S.P.E.A.K. Up for South Walton

**DCFinSCB** · 01-04-2010, 10:50 AM

A small group of local professionals have banded together as "Supporters" to come up with a proposal for a Physical Education and Activities Kampus that will serve not only the local residential population, but that of any visitors or vacationers, our guests, to the area. We think the idea has merit and brings significant value to the inhabitants of what most of us consider the crowning jewel of the Emerald Coast, South Walton. And as we begin 2010 and all consider our future, we look to Our Greater South Walton Community for support!

By now, I would imagine most of us have come to grips with the fact that South Walton is growing, and in some ways and directions perhaps some of us would rather it didn't. But hopefully what you find here is an opportunity to get behind an idea and proposal, and maybe even help shape the future landscape and idea, of what South Walton represents and offers.

This is the type of infrastructure and facilities we not only could use, but that will provide a resource for the many activities: sports, theatre, health and wellness-related services, performing and the visual arts, or otherwise. What this proposal needs now is the support of Our Community!

So now we ask that you review the attached proposal, give it your time and consideration, and then post here about your thoughts, ideas, and hopefully YOUR SUPPORT! Think of this as an online petition, and sign your name to the idea of a constructive, enriching, and beneficial future for South Walton and its people. And contact Our Commissioners, Chamber, and Tourism & Development Council to let them know you support the idea as well. Help South Walton reach its P.E.A.K.!

Thank you for your time and consideration, and we look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,
Supporters of the Physical Education & Activties Kampus (S.P.E.A.K.) for South Walton

**florida girl** · 01-05-2010, 11:43 AM

Given the current economy, and that taxes and fees have already skyrocketed, this seems to be something else that we really can't afford.

The South Walton Physical Education & Activities Kampus Funding Program

It is not yet fully known from what sources the funds necessary to develop the Kampus would be, but a mixture of private donations, and federal, state and local grants, as well as voter approved bonds are the most likely. Local option sales tax revenues may also support the Kampus, which makes sense in light of the projected increase in sales tax revenue that the project is expected to contribute.

**Jdarg** · 01-05-2010, 12:19 PM

I applaud people like the S.P.E.A.K. group and others constantly trying to make improvements in our community. There are many real "community needs" here- services and programs and facilities that are wanted by the families who live and work here...and just because the economy is bad now does not mean everyone should stop moving forward. Winners keep the momentum going, and thankfully, there are a lot of hardworking people here that understand that concept.

Thanks to S.P.E.A.K., the Grow Some Roots group, the Farmer's Market, the people supporting local businesses, the non-profits, parents at the schools, Community Walton, and the many others who are working to strengthen our community!

**Zebraspots** · 01-05-2010, 12:42 PM

Originally Posted by florida girl

Given the current economy, and that taxes and fees have already skyrocketed, this seems to be something else that we really can't afford.

Given the current economy, I think it is something we really can't afford to not do.

**Just Curious** · 01-05-2010, 12:57 PM

We can't just wait until the economy is better to start planning things. This seems like the perfect time to plan improvements to our community that will draw in more people and make south walton better.

Have you contacted anybody from the local government? There is no reason to have seperate efforts working towards the same goals. They might have some input that would be helpful.

**DCFinSCB** · 01-05-2010, 01:55 PM

Originally Posted by Just Curious

We can't just wait until the economy is better to start planning things. This seems like the perfect time to plan improvements to our community that will draw in more people and make south walton better.

Have you contacted anybody from the local government? There is no reason to have seperate efforts working towards the same goals. They might have some input that would be helpful.

Great question. We have been in touch with and submitted this idea to both the Chamber and TDC. While the former Commissioner invited us to her office, we have not yet heard from any of the current Commisioners.

The Chamber, and especially the TDC, have been helpful. We've also had informal discussions with members of the local arts community (including jdarg), local developers, and land owners.

We would not expect this to be done by next year, or that it would be completely paid for by taxpayers (quite the opposite, we want less or limited government involvement and money, not more, through private investment), but rather this can be a consideration and direction for some of the growth we know is coming and already happening in South Walton.

I expect we'll hear from several who say, "No thank you," but we think the growth we are promoting, outside the scope of and other than WalMart and strip malls, is a worthy consideration that can provide tangible benefits to EVERY segment and member of our community.

And really, we want to hear from EVERYONE who wants to provide their input. If you support the efforts, we'll be happy to have it and hope you will sign on to the proposal. If you disagree with what we are proposing, we'll take that into consideration as well.

**scooterbug44** · 01-05-2010, 08:38 PM

FG - you constantly complain about how we need a different industry here, yet can never come up with anything but complaints. Someone else is proposing something that is not only proven to bring in revenue, but is a great community resource and wants all of our input and you complain about that too!

Whether we like it or not, Sowal is growing. That growth can be good (a place to draw offseason business and improve our community's health) or bad (Wal-mart).

**Just Curious** · 01-06-2010, 11:53 AM

Originally Posted by DCFinSCB

Great question. We have been in touch with and submitted this idea to both the Chamber and TDC. While the former Commissioner invited us to her office, we have not yet heard from any of the current Commisioners.

The Chamber, and especially the TDC, have been helpful. We've also had informal discussions with members of the local arts community (including jdarg), local developers, and land owners.

We would not expect this to be done by next year, or that it would be completely paid for by taxpayers (quite the opposite, we want less or limited government involvement and money, not more, through private investment), but rather this can be a consideration and direction for some of the growth we know is coming and already happening in South Walton.

I expect we'll hear from several who say, "No thank you," but we think the growth we are promoting, outside the scope of and other than WalMart and strip malls, is a worthy consideration that can provide tangible benefits to EVERY segment and member of our community.

And really, we want to hear from EVERYONE who wants to provide their input. If you support the efforts, we'll be happy to have it and hope you will sign on to the proposal. If you disagree with what we are proposing, we'll take that into consideration as well.

Thanks for the info, but I would recomend making the first contact with any public official. If you are waiting for them to call, you might be there awhile. I think that you would get a lot of support from our new District 5 Commissioner, I have had a lot of good experiences with her and her efforts since she has been in office.

**Andy A** · 01-06-2010, 01:22 PM

I have read all of the proposal but I have a question or two. I am fully supportive of sports in every form as I played and officiated them until I no longer could do so. In one part of the proposal, residence were mentioned as being a possiblity. This brings to mind a scenerio similar to "The Villages" in Central Florida. Are you, by any chance, proposing something similar or have I read too much into the proposal?
Also, have you contacted Commissioner Comander who is sponsoring the Walton County Visions program? This should definitely be a part of it, IMO.

**DCFinSCB** · 01-06-2010, 02:07 PM

Originally Posted by Andy A.

I have read all of the proposal but I have a question or two. I am fully supportive of sports in every form as I played and officiated them until I no longer could do so. In one part of the proposal, residence were mentioned as being a possiblity. This brings to mind a scenerio similar to "The Villages" in Central Florida. Are you, by any chance, proposing something similar or have I read too much into the proposal?
Also, have you contacted Commissioner Comander who is sponsoring the Walton County Visions program? This should definitely be a part of it, IMO.

Taking into consideration the uniqueness of our area and its people, we are not trying to copy any existing developments, but learn from what many in existence already offer, including "The Villages" and "IMG Academies" in Bradenton, and apply what is learned to this proposal. Both of those existing developments provide an opportunity for South Walton to take what those existing communities provide to their inhabitants into consideration, and gives us an opportunity to tailor our future here around something we consider much more constructive than just a narrow focus on consumption (i.e. retail stores and restaurants, not that there is anything wrong with having either), and that may very well include creation of a community, or multiple communities, that are set up similarly to the ones referenced with adjoining or very near by residences.

I do believe this plan, or a previous version of it, has been forwarded to the Commissioners already, but will send out to them again. We will be extremely proactive in getting this out to the community and appreciate any help in doing so that anyone who views this provides.

**florida girl** · 01-06-2010, 02:40 PM

Originally Posted by scooterbug44

FG - you constantly complain about how we need a different industry here, yet can never come up with anything but complaints. Someone else is proposing something that is not only proven to bring in revenue, but is a great community resource and wants all of our input and you complain about that too!

Whether we like it or not, Sowal is growing. That growth can be good (a place to draw offseason business and improve our community's health) or bad (Wal-mart).

I will quote again:

The South Walton Physical Education & Activities Kampus Funding Program

It is not yet fully known from what sources the funds necessary to develop the Kampus would be, but a mixture of private donations, and federal, state and local grants, as well as voter approved bonds are the most likely. Local option sales tax revenues may also support the Kampus, which makes sense in light of the projected increase in sales tax revenue that the project is expected to contribute.

We need privately funded industry, not another project paid for by us. The state and federal government does not have an unending supply of funds to solve our economic crisis! I am actively doing what I can, which takes a lot of imagination by the way. I think that adding another tax or fee to our already strapped economy is a recipe for disaster! I think we need to assist our privately owned companies survive through this, and help others to start up.

**emeraldcoastdav** · 01-06-2010, 05:37 PM

Let's pave all south Walton streets before we build big kid play grounds with tax payer money. This sounds like a private money venture.

**Douglas the Intrepid** · 01-06-2010, 05:54 PM

I like the concept of a sports center for the kids and adults to enjoy, but the comparison to the Frank Brown Park in PCB for raising money terrifies me. Do we really want to host events like Thunderbeach here on 30a?! I think I would rather have the Walmart!

**emeraldcoastdav** · 01-06-2010, 06:00 PM

It also sounds like the land requirements in this project should locate it on the north side of the bay. Still a short drive from the beach.

**30ashopper** · 01-06-2010, 07:15 PM

The Kampus would offer outdoor playing fields designed for use for soccer, lacrosse, rugby, field hockey, and possibly football. Additional indoor and outdoor offerings would include tennis, golf, swimming, and possibly polo fields. And the Kampus would include a state-of-the-art indoor facility that would provide indoor playing surfaces, workout facilities, yoga/pilates instruction, spin classes, indoor rock climbing, food service, and children’s camps and activities. Long-term goals include the creation of a sports medicine and rehabilitation institute, and a full-time sports and educational academy.

Walton county has a total full-time population of around 50,000 today, with about four thousand families with kids spread out across the entire county. What you describe doesn't fit with the demographics of the area, nor does the initial and ongoing cost fit with the median income levels we have here. How much would something like this cost to maintain? Debt does not magically disappear, it must be paid off. Pretty much the only way to pay for this ‘Kampus’ is through taxes, both property and sales. Those methods spread the cost across the entire county. I don't think folks in Defuniak, Piney Grove, Freeport, or for that matter, Miramar Beach, are going to be happy about funding a sports complex for a small privileged group, especially when you consider the income disparities between the northern and southern regions.

I'm sorry but I would not support something like this if it came to a vote. This smacks of an idea hatched by the "30-A crowd" which would clearly under serve a majority of Walton County residents. Case and point, quoting your proposal: “The growth of the eastern area of South Walton, as evidenced by the continued development of Point Washington, Seagrove, Grayton, Eastern Lake, WaterColor, WaterSound Beach, WaterSound, Seaside, Rosemary Beach and Sea Crest, shows the need for an additional sports recreation facility in this part of the county.” Of all the demographic areas in Walton County, I can assure you, the 30-A corridor is last on the list in need of frivolous, taxpayer funded facilities.

Also, isn't most of this already available either publically or privately? I think most of these resources are, just not in one grand 200 acre shining complex. (Conveniently located just north of 30-A.)

Now I wouldn't have any issues with parents asking for a couple soccer fields at the local high school or a new park or small ampatheater, but what S.P.E.A.K. is describing here seems more suited to a large metropolitan area or a very rich, niche enclave, like, oh I don't know, maybe Aspen Colorado?

My suggestion for the folks interested in this would be to get your expectations more in line with the fiscal and demographic realities of area you live in. (Also, if Seaside’s Neighborhood School is in need of a new lacrosse field, might I suggest the folks who send their kids there band together, buy the land, and build one.)

**emeraldcoastdav** · 01-06-2010, 07:29 PM

Outstanding 30ashopper!!!!

**emeraldcoastdav** · 01-06-2010, 07:40 PM

Yahoo real estate guide states median home value in Aspen is $7,155,000.

**DCFinSCB** · 01-07-2010, 08:07 AM

Originally Posted by florida girl

I will quote again:

We need privately funded industry, not another project paid for by us. The state and federal government does not have an unending supply of funds to solve our economic crisis! I am actively doing what I can, which takes a lot of imagination by the way. I think that adding another tax or fee to our already strapped economy is a recipe for disaster! I think we need to assist our privately owned companies survive through this, and help others to start up.

I imagine it depends on what you highlight,

"It is not yet fully known from what sources the funds necessary to develop the Kampus would be, but a mixture of private donations, and federal, state and local grants, as well as voter approved bonds are the most likely. Local option sales tax revenues may also support the Kampus, which makes sense in light of the projected increase in sales tax revenue that the project is expected to contribute,"

but I would gladly admit we would almost have to have government involvement on some level, with no option left unturned, in light of the fact that this will serve both the local, visiting, and vacationing public.

**DCFinSCB** · 01-07-2010, 08:17 AM

Originally Posted by emeraldcoastdav

Let's pave all south Walton streets before we build big kid play grounds with tax payer money. This sounds like a private money venture.

Big kids, small kids, young kids, old kids, this facility would provide something for everyone who is interested in promoting their physical and mental health and well-being through physical education, the arts, and entertainment while in the area, permanently or temporarily.

And private money would need to be a large part of it. It would have to be.

**Mango** · 01-07-2010, 08:21 AM

30A, I don't think you realize the scope of kid's sports involvement and how seriously they take competition. I just forked over a $100 donation to my neighbors daughter, who I watched grow up, so she can play softball competitively in FL against non- FL teams.

Here's a recent article detailing some statistics regarding this issue and also about the breadth of sports injuries. I would imagine that just that portion of the sports center would financially generate a good contribution to the maintenance of the center alone.
Rehab for kids hits South Florida sports scene - Kids' Health - MiamiHerald.com

I read the growth of the 30A corridor in the business plan to mean growth in tourism, not full time residents. Now with a new airport opening, new flights coming in via SW, and the dollar against the Euro, a sports complex in Sowal could be fiscally beneficial to us. I think this has more merit in attracting tourism and awareness of our beautiful stretch of beach than anything other tourism effort. People love their sports all over the world.

From a business perspective, I, too, do not care for the reference to PCB and would look for statistics and figures from a similar complex, if possible. It would add a lot more meat to the proposal, IMHO.

**DCFinSCB** · 01-07-2010, 08:26 AM

Originally Posted by Douglas the Intrepid

I like the concept of a sports center for the kids and adults to enjoy, but the comparison to the Frank Brown Park in PCB for raising money terrifies me. Do we really want to host events like Thunderbeach here on 30a?! I think I would rather have the Walmart!

We specifically discussed Frank Brown Park in our meetings as a model we would NOT want. The Kampus aspects of this proposal look to avoid what many of us view as a bit of a monstrosity in Panama City Beach, while protecting and promoting much of the surrounding natural landscape and beauty. I think most if not all of us can agree that South Walton is unique, and this plan looks to protect, promote, and generate revenue for ALL of Walton County from that uniqueness, while providing facilities, venues, and services that are needed in South Walton.

**DCFinSCB** · 01-07-2010, 08:28 AM

Originally Posted by Mango

From a business perspective, I, too, do not care for the reference to PCB and would look for statistics and figures from a similar complex, if possible. It would add a lot more meat to the proposal, IMHO.

Thank you for the constructive suggestion. I agree and we will definitely add that.

**DCFinSCB** · 01-07-2010, 08:35 AM

Originally Posted by 30ashopper

Walton county has a total full-time population of around 50,000 today, with about four thousand families with kids spread out across the entire county. What you describe doesn't fit with the demographics of the area, nor does the initial and ongoing cost fit with the median income levels we have here. How much would something like this cost to maintain? Debt does not magically disappear, it must be paid off. Pretty much the only way to pay for this ‘Kampus’ is through taxes, both property and sales. Those methods spread the cost across the entire county. I don't think folks in Defuniak, Piney Grove, Freeport, or for that matter, Miramar Beach, are going to be happy about funding a sports complex for a small privileged group, especially when you consider the income disparities between the northern and southern regions.

I'm sorry but I would not support something like this if it came to a vote. This smacks of an idea hatched by the "30-A crowd" which would clearly under serve a majority of Walton County residents. Case and point, quoting your proposal: “The growth of the eastern area of South Walton, as evidenced by the continued development of Point Washington, Seagrove, Grayton, Eastern Lake, WaterColor, WaterSound Beach, WaterSound, Seaside, Rosemary Beach and Sea Crest, shows the need for an additional sports recreation facility in this part of the county.” Of all the demographic areas in Walton County, I can assure you, the 30-A corridor is last on the list in need of frivolous, taxpayer funded facilities.

Also, isn't most of this already available either publically or privately? I think most of these resources are, just not in one grand 200 acre shining complex. (Conveniently located just north of 30-A.)

Now I wouldn't have any issues with parents asking for a couple soccer fields at the local high school or a new park or small ampatheater, but what S.P.E.A.K. is describing here seems more suited to a large metropolitan area or a very rich, niche enclave, like, oh I don't know, maybe Aspen Colorado?

My suggestion for the folks interested in this would be to get your expectations more in line with the fiscal and demographic realities of area you live in. (Also, if Seaside’s Neighborhood School is in need of a new lacrosse field, might I suggest the folks who send their kids there band together, buy the land, and build one.)

I can understand your apprehension if this was being proposed for just the local population, but it is not. We are talking about creating a viable industry for the area and the future that fits with and complements the already existing industries, culture, and environment of the area. Sports are not getting less popular locally, regionally, or internationally, but rather it is still very much a growth industry.

We honestly think and feel that this has the possibility of being a uniquely defining project for not only this specific area, but for the Florida Panhandle, and Southeast Region. This is as much a motivation of the heart and for what we view as a very special and endearing community, as it is about anything else. Words like potential are used too often, but this project really does provide an opportunity for nearly EVERYONE, the residents, the visitors, retirees, the county, the arts community, the sports community, private interests, and the public, to profit and come out winners.

**30ashopper** · 01-07-2010, 02:02 PM

Originally Posted by DCFinSCB

I can understand your apprehension if this was being proposed for just the local population, but it is not. We are talking about creating a viable industry for the area and the future that fits with and complements the already existing industries, culture, and environment of the area. Sports are not getting less popular locally, regionally, or internationally, but rather it is still very much a growth industry.

We honestly think and feel that this has the possibility of being a uniquely defining project for not only this specific area, but for the Florida Panhandle, and Southeast Region. This is as much a motivation of the heart and for what we view as a very special and endearing community, as it is about anything else. Words like potential are used too often, but this project really does provide an opportunity for nearly EVERYONE, the residents, the visitors, retirees, the county, the arts community, the sports community, private interests, and the public, to profit and come out winners.

I think the idea is great.. but as a private venture. The county will still benefit through sales taxes and increased tourist traffic, local businesses that already offer these services will have a fair chance to compete, and local residents who see value in what the complex offers will be responsible for supporting it through the fees they pay for access.

I do wish you the best of luck in your new business venture!

You should start by knocking on Joe's front door, they have a habit of investing in these types of things and a vested interest in seeing the area grow.

**DCFinSCB** · 01-14-2010, 10:48 AM

Bump.

While I can understand Kurt moving this to Sports & Recreation, the topic is as much about Health & Wellness, Arts & Entertainment, Music & Events, Real Estate & Business, and really is All About SoWal and creating a productive and positive contributing industry here.

So during this weekend, of arts, entertainment, and what is sure to be GREAT music, please consider the options and opportunities a facility like the one proposed would offer to future events.

Have Fun, Be Safe, and S.P.E.A.K. Up!!

**DCFinSCB** · 03-17-2010, 02:57 PM

Glad the Commissioners and the public did not let the movement get off track.

Walton to proceed with study for sports, arts complexes | santa, arts, sports - Local News - WaltonSun.com

**DCFinSCB** · 03-31-2010, 09:49 AM

Received an email recently that said another commissioner is holding up the process of getting Feasibility Studies going and completed by professionals who specialize in this area. These studies are important to the successful and healthy growth and development of not only the county, but everyone who is located here permanently or temporarily. Residents and visitors alike need to S.P.E.A.K. Up!

Please call and/or email our Commissioners to state your support for the TDC Arts/Sports Feasibility Studies - AS ALREADY APPROVED TWICE - moving forward. Request an explanation and request that the studies not be held up any longer. Please let others know about this and ask them to do the same.

Thank you for your help.

Dist 1 Scott Brannon brascott@co.walton.fl.us (850) 835-4860
Dist 2 Kenneth Pridgen prikenneth@co.walton.fl.us (850) 834-6328 (850) 951-3736
Dist 3 Larry Jones jonlarry@co.walton.fl.us (850) 892-8474
Dist 4 Sara Commander comsara@co.walton.fl.us (850) 835-4834
Dist 5 Cecilia Jones joncecilia@co.walton.fl.us (850) 231-2978