To Concerned Citizens of Historic Point Washington

[Dave Rauschkolb]

There is concern among Point Washington residents regarding a new development proposed to go in less than 100 yards from the Cornerstone Church and Cemetery in Historic Point Washington. The development is slated to be built on roughly 4 acres and the developers intend on going for 8 units per acre as well as building up four stories on all buildings. 29 units hugging a cul de sac are proposed. The Oaks At Eden will more than likely have to clear cut all the old growth oaks on the property leaving only 29, 40 foot tall buildings.

Among the concerned citizens are adjacent homeowners who live in one story homes to the north south of the property as well as numerous residents who believe building heights and densities of that intensity are clearly incompatible with historically established development in Historic Point Washington.

Historic Point Washington is one of the oldest settlements in South Walton County. The residents are concerned that developments of this high density will adversely affect property values as well as the long established rural feel of the community.

The reasonable citizens of Historic Point Washington welcome the Oaks At Eden and hope the development will enhance rather than negatively impact the community. Reasonable citizens hope the Developers will consider lowering the heights and densities to mirror the long established patterns of development in the community.

The Board of County Commissioners will review the development proposal on November 8 at the Walton County Court house in DeFuniak Springs at 4:00 p.m. Residents and property owners of Point Washington should attend if they have similar concerns.

[Rita]

.... as well as building up four stories on all buildings. 29 units hugging a cul de sac are proposed. The Oaks At Eden will more than likely have to clear cut all the old growth oaks on the property leaving only 29, 40 foot tall buildings.

That certainly does not sound compatible! Are there no restrictions on clear cutting?

[ShallowsNole]

Buildings of more than two stories have no business in downtown PW. Neither does clear cutting. My parents will be across the street rolling in their graves.

Is water/sewer available on 395 now? That used to be the spot of the old school (pre-Bay) in Point Washington, and Bay Elementary got their water from that well for many years. Eventually there were concerns about the well being close to the cemetery Maybe we can scare them off?

Thanks for the heads up, Dave - my son has basketball that afternoon so I'm afraid I won't make it, but hopefully as many as can will.

[kurt]

County Commissioners:

• Dist. 1 -Scott Brannon, (850) 622-3081, brascott@co.walton.fl.us

• Dist. 2 - Kenneth Pridgen, (850) 834-6328, prikenneth@co.walton.fl.us

• Dist. 3 - Larry Jones (850) 892-8474, jonlarry@co.walton.fl.us

• Dist. 4 - Ro Cuchens, (850) 835-4834 cucro@co.walton.fl.us

• Dist. 5 - Cindy Meadows, (850) 622-3059 meacindy@co.walton.fl.us

Dear Commissioner,
Please count me as a concerned citizen opposed to the height and density of the proposed Oaks At Eden Development. It is completely out of character and incompatible with neighboring residential neighborhoods, and the historical pattern of development in Point Washington.

Sincerely,
your name
your address



Highlight the above text and click Ctrl-C (copy), click on each commissioner's e-mail address to open a new mail message for each. With your cursor in the body of the e-mail message click Ctrl-V (paste). Add your name and address and send.

THANKS!

[Smiling JOe]

County Commissioners:

• Dist. 1 -Scott Brannon, (850) 622-3081, brascott@co.walton.fl.us

• Dist. 2 - Kenneth Pridgen, (850) 834-6328, prikenneth@co.walton.fl.us

• Dist. 3 - Larry Jones (850) 892-8474, jonlarry@co.walton.fl.us

• Dist. 4 - Ro Cuchens, (850) 835-4834 cucro@co.walton.fl.us

• Dist. 5 - Cindy Meadows, (850) 622-3059 meacindy@co.walton.fl.us

Dear Commissioner,
Please count me as a concerned citizen opposed to the height and density of the proposed Oaks At Eden Development. It is completely out of character and incompatible with neighboring residential neighborhoods, and the historical pattern of development in Point Washington.

Sincerely,
your name
your address



Highlight the above text and click Ctrl-C (copy), click on each commissioner's e-mail address to open a new mail message for each. With your cursor in the body of the e-mail message click Ctrl-V (paste). Add your name and address and send.

THANKS!

...and if you can personalize it by adding to this letter, even better.

WTPhuk are these guys doing?

[Smiling JOe]

If you want to also write a complaint to the owners, write to:

TIMOTHY L. HENDERSON(managing member of D & H DEVELOPERS & INVESTORS, L.L.C. which owns OAKS AT EDEN LLC)
POST OFFICE BOX 1880
DESTIN FL 32540

Tim also owns many other businesses in the area such as:

HENDERSON, TIMOTHY LHHH BEACHFRONT RENTALS,
HENDERSON, TIMOTHY LD & H DEVELOPERS & INVESTORS, L.L.C.
HENDERSON, TIMOTHY LJOB SITE, LLC
HENDERSON, TIMOTHY LCABANAS OF SOUTH WALTON LLC
HENDERSON, TIMOTHY LTHE CANOPIES OF FREEPORT, L.L.C
HENDERSON, TIMOTHY LHENDERSON BROTHERS CONSTRUCTION, LLC
HENDERSON, TIMOTHY L.T & L INVESTMENT DEVELOPERS, INC.
HENDERSON, TIMOTHY LMOUNTAIN DRIVE OFFICE PARK OWNERS' ASSOCIATION, INC HENDERSON, TIMOTHY LT & L INVESTMENT DEVELOPERS, INC.
HENDERSON, TIMOTHY L.HENDCO CONSTRUCTION INC.
HENDERSON, TIMOTHY LHHH BEACHFRONT RENTALS, L.L.C.
HENDERSON, TIMOTHY LJOB SITE, LLC
HENDERSON, TIMOTHY LCABANAS OF SOUTH WALTON LLC
HENDERSON, TIMOTHY LHENDERSON BROTHERS CONSTRUCTION, LLC
HENDERSON, TIMOTHY LT & L INVESTMENT DEVELOPERS, INC.
HENDERSON, TIMOTHY L.HENDCO CONSTRUCTION INC.

Remember to shop accordingly.

[Dave Rauschkolb]

GREAT research Joe!

[peaboy]

GREAT research Joe!

Dave, Joe and everyone else. Great work here, count me and rachel in to help with this. This would be a shame for all of Point Washington and for that matter all of S. walton

ed berry

[FoX]

The Henderson brothers (Hendco Construction) are notorious for building the lowest quality house in Destin. An ugly square box with substandard everything.

Please everyone pitch in for Dave and the rest of the locals and write a letter or e-mail.

[Rita]

The Henderson brothers (Hendco Construction) are notorious for building the lowest quality house in Destin. An ugly square box with substandard everything.

Please everyone pitch in for Dave and the rest of the locals and write a letter or e-mail.

Will do!

[Smiling JOe]

The Henderson brothers (Hendco Construction) are notorious for building the lowest quality house in Destin. An ugly square box with substandard everything.

Funny you say that. I was wondering what the standard Hendco house would look like stacked four high. -- Nasty

[TreeFrog]

I previously lived in an area where the neighborhood resident's association applied for and received "national historic district" designation. Doing so allowed us to create and enforce design guidelines for both new construction and renovation of existing property. Deed covenants make it clear to new purchasers, prior to purchase, what they will legally be held to.

The system actually works. The neighborhood became desirable, vacant lots were developed, and the new houses that were built look very appropriate to the period, style, and siting of the existing houses. Inappropriate remodeling projects stopped butchering old houses. It's not developer-unfriendly. More than 100 houses have been built in our old area since the NHD designation.

Some NHD neighborhoods have been able to exert considerable clout. Bungalow Heaven, in Pasadena California, has been fighting a freeway construction project that would bisect their neighborhood.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation can help with info on getting NHD status. I think they also sometimes will weigh in to help deal with specific projects.

This info may be a little late for the Oaks at Eden, but maybe it can help. I hope so.

[Franny]

The OAKS of Eden..what Oaks after they have clear cut the property? This development makes my stomach turn. I have emailed the commissioners and will forward the information. Thanks Kurt, Joe, and everyone else for their consern.

[ShallowsNole]

MANY thanks to Dave, Kurt & SJ for the research, the heads-up, and the e-mail addresses!

[kurt]

Reminds me of the "Oaks Mall" in Gainesville. They cleared an Oak Hammock with over a hundred trees that were over 200 years old to build the mall. For many years the logo looked like an oak stump with cut off branches sticking out. The developers must have been trying to rub it in.

[Rita]

Reminds me of the "Oaks Mall" in Gainesville. They cleared an Oak Hammock with over a hundred trees that were over 200 years old to build the mall. For many years the logo looked like an oak stump with cut off branches sticking out. The developers must have been trying to rub it in.

We lived in Gainesville when that mall was built and the trees cut down. Sad, stupid thing to do! They planted all these little trees to replace them. We lived in Buckingham subd. so drove by there daily.

[bsmart]

Dear Commissioner,
Please count me as a concerned citizen opposed to the height and density of the proposed Oaks At Eden Development. It is completely out of character and incompatible with neighboring residential neighborhoods, and the historical pattern of development in Point Washington. Not to mention, the damage to the local environment will be tremendous and in effect will diminish the aesthetic quality of this area. Timothy Henderson et al., have a long streak of poor quality and unsightly developments in surrounding areas of the panhandle, similar practices in our county will be an utter disappointment to many.

Sincerely,

This is the letter I sent.

[Dave Rauschkolb]

In all posts to the commissioners please be polite, respectful, simple and direct. All we are asking is that The Oaks of Eden development stick to what is pretty much established; 4 units per acre and 2 story houses. Great Letter bsmart, thanks! Dave

[Dave Rauschkolb]

I am going to charter a bus for Point Washington Residents to go to the meeting together. May I ask that anyone wanting to ride on the bus(s) please email me at drmail@mchsi.com so you may reserve a seat and to determine if we need two busses. We can pick up any elderly folks if they can't get a ride to the church if necessary.

We will leave from the parking lot of the Cornerstone church in Historic Point Washington at 2:50 on November 8 for the 4:00 meeting in Defuniak springs.

If for some reason the meeting is postponed or the time changed we will plan the same trip until we are heard.

Thank you all. Dave Rauschkolb

[Smiling JOe]

According to the GIS maps, approx 60% of the property is in FEMA's 100 year flood zone. I believe the current law is that property which is in a flood zone is not able to be sub-divided. You will have to check me on this.

As for surrounding properties, the two parcels south of this parcel are Zoned Conservation Residential (2 units per acre). Also, the subject parcel and all other surrounding property, except for the parcel to the SW, is zoned Traditional Neighborhood. The parcel to the SW is zoned infill.

It is also my understanding that in order for the zoning to be changed, the subject property needs to be surrounded on at least three sides by type of zoning change being requested. Of course this conforming issue has not stopped the County from changing the density on other property.

[Magic Hour]

Thanks for all you are doing to combat this unsightly development.

In my opinion, these developers should be held to the same height standards that the developers at Edens Landing have adopted.

My letters when out today.

There is no substitute for a vocal and united group representing Pt. Washington.

[Quirk]

The way they get around the 100 year flood plain is to get out of the floodplain, usually by filling it to raise the elevation of the ground. Often this results in flooding to surrounding properties.

[Smiling JOe]

The way they get around the 100 year flood plain is to get out of the floodplain, usually by filling it to raise the elevation of the ground. Often this results in flooding to surrounding properties.

Which is also illegal and they will be liable.

[Donna]

This is one of the most unimaginative standard subdivision maps that I've ever seen. This is what developers do when they are merely trying to plug in the maximum number of units. In fact, it looks more like a mobile home park than a stick development. I would be willing to bet that the developer has a manufactured housing product in mind with this design. The setbacks are so minimal as to allow no effective landscape buffer from the ramrod straight road. Even a two-story height will translate into zero privacy for backyards.

The County and Point Washington deserve so much better than this. This development bears no semblance to the character of Pt. Washington whatsoever. Has anyone seen elevations for these units? Be sure to ask whether they are manufactured units. Someone should ask why units can't be clustered in order to create more interest and larger areas for landscaping. Really, this looks like the makings of a slum, although the houses will probably market for somewhere around $500K, I would expect. Finally, what has the developer been required to do in terms of affordable units as a mix with this? This is exactly the kind of development where some inclusionary affordable units should be a requirement, especially if the developer is requesting a density bonus. Just a few thoughts from a planner.

[RiverOtter]

...and if you can personalize it by adding to this letter, even better.

WTPhuk are these guys doing?

That should get their attention

[Donna]

P.S. My husband took a look at this site plan and reminded me that in the Colorado ski country, we used to call it "Stack-a-Shack." You would think the builder would introduce a little bit of diversity by having some different elevations and unit types and sizes, that is, some one-story units and some variety in how they are configured on the lots. All the lots are even identical. Some one-story units would also provide for some more affordable and/or moderately-priced housing stock mixed in with the market rate homes.

Please feel free to use the "Stack-a-Shack" vernacular in your testimony before the County Commission. Good luck, everyone.

[Smiling JOe]

P.S. My husband took a look at this site plan and reminded me that in the Colorado ski country, we used to call it "Stack-a-Shack." You would think the builder would introduce a little bit of diversity by having some different elevations and unit types and sizes, that is, some one-story units and some variety in how they are configured on the lots. All the lots are even identical. Some one-story units would also provide for some more affordable and/or moderately-priced housing stock mixed in with the market rate homes.

Please feel free to use the "Stack-a-Shack" vernacular in your testimony before the County Commission. Good luck, everyone.

So it sounds like you are familiar with Tim Henderson's (Hendco) building style. He does change the color from house to house, but nothing more. I like your idea of one-story units, but not if it is Tim's usual 1400 sf home. I have seen enough of them. Perhaps if I remember, tomorrow, I will takeand post a picture of a street of homes which he built.

[Rita]

.... He does change the color from house to house, but nothing more. ....

Color changes according to what paint's on sale at the time! ?

Are the chances of this getting approval good? It would seem there would be such good arguments against it as it is presented now. Or is this one of those deals where the developer plans from the start to have to make compromises so he gives himself LOTS of wiggle room? (so he can better get what he wants in the end)

[Smiling JOe]

Color changes according to what's on sale at the time! ?

Are the chances of this getting approval good? It would seem there would be such good arguments against it as it is presented now. Or is this one of those deals where the developer plans from the start to have to make compromises so he gives himself LOTS of wiggle room? (so he can better get what he wants in the end)

I don't know what the chances are that it will get approval. It would not surprise me if it was approved. It could depend upon the relationship between Tim and the County Commissioners. People cannot just show up to the meeting and say that Tim's projects are unsightly, and hope that it does not get approved. The Commissioner are supposed to look at evidence. Why is this project non-conforming? What is the history of Pt Washington? How might this project, if approved, hurt the other land owners in the area? etc.

Today, most developers do not leave much wiggle room. ie- they typically don't ask for more than they want, because their projects will more easily be rejected. I think it is more typical to initially ask for less until it is approved, then come back and ask for a little more.

[Donna]

Yes, it's easier to swallow following a thousand bites than in one gulp. But if the planning parameters, such as overall density and height limitations are set at the beginning, it is much more difficult to make substantive changes later. On the face of it, it would seem there is no overriding benefit or argument as to why this developer should get exceptions to existing ordinances and other County plans. I do not see any redeeming qualities in this design. I see some buidling envelopes encroaching into wetlands areas.

In fact, a closer look makes me wonder if this will pass muster with the fire protection provider. They have provided this turnaround for the engine, but if the houses are two-story (or taller, as you indicate he requests), then it will be very difficult to fight a fire and prevent it from spreading from one house to the next. The sideyard setbacks are too close and the height of walls too great. The "Stack-a-Shack" concept that I referred to had a fire in a ski community just outside Aspen and the fire department could not effectively fight the fire because of the construction and proximity of sidewalls within the development. The entire project was lost to fire.

The folks on the bus will want to ask the fire department about their review of this project and point out that there may be no "clear access" around the buildings due to the minimal sideyards and > height of structures. In cases like this, a ladder truck would be required. Does the closest response fire station have a ladder truck? Many don't. The cost for these trucks is around $875K, which doesn't include requirements for additional trained personnel at the station to operate the trucks (two drivers instead of one, etc.).

If I was a neighbor commenting on this project, I would ask for more variation in the building styles, sizes and elevations. I would ask for a landscaping concept that justifies the clean cutting of the forest there. I would carefully read all the in-house comments that other departments make (Fish & Game, Building Dept., Fire Department, Public Works, etc.) and make sure that their requirements are clearly conditions of approval that must be met before a building permit can be issued. And most importantly, I would lobby the County staff and officials to the effect that the project does not include any redeeming or overriding benefits that justify a deviation from the County's existing plans and ordinances and design review precedents. Good luck.

[Rita]

Donna,

YOU ARE GOOD at what you do! Keep the ideas coming. Are "the people on the bus" accessing this board? Great food for thought here!

[Smiling JOe]

...

The folks on the bus will want to ask the fire department about their review of this project and point out that there may be no "clear access" around the buildings due to the minimal sideyards and > height of structures. In cases like this, a ladder truck would be required. Does the closest response fire station have a ladder truck? Many don't. The cost for these trucks is around $875K, which doesn't include requirements for additional trained personnel at the station to operate the trucks (two drivers instead of one, etc.)....

FYI - the fire/rescue station at WaterColor has a ladder truck and they would most likely be the respondents to any fire in the Pt Washington area.

[Dave Rauschkolb]

GREAT points Donna; you are obviously well versed in this I hope you can come to the meeting and speak.

It seems most everyone wants to drive themselves to this meeting as I have had only two who expressed interest in the bus. I have decided to not persue the bus idea however it seems a lot of folks will be at the meeting. Please help pass the word!!!!! Thanks to all. Dave Rauschkolb

[Dave Rauschkolb]

IF you care deeply about the future of Historic Point Washington please contact new sowal member Randy Harleson at rharelson@earthlink.net to be on this list for the meeting

Historic Point Washington Association

The Historic Point Washington Association is a group of townsfolk,
residents, and friends who share an interest in discovering and
preserving the unique heritage of Point Washington, Florida, one of the
oldest settlements in Walton County (circa1880). The Association aims
to gather, preserve, and share accurate historical information about
the community and to help preserve its character, scale, architecture,
and open spaces.

The Historic Point Washington Association enjoys and studies the
appealing aesthetic and environmental qualities of today’s community
with an eye toward positively affecting its continued development in
the 21st Century.

Founding Members:


Ed Berry
Rachel Berry
Colleen Foley
James Foley
Richard Gibbs
David Higgs
Peter Horn
Susan Horn
Randy Horton
Kurt Lischka
Grace Marse
Hugh Marse
Jeff Nablo
Brett Nunn
Ty Nunn
Dave Rauschkolb
Cheryl Troxel

[Dave Rauschkolb]

I canceled the bus trip to the meeting due to lack of interest; 4 may ride with me if you wish; contact me at dave@budandalleys.com

Dave Rauschkolb

[peaboy]

Dear CountyCommissioners November 7, 2005

This letter is written in regard to Oaks at Eden, a proposed development located in Historic Point Washington. This development is scheduled to be addressed at tomorrows BCC meeting in DeFuniak Springs.

As most of you know, my wife’s family has Point Washington ties dating back to the late 1800’s. Point Washington is our home and has tremendous meaning to us. With that said, we understand development is coming to Point Washington. We do not object to projects that keep with the historical feel of the area. In fact we are part of it with land in Eden’s Landing a new development that takes into account the landscape and feel of the area.

However, this new project in it’s current proposal is simply not compatible with the community. The density issue, height of the structures and potential destruction of the amazing trees that the project is named after are just a few of our concerns. Twenty Nine (29) forty (40) foot buildings are simply not Point Washington. I could go on and on as to the many other concerns, such as storm water run off, traffic impacts, adverse impacts on property values and more.

Please consider these comments, review the site plan and vote to deny this project in it’s current state. Historic Point Washington is not the place for this high impact project. Walton County especially South Walton is growing so fast. Lets all take a breath, slow down and really study the impacts that developments such as this will have on our area.

Once again, thank you for your time, your assistance in preserving the feel and Historic nature of our community is appreciated.

Sincerely


Ed Berry
Rachel Morgan
Point Washington

[kurt]

See report on local channel 13 tonight at 6.

[Dave Rauschkolb]

When we started the Scenic 30 A Business Association in the late 80's. The designation of the C-30A as a Scenic road was a dream of ours.

50 or so concerned citizens met at Criolla's and formed the association to work on preserving the character of C-30A and began a dialog with the County Commissioners regarding limiting building heights, sign ordinances, adding bike paths and so on. In those days there were even fewer voting residents in South Walton and we felt strongly a business association would get the Commissioners attention and we did very effectively. We felt if we did not do something then undesirable development would swallow us just like in Destin and Panama City. We felt passionately the character of our beach road held tremendous value and had to be preserved and cherished. We felt the development that would come should be compatible and enhance our community. In the long run most developers caught on and property values soared.

Back then we did not have the financial resources to accomplish some of our goals but we did accomplish a lot. We fought against a putt-putt golf course close to where Angelina's is today and won; what would have been next, A bungee jump with go carts?

One of the projects I worked on was designing and placing all the signs at each small community on 30A giving pride to each as a unique part of C-30A. In those days only Seaside had a sign and there was a lot of jealousy of this upstart, instantly successful town. The TDC generously paid for the signs and continues to maintain them.

I felt strongly the area and our road needed an identity separating it from the surrounding areas. Each small community needed to be identified as unique and special. The signs also set an example and sent a message that small signs can be very effective; we had no sign ordinance then. When we were deciding what to call the road I pushed for calling it Scenic 30-A. I figured that even though the road was not officially designated as such we should just call it like we saw it; a truly scenic road. Why not make it so and hope it would eventually happen?

Well it looks like it is really going to happen and I am so proud of the efforts of the The Scenic 30A Corridor Advocacy Group, a lot of dedicated, determined, special people who are working to make this designation a reality.

Our little organization no longer exists but I remember all too well how the energy and determination of a few can move mountains. We had a few important goals, dreams really and organisations like the The Scenic 30A Corridor Advocacy Group, The South Walton Community Council and The Beach to Bay Alliance have taken the torch and accomplished and continue to accomplish almost all we set out to do. The Peach Creek Alliance literally did move mountains when it stopped an incompatible concrete plant.

The newly formed Historic Point Washington Association wishes to someday have Point Washington designated as a historic place much in the same way we hoped we could one day call Scenic 30-A for what it really is.

It's funny we have to get a designation sometimes to prove what we already know is true. The important thing to remember is official designations give us the power to preserve, protect and defend what we hold dear and I can think of no more noble a cause for a community. The words on the Walton County Seal send a similar message: Pride, Preservation and Conservation. It is our duty as citizens to hold our County Commissioners to those words, otherwise those words are a hollow pledge.

The commissioners are hard working and dedicated people who also care deeply about this county. All you need to do is go to one meeting and see what it takes to do their job; it is thankless work. We and they must always remember though, the commissioners work for us and it is our duty to vote out those who are consistently blind and deaf to their Constituents.

I have seen it time and again how this community dreams and moves mountains. We have much to be proud of and much to do. Let us Preserve, Protect and Defend what we hold dear and never waver. Not once, not ever. This place is far to special to do anything else.



Be on the Look out for information on joining the effort to officially designate Historic Point Washington for what it is, Historic


Dave Rauschkolb

[Miss Kitty]

Thank you Dave and friends. You have done much to save the place so many of us love. It makes me sing with joy to have your group's dream come true! If Hwy. 98 can become "scenic"....30-A is beautific!!! (is that a word?) Good luck with your stand on Pt. Washington, may cooler heads prevail!

[beachmouse]

Web version of the tv report:

http://www.wmbb.com/servlet/Satellite?pagename=WMBB%2FMGArticle%2FMBB_BasicArt icle&c=MGArticle&cid=1128768052558&path=!news!arch ives

Residents Say Historic Community Threatened


By Christopher Mitchell (cmitchell@wmbb.com)
News 13 On Your Side
Wednesday, November 9, 2005

Point Washington, FL - Residents living in the historic community of Point Washington in Walton County say they're not against development, but they're fighting one developer from what they call "threatening their neighborhood." Point Washington is in south Walton County just north of Highway 98 on County Road 395.

Point Washington was settled in the late 1800's. Residents have preserved the historic cemetary, church, post office, school and even an old mansion that's become Eden Gardens State Park. Randy Harelson lives right next to that state park. "I moved here 7 years ago because of its small one-story houses, its open space and its beautiful trees," he says. But, he's worried that a developer, the Hendco Company located in Destin, is threatening the historical integrity of his community with plans to build several three and four story homes in one small area down the street. "I have an acre of land here with a house and a barn, and on theirs, they will have more than six houses on this much property, and that's much too dense," he says.

Many residents in Point Washington say that they're not against developers developing on the land. They're just against how it's being developed. James Foley is a 30-year resident of Point Washington and local historian. He says he feels other developers are doing things right. "The one development that is closest to this," he says, standing near Hendco's proposed development site, "actually sat down with all the neighbors. They chose the local bricks that we used in the (old) school." But, he says Hendco isn't doing that. "These guys show up with a cookie-cutter, anywhere USA maximum density (plan), chopping down way too many trees and basically creating an eyesore in the middle of a very important historic resource."

Harelson agrees with Foley. "We want developers to come in and develop on half-acre lots with one or two story houses like we have always done so that it's in helping with our historic community," Harelson says. And, residents hope Hendco will change its plans and become one of them within the next two weeks. That's when county commissioners will decide whether or not to allow Hendco to proceed with development plans. Until then, county leaders asked the developer and residents to sit down and discuss a possible resolution to the problem.

[Dave Rauschkolb]

At the commissioners meeting on Tuesday we were successful in delaying the approval of the Oaks at Eden Development for two more weeks. Thanks to all who helped with research and sending letters to the commissioners. The Commissioners asked the Developer, Hendco to meet with us to try to work out a compromise.

We are asking your help to send this letter to the commissioners or pass it on to anyone who has not yet sent one to them. We are asking them to deny the development unless they modify it to be compatible with the existing community of Historic Point Washington. Thank you for all your help!! Also Randy Harelson and Jim Foley were interviewed on WMBB TV last night about our efforts!! If you agree with our efforts PLEASE send a letter to the Commissioners. THANK YOU!!!

Dave Rauschkolb

COUNTY COMMISSIONERS:

• Dist. 1 – Scott Brannon, (850) 622-3081, brascott@co.walton.fl.us
• Dist. 2 – Kenneth Pridge, (850) 834-6328, prikenneth@co.walton.fl.us
• Dist. 3 – Larry Jones, (850) 892-8474, jonlarry@co.walton.fl.us
• Dist. 4 – Ro Cuchens, (850) 835-4834, cucro@co.walton.fl.us
• Dist. 5 – Cindy Meadows, (850) 622-3059, meacindy@co.walton.fl.us




Dear Commissioner,
Please count me as a concerned citizen opposed to the height and density of the proposed Oaks At Eden Development. It does not meet compatibility requirements with the surrounding neighborhoods of Pt. Washington.

Sincerely,
Your Name
Your Address

[Smiling JOe]

Dave, sorry I couldn't attend the meeting on Tuesday. I did see the story on this morning's news.
What are the chances that Tim (Tim Henderson of Hendco) will actually sit down with the locals of Pt Washington to discuss ideas for changes to his plan? I know Tim can be a stubborn old mule at times. By the way, I dig your little place back there, next to the subject property.

For the record, I think it is great to hear residents say that they are not opposed to development, as long as it fits the surrounding area. I heard both Randy and Foley say this in the interviews. Otherwise, Commissioners might think that the residents of Pt Washington were against every type of development, and the crying voices would not be heard. Great job of being both professional and concerned.

For everyone concerned with only 30-A, I urge you to remember that today this development may not concern you, but remember who you want to be on your side, when the day comes and you are the one being affected. Stand up and make your voice known, and help fight to keep the integrity of one of the first two settlements in this area. Alone, we may fail, but together, we make a great chorus.

[Dave Rauschkolb]

Well said Joe, good words, thanks for your support and insight. We met a little over a week ago and all agreed our message should be to welcome the development yet be very direct and specific that this is not about anything but compatibility and it isn't. We have the resources to drag this out a very long time if necessary. We don't plan on giving up any time soon.

As for weather Tim Henderson will be reasonable remains to be seen. Pretty much at the meeting they did not budge an inch. They made a few non binding promises and lowered the heights from 40 to 38 feet. Big deal! We will not settle for any more than 32 feet (2 1/2 stories) and 4 units per acre, not 6 & 1/2.

Peter Horn with the Eden's landing development came to the community and listened. He modified his plan even against the advice of his investors to do the right thing for the community as a whole and it will come back to him ten fold. There is no substitute for community support and nothing worse then community scorn. These guys have an opportunity to step up to the plate and turn this around. I sincerely hope they do.

If you want to help, feel free to join the HPWA to make the designation of Point Washington as a historic town. You might have to be less anonymous though. Thanks Joe

[Smiling JOe]

If you want to help, feel free to join the HPWA to make the designation of Point Washington as a historic town. You might have to be less anonymous though. Thanks Joe

You never know, I may already be a member.

[Dave Rauschkolb]

HA HA HA HA HA HA!!!!!! A Haa! I think you could be Kurt's alter ego/pseudonym

[Miss Kitty]

HA HA HA HA HA HA!!!!!! A Haa! I think you could be Kurt's alter ego/pseudonym

Hmmmmm...where's Angela Lansbury?

[Rita]

For everyone concerned with only 30-A, I urge you to remember that today this development may not concern you, but remember who you want to be on your side, when the day comes and you are the one being affected. Stand up and make your voice known, and help fight to keep the integrity of one of the first two settlements in this area. Alone, we may fail, but together, we make a great chorus.

I sent out the e-mail today, personalized a little. We looked at lots in Pt. Washington when we bought. Nice area.

[kurt]

HA HA HA HA HA HA!!!!!! A Haa! I think you could be Kurt's alter ego/pseudonym

I couldn't possibly shoot that many pictures.


Look for a tall, kind stranger, with a smile, wearing .

[Smiling JOe]

I couldn't possibly shoot that many pictures.


Look for a tall, kind stranger, with a smile, wearing .

Now I cannot wear my Thanks for nothin'

It gets difficult trying to remember which username I am typing under.

Stranger in Walton Co? Nah.

[Jdarg]

SJ- I picture you walking down the street with a little frog parade behind you. Little happy frogs all drinking Guinness.