Okaloosa County BOCC — May 6, 2014 — Action Item Printout

BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AGENDA REQUEST DATE: May 6, 2014 TO: Honorable Chairman and Members of the Board FROM: John Hofstad SUBJECT: Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance Permission Request for Project at Longwood Park DEPARTMENT: Public Works BCC DISTRICT: District 2 STATEMENT OF ISSUE: Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance requests permission to access the County property of Longwood Park to plant grasses along the shoreline utilizing 5th grades from Longwood and Edgewood elementary schools. BACKGROUND: Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance would like to work with Okaloosa County to initiate a student-led restoration project that will result in placement of emergent vegetation along the shoreline of Longwood Park, extending south of the boat ramp to the southern park parcel boundary. The proposed habitat enhancements will increase intertidal habitat and protect the shoreline from erosion. The project will provide for community education and participation through volunteer events, namely ‘Grasses in Classes’ field trips consisting of 5th graders from Longwood and Edgewood elementary schools. Choctawhatchee Basing Alliance has provided all required documentation and insurance. Their package has been reviewed by John Hofstad, Gary Real, and Greg Stewart. OPTIONS: Approve/Disapprove. RECOMMENDATIONS: Request Board approval allowing the Chairman to sign the Access to Property form allowing Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance staff access to Longwood Park to plant grasses for restoration. RECOMMENDED BY: APPROVED BY: Ernie Padgett, County Administrator