Don't Over Develop Our State Parks
Friends of South Walton | J.D. Liles, Special District Commissioner Topsail Hill Preserve, Camp Helen, & Grayton Beach State Parks Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 | August 25, 2024
Governor Ron DeSantis~Office of Governor Ron DeSantis
The Capitol, 400 S. Monroe St. Tallahassee, FL 32399-0001
Dear Governor DeSantis,
We write to express our grave concerns about the proposed amendments to existing unit management plans for our State Parks in South Walton. These amendments pose serious threats to our environment, public health, and the sustainable future of our community.
The proposed changes to Florida's state parks would irreparably damage the pristine natural landscapes that are becoming increasingly scarce in our state. The essence of the "Real Florida" is not found in manicured golf courses or artificial recreational facilities, but in the unspoiled beaches, lush forests, and diverse ecosystems that our state parks protect. These parks serve as sanctuaries for native flora and fauna, provide visitors with authentic experiences of Florida's natural beauty, and offer a much-needed respite from rapid urban development.
Environmental Impact and Water Quality Concerns:
Recent studies have shown dangerously high levels of PFAS, or "forever chemicals," in fish from the Bay Estuary, a result of our current inadequate stormwater management system. These chemicals pose severe health risks, including cancer, and highlight the critical need for a comprehensive stormwater management plan. Our current system of open ditches fails to prevent polluted runoff from contaminating our waters. Adding more development without addressing these issues will only worsen our environmental problems.
Public Health and Safety Risks:
The health and safety of our residents are at stake. There have been alarming cases of dangerous bacteria in our waters, including flesh-eating bacteria that have led to amputations among local fishermen. The proposed golf course, with its increased use of chemicals and potential runoff, threatens to exacerbate these health hazards. We must prioritize the health of our community over development that could increase these risks.
Legal Precedents on Infrastructure Limitations:
Recent Real estate development cases set legal precedent by recognizing the limited capacity of Highway County 30A and ruling that impact fees could not be justified without feasible infrastructure improvements. This decision underscores that our local infrastructure cannot support additional developments without significant upgrades. Ignoring this precedent would not only strain our infrastructure but could also lead to legal challenges, further delaying any development.
Preservation of Forests and Natural Resources:
Our forests are not just a backdrop to our community; they are vital to our ecosystem, providing habitats for wildlife, supporting biodiversity, and maintaining ecological balance. The proposed amendments would lead to deforestation, habitat destruction, and loss of biodiversity. These forests play a crucial role in air purification and water filtration, which are essential to our community's health and well-being. Preserving these natural resources is crucial for the sustainability of South Walton.
Call to Action:
Governor DeSantis, we urge you to intervene and halt these amendments. It is imperative to conduct thorough environmental impact assessments, implement comprehensive stormwater management solutions, and address public health and infrastructure concerns before proceeding. Our community deserves responsible and sustainable development that aligns with the values of preserving our natural environment and ensuring public health.
We call on you to lead by example and take action to protect South Walton's environment and the health of our residents. The decisions we make today will determine the legacy we leave for future generations. Let us work together to safeguard our forests, water quality, and the overall well-being of our community.
Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. We look forward to your support in preserving the natural beauty and health of South Walton.
Sincerely,
Friends of South Walton &
J.D. Liles Special District Commissioner, South Walton, Florida
~ individual opinion and not necessarily that of the board~