Stuart Lawmaker Takes Stand for State Parks
In the vibrant city of Stuart, a brewing storm over state parks is stirring the pot as local lawmakers question the future of Florida’s treasured green spaces. Months after Governor Ron DeSantis’ administration proposed a plan that raised eyebrows—bringing golf courses, luxurious lodges, and pickleball courts to state parks—a lawmaker is stepping up to hit the brakes. This week, State Senator Gayle Harrell took a bold move by filing a bill aimed at preserving the natural integrity of Florida’s beloved state parks.
Introducing the State Park Preservation Act
Harrell’s bill, known as the “State Park Preservation Act” (SB 80), looks to put the brakes on any proposed developments like golf courses, tennis courts, pickleball facilities, and ball fields. Instead, it aims to refocus state parks on activities that resonate more with nature lovers, such as fishing, camping, biking, and hiking.
The filing comes after the uproar sparked by the state Department of Environmental Protection’s controversial “Great Outdoors Initiative”. This plan, unveiled last August, targeted nine parks for major changes, including the addition of three golf courses in Jonathan Dickinson State Park—a location right in Harrell’s own district. The initiative didn’t sit well with the public, prompting bipartisan backlash and leading DeSantis to label the plan as “half-baked.”
Protecting the Parks
Senator Harrell emphasizes the need for state parks to be managed in a way that balances public enjoyment with the preservation of natural resources. Her proposed legislation intends to protect parks from developments that could harm their ecosystems, stating clearly that construction activities which “may cause significant harm” to park resources would be strictly prohibited. In her view, parks should remain a backdrop for activities that foster a connection with nature, rather than becoming playgrounds for commercial interests.
What’s at Stake?
The proposed bill also limits the size of camping cabins to a modest six occupants, ensuring that cabin spaces don’t turn into overcrowded facilities. Just last summer, the controversial plans included building massive lodges with up to 350 rooms at popular parks like Anastasia State Park in St. Johns County, which triggered public outrage. Community members voice concern that such developments would lead to the destruction of nature trails and decrease the parks’ natural beauty.
In addition to the lodges, plans floated the idea of placing four pickleball courts and a disc golf course in underutilized areas of Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. A similar strategy was proposed for parks across the state, including Oleta River and Honeymoon Island State Parks. Such proposals have not gone unnoticed by local communities, which have rallied against the push for commercializations that threaten their precious outdoor spaces.
Looking Ahead
As the clock ticks down to the start of the 2025 legislative session on March 4, the future of Florida’s state parks hangs in the balance. Harrell’s bill aims to protect these sanctuaries from becoming hubs of commercial activity, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the natural beauty of Florida. Will the voices of local communities prevail in this fight for preservation? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Floridians are ready to stand up for their parks.
With the pressure mounting, it looks like this conversation about the state parks is only just beginning. As lawmakers debate the future of Florida’s green spaces, residents will be closely watching how these proposals unfold.
