Stuart’s Battle Over Florida Parks Continues: Golf Courses vs. Conservation
It’s heating up again in Stuart, Florida! The controversy that rumbled last summer over the potential construction of golf courses, lodges, and even pickleball courts in our gorgeous state parks is headed back to the legislative floor. State Senator Gayle Harrell, a Republican and representative of the Martin County district—which includes the beloved Jonathan Dickinson State Park—has filed the State Parks Preservation Act (SB 80) for the 2025 legislative session.
What’s the Scoop on the Bill?
So, what does this bill actually promise? Harrell insists on a clear directive for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to focus on conservation-based recreational activities. That sounds good, right? But hold your horses, because the list of allowed activities specifically excludes popular pastimes like golf, tennis, pickleball, and any sports that might need a ball field. Ouch, that’s gonna sting for sports enthusiasts!
Remember last summer’s uproar surrounding that “Great Outdoors Initiative?” It was a big, bold plan that proposed adding THREE golf courses to the Jonathan Dickinson State Park. The uproar was enough to send shockwaves through all the nearby communities, with protests popping up everywhere. Thankfully, it didn’t last long. After just a couple of weeks of widespread backlash, it was scrapped.
What Was Wrong with the Initiative?
People everywhere were puzzled by the initiative that even included plans for a 350-room lodge in Topsail Preserve and a disc golf course at Maclay Gardens. The public barely had a week’s notice to voice their concerns during a single public hearing. Even Senate heavyweights like U.S. Senators Marco Rubio and Rick Scott jumped in, calling the plans “absolutely ridiculous.” Talk about a bipartisan moment!
The Aftermath of Last Summer
In the wake of such public outcry, Governor Ron DeSantis—who wasn’t even directly involved in the initiative—backed off. He admitted they needed to “go back to the drawing board.” Enter Senator Harrell and her brand-spanking-new bill.
What Does Her Bill Aim to Achieve?
Harrell is proposing much-needed guardrails for the DEP. If they’re looking to revive any similar initiatives, they’ll need to show more transparency and community input. The bill requires the DEP to come up with 10-year management plans for each of Florida’s 175 state parks, clearly outlining the park’s natural resources and cultural significance.
But that’s just the start! These management plans must include measurable objectives for things like habitat restoration, public access, and even sustainable forest management. This isn’t just about protecting nature; it’s about ensuring people have a place to explore it too!
Public Participation Is Key
One of the most crucial aspects of Harrell’s bill is that any proposed changes to the parks will need to come with a 30-day notice for at least one public hearing. That’s right—the local community will get to weigh in before any decisions are made!
As this issue continues to unfold, many residents are hoping that this new legislative plan makes a meaningful impact on Florida’s park system. It’s not just about keeping the parks wild and wonderful, but also inviting everyone to enjoy what makes Florida truly special—its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse outdoor activities!
Stay tuned as the drama unfolds in the coming legislative session. Will empires of golf rise again, or will conservation prevail? You don’t want to miss what happens next!
