Pickleball Courts in Florida State Parks: A proposal aimed at preventing golf courses, pickleball courts, and luxury resorts in Florida state parks has passed the Senate Fiscal Policy Committee and will now move to the full Senate. The bill, SB 80, aims to protect natural resources and habitats within state parks.
Background of the Bill
The bill was filed by Sen. Gayle Harrell, R-Stuart, after public backlash against the state Department of Environmental Protection’s “Great Outdoors Initiative.” This plan included adding golf courses, resort-style lodges, and pickleball courts to state parks. The public outcry led to the initiative being withdrawn. Sen.
“This last summer was really a lesson in civics. It says the public does have a voice that counts. The overwhelming rejection of the attempt to do what was being done was across the state of Florida.” – (Harrell)
Many Florida residents rejected the idea of commercializing the state’s natural parks.
Opposition to Changes in the Bill
The committee debated a proposed change by Sen. Joe Gruters, R-Sarasota, which would have allowed certain facilities, like golf courses and pickleball courts, if they were deemed not to cause “substantial harm” to natural resources. This change was rejected after concerns that it would still allow for the development of commercial facilities in parks. Sen. Gruters argued, “The question is, do we trust ourselves, do we?”
His aim was to offer more recreational options for those who cannot afford theme parks. However, several lawmakers disagreed. Travis Moore, a lobbyist for Friends of the Everglades, said, “I don’t think the public this (past) summer was interested in setting a high hurdle, I think they were interested, as it came to golf courses, slamming the door.” Beth Alvi, Audubon Florida’s senior director of policy, also criticized the change, calling it “muddy” and creating loopholes for exploitation.
“The (Gruters) amendment, however, makes it muddy, leaving an ambiguous standard for what’s allowed and of course creates loopholes for bad ideas to be exploited.” – (alvi)
Support for the Bill
Sen. Don Gaetz, R-Niceville, supported the bill but suggested adjusting it to allow for necessary park maintenance without commercializing the spaces. Sen. Keith Truenow, R-Tavares, noted that further discussion is needed on which lands should remain state parks. He suggested that some areas may not serve the park system’s mission.
Next Steps
The House version of the bill (HB 209) has already been approved unanimously. Both the House and Senate will need to reconcile any differences before the legislative session ends on May 2.
News in Brief: Pickleball Courts in Florida State Parks
A bill to prevent golf courses, pickleball courts, and luxury resorts in Florida state parks passed a key committee. The bill, filed after public backlash against a previous initiative, will now go to the full Senate. The House has already approved a similar version of the bill.
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