chime in if I didn't want a better future. However, I'm not of the mindset that we need to rush in to anything just for the sake of change. My concern is we go from one self serving system to another. How do we safeguard against that? I'm not being sarcastic. I really would like to be reassured. For what its worth, my family transplanted here almost 20 years ago so I'm not a homegrown local or brand new to this area. Just a regular person (if there is such a thing) that is trying to raise a family locally on what would probably be considered a middle income for this area.

 

[m1a1mg]

I don't know how adding another layer of government will really help. Now, if this were a separate county, then I could support that.

 

[Andy A]

To me, one of the main reasons for incorporation is viable control of growth and development. You can establish zoning codes that govern what development will go where and how it is compatible with the neighboring area. You can also determine what safety laws you wish to create. There are many othere aspects that could be mentioned and these are only the tip of the iceberg. Yes, there will be lots of downsides as well, the biggest probably being increased taxes and the formation of a governing body. I am ambivalent regarding incorportation. I see the many pluses and minuses.

 

[Teresa]

To me, one of the main reasons for incorporation is viable control of growth and development. You can establish zoning codes that govern what development will go where and how it is compatible with the neighboring area. You can also determine what safety laws you wish to create. There are many othere aspects that could be mentioned and these are only the tip of the iceberg. Yes, there will be lots of downsides as well, the biggest probably being increased taxes and the formation of a governing body. I am ambivalent regarding incorportation. I see the many pluses and minuses.

I can understand people wanting less government and all that. But, I've lived in several incorporated cities, before I moved here about 20 years ago. Believe me, it's a world of difference. It's almost like choosing no government v. city government. No planning v. professsional growth management. Basic services v. city services. Most of the services provided under a city are managed by professionals, not elected positions. City Manager, professional police chief, and on down the line.

We do already have a professional fire department - SWFD - and that's a miracle in Walton County!!! We're very lucky to have professional emergency services in South Walton lead by an appointed/hired Fire Chief who is highly qualified in his field.

I'm kind of used to it, after all these years (no services). But, on the other hand, I can just imagine the difference in our community's future if we incorporate now.

 

[John G]

I can understand people wanting less government and all that. But, I've lived in several incorporated cities, before I moved here about 20 years ago. Believe me, it's a world of difference. It's almost like choosing no government v. city government. No planning v. professsional growth management. Basic services v. city services. Most of the services provided under a city are managed by professionals, not elected positions. City Manager, professional police chief, and on down the line.

We do already have a professional fire department - SWFD - and that's a miracle in Walton County!!! We're very lucky to have professional emergency services in South Walton lead by an appointed/hired Fire Chief who is highly qualified in his field.

I'm kind of used to it, after all these years (no services). But, on the other hand, I can just imagine the difference in our community's future if we incorporate now.

Very well said. I agree with you on the SWFD.

unfortunately, some are still upset that they now have to pay for their own fire service (North End).

Just wait until after this spring break. People will be begging for change.

This area is really going down the tubes. There is still time to save it and course correct.