TALHASSEE – The Florida Senate has advanced with a bill banning the construction of golf courses, pickle courts and hotel-style lodges in state parks. The action follows bipartisan criticism of the previous “Great Outdoor Identity” proposal.
The Senate Environment and Natural Resources Committee has unanimously approved Bill SB 80, sponsored by Sen. Gayle Harrell of R-Stuart.
“Our state parks are so unique and we want to make sure they are there for the enjoyment and preservation of Florida’s natural resources,” Harrell said.
Last year there was a serious controversy over the release of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Great Outdoors Initiative.
One of the most controversial aspects of the initiative was the proposal to add three golf courses to Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Martin County, located within the Harrell area. Other parts of the initiative that faced considerable backlash include plans to build lodges in up to 350 rooms at both Anastasia State Park in St. John’s County and Top Sale Hill Preserve State Park in Walton County. Ta.
Governor Ron DeSantis suspended the proposal after public protests. In response, Representatives Harrell and Representatives John Snyder (R-Stuart) introduced a bill aimed at preventing similar developments in the future. These bills will be considered during the legislative meeting that begins on March 4th.
The bill allows construction of cabins in state parks, with a maximum capacity of six people each. Environmental groups supported the bill on Tuesday, but some advocated revisions to ensure that other potential types of development are addressed.
