GRAYTON BEACH NEIGHBOHOOD ASSOCIATION

Defuniak Lift Station Project

2012-02-15T18:29:00.007-06:00

Your Board has been working on a special improvement for the neighborhood for over a year. Ever since the white fence was installed by Reginal Utilities to shield their pump and lift station on Defuniak we have had various members ask us to try and hide it. At first we wanted to landscape around it...but there was no source of water located near it. A local artist offered to donate some art panels to us so that we could hang those along the fence. Perhaps you are familiar with Don Sawyer's art work?
We approached Regional Utilities with our "gallery" idea and they gave us their approval. Then we went to the County Planning and Development Services Dept. to seek their approval, they agreed to work with us and take our idea to the County Commissioners. We are hoping to be on their Feb 28th agenda. It appears that we will get approval for this project as the Planning and Development Dept gave me permission to go ahead and post our plan on our blog to share with our members.

So hopefully by early March we will go from this:

to this

photoshop image

We have our 2012-2014 GBNA Board Candidates for Our Ballot

2012-02-15T01:14:00.001-06:00

This year we have three board members coming off the GBNA Board. They are Billy Buzzett, Larry Jackson and Ann Morrell. Billy has decided to run again and he will be joined by Kitty Taylor and Jean Covell Silva. They will join Grant Blackwell, Scott Provow, Andy Gray and Bill Wallace as your GBNA Board. In your membership packet that will be mailed out early next week you will find your ballot and information about each of the candidates.

Wider 331 Bridge or Road?

2012-02-15T01:00:00.002-06:00

Lots of debate and many discussions as to how to fund the 331 bridge. Seems to me that that all of 331 needs to be widen first then the bridge. There have been several accidents just before crossing the bridge as the lanes merge...and if only the bridge gets wider, then there will be more merging problems on the other side. The whole purpose of the plan is to make a more improved escape route on 331 in case of a hurricane...merging traffic on both sides of the widen bridge...seems a traffic jam in the making. Just a personal observation.You can read more in the following link.

http://www.nwfdailynews.com/articles/bridge-47436--.html

A Beach Winter Get Away

2012-02-13T10:20:00.000-06:00

Think about it, a Winter Get Away at the Beach. ....sound Good?

http://www.nwfdailynews.com/articles/winter-47377-30a-along.html

Grayton SAND PILE UPDATE

2012-02-02T22:56:00.000-06:00

reprint from The Walton Sun

‘Not in a fighting mood': Geotube compromise emerges

February 02, 2012 4:01 PM

Molly Mosher

The Walton Sun

OPENING ARGUMENT:Good construction practices make good neighbors.

The Retreat conceded to deliver sand to its geotubes via conveyor belt, rather than trucking sand across the beach with heavy machinery. Representatives held a meeting Jan. 30 with Gulf Trace homeowners and other community members to discuss a compromise to the contentious project.
“We want to be good neighbors,” said Ed Erbesfield, a homeowner at The Retreat. “We’re willing to give in if y’all are willing to give in.”
The Retreat has been trucking in sand westward along the beach from the western Grayton Beach access, past Gulf Trace, which is surrounded on each side by state park land, to The Retreat beaches. The sand will be used to fill these large erosion-prevention devices.
According to Walton County Administrator Greg Kisela, the project requires 14,000 cubic yards of sand to be moved across the beach to the site at The Retreat. Of that, 5,000 cubic yards has already been moved.
“We have done what we felt is the right thing to do,” said Dave Lovell, who sits on The Retreat’s board of directors. But “what we’re doing out there is causing a stir.”
The sand-trucking was seen as the most cost- and time-efficient method of transporting sand to the geotubes, ensuring the project is finished as quickly as possible, not only for spring break tourism, but also because the start of turtle season is May 1.
In response to the ongoing project, however, the community outcry has been substantial.
“It is a living ecosystem,” said Anita Page, with the South Walton Community Council. “Driving on the beach should be a last resort.”
The Retreat has been working to get permitting to put in geotubes since Hurricane Dennis hit the Gulf Coast in 2005.
“For the last five or six years … they’ve been trying to put in protection,” said Kisela. “Our beaches are very special to us. To see any destruction to them is very frustrating.”
But representatives quickly signaled their intention to compromise.
“We’re not in a fighting mood. We’d rather have the goodwill of our neighbors,” said Erbesfield.
Though the work was advertised in the paper for 30 days, as is required by law, no one seemed prepared when the trucks started running the sand up and down the beach.
The Retreat proposed running two trucks per day in order to finish the project before March 1, but those gathered seemed to prefer an alternate method.
“If sand can be conveyed, that’s what should happen,” said Richard Fowlkes with the Blue Mountain Beach Community Association.
“The only way to resolve the dispute is a compromise,” responded Erbesfield. “We followed the rules. We honestly thought we were doing the right thing.”
He asked for homeowner consent to speed-up the project using the same mode of sand delivery.
“If we put it behind us in a 28-day time frame, rather than 90 days, we’d all sleep better at night,” said Erbesfield.
But that method did not garner any support from the crowd of critics.
“You have another way to do it,” said Fowlkes of the conveyor belt. “I just feel like we haven’t been considered.”
Ultimately, The Retreat representatives gave in after Kisela said “I don’t know what you guys are hearing. But what I’m hearing is you’ve got to convey.”
According to contractor Branch McClendon, with Redfish Marine Construction, it would take three to five days to have a conveyor system up and running. The last of the sand was moved from the Grayton Beach staging area Tuesday, but Redfish Construction is still using the access to get their work trucks to the beach.
“I think that went about as well as it was going to go,” said McClendon after the meeting.
Asked for his reflection, Fowlkes said, “Nothing’s perfect. I’m pleased that they’re being respectful.”
“We’re just folks like you are. Just everyday folks who want to live in paradise,” said Erbesfield.

Want to Serve on the GBNA Board?

2012-01-25T15:09:00.000-06:00

We are looking for some new Board Members to serve for two years. If you are interested and would like more information or have questions you can feel free to contact me or Grant.
Ann @ yzarctoo@aol.com
Grant @ grant@coastalcoverage.com

Article V - Directors and Officers

1. Board of Directors: The Board of Directors shall consist of 7 members. Each Board member shall be a member of the Association. Board members shall be elected at the annual meeting by those members present at the meeting plus by written numbered proxy from those members voting by mail. The seven candidates receiving the most votes will be elected to the Board. At the initial annual meeting 3 directors will be elected to I-year terms, and 4 directors will be elected to 2-year terms. All subsequent elections will be for 2 year terms, thereby allowing for continuity from year to year.

2. Officers: The officers of the Association shall be as follows: President; Vice-President; Secretary, and Treasurer. Officers shall be elected from and by the Board of Directors at their first meeting after their election.

a. Duties of Officers:

The President shall preside at meetings; keep the Board informed of all affairs pertinent to the business of the Association; call special meetings; appoint committees with the consent of the Board; act as member, ex officio, of all committees; and see that the affairs of the Association are handled in a businesslike manner.

b. The Vice-President shall preside in the absence of the President and shall perform the duties of the President when the President is absent.

c. The Secretary shall keep a complete record of all meetings of the Association and shall have general charge of the records of the Association.

d. The Treasurer shall collect any membership dues required; maintain an appropriate accounting; and otherwise report to the Board.

4. Board of Directors Meetings: In addition to the annual meetings the Board shall hold meetings at such regular intervals as the Board may determine. A majority of the Board shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.

5. The Board shall have the general power to act for the Association in the conduct of normal business. The Board may take a position representing the Association before any governmental body without a vote of the Association if by unanimous board member vote, the board deems that immediate action is needed and in the best interest of the Association as an exception to section IV.4 above. (See Addendum, Record of Changes)

6. If the office of any Board member becomes vacant by reason of death, resignation, retirement, disqualification, or otherwise, a majority of the remaining directors will choose a successor who shall hold office until the next annual meeting of the members of the Association.

Sales Tax or Toll

2012-01-25T08:04:00.001-06:00

Here is a link. Would it be best to have a toll on our 331 bridge or a sales tax extra penny for a certain amount of time to fund a new bridge? You can let our Commissioners know your views. Their contact information can be found on the right side of the blog. May I suggest, that if do contact them with your views you contact them ALL. (They all need to know our South of the Bay views.)

http://www.nwfdailynews.com/articles/set-46944-hearing-tax.html

Photos from 30A Song Writer's Event

2012-01-24T07:50:00.000-06:00

http://www.sowal.com/story/30a-songwriters-festival-2012-photo-gallery
Were you able to make the 30A Song Writer's Event last week end? If not here is a link to check out what you missed. If you were there, maybe you will catch a glimpse of yourself.

County Does It Again to Grayton

2012-01-21T08:43:00.003-06:00

REPRINTED FROM THE WALTON SUN

'CRAYON ON THE MONA LISA': Geotube installation project stirs up sand, controversy

January 20, 2012 2:53 PM

Molly Mosher

The Walton Sun

PROJECT AFTERMATH:
Gulf Trace homeowners are imploring The Retreat to live by The Golden Rule.

The homeowners of The Retreat in Blue Mountain Beach pushed for an erosion-staunching geotube project to protect their most valuable asset — their gulf front — yet are hurting the fragile ecosystem of their eastern neighbors.
“We’re a unique subdivision,” said Ron Lewis, a Gulf Trace homeowner. “We are totally surrounded by state park and the Gulf.”
But for the past four weeks, the peace at Gulf Trace has been disturbed by dump trucks using the beach as a thoroughfare to deliver sand from Grayton Beach to The Retreat, where the sand is being used to fill the geotubes.
Geotubes are sand-filled tubes of fabric used as a buffer from the Gulf, to act as tourniquets to stem the process of beach erosion. Of the approximately 2,700 feet of The Retreat’s gulf front property, approximately 1,700 will have geotubes installed, according to Dave Lovell, past Retreat Homeowners Association president and current board member.
In order to get the sand required to fill these large sand barriers, there are two options: it can be trucked in, or it can be sent via conveyor belt to the beach. Redfish Marine Construction, the contractor for the project, is using the former method, and is using the western beach access at Grayton Beach as the staging area for the trucks to drop off the sand they have dug out along the beach to accommodate these geotubes, and take back the white sand with which to fill them.

(This is a photo taken by Ann of the pile of sand at the area where the dump trucks enter to be filled up at Grayton. This entry to the beach is at the end of Defuniak Street)

“(A chute) is a possible method,” said Lovell. But, “what we’re doing now is preferable.
“It was the best method for this project,” said Branch McClendon, contractor with Redfish Marine. “We are following permitted guidelines. The DEP doesn’t allow you to bring sand over an existing dune. That’s why we’re using the trucks.

“It’s armoring a property and renourishing the dunes,” he added.
“I don’t blame anybody for trying to protect their property from the elements,” said Edmond Alexander, a Grayton Beach resident. But, he added, they’re “staging it all from Grayton, and it’s destroying all of it from here.”
Where the sand is being deposited is an “OPA or otherwise protected area,” according to Alexander. The Coastal Barrier Improvement Act of 1990 established OPAs to be public or private land held for conservation purposes.
The construction equipment is leaving in its wake huge tire ruts and malcontent.
“The sand is being decompacted, tilled, essentially. It makes the beach much more vulnerable,” said Jan Rieveschl, a Gulf Trace homeowner.
“It’s like opening the Louvre and letting people use crayon on the Mona Lisa,” he added. “You can wipe it off in the morning, but it’s the very idea.”
Additionally, with trucks running Monday through Saturday, from about 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 or 4 p.m., for the past four weeks, it has been difficult for wintertime visitors to enjoy such an attraction.
The project’s permit of coastal construction was issued by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and a permit to drive on the beach with “mechanized equipment … to enhance dune restoration” was issued by the Walton County Code Enforcement Office.
“Although my office was not involved in issuing the beach access permit, we started looking into the concerns of our constituents the moment we began receiving emails, calls and walk-ins regarding the Geotube project at The Retreat, and we continue in that process,” said Walton County Commissioner Cecilia Jones. “However, it is common practice to allow entry through one of our beach accesses as long as they have all the proper State permits in hand. The magnitude of this project has undoubtedly impacted the community between The Retreat and Grayton Beach, and we are trying to find a way to mitigate that impact and satisfy all concerned.”
The homeowners of The Retreat and at Gulf Trace can agree on one thing — that it is vital to protect the beaches of South Walton.
“Why wouldn’t they protect it?” April Rieveschl said.
“We’re doing the best we can with what we’ve got — we’re just trying to make everybody happy. We are a local company. This is our backyard too,” said McClendon.
The demand of the Gulf Trace homeowners is simple, according to Jan Rieveschl, “Respect our property just as you expect us to respect yours.”

AGAIN THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AND THE WALTON COUNTY ZONING DEPARTMENT ALONG WITH THE STATE ENVIRONMENTAL DEPARTMENT HAVE ALLOWED GRAYTON BEACH AND ITS OWNERS, ALONG WITH ALL OF THE BEACH FRONT COMMUNITIES BETWEEN GRAYTON AND REDFISH TO "PAY" IN BOTH DEEP BEACH SAND RUTS AND OUR PEACE AND QUIET FOR THE NEXT SEVERAL MONTHS SO REDFISH CAN FILL ITS SAND TUBES,

30A Songwriter's (January 13th-15th_

2011-12-30T11:36:00.000-06:00

Coming To Walton for the 30A Songwriter's? Might want to check out the special performance.

WEB PAGE: http://www.30asongwritersfestival.com

Exclusive CAA Member Performance

For the fist time ever the Cultural Arts Alliance will host an exclusive members only performance on Wednesday, January 11, 2012 at Fish Out of Water in WaterColor. Only Cultural Arts Alliance members will be admitted to this exciting performance. Not a member? No problem. Joining the CAA is easy. Just call the office at 850-622-5970 or join online.
Have you heard who will be performing?

Shawn Mullins
Festival favorite since the start of the 30A Songwriters Festival in 2010 Shawn Mullins will no doubt have another packed house under his spell. Shawn's experiences included an indoctrination into the collaborative creative process by numerous bouts of intensive co-writing, in one instance putting him atop of the country charts via key contribution to the Zac Brown Band's "Toes," marking his third #1 single, following 1999's "Lullaby" and the 2006 Triple A/American chart-topper "Beautiful Wreck." Further co-writing yielded nine of the 11 songs on the new album, which Mullins believes represents the strongest, most expressive writing of his distinguished career.

Amy Ray
Another festival favorite since 2010 Amy Ray is the founder of the indie label Daemon Records, one half of the Indigo Girls, and a solo artist in her own right. When Amy founded Daemon in 1990, her mission was to support local musicians, both in putting out their music and teaching them how to sustain their careers. As a beloved Indigo Girl, Ray has long been known for her big muscular heart, as a solo artist though; she has indisputably found her voice.

Gunshot Glitter
Gunshot Glitter is a new collaboration of the talented and unique styles of the sister duo Larkin Poe and the sweet vintage voice of Emily Lynch.

Larkin Poe
Ever since Rebbecca and Megan Lovell were little girls they have been awed by the power of a story well told: from children's books and bedtime yarns to figments and fairy tales. Now as Larkin Poe they are still on the search for stories, and striving to learn how to tell them well. They are on the search for stories of human experience, of love won and love lost, and of the million mundane things that make up everyday life. Larkin Poe recently returned from their 2011 Fall European Tour where they opened for Elvis Costello.

Emily Lynch
Emily Lynch is a young singer-songwriter hailing from Atlanta, Georgia with more than just a pretty face. She sings with experience, humility, and a sweet vintage voice that Truley sets her apart. Her voice has been compared to that of Allison Krauss, Patty Griffin, and Emmylou Harris. She is a proficient guitarist and songwriter with an undeniable endearing and engaging presence and a heart full of song that captivate her audiences.

Individually these acts are amazing, together they are unforgettable. Be there and witness their first ever performance as Gunshot Glitter.

Jim Lauderdale

Jim Lauderdale is a multitalented performer and songwriter, with success in both country and bluegrass music. His roots are from the Carolina's, yet his career has taken him all over the United States and abroad, making him an international recording artist. Jim is a two time Grammy winner and current Gammy nominee for Best Bluegrass Album. His current release, "Patchwork River" is currently on the Americana radio charts.

This is going to be an exciting night that you won't want to miss. This will be a capacity controlled event. If you want to attend this event you must pre-register by emailing us at Renee@CulturalArtsAlliance.com. Once we reach capacity of the venue, we will be sold out and unable to accept further requests for registration. Please note, if you register for the event and plan to attend, you must arrive at the venue between 6:30 and 7:00 and be seated. Any registered members that do not arrive by 7:00 will lose their seat and walkups who are members will be admitted. For full performance details please visit the 30A Songwritrers Festival website.

Chat Holley -a little Walton History

2011-12-29T17:31:00.000-06:00

Like reading about Walton County History....Check out this great article about Chat Holley, a long time County resident in the Walton Sun.

http://www.waltonsun.com/news/holley-8138-road-chat.htmlalton

Walton County/ Grayton Beach in the News

2011-12-21T21:30:00.000-06:00

South Walton gets its own song. http://www.waltonsun.com/news/song-8076-theme-place.html

Check out the DEC/JAN issue of Coastal Living. A great article on the Lee Cabin located at the end of Magnolia Streer right here in Grayton. A lot of history and some great pictures for everyone to enjoy.

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas

2011-12-20T19:14:00.000-06:00

New Coffee Shop in Grayton

2011-12-09T10:24:00.004-06:00

The Old Magnolia House is now a Coffee and Pastery Shop where folks can drop by and sit and read their newspaper or watch the news, or play a game of checkers or chess while enjoying a cup of coffee or a sweet roll. Your hostess will be Cheri Peeples. The Grand Opening hasn't happened yet but they are open now and only ask for a donation for your coffee or muffin. Hours are still not decided but I will post as soon they are announced.

A STAR IN OUR MIDST

2011-12-06T15:22:00.002-06:00

One of our property owners here in Grayton is a famous County Music Star. Perhaps you have heard of him.....Jason Aldine Williams who owns a home on Auburn. He goes by the name of Jason Aldean.

The recent American Country Awards were Jason Aldean’s kinda party. Country music’s newest superstar won six awards in Las Vegas, including the night’s top honors, Artist of the Year and Record of the Year for “My Kinda Party.”

2010 has been a non-stop party for Aldean. More than a million fans turned out for his arena tour, his platinum album has spawned four hits so far and the awards are starting to pile up after years of being ignored.

“This is getting a little ridiculous now,” Aldean said on his second visit to the stage. “I don’t know what else to say. It’s been a crazy year.”

Along with the night’s top two honors, Aldean also was named Touring Artist of the Year and won Male Single of the Year for “My Kinda Party” and Vocal Collaboration Single of the Year for “Don’t You Wanna Stay” with Kelly Clarkson.

You can google him to hear his music or see some oF his videos.

Sowal is full of activities..CHECK THEM OUT

2011-12-06T12:44:00.002-06:00

Want to know what's going on in Sowal?
http://www.sowal.com/

Seaside Saturday Market

2011-12-06T12:41:00.000-06:00

Want some fresh vegetables, home made soaps, and other goodies check out the Seaside Saturday Market.

great article:
http://www.sowal.com/story/from-a-little-veggie-stand-grew-the-seaside-farmers-market

REGIONAL UTILITIES UPDATE

2011-11-21T00:34:00.001-06:00

Regional Utilities has been very busy in Grayton updating their water lines. Pine Street has been completed along with most of Magnolia and now work has moved over to the Sandy Lane area. The noise of the trucks has been a little loud, but the work has moved fairly fast. The Regional folks have left the area neat and have tried hard to not disturb any personal landscaping. We now have a new fire hydrant at the beginning of Pine Street where the curve is and I believe four more hydrants will be installed in the areas getting the new water line.

Got Junk Need it Removed?

2011-11-19T17:49:00.000-06:00

Helpful site if you have JUNK that needs to be remove from your Grayton Home/ property. If you book on line you get $10 off. You can pick the day and the time of your pick up. I just used them and was very happy with their service. Their fee is based on the space that your JUNK takes up in truck...( 1/4, 1/3, 1/2.....) You can google 1-800-got-junk or you can call the number.

You're so SOWAL IF......

2011-11-14T12:08:00.000-06:00

You're so SOWAL IF.... (a fun read)
http://www.sowal.com/story/youre-so-sowal-if-presenting-the-2011-winners

2012 30A Songwriter's Festival ( Jan 13-15 )

2011-10-27T12:00:00.000-05:00

David Wilcox, Indigo Girls, The Bangles and Matthew Sweet among star-studded lineup at 2012 30A Songwriters Festival
On Wednesday night, the 30A Songwriters Festival, put on by the Cultural Arts Alliance, announced the 2012 lineup for the event, which will be held Jan. 13-15.

With styles ranging from folk, country, rock and alternative, the 2012 line-up features nationally-acclaimed songwriters and musicians including The Bangles, Rodney Crowell, Shawn Mullins, Matthew Sweet, Indigo Girls and Fastball as well as David Wilcox, Steve Forbert, Mary Gauthier, Sam Bush, Randall Bramblett, Tommy Talton, Jeffrey Steele, Chely Wright, Chuck Cannon, Corey Smith, David Olney, Davin McCoy, Lori McKenna, Tommy Womack, Kevn Kinney, The Shadowboxers, Larkin Poe, Emily Lynch, Joseph Arthur, Matthew Mayfield, Rachel Platten, Callaghan, David Berkeley, Garrison Starr, Jeff Black, Joe Leathers, Ben Glover, Billy Montana, Chas Sanford, Brian and Karyn White, Greg Barnhill, Forrest Williams Band, Kyle Jacobs, Kelsey Anna, Reed Waddle, Meg Huthchinson, Bridgette Demeyer, Daphne Willis, Shannon Whitworth, Suzi Ragsdale, Georgia, Ashleigh Flynn and Joanna Cotten.

The web site says to stay tuned for the announcement of over 75 more artists in the coming weeks.

http://www.30asongwritersfestival.com/

Purchase tickets online now at
www.30asongwritersfestival.com/ticket-information

Some Halloween Fun for the Family

2011-10-17T23:04:00.000-05:00

Sounds like fun if you are coming to Grayton to celebrate Halloween. Check it out.

http://www.waltonsun.com/news/trail-7691-horses-ranch.html

New Water Pipe to be Installed in Grayton

2011-10-17T22:55:00.000-05:00

If you live on Pine, Youpon,Sandy Lane or Magnolia you should have received a notice from Regional Utilities about a project that will install about 4200 feet of 6 inch water line and five new fire hydrants in the above mention areas. The work will begin shortly. There will be some construction and soil disturbance within and near the project areas as excavation takes place for the new pipe installation. Care will be taken not to damage any landscaping or driveways.

If you have any questions you can contact:
Mr. Ashley Dismukes at 850-232-5114 ext 212, or you can contact him at ashley@regionalutilities.net .

GOT TRASH?

2011-10-09T18:39:00.000-05:00

Got Trash other than your regular weekly garbage...better check to see what Waste Management will or will not pick up.
Here are there rules:Garbage Pickup Services

Waste Management collects household garbage according to the following provisions:
* No more than ten bags or five bundles of no more than 50 pounds each for single family residential units
* Limbs of no more than three inches in diameter and four feet in length bundled together in manageable bundles
* Bagged leaves and grass
* Bags and containers with handles must be placed next to the side of the street for collection.

For customers who use enclosures or bins, we ask that you install a gate so that our drivers don't have to lift cans over the enclosure.

Yard Trash
Yard trash is vegetation resulting from landscaping maintenance, including:
* Grass clippings
* Shrubbery cuttings
* Dry leaves
* Palm fronds
* Small tree branches (no more than 4 feet in length and three inches in diameter)
* Bushes or shrubs
* Green leaf cuttings
* Fruits

Yard trash does not include:
* Large branches or trees
* Bulky, uncontained material
* Matter or debris resulting from tree removal, tree surgery, or professional
* Debris from land clearing or development
* Waste from home improvement
* Hazardous or Special waste

Questions:
Contact Waste Management
Ph: (850) 835-0248
Hours 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Monday - Friday

GBNA Minutes from Seotember 23, 2011

2011-09-30T13:12:00.006-05:00

The Meeting was called to order by Grant Blackwell, President, at the 30A Resorts Conference Room at 4:00 PM, September 23, 2011. Board attendees in addition to Grant were Ann Morrell, Larry Jackson, Andy Gray, Scott Provow and Billy Buzzett. Bill Wallace was absent. Pat Carlye, Advisory Committee, also attended.
Minutes: July 1st Meeting minutes were approved by board member E-mails and posted to GBNA Blog.

Objective of the Meeting: The board reviewed the members’ comments, summarized by Ann Morrell, from the 2011-2012 ballots. The board also addressed one of the major projects - a proposal to upgrade the landscape along Hotz Avenue.

Financial Report: Ann Morrell presented an update of our GBNA Finances as of Jun 30, 2011. Report at Enclosure 1.

Current Balances: Checking: $4,200.67 Savings: $10,689.82 Total: $14,890.49

Membership Survey: At the July 1 meeting, Ann Morrell provided a summary list member comments from their membership dues form. The board reviewed the following member comments:

Uniquely Grayton Beach:

-Provide a sense of difference. Do whatever is best for Grayton Beach (owned property since 1943)

-Include in directory or blog …..Names and phone numbers of services; housekeeping, gardening services, repair services, etc.

-Continue to fight for Grayton Beach exemption for driving on the beach (for heirs too)

-Define the common areas? Board discussed the common areas of interest to include: Hotz Avenue no-parking areas, west side DeFuniak Street from 30A corner to Pine St, Hotz Ave Boat Ramp/Dock, Lydia-Banfill lake access, Pine Street Beach Access, Sandy Lane Beach Access. After discussion, Grant agreed to ask TDC to clear out the lake weeds spreading along the shore in the Lydia-Banfill lake common area.
Utilities:

- Enforce Waste Management (WM) not picking up dumpsters at the Red Bar and Shorty’s till after 8AM (Rivard’s and Pandora’s Dumpsters early emptying were also mentioned in other comments) Note: WM moved to early pickup specifically at the request of Grayton Beach neighbors several years ago. The board will follow up to determine what options WM has to resolve the issue.

-Dress up the white sewer area at entrance. Sometimes the smell is really bad!!!! Improve area between the flashing light and Pandora’s. Currently the board has been using Taking Care of Business to maintain grass area from Grayton Entry Sign to Rivard corner.

One suggestion is to lay blue chip rock shoulder from Hwy 30A bike path down to the area past the pump station over waste asphalt shoulder to the flashing speed sign. Action was deferred to the next meeting.

Traffic and Safety:

-Need more 20 mph signs.

-Bike lanes on the 30A bridges between Grayton and Watercolor are too narrow. While the safety issue was confirmed by County Roads, the County Commissioners have not supported an expansion of bridges at this time.

Esthetics:

-Need a signage program (for sale/rental) for our community (looking junky). Commercials need signage on their building and not on street. (Sign Clutter)

Noise from Commercial and neighborhood commercial properties:

- Control the noise in our community in the late evening and early morning hours, mostly coming the commercial properties with the outside music. Hibiscus House now has added music with mikes and speakers. Board Discussion: The Board discussed the expansion of activities by those properties and some rental homes to include daytime and evening music, weddings, receptions and other social activities. Billy Buzzett discussed the purpose of the neighborhood commercial zoning code which was to allow selected commercial activities that would fit in a residential neighborhood. The issue is whether the expansion of commercial outdoor activities fit with residential nature of Grayton Beach and the intent of the zoning category of the businesses. After reviewing the issue, the board suggested that the affected parties document the issue so the board can determine how to address the issue.

-Parking on the streets…Hibiscus House, Rivard’s, Red Bar, Shorty’s, and the large rental homes. Many cars park directly on the street on Pine at the Pine Street park beach entrance. (Several members mentioned this).

The remaining member comments were tabled until the next meeting.

Membership Directory and Grayton Beach Trademark: Grant reported that he is getting sponsors to be able to provide the directory at no cost to the membership. He is also asking for recommendations for a list of reliable vendors for a section in the directory in response to frequent calls from members for recommendations. He is also completing application for trade mark protection of the GBNA logo.
Hotz Avenue Landscaping: At the last meeting, it was suggested that the association install landscape improvements on Hotz Avenue in the areas with the no- parking stripping and posts, see Enclosure 2.. Billy Buzzett proposed GBNA develop the landscaping plan for Hotz. He is working with Department of Public Works (Engineering and Roads) to have a Right of Way (ROW) Agreement with Walton County which will provide the GBNA with the legal right to maintain certain areas of Walton County Road and Street Right of Ways (ROW) for the benefit of the community. The project would install planting areas and landscaping where the no-parking white posts with striped pavement exists. The initial focus will be on Hotz Ave. Scott Provow made the motion, seconded by Andy Gray, that the Board approve a Hotz landscaping project with a budget target of $5,000 to design and install the project. The motion passed unanimously.

The meeting was adjourned at 5:15 PM.

Submitted by Larry Jackson, Secretary Upon approval, these minutes are posted on Grayton Beach Neighborhood Association BLOG at http://graytonbeachflorida.blogspot.com/ , The Minutes are cataloged at http://minutesonly.blogspot.com/

Enclosure 1: Financial Update, GBNA Bank Accounts

Enclosure 2: Hotz Ave Stripped No-Parking Areas
Enclosure 1:

Grayton Beach Neighborhood Association Financial Report

Balances June 30, 2011 Checking Account Balance: $4,541.81
Savings Account Balance: $10,689.82
Total: $15,231.63

Activity in July:
Credits:
Interest: $0.58
Membership Dues: $25.00
Expenditures: (Checks)
# 1316 Larry Jackson $7.28
# 1317 Taking Care of Business $70.00
# 1318 Blue Mountain Lawn $50.00

Activity in August:
Credits:
Interest: $0.56
Expenditures:(Checks)
# 1319 Taking Care of Business $70.00
# 1320 Blue Mountain Lawn. $50.00

Activity in September:
Credits:
Interest
Expenditures: (Checks)
#1321 Taking Care of Business $70.00
# 1322 Blue Mountain Lawns $50.00

Totals: Expenditures/Credit Deposits ($367.28) $26.14
Total For Period Jun 30-Sep 23: ($341.14)
Balances as of September 23, 2011
Checking Account Balances: $4,200.67
Savings Account Balance: $10,689.82
Total in Both Accounts: $14,890.49

Submitted by Ann Morrell

Enclosure 2:

What's going on on 30A?

2011-09-26T19:58:00.000-05:00

Planning on coming to Grayton to enjoy the great weather?
Check out what's going on along 30A. The weather is getting cooler...there is a lull in the tourists...a great time to come home to Grayton.

http://www.30a.com/events.php

WHAT YOU ARE MISSING

2011-09-19T16:39:00.001-05:00

The weather is great here in Grayton.

The crowds are not here.

The beach is almost empty.

Might want to come home for a long week end and enjoy Grayton

Photo captured from beach cam at 3:30 PM

Loggerhead Turtle washed into Western Lake by Lee

2011-09-06T08:57:00.000-05:00

Story and video at this link:

http://www.sowal.com/video/video-tropical-storm-lee-strands-loggerhead-turtle-on-grayton-beach

An OCTOBER FYI

2011-09-05T16:00:00.001-05:00

The County Commissioners approved the following race route that will occur on Sunday October 16th from 7 AM to 12 PM on County Road 30 A and will also include 4 streets in Grayton Beach...Defuniak, Holtz, Banfill And Lydia. The south bound lane both on 30 A and the streets in Grayton will be closed for the runners. The race is being sponsored by a group from Louisana. When I saw the race item listed in the agenda I wrote to each Commissioner expressing concerns about the race being able to tie up four of our streets in Grayton...the only reply that I received back, (from Ms. Jones before the item was discussed at county meeting) was that the orange cones would be picked up after the race, and that there would be personel to direct traffic. I am hoping that allowing racing routes through Grayton on our narrow streets doesn't become "the thing to do" in any future 30A races.
Here is the link to the Commissioner's "paperwork" about the event.

http://www.co.walton.fl.us/DocumentView.aspx?DID=3736

Here is the public announcement listed on 30A website about the event.

Run the only mountain on Florida's beautiful Emerald Coast! Both the Half Marathon and 10K Run will race down the Scenic Highway 30A between sugar sand beaches and rare dune lakes from Blue Mountain Beach through Grayton, with the Half Marathon continuing in Seaside and Watercolor. For more information and to register visit:
http://www.active.com/running/blue-mountain-beach-fl/blue-mountain-beach-12-marathon-and-10k-2011

9:00 AM Beach View

2011-09-05T09:09:00.001-05:00

Red Flag ....rough surface...Gray Skies

Weather is not helping Labor Day Tourists at Grayton

Hurricane Lee spoils Labor Day Weekend in Grayton

2011-09-04T10:06:00.001-05:00

http://www.waltonsun.com/news/lee-7470-expect-slideshow.html

Flooding down at Red Bar

a wet Grayton Beach

SEA SLUGS DOWN BY THE SEA SHORE |

2011-07-29T19:07:00.001-05:00

Interesting article in the Walton Sun bout the increased amount of slugs on the beach.

SEA SLUGS DOWN BY THE SEA SHORE sea, ferrell, unusual - WaltonSun.com

Early Fishing In Grayton

2011-07-21T20:59:00.000-05:00

Gretchen Butler Infinger shared this article with me about the early days of fishing on Grayton Beach. It is loaded with history.
Check it out:

http://www.waltonoutdoors.com/fishing-on-grayton-beach-casts-a-vibrant-history/

Thanks Gretchen! And if anyone has some old Grayton stories that they are willing to share...I would love to post them on the blog!

GBNA BOARD MEETING JULY 1 2011

2011-07-09T14:48:00.004-05:00

The Meeting was called to order by Grant Blackwell, President, at the 30A Resorts Conference Room at 4:30 PM, July 1, 2011. Board attendees in addition to Grant were Ann Morrell, Larry Jackson, Bill Wallace, Andy Gray, Scott Provow and Billy Buzzett.

Minutes: Annual Meeting Minutes, April 23, 2011 were approved by board member E-mails and posted to GBNA Blog.

Nomination and Election of Officers: Following nomination by Billy Buzzett and second by Andy Gray, the board elected Grant Blackwell, President; Scott Provow, Vice President; Larry Jackson, Secretary; and Ann Morrell, Treasurer.

Objective of the Meeting: Grant asked that the board review the duties of the outlined in GBNA By-laws. Purpose of the meeting was to identify three to four major projects that the board should focus on for the coming year.

Financial Report: Ann Morrell presented an update of our GBNA Finances as of Jun 30, 2011. Report at Enclosure.

Current Balances: Checking: $4,541.81 Savings: $10,689.82

The board discussed capital expenditures such as the 2010 Radar Speed Control Sign. It was suggested we continue to seek grants and contributions from external sources to cover special items.

Membership Survey: Ann Morrell provided a summary list member comments on their membership dues form. The list included names of volunteers for the GBNA Advisory Committee. The board will review for the next meeting.

Grayton Beach Trademark: The Board discussed creating the trademark GBNA logo for the village.

Traffic Safety: Several board members cited need for more measures to slow down the DeFuniak Street traffic. The board will approach the County Public Works Road District to see about installing pedestrian crossing markings and rumble pads to slow down traffic. It was suggested that under the Historical Grayton initiative that we get the old Grayton aviation marking reapplied on DeFuniak St. The painted marking on was a visual identification of Grayton Beach for aviators until the early 80's. When the road was repaved, the marking was not repainted.

Sign Clutter: The board discussed the mixture of signs throughout the village. The board compared the situation in Grayton to the efforts by Gulf Trace and Watercolor to develop measures to reduce the clutter of signs. The “Is Grayton for Sale?” presentation, developed by Dee Davis, was originally discussed at the 2008 Annual Meeting.

Scott Provow volunteered to take on the project to see what approaches we should take.

Historical Grayton Beach: Billy Buzzett will continue work under his Historical Grayton Beach Initiative to develop a historical walking tour of the historic sites in the village.

Membership: Scott Provow will be responsible for membership as a part of his Vice President duties.

Grayton Beach By-laws: Larry Jackson covered the most recent change to the By-laws which is now posted on the GBNA BLOG. He also covered the board’s authority to set membership dues as needed to meet annual requirements.

Hotz Avenue Landscaping: It was suggested that the association install landscape improvements on Hotz Avenue, particularly in the areas with the no parking barriers. Billy Buzzett volunteered to take on the project to develop a plan.

DeFuniak Street Landscaping: The association has been mowing and other landscaping work on the west side of DeFuniak Street from the Grayton Corner Sign to Rivard Realty. In order to add additional landscaping, we will need to have water. Grant Blackwell and Larry Jackson will look into landscaping ideas and getting water service to the area.

Membership Directory: Larry Jackson will collect directory entries from this year’s membership applications to provide the data file for the directory. The directory entries will only be from members who want to be listed. Once completed, Grant Blackwell will work with sponsors to develop the final directory.

Activity Updates: Grant asked everyone to provide an update on activities described above by email by July 22. Following those updates, the board will schedule the next meeting

The meeting was adjourned at 5:45 PM.

Submitted by Larry Jackson, Secretary Upon approval, these minutes are posted on Grayton Beach Neighborhood Association BLOG at http://graytonbeachflorida.blogspot.com/ , The Minutes are cataloged at http://minutesonly.blogspot.com/
Financial Mid-Year Update 2011, January 1 to June 30

Beginning Balance Jan 1, 2011 Savings 10,644.82

Interest 40.54

Savings Subtotal Jun 30, 2011 10,689.82

Beginning Balance Jan 1, 2011

Checking 3,071.11

Checking Acct Revenue Jan 1-Jun 30

Membership Income (185 Lots) 4,625.00

Donations 150.00

Revenue Subtotal 4,775.00

Interest 3.66

Checking Revenue Subtotal 7,849.77

Checking Acct Expenditures Jan 1 –Jun30

Utilities 2010, 2011 Triangle 720.00

Mailing 532.40

Bank Service Charges 45.00

Friends of Grayton 100.00

Landscaping Triangle/DeFuniak 728.50

St Florida Corporations 61.25

Holiday Decorations 108.39

Annual Meeting/Luncheon 1,012.42

Expenses Subtotal 3,307.96 -3,307.96

Checking Savings

Ending Balance Checking Account Jun 30, 2011 4,541.81

Ending Balance Savings Account Jun 30, 2011 10,689.82

Ending Balance both Accounts, Jun 30, 2011 15,231.63

Peggy Lawerence Medical Update

2011-07-05T14:17:00.001-05:00

Sent: Tue, Jul 5, 2011 9:42 am

Friends,

Many of you know that Peggy suffered a stroke from an aneurysm approximately two weeks ago in Nashville. She has been very blessed to be under the care of Dr. Scott Standard, chief of neurology at St. Thomas hospital. I won’t get into the details of her experience except to say that she has gone through considerable trauma through much of this time frame. Prayers and words of encouragement from friends during the past two weeks have been deeply appreciated.. Peggy and I cannot begin to express our gratitude to all of you who have known of her illness and to everyone for your continued support. We also have enormous praise for the neurological ICU nursing staff and physician team (led by Dr. Standard) at St. Thomas.

While she remains in St. Thomas, I am pleased to report that Peggy’s recovery process continues without interruption and we are hopeful that she will be released from ICU either today or tomorrow. The next leg in her journey will be a special care room at St. Thomas. After that, the plan is for her to begin a rehabilitation process at St. Thomas and/or at our residence in Nashville.

At present, Peggy is not only lucid, but remembers everything leading up to and following her stroke. Her speech is clear and her physical faculties are normal. Each day begins with a nurse asking her name, where she is, what year it is and the name of the current U.S. president. Her responses to these queries (and her political opinion) are a solid indication that she is on the way back to a total recovery.

Thanks so much again for your support. Prayers in the coming days and weeks will continue to be appreciated.

NOTE: I don’t have everyone’s email address so please send this on to anyone we know not on the addressee list.
Sincerely,
Tom

Tom Lawrence

dye, van mol & lawrence

700 12th Avenue, South; Suite 400

Nashville, TN 37203

615-244-1818 office

tom.lawrence@dvl.com

www.dvl.com

Rags to Riches Video July 2,2011

2011-07-05T12:28:00.002-05:00

http://www.sowal.com/video/video-rags-to-riches-regatta-16-in-grayton-beach

Grayton Beach Neighborhood Association By-laws

2011-07-02T07:54:00.000-05:00

Grayton Beach Neighborhood Association By-laws

Effective: March 1, 2000, Amended: April 23, 2011

Article I - Name: The name of this organization is The Grayton Beach Neighborhood Association, hereafter referred to as the Association. Grayton Beach is defined as area represented by the following boundaries: County Road 30-A to the North, the Gulf of Mexico to the South, Grayton Dunes State Park to the West and Grayton Beach State Park and Western Lake to the East, excluding the community of Lake Place at Grayton Beach.

Article II - Purpose & Objectives: To represent the majority view of Association members regarding future development, neighborhood improvements, local issues and environmental concerns, and to communicate with Association members regarding relevant issues.

Objectives:

1. To provide a vehicle for discussion and communication regarding issues of common concern to the Association members.

2. To promote the quality of the neighborhood within its boundaries.

3. To work with Walton County in the enforcement of The Comprehensive Plan.

4. To work with county and state government, and other organizations in areas of mutual interest that affect the quality of the neighborhood as well as the surrounding area.

The Association will not:

1. Recommend or support a design review board.

2. Support any effort to change property owner's ability to rent or lease current or future properties that conform to ordinances then in effect.

3. Try to restrict existing residential or commercial properties being used in conformance with current law.

Article III - Membership

1 Any person or legal entity owning property in the area defined above as Grayton Beach is eligible to become a member of the Association.

2 The rights of membership shall be dependant upon the payment of annual membership dues. Such dues to be established by the Association Board of Directors.

3 Each lot (as recognized by Walton County) shall be entitled to one (1) vote regardless of the number of owners of said lot.

Article IV - Association Meetings

1. Annual Meeting: There shall be a membership meeting held in April of each year. The Board shall determine the date, time and place of the meeting.

2. Special Meetings: Special meetings of the membership may be called by the Board of Directors upon written request of 25% of the members. Such written request shall be presented to the President of the Association. Special meetings shall be held in a public place at a day and hour as designated by the President and stated in the notice of such meetings.

3. Notice of annual and special meetings shall be sent out by mail at least thirty (30) days prior to the meeting. Notice of special meetings shall be sent out by mail at least 15 days prior to the meeting.

4. Quorum: The presence at the meeting, in person or by numbered, written proxy of members entitled to cast 50% of the votes shall constitute a quorum for the conduct of normal business. For all other matters such as any action or position before a governmental body on behalf of the Association there will be required a simple majority of all Association votes.

Article V - Directors and Officers

1. Board of Directors: The Board of Directors shall consist of 7 members. Each Board member shall be a member of the Association. Board members shall be elected at the annual meeting by those members present at the meeting plus by written numbered proxy from those members voting by mail. The seven candidates receiving the most votes will be elected to the Board. At the initial annual meeting 3 directors will be elected to I-year terms, and 4 directors will be elected to 2-year terms. All subsequent elections will be for 2 year terms, thereby allowing for continuity from year to year.

2. Officers: The officers of the Association shall be as follows: President; Vice-President; Secretary, and Treasurer. Officers shall be elected from and by the Board of Directors at their first meeting after their election.

a. Duties of Officers:

The President shall preside at meetings; keep the Board informed of all affairs pertinent to the business of the Association; call special meetings; appoint committees with the consent of the Board; act as member, ex officio, of all committees; and see that the affairs of the Association are handled in a businesslike manner.

b. The Vice-President shall preside in the absence of the President and shall perform the duties of the President when the President is absent.

c. The Secretary shall keep a complete record of all meetings of the Association and shall have general charge of the records of the Association.

d. The Treasurer shall collect any membership dues required; maintain an appropriate accounting; and otherwise report to the Board.

4. Board of Directors Meetings: In addition to the annual meetings the Board shall hold meetings at such regular intervals as the Board may determine. A majority of the Board shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.

5. The Board shall have the general power to act for the Association in the conduct of normal business. The Board may take a position representing the Association before any governmental body without a vote of the Association if by unanimous board member vote, the board deems that immediate action is needed and in the best interest of the Association as an exception to section IV.4 above. (See Addendum, Record of Changes)

6. If the office of any Board member becomes vacant by reason of death, resignation, retirement, disqualification, or otherwise, a majority of the remaining directors will choose a successor who shall hold office until the next annual meeting of the members of the Association.

Article VI - Amendments. These By-laws may be amended at the annual meeting of the membership. Any amendments will require a simple majority of all Association votes.

Article VII - Finances The Association shall not be operated for profit and shall be operated for the purposes set forth in Article II.

Article VIII - Liability No officer or member of the Association shall be personally liable for acts or omissions of any officer or member other than himself/herself whether or not such act was in performance of official duties. No officer or member of the Association shall obligate the Association, by contract or otherwise, to perform any act or to incur any liability without prior authorization of the Board of Directors.

Article IX - Inspection of Books and Records Any member of the Association shall be entitled to inspect the Association's books and records at any duly called meeting of the Board of Directors or of the membership upon furnishing written notice to the President at least 5 days prior to such meeting.

Effective: March 1, 2000, amended April 23, 2011

Larry Jackson, Secretary

Addendum: Record of Changes, Page 4

Fourth of July Parade

2011-06-20T20:16:00.000-05:00

Get out your red and blue colors and join in on the Annual Fourth Of July Parade in Grayton. The parade will depart from the Red Bar at 8:30 and end at Kitty Taylor's real estate for refreshments. Plan to have lots of fun!

New Walmart

2011-06-17T07:29:00.002-05:00

New Walmart in our end of town. (Will save you a trip to Destin. ) Located across the road (98) from The Donut Hole.
http://www.waltonsun.com/news/walmart-7004-employees-opening.html

Grayton Beach Beer?

2011-06-03T16:25:00.000-05:00

Man who lives in RoseMary Beach plans to launch his Grayton Beach Beer.

Seems everyone wants to claim a little part of Grayton.

I'm not sure that is a good thing.

http://www.waltonsun.com/news/beer-6916-grayton-price.html

Missing Cat in Grayton

2011-06-01T16:36:00.003-05:00

Went Missing May 29th in Grayton Beach

Our cat is a neutered male. He is gray with a long bushy tail. Although a mixed breed he appears to be a Maine Coon. His belly area was shaved for a medical procedure about a month ago so the fur on his belly is short although unless you roll him over it is not very noticeable
IF YOU SEE HIM PLEASE CALL 213-1966

Beach Safety Goes High Tech

2011-05-30T19:49:00.002-05:00

http://www.waltonsun.com/news/safety-6884-beach-walton.html

A new 35 MPH Area

2011-05-30T19:02:00.000-05:00

For those of you who live in Grayton or visit that have street legal golf cars the county is going to change the speed limit on 283 from Grayton to just past Logan from 45 to 35 MPH to allow these slow moving vehicles to go from Grayton up into the shopping areas and restaurants in this area. It hasn't been done yet but Grant was notified that it would be taking place soon. Will Keep you updated.

Grayton Beach Rabies Alert for 60 Days

2011-05-26T13:09:00.002-05:00

Rabies alert issued for Grayton Beach
May 25, 2011 1:56 PM
POSTED IN THE WALTON SUN

Walton County Health Department Administrator, Gail Allen, has issued a rabies alert for the Grayton Beach area of Walton County. This is in response to a fox that tested positive for rabies reported on May 23, 2011.
All citizens in Walton County should be aware that rabies is present in the wild animal population and domestic animals are at risk if not vaccinated. The public is asked to maintain a heightened awareness that rabies is active in Walton County. Alerts are designed to increase awareness to the public, but they should not give a false sense of security to areas that have not been named as under alert.
The recent rabies alert is for 60 days. The center of the rabies alert is at Grayton Beach and includes the following area boundaries in Walton County:

Gulf Trace to the West

Tranquil Way to the East

Gulf of Mexico to the South

Logan Lane to the North

An animal with rabies could infect other wild animals or domestic animals that have not been vaccinated against rabies. All domestic animals should be vaccinated against rabies and all wildlife contact should be avoided, particularly raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats and coyotes.

Rabies is a disease of the nervous system and is fatal to warm blooded animals and humans. The only treatment for human exposure to rabies is rabies specific immune globulin and rabies immunization. Appropriate treatment started soon after the exposure, will protect an exposed person from the disease.

The following advice is issued:

All pets should have current rabies immunizations.

Secure outside garbage in covered containers to avoid attracting wild animals.

Do not leave pet food outside. This also attracts other animals.

For questions regarding the health of an animal, contact a veterinarian.

Veterinarian staff and animal control staff should be alert for animals encountered with sign suspicious for rabies and use appropriate precautions, especially when working with unvaccinated animals.

Persons who have been bitten or scratched by wild or domestic animals should seek medical attention and report the injury to the Walton County Health Department at 850-892-8021.

Did you miss out on a Beach Permit Last Year?

2011-05-25T17:07:00.001-05:00

Attention Please. Please spread the word to anyone that this might pertain too.

If you lost your Driving on the Beach permit last year because you didn't renew your permit by the August 31st deadline and you had a permit for the previous year...please send me your name and contact information...send it to:

Ann @ yzarctoo@aol.com

Can't promise but you may (please note the word May) be able to get your permit and be considered grand fathered in. You need to do this as soon as possible. Ms. Jones might be able to help us out.

GRANDFATHERED Beach Permits INFORMATION

2011-05-25T08:59:00.000-05:00

OK, all you grandfathered Driving on the Beach Permits holders...here are the deadlines for renreing your Driving on The Beach Permits. This answer was researched and relayed back to me by Ms. Jones office:

All grandfathered permit holders have the entire year to renew their permit. Regardless of when they renew the permit, it will still expire on June 1st of each year. For example, if you currently have a permit it will expire on June 1, 2011. You will have until May 31, 2012 to renew that permit. If you wait until May 31, 2012 to renew, your permit will again expire on June 1, 2012.

Grand fathered Beach Permit Deadlines FYI

2011-05-18T14:44:00.001-05:00

There seems to be no deadline (June 1st)...as I originally thought from the discussions at the Commissioner's meeting with the grandfathered driving on the beach permits. I was told today while at the Clerk's office, that there wasn't a deadline for renewing.
If you remember last year many of our our property owners lost their permits because they were late in renewing. I would suggest that you contact the Clerk's office and check this out for yourself , if you will not be able to renew your permit by June1st before your 2010-2011 permit runs out. Their number is: (850) 267-3066

This Ordinance has been confusing and has options in the verbage that are very confusing, plus a new office has undertaken this and they are also dealing with things that are brand new for them.

What you need for permit

2011-05-18T14:30:00.001-05:00

When you apply for your driving on the beach permit you need to provide the following;
Proof that your taxes are all paid up...you need to bring a print out for them so that they don't have to look it up. You can get this online at http://taxsearch.waltontaxcollector.com/collectmax/collect30.asp?sid=3CAA7421DF3B4A0981686CE458294757

If you are getting someone else to turn your form in and pay for your permit you also need to provide a form giving that person permission to do this for you. If you contact the clerk's office at 850-267-3066, they will email you the form or tell you where to look on line for it.

South Walton Courthouse Annex

31 Coastal Centre Boulevard, Suite 500

Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
(850) 267-3066

Annual Meeting Minutes April 23, 2011

2011-05-16T07:19:00.001-05:00

The Annual Meeting was called to order by Grant Blackwell, President, at Shirley Sahlie’s yard at 11:20 AM, April 23, 2011. About 100 members, guests and family members attended the Annual Meeting and Picnic.

Following the invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, Grant introduced the 2010-2011 Board Members and the new 2011-2012 Board as follows:

2010-2011 Officers:
Grant Blackwell, President
Scott Provow, Vice President
Ann Morrell, Treasurer
Larry Jackson, Secretary
Billy Buzzett
Kitty Taylor
Mike Valentino (Absent)

2011-2012 Board:

Grant Blackwell, elected for a 2011-2013 Term
Scott Provow, elected for a 2011-2013 Term
Andy Gray, elected for a 2011-2013 Term
Bill Wallace, elected for a 2011-2013 Term
Billy Buzzett, continuing, 2010-2012 Term
Ann Morrell, continuing, 2010-2012 Term
Larry Jackson, continuing, 2010-2012 Term

Bylaws Change:

Members approved the proposed Bylaws change to Article V - Para 5 to read: The Board shall have the general power to act for the Association in the conduct of normal business - the Board may take a position representing the Association before any governmental body without a vote of the Association if by unanimous board member vote, the board deems immediate action is needed and in the best interest of the Association.

In accordance with Article VI - Amendments, an amendment requires a simple majority of all association votes. Vote results were 101 Yes or 65%, 17 No or 11% , and 38 Abstain or 20%. This vote confirmed the acclamation voice vote at the 2010 Membership Meeting.

Minutes: March 15th minutes were approved by board member E-mails and posted to GBNA Blog.

Financial Report: Ann Morrell presented an update of our Annual GBNA Finances as of April 23, 2011.

Income: Deposits

2011-12 Membership Dues 171 Lots $ 4,275.00

Expenses :

2010 Annual Meeting/Party Expenses $ 1,604.62

Landscaping Triangle/ Entry Way $ 887.46

Donation Friends of Grayton Beach State Pk $ 100.00

Fourth of July Party/decorations $ 59.90

Membership 2011 Applications $ 525.08

Elegant Tent Rental April 23 Meeting $ 580.20

Total Expenses 2010-11: $ 3,757.26

Net Income 2010-11: $ 517.74

Account Balances:

Checking: $ 6,415.00

Savings: $ 10,669.85

Total: $ 17,084.85

Member Communications: Members were reminded of the two digital communications systems available - the Grayton Beach Neighborhood Association Blog at http://graytonbeachflorida.blogspot.com/ and the Facebook site: http://www.facebook.com/login.php , enter Grayton Beach Neighborhood Association in the search window.

Member Directory: This directory will replace the 2006 Membership Directory. The ongoing collection of updated membership directory information is included in the returning 2011 ballots and member surveys. The 2011-2012 Board will seek sponsorship opportunities with local member businesses to support production and distribution of the directory.

Past Year: Grant covered association activities during the last year including the Oil Spill and the July 2010 work on containment dike to protect Western Lake.

Real Estate Update: Scott Provow gave attendees the profile of recent home prices and sales in the 30A area and in Grayton Beach. Sellers have seen bids generally below their asking price. He noted that 29 homes from Sandestin to Rosemary Beach have sold over the last year.

Beach Permit Ordinance: People with 2010 permits can apply starting May 15th for 2011 Permits. A lottery system for 150 permits for registered voters will start April 1st. See the BLOG for application details. The Board will continue to push for grandfather permit privileges for Grayton Beach property owners.

Kayak Rack: The Board is looking at a mobile Kayak Rack to be able to help secure day use equipment at the local boat ramp.

Public Works: Grant covered the positive work that the Public Works Department has done in the village; in large part to relationship building he has maintained with the department. Lately the Department has been improving the shoulders.

Member Comments/Questions:

Traffic and Safety: Several attendees discussed effectiveness of the speed radar indicator on DeFuniak Street. Other speed moderation approaches were covered including small traffic islands, flower planters and additional radar signs. One member suggested more bike path signage and markings to get bikes clear of the main traffic areas.

Rental House Trash Collection: It was suggested that the Board work with rental companies and individual VBO property owners to identify practical ways to manage their properties. Specifically, using the rule of thumb of one trash container per bedroom in determining how many trash containers are needed. The Board is supporting efforts by the rental companies to get an additional trash collection day.

Street Lighting: It was suggested the Board look at the need for street lighting in the village.

Fourth of July Parade/ Rags to Riches Regatta: The two events will be held in Grayton Beach over the 4th of July Weekend - Saturday, 2 July through Monday, 4 July. The Parade is scheduled for Monday morning, July 4th. The Rags to Riches Regatta will be a Hobie Cat race from Grayton Beach to Seagrove Beach and back. Additional information will be provided on the Blog site.

Feral Cat Population: Wynne Freeman covered the work they have been doing with Linda Draper, Alaqua Animal Refuge to operate a trap/spay/release program for feral cats in Grayton. The Freemans recommended that the GBNA to consider a contribution to Alaqua Animal Refuge in support of this program. They also recommended that the Association inform the membership how they can use the program to handle the feral cat population in their neighborhood.

Advisory Board Volunteers: Grant invited members to volunteer to be on an advisory board of members to help with the various projects we are doing throughout the village.

Neighborhood Watch: Grant advised attendees that they need to keep security in mind in protecting their property and belongings.

Logo: A concept logo for the Association was discussed. It was a stylized sea turtle with the letters Grayton Beach on the shell. The 2011-2012 Board will discuss the concept at a future meeting.

The meeting was adjourned at 12:20 PM.

Submitted by Larry Jackson, Secretary

Lottery Drawing Monday May 16th

2011-05-15T10:00:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow is the big day of the first Beach Permit Lottery drawing. There will be an 150 new cars issued a permit that missed out on the original Driving on the Beach Permit Ordinance voted on in early 2010. After reducing the number of cars from 1000 + down to about 800...the Commissioners, who's original goal was to reduce the number of cars on the beach, decided that they needed to up the number of cars and came up with the new ordinance that allowed the annual lottery. The only drawback only property owners that lived in Walton county could apply. If you were a non resident property owner, you did not qualify for the lottery. Then at the last minute before the final vote, the board said...we need to allow non property residents the ability to drive on the beach too...so they came up with the qualification of having a Voter's Registration card. I have asked the Clerk of Courts' office to provide me with a break down of the "lottery winners" as to owing property vs. owning a Voter's Registration Card. I will post this information as soon as I receive it.
A friendly reminder....if you are grandfathered in with your Beach Permit...don't forget that if you fail to renew it by June 1st...you will lose it for ever.

County Appraisers are in Grayton Beach

2011-05-05T16:16:00.000-05:00

I asked the county appraiser, Patrick Pilcher, about why his staff was in Grayton going from house to house. I wanted to know if it was a county wide property assessment or just a Grayton Beach inspection. He gave me the following answer to share on our blog.

We have appraisers in the field in many areas of the County most every day. All properties in Florida are required to be re-evaluated each assessment year and physically reviewed within a 5 year cycle. Grayton Beach residential properties are being reviewed at this time. With declining property values most owners should see decreased assessments this year. The only increase in property value an owner would experience as a result of the review would be if improvements(remodel,increased square footage,etc.) were discovered that are not currently listed in our appraisal. Appraisers also look for negative changes in review properties (neglected maintenance,rot,demolition,etc.) Commercial properties, county-wide, are also being reviewed at this time.

Owners are encouraged to contact our office if they have questions,850-892-8123 ,or email pilpatrick@co.walton.fl.us .

Sincerely,

Patrick Pilcher
Walton County Property Appraiser

Grand Fathered Driving on Beach Permit Applications

2011-05-02T18:47:00.000-05:00

Here is the link for Beach Driving Permit for those that are grand fathered in. Remember if you fail to renew it by June 1st..you will lose it forever. They will start accepting these application May 15th.

http://www.co.walton.fl.us/DocumentView.aspx?DID=3389

GBNA Annual Meeting And Party

2011-04-26T13:00:00.003-05:00

About 85 people attended the GBNA Annual Meeting and picnic held on April 23rd at Shirley Sahlie's home on Defuniak Street. It was a beautiful day and very warm day, and it was great that there was a tent set up both for the meeting and the lunch. The table and chairs were loaned by 30 A Resorts and it was great to have comforable seats and a table to eat from. (No sitting in low beach chairs balancing a paper plate of food on one's lap!) The minutes from the minute will be posted in a later blog post but here are a few pictures from the meeting for those that were unable to attend.

The Butlers

Waiting for Meeting to Start

Cleaning Up Food Table after Lunch

I will be posting more pictures and an image of a possible GBNA Logo in a later post. I would request if you haven't already sent in your 2011 dues and are still planning too, please send in ASAP so that your new GBNA 2011 Board can start making plans for the year. Dues are $25 per lot. Thanks in Advance.
Dues can be sent to:
GBNA
PO Box 2162
Santa Rosa Beach Florida 32459

Happy Birthday Seaside

2011-04-24T10:42:00.002-05:00

Seaside celebrates 30 years. Thought you might enjot reading a little about its history.

http://www.waltonsun.com/news/seaside-6682-envisioned-years.html

Driving on Beach Permits Lottery Form

2011-04-16T21:03:00.000-05:00

See previous blog post....

http://graytonbeachflorida.blogspot.com/2011/03/beach-permit-lottery-info.html

Ann will also have the forms available for pick up at the Membership Sign Up Table on Saturday April 23rd at the Annual GBNA Meeting and Picnic.

Interested News Articles

2011-04-16T20:58:00.001-05:00

What do you think about a Seasonal Trolly on 30A to help cut down traffic?

http://www.waltonsun.com/news/congestion-6649-santa-ease.html

Turtle Watch Season Nearing

http://www.waltonsun.com/news/year-6643-season-maxwell.html

"Branding the Beaches of South Walton"

http://www.thedestinlog.com/news/beaches-17450-walton-south.html

The Bark Park for Dogs Back in Business

http://www.waltonsun.com/news/walton-6636-center-ago.html

PARTY PARTY and MEETING

2011-04-13T09:37:00.002-05:00

Click on Image to Enlarge!!!!!!

Need a GBNA membership application? A ballot?

2011-04-08T19:52:00.003-05:00

Lost your GBNA application or Ballot. Please email me @ yzarctoo@aol.com and I will email you another ballot and application. You can print out the forms and return them with your check TO:

GBNA
PO Box 2162
Santa Rosa Beach Fl 32459

Beach Permit Lottery Info

2011-03-31T18:38:00.002-06:00

.Walton County Beach Permit Lottery Information

Lottery Applications for Beach Driving Permits will be accepted by the County from April 1st to May 10th.
Selections will be on on Monday, May 16th and applicants will be notified of the results. Those selected in the lottery may purchase permits from the Clerk of Court’s office beginning June 1st.

You can download the Beach Permit Lottery Application from http://www.co.walton.fl.us/.

Applications may also be picked up at the SoWal Courthouse Annex at the Planning Department. Several requirements must be met to obtain a Permit.

dfirect link for application:
http://www.co.walton.fl.us/DocumentView.aspx?DID=3307

GBNA Meeting March 15th

2011-03-21T07:00:00.002-06:00

GBNA MEETING March 15, 2011

The Meeting was called to order by Grant Blackwell, President, at the 30A Resorts Conference Room at 4:00 PM, March 15, 2011. Board attendees in addition to Grant were Ann Morrell, Larry Jackson, and Scott Provow. Mike Valentino, Kitty Taylor and Billy Buzzett were absent. Andy Gray, 2011-2013 Board member candidate, was a member guest.

Minutes: January 25th minutes were approved by board member E-mails and posted to GBNA Blog.

Financial Report: Ann Morrell presented an update of our GBNA Finances as of March, 2011.

Jan 25, 2010 Balances: Checking Account: $ 2,957.57 Savings Account: $10,649.28

Checking Account

Checks written:

Blue Mountain Lawn Care $125.00

Friends of Grayton Beach State Park $100.00

Ann Morrell, Postage , repro, Annual letter $525.08

Blue Mountain Lawn Care $ 45.00

Ann Morrell (Fl Corp Registration) $ 61.25

Total Expenses: $ 856.33

Deposits Dues for 2011

Feb 25; $ 50

March 7: $ 1,900

March 15: $ 550

Total Income: $ 2,500

March 15, 2011 Balances: Checking: $4,551.24 Savings: $ 10,649.28

Member Directory: This directory is replacing the 2006 Membership Directory. The ongoing collection of updated membership directory information is included in the returning 2011 ballots and member surveys. To date, almost 80% of returned ballots respondents wanted their information included in a membership directory. It was suggested that the board explore sponsorship opportunities with local member businesses to support production and distribution of the directory. The Directory will be provided after the Annual Meeting in order to include Membership Applications received at the Meeting.

By-Laws Amendment: The returned ballots results will be counted prior to Annual meeting. The amendment allows the board to speak on membership’s behalf to the governmental organizations under certain conditions. The formal vote documents a simple majority of Association votes from the show of hands approval at the 2010 Annual Meeting.

2011-2012 Board Candidates: Four candidate names were included in ballot for terms of 2011-2013: Grant Blackwell, Scott Provow, Andy Gray, and Bill Wallace. They will join three board members with terms of 2010-2012: Ann Morrell, Billy Buzzett, and Larry Jackson.

Membership Applications, with Ballot and Survey: More than 110 applications have been returned. The Board agreed to send a reminder post card out this month to remind Grayton Beach property owners to return their Membership Applications. Larry suggested that the new Board for 2011-2012 look at the Bylaws Article III Membership and Dues structure for the future. See GBNA Bylaws at the GBNA BLOG.

Grayton Beach Trademark: The Board discussed soliciting advice from member lawyers about feasibility and issues of trade marking the use of Grayton Beach in literature and promotions. A related project will be to create a trademark GBNA logo for the village.

Speed Limit Change: Grant reported that the County was looking into adjusting the local county access roads from Highway 98 to 35 MPH when the roads reach residential and commercial areas near Highway 30A.

Hotz Avenue Boat Ramp Kayak Rack: Grant reported that two business owners agreed to donate funds to the Association to build a Kayak/Board Rack for public day use at the Hotz Avenue Boat Ramp/Dock. Purpose of the Rack is to allow people to secure their equipment during the day. Board discussed need to consult with adjacent property owners.

DeFuniak Street Work: Grant coordinated getting County Road Crew work on DeFuniak Street shoulders. Additionally the county repaired the Triangle blinking red light after concerns were expressed about people going through the stop sign without stopping.

Annual Meeting Planning: The Board agreed that the 23 April Annual Meeting will be at Shirley Sahlie's yard on Defuniak Street. The business meeting will start at 11 AM with lunch being served at 12:30. A picnic menu will be provided - chicken, slaw, potato salad, baked beans, rolls, brownies, tea, water and lemonade. Scott and Ann will obtain food and service items. Scott will reserve tent and locate tables and chairs.

Grayton Beach State Park: Friends of Grayton Beach State Park thanked the Association for our $100 contribution.

Florida Corporation Annual Filing: Ann Morrell, as the Registered Agent, submitted our 2011 annual report filing with FL Department of State.

Signage Initiative: The board agreed to solicit member comments to establishing a voluntary effort on improve display of commercial signage in the village.

Welcome Triangle Lighting: Larry Jackson is looking for solar power options to reduce need for extended buried power lines, permits, and meters.

Wedding Rentals: The Board discussed Walton County Commissioners review of noise issues with large wedding party rentals in residential areas.

Beach Permit Ordinance: The County is expected to approve the Beach Permit Ordinance at March 22nd Meeting. People with 2010 permits can apply starting May 15th for 2011 Permits. A lottery system for 150 permits for registered voters will start April 1st. See the BLOG for application details. Ann Morrell continues to maintain the status on the Grayton Beach Neighborhood Association BLOG at http://graytonbeachflorida.blogspot.com/ .

Old Business: The board agreed to table Historic Grayton Beach and other topics to the April Meeting.

The meeting was adjourned at 5:45 PM.

Submitted by Larry Jackson, Secretary Upon approval, these minutes are posted on Grayton Beach Neighborhood Association BLOG at http://graytonbeachflorida.blogspot.com/ , The Minutes are cataloged at http://minutesonly.blogspot.com/

March 22nd The County Takes Final Look at Beach Permit

2011-03-19T16:34:00.000-06:00

The dates for applying have been tweeked again...I am including a Link to the Ordinance. If this issue effect you and you are either grandfathered in or hope to win one of the 150 lottery applications be sure to note the tweeked dates. I also have included a link to the new Dogs on the Beach Ordinance.

If you are coming to the Annual Meeting and Party on Aprl 23rd there will be driving on the beach permits available for you to pick up at the Sign In Table.

Beach Permit Link http://fl-waltoncounty.civicplus.com/DocumentView.aspx?DID=3300

Important dates
Grandfather Permits can be renewed starting May 15th. You must renew your permit by June 1st or you will lose it.

Lottery Permits may submit their applications between April 1st through May 10th. The lottery will be held on May 15th and you can purchase your permit on June 1st.

The county is also updating their Dogs on the Beach Permit. So if you have a Beach Loving Pooch ...check out the following link.

http://fl-waltoncounty.civicplus.com/DocumentView.aspx?DID=3301

Leslie Provow's Earthquake Adventure

2011-03-18T17:24:00.001-06:00

Read about Leslie (Haynes) Provow's Earthquake in Japan Adventure

http://www.waltonsun.com/news/south-6487-walton-airborne.html

PARTY/MEETING UPDATE April 23rd

2011-03-15T17:30:00.000-06:00

The annual meeting and party will take place again at Shirley Sahlie's home on Defuniak Street. All food will be provided. We plan to have Fried Chicken, Cole Slaw, Potato Salad, Baked Beans, Rolls and Brownies for desert. We will provide tea, water and lemonade, (you are also welcome to bring your own drink.) We will again have a tent and provide tables and chairs for your comfort. If you missed the program about old Grayton last year it will be shown again in the pool house. Come and join us and find out what's been happening in Grayton.

We are looking forward to a large crowd and a great time reconnecting to old friends and new friends. We hope that you are planning on attending...the meeting will start at 11 AM with lunch being served at 12:30. This will allow you to still have that precious Grayton Beach time. If you could email Ann at Yzarctoo@aol.com with the number in your party that plan to attend it will help us with our food purchases.

So far I have been really happy with the Membership Applications returns...it would really be great if I didn't have to send out another reminder....so please join and support your Grayton Beach Neighborhood Association! Thanks in Advance!!!!!!!!

New proposed Dogs on the Beach Ordinance 3-22-2011

2011-03-07T10:57:00.000-06:00

Dogs on the Beach Ordinance (NEW)

http://fl-waltoncounty.civicplus.com/DocumentView.aspx?DID=3232

March 22 DRIVING ON THE BEACH ORDINANCE

2011-03-07T10:53:00.001-06:00

Final adoption of DRIVING ON THE BEACH ORDINANCE

(PLEASE READ AND NOTE THE DATE FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO HAVE A GRANDFATHERED PERMIT TO HAVE APPLICATIONS IN .....ALSO FOR THOSE THAT WISH TO TRY FOR A LOTTERY ISSUED PERMIT PLEASE NOTE THE DATE.)

Please click on and read.
AGENDA ITEM: http://fl-waltoncounty.civicplus.com/DocumentView.aspx?DID=3231

Important Dates:
Grandfathered Permits: You can renew your application starting on May 15th. The deadline for filing and keeping your Grandfather Status is June 1st. Your old permit runs out on June 1st.

Lottery Permits: You can submit your application from April 1st - May 10th. On May 15th the lottery will take place and you will be notified and then asked to pay the fee of $125 for your permit.

As soon as I get the link where the application can be downloaded I will Post.

March 1st Proposed 5 More Commercial Lots for Grayton

2011-02-27T20:34:00.000-06:00

On March 1st, a Final public hearing will be held at 5PM at the Walton County Courthouse in Defuniak Springs. This meeting will be the final hearing on the Proposed Future Use Map Amendement that will change four properties on Defuniak street, and also a property that backs up the Grayton Trail properties from Neighborhood residential Preservation to Neighborhood Commercial. Only those within 300 feet were notified by the county. The properties in question are three lots belonging to Richard Veldman at the corner of Pine and Defuniak and a lot across from them next to Kitty Taylor's real estate office and the fifth property is the Rocky Hard property on 30 A that backs up to Grayton Trails.

If you wish to read about what the changes will mean...read this link.

http://www.co.walton.fl.us/DocumentView.aspx?DID=3187

Clerk of Courts Says Her Office Will Take On Beach Permits

2011-02-22T14:01:00.005-06:00

At the County Commissioner's Meeting this morning, Martha Engle, Clerk of Courts for Walton County said that her office would be willing to sell the Driving on the Beach Permits. The Commissioners still have to vote on this, but at this time that seems to be the solution for the Commissioners. As of today, the registered voters ONLY * will still have the ability to apply and win one of the 150 lottery spots. As soon as more information is firmed up as to where to download applications and what is needed to apply I will let you know. So keep checking back for any updates.

*only need a voter registration card, do not need to own property in Walton County

Just for your information there are 37,421 registered voters in Walton County. Many of them own property but there is a rather large group that rent or live with their parents. It will be interesting to see how many "non property owners" who own 4 wheel vehicles will apply and actually are awarded a permit from the 150 lottery pool .

Tax Collector Relinquishes Beach Permits Duties Because of New Ordinance

2011-02-15T23:16:00.001-06:00

TAX COLLECTOR’S OFFICE TO RELINQUISH ISSUANCE AUTHORITY OF BEACH DRIVING, BEACH VESSEL LAUNCH, CHARTER AND DOG ON THE BEACH PERMITS BACK TO BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS COUNTY TO DETERMINE NEXT ISSUING AUTHORITY

DeFuniak Springs, FL (February 14, 2011) – Walton County Tax Collector Rhonda Skipper will soon return issuance authority for Beach Driving, Vessel Launch, Charter and Dog on the Beach Permits back to the Walton County Board of County Commissioners (BCC). Skipper notified Commissioners last week of the decision citing the operational expenses involved with issuing the permits.

The Walton County Tax Collector’s Office is currently the sole issuing authority on behalf of the BCC for the Beach Driving, Beach Vessel Launch, Charter and Dog on the Beach permits. Recent changes to the Beach Permitting Ordinance and the operational costs involved with issuing requirements played a role in Skipper’s decision to no longer serve as the issuance authority.

A primary reason for this business decision was the provision allowing all registered voters in Walton County to apply for a lottery of 150 permits. This provision creates the potential for thousands of applications to be accepted, and each one must be processed, verified, and archived for public records. The staff time required to comply with the ordinance is not fiscally sound for the $1,500 annual revenue generated for the Tax Collector’s Office which was already processing beach permits at a fiscal deficit. Transition of the services to a new issuing authority will occur before the renewal period for Beach Driving, Vessel Launch, and Charter permits opens in April.

“Recent ordinance changes caused concern about the operational expenses involved with issuing permits in accordance to the new requirements. As my office gears up to begin offering DriversLicense services early next year, it seemed now would be an appropriate time to discontinue serving as the issuing authority for beach permits,” said Tax Collector Rhonda Skipper. Skipper expressed to Commissioners that she and her staff would work closely with the County to ensure a smooth transition to the succeeding issuing authority.

January 25th GBNA Board Minutes

2011-02-15T17:22:00.000-06:00

The Meeting was called to order by Grant Blackwell, President, at the Grayton Coast Properties Conference Room at 2:00 PM, January 25, 2011. Board attendees in addition to Grant were Mike Valentine, Ann Morrell, Larry Jackson, and Kitty Taylor, host. Billy Buzzett and Scott Provow were absent

Minutes: October 5th minutes were approved by board member E-mails and posted to GBNA Blog.

Financial Report: Ann Morrell presented an update of our GBNA Finances as of January 25, 2011.

May 5, 2010 Balances: Checking Account: $3,467.24 Savings Account: $10,614.99

Checks written:

#1291 Grant Blackwell .$59.90
#1292 Blue Mountain Lawn $45.00
#1293 Blue Mountain Lawn $45.00
#1294 Blue Mountain Lawn $177.50
#1295 Taking Care of Business $70.00
#1296 Blue Mountain Lawn $45.00
# 1297 Larry Jackson $97.27
Total Expenses: $539.67

Deposits $ 25.00 (dues for 2010)

$ 34.29 (Savings Interest)

January 25, 2011 Balances: Checking: $2,957.57 Savings: $10,649.28

Member Directory: The board discussed developing an updated membership directory. Information about the directory will be included in the annual membership packet to be mailed in February. Members will be able to elect what information they would like to have included in their individual listings.

By-Laws Amendment: The board agreed to a membership vote to an amendment to the by-laws. The amendment allows the board to speak on membership’s behalf to the governmental organizations under certain conditions (see enclosure). The formal vote documents a simple majority of Association votes following the show of hands approval at last year’s annual meeting.

President’s Communications: The board addressed and approved a January 30, 2011 Association Letter to the membership. Letter will provide update on this year’s activities and events. Topics included will be the Oil Spill, economic recovery, beach permits and parking ordinances.

2011-2012 Board Candidates: The board reviewed need to identify candidates for next year’s board in order to include the ballot in the annual membership mailing. The January letter will invite members to become candidates for the 2011-2012 Board.

Sign Ordinance: The topic of signage in the village was covered. Over the last year, Gulf Trace established an uniform signage requirement for all homes in their area. The board agreed to solicit member comments to establishing a voluntary effort on signage in the village.

Annual Membership Mailing: The timing and content of the mailings was discussed to include dues request, membership information, Annual Meeting, 2011-2012 Board Ballot and member comments. February was the expected date of mailing. The GBNA Annual Membership Meeting and BBQ will be Saturday, April 23, 2011 over the Easter weekend.

Parking and Beach Permit Ordinances: The County is working to develop a Grayton Beach parking ordinance and continues to work the Beach Permit Ordinance. Both ordinances will be reviewed at the February 8 Commissioners Meeting. Ann Morrell continues to maintain the status on the Grayton Beach Neighborhood Association BLOG at http://graytonbeachflorida.blogspot.com/ . The site has had more than 21,000 hits as members have followed the Association’s work to get the ordinances to fit our needs.

Welcome Triangle Lighting: Larry Jackson discussed need to identify alternatives to current lighting of the Welcome to Grayton sign. He will look for solar power options to reduce need for extended buried power lines, permits, and meters.

Grayton Beach State Park: It was suggested that the Association as a good neighbor to the State Park routinely contribute to the Friends of Grayton Beach State Park. The Friends of Grayton Beach State Park provide funds and labor to improve the Park’s facilities. The State Park’s maintenance of the Pine Street beach access has been superb. The board approved a donation of $100.

Old Business: The board agreed to table Logo, Lake Accesses, Kayak Rack, Membership Meeting Planning, Grayton-Titled Areas, and Historic Grayton Beach and other topics to the February Meeting.

The meeting was adjourned at 3:45 PM.

Submitted by Larry Jackson, Secretary Upon approval, these minutes are posted on Grayton Beach Neighborhood Association BLOG at http://graytonbeachflorida.blogspot.com/ , The Minutes are cataloged at http://minutesonly.blogspot.com/

Enclosure - By-laws Amendment
Association By-laws Amendment

Following attending members’ acclamation approval at the April 3, 2010 General Membership Meeting, this ballot item documents the simple majority of all Association votes to By-laws Amendment below.

Reference: GBNA By-Laws, http://graytonbylaws.blogspot.com/

Article IV - Association Meetings

4. Quorum: The presence at the meeting, in person or by numbered, written proxy of members entitled to cast 50% of the votes shall constitute a quorum for the conduct of normal business. For all other matters such as any action or position before a governmental body on behalf of the Association there will be required a simple majority of all Association votes.

Article V - Directors and Officers

Original: 5. The Board shall have the general power to act for the association in the conduct of normal business. The Board may not take a position representing the association before any governmental body without a vote of the Association under section IV.4. above.

Proposed Change: 5.

The Board shall have the general power to act for the Association in the conduct of normal business. The Board may take a position representing the Association before any governmental body without a vote of the Association if by unanimous board member vote, the board deems that immediate action is needed and in the best interest of the Association as an exception to section IV.4 above.

Yes for change as stated No to proposed change

Travel Yahoo names Santa Rosa Beaches in their Top Ten

2011-02-15T17:16:00.000-06:00

Santa Rosa Beach named one of the top ten beaches by Travel Yahoo. (Something most of us in Grayton have always known! )

http://travel.yahoo.com/p-interests-37895743

HAZ_MAT Collection Day March 5th

2011-02-12T16:32:00.000-06:00

HAZ-MAT COLLECTION DAY

Saturday, March 5th

The Walton Board of County Commissioners is sponsoring a project to collect, recycle, treat, and properly dispose of these household hazardous wastes.

LINK FOR INFO: http://www.co.walton.fl.us/Calendar.aspx?EID=2911

To win a Beach Permit..you are going to Need Luck!

2011-02-10T17:46:00.000-06:00

"Registered Voters Only" rank a little higher than Walton County Property Owners with the Board of Commissioners.

http://www.waltonsun.com/news/beach-6261-drive-santa.html

County Commissioner's Meeeting Feb 8th

2011-02-08T20:16:00.004-06:00

It was a very interesting meeting and it was a long one. There were many folks who came to speak at the public hearing.

RESULTS:
The Parking Ordinance was Passed with only a few changes that had to do with disability terminolgy.

The Driving on the Beach Ordinance was passed with some changes:

* Registered Voter was added back in to the Ordinance.
* Charter Boat Captains that have different sizes of boat trailers will now be able to get a trailer permit for each of their boats instead of being limited to 1.
* Terminolgy change with the wording dealing with Lottery, instead of Lottery Winners, the term will be Selected Lottery participants.

I have asked for a final official copy of the Beach Permit Ordinance with all changes so I can post the Official Document on the blog.

I suggest tht if you were not grand fathered in, you need to take careful note of the dates that you need to watch so that you can get in on the annual lottery. As soon as the new application is updated I will post the link so that you can download the form.

For those of you who are grand fathered in, you also need to take note of the dates and deadlines for applying for a new application. Because if you don't meet the deadlines you will lose your grand father status.

Again, I will post the updated ordinance as soon as it is made available fo me.

Parking Ordinance Up for Review Feb 8th

2011-02-06T06:50:00.000-06:00

If you own property in Grayton and have experienced others parking on your property or blocking your driveway while visiting our local businesses you might want to take a look at the New Parking Ordinance that is being looked at for the first time at the County Commissioner's Feb 8th Meeting. Here is a link:
http://fl-waltoncounty.civicplus.com/DocumentView.aspx?DID=3128

Sand Update

2011-02-05T17:07:00.000-06:00

News article about the sand in Northwest Florida.
http://www.waltonsun.com/news/beach-6249-plans-biggest.html

Driving on the Beach Proposed 2011 Ordinance

2011-02-03T18:54:00.001-06:00

For those interested in the new driving on the Beach Ordinance that will be addressed and likely voted on this coming Tuesday at the County Commissioner's Meeting, here is a link to the new draft.

http://fl-waltoncounty.civicplus.com/DocumentView.aspx?DID=3130
The "registered Voter only" is now removed from the draft. The dates for the lottery of the 150 new permits has been changed and updated also, So for those Grayton folks who missed out for one reason or another on getting a permit ....this lottery is your chance to apply and get a permit that is good for one year only. Those of you who have an annual "grand fathered type permit" need to renew your application starting May 1st

I suggest that you read the whole ordinance that can be found at the following link.....

http://fl-waltoncounty.civicplus.com/DocumentView.aspx?DID=3130
There are new deadline dates for applications both for new permits and "grandfathered" permits.

I will be posting the results of the Feb. 8th County Commissioner's Meeting that evening on the blog. So if you are following this you can check the blog that evening to find out the outcome.

PLEASE NOTE that the lottery applications need to be submitted between April 1st and May 10th as the lottery selection will be conducted by the Tax Collector Office on May 15th and if you are one of the 150 lucky individuals, the Tax Office will notify you and then you can purchase a one year permit on June 1st.
For those out of town you can download a Driving on the beach permit at:
http://www.waltontaxcollector.com/files/Beach%20%20Vessel%20Launch%20Permit%20BCC%202010%20(2)(1).pdf
(I don't think I would do anything with the application until after the results of the Feb 8th meeting as I am sure that it will be updated.)

If you didn't get a copy of the email posted below, then either we do not have your email or the one you gave us has been changed. Please make sure when you renew your membership to give us a valid email address if you have one.

2011-01-31T08:56:00.000-06:00

You can email me @ yzarctoo@aol.com with your email address. thanks.
Ann

A Letter from Grant Blackwell, President of GBNA

2011-01-30T17:05:00.000-06:00

January 30, 2011

Grayton Beach Neighborhood Association

Dear Friends and Neighbors:

Every year about this time I send out a letter to review the events of the prior year and discuss issues facing us for the New Year.

OIL SPILL: I guess there has never been any bigger news than the oil spill. We were all affected by it and most especially the fear for our way of life here in Grayton. If you were not here it is difficult to describe the helplessness felt by those that live here. Every day you waited for the oil invasion. We watched as a promising economic recovery for the area succumbed to investment fears and travel plan changes by tourists. Our business owner members all suffered financial loss as did our Grayton property owners that depend on rental income. Then, as suddenly as it started, the oil was gone.

ECONOMIC RECOVERY: 2010 started with a boom. Real Estate sales for the first quarter of 2010 were up some 35% as compared to 2009. When the oil spill happened the real estate sales just came to a halt. Spring break season which was just prior to the oil spill was a banner success. But the tourist stayed away in droves after the spill.

Now thankfully we are back on track. Real Estate sales in Walton County are not only above the 2009 numbers, but are in fact 15% above this time last year. The recovery seems to be on again. Vacation rentals promise to be outstanding for Spring Break and beyond. Two weeks ago the song writer festival was in town and the area was buzzing even given near record low temperatures. Things look bright for 2011.

BEACH PERMIT ORDINANCE: I know many of you are concerned about the beach driving permit ordinance. If you will recall, last year the County Commissioners passed very unpopular changes to the beach permit ordinance. The goal was to reduce the number of permits, but with the addition of a grandfather clause many residents that did not renew their permits in 2009 did not qualify for a 2010 permit. Unfortunately, many Grayton residents were among those left out of the system. Even our friends and neighbors outside of Grayton, feel strongly that Gratyon residents should be assured of the ability to get a permit.

The Board of Commissioners is going to have a public hearing on more changes Feb. 8. As with last year’s changes, there are language and qualification criteria that many of us find unacceptable.

Billy Buzzett wrote ordinance language with input from some passionate informed residents, including your board members that would have assured that every Grayton resident be able to qualify for a permit. Unfortunately, our Commissioners would not present it for public consideration. The Commissioners have in fact proposed other changes that you can review on our Blog. ( http://graytonbeachflorida.blogspot.com/) I encourage you to read this proposed amended ordinance and write every Commissioner and express your personal desires and concerns.

Grayton is not a town, a city or municipality. We are a part of Walton County and governed by the County Commissioners. Our Commissioners have shown no indication of fully understanding the history of Grayton Beach and recognizing the importance of Grayton and its economic and social impact on the area as a whole. Make your voice known and stay informed. On our blog you will find the email address and phone number for every Commissioner. This will not be the last major decision they make relative to Grayson. We simply must speak out to help them understand Grayton’s significance to Walton County.

MEMBERSHIP PACKAGE: You will be receiving your membership package in a couple of weeks. Please take the time to complete the information and return it as soon as possible. In this package will be ballots for voting for the GBNA board of directors. We have four directors rolling off this year. Some have agreed to serve another term if there are not enough interested residents to fill the board positions. Your GBNA board meets 6 to 10 times per year dependent upon the issues and projects at hand. If you know someone that you would like to see on the board, or if you would like to serve, please forward the information to me now (via email) and I will be happy to contact them.

In your annual membership package you will find two other new items. First, you are going to be asked to vote for an approval change for our by-laws. This change will allow your GBNA board to speak on your behalf to the county commissioners. We took a show of hands vote at last year’s annual meeting and it was unanimously approved, but we need to actually document the votes. We are also going to publish a Grayton Member Directory and you can decide if you want your information listed or not.

ANNUAL MEETING AND BAR-B-QUE: Last year we had our annual meeting on Easter weekend. It was a great success. We had over 100 people and a good time was had by all. We are planning the event this year again for Easter weekend, Saturday April 23rd. Please mark your calendar and plan on joining us.

LOGO: Folks we need a logo for the GBNA or Grayton. If you or a member of your family are gifted in this manner or are in the printing or graphics business, we would love some help in getting this done. We will use it for print materials and for the entry sign in to Grayton.

I want to hear from you. I want your thoughts, ideas and suggestions. I need to know of anyone that you think might enjoy serving on the board by February 9. Please e mail me at grant@coastalcoverage.com , you can also email the board at graytonbeachna@mchsi.com and I encourage you to visit the blog often for updates on Grayton. Be sure to review it now for information on the Beach Driving Permit Ordinance.
http://graytonbeachflorida.blogspot.com/ or google Grayton Beach Neighborhood Association.

Kindest regards,
Grant Blackwell, President GBNA Board of Directors

Don't Forget Driving on the Beach Issue Coming Up

2011-01-21T20:04:00.002-06:00

Don't forget that the Driving on the Beach Permit is up for discussion on Feb 8th. This meeting will take place at the Annex in South Walton. If you need to refresh your information on this topuc with proposed changes you can review the info at this link:

http://graytonbeachflorida.blogspot.com/2010/12/driving-on-beach-ordinance-as-of-12-14.html

Again I suggest that you write to all of the Commissioners to let them know your views on the proposed changes. if you disapprove that a person with only a Voter Registration can get a Driving on the Beach Permit without owning property or paying real estate taxes...then please let the Commissioners know. Their emails are on the right side of the blog. I would also suggest that you write to them ALL as they all cast a vote.

I will post the Commissioner's agenda and the Driving on the Beach Draft Document, as soon as it is posted on their web site. So check back about a week before the meeting date for any updates..

Vision Airlines Routes to Scenic 30 A (Grayton Beach for US)

2011-01-18T08:46:00.002-06:00

Richard Stafford shared the following information and link with me. Vision Airlines announced today, Monday, Jan. 17, that 20 U.S. cities will be able to fly into the Destin and the Scenic 30A area on new commercial flights this spring.

Vision says fares, some initially as low as $49 one way, will go on sale Tuesday for trips between the beach communities of northwest Florida.

http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/travel/2011-01-17-newairline17_ST_N.htm

Click on map to zoom in.

Billy Buzzett News

2011-01-06T20:02:00.002-06:00

One of our GBNA Board Members, Billy Buzzett has a new job in the Florida State Department. He was appointed by Governor Scott. Billy is the new Secretary of Community Affairs.

The Department of Community Affairs (DCA) is the state's land planning and community development agency. The Department ensures that new growth complies with the state's vital growth management laws, while also helping established communities revitalize their older or traditional neighborhoods.

Needless to say, your GBNA Board is very happy for him, the state of Florida is very lucky to have him, and Governor Scott made a very smart appointment.

link: http://www2.tbo.com/content/2011/jan/07/scotts-appointments-signal-sea-change-in-state-gov/

County's Proposed Admended Parking Ordinance Information

2011-01-06T19:37:00.004-06:00

On the 11th the amended County Parking Ordinance will be presented by Ms. Jones to get approval for advertisements for a Public Hearing date to consider it. (All proposed Ordinances and their changes have to be advertised.)

Here is the full amended Ordinance.
http://fl-waltoncounty.civicplus.com/DocumentView.aspx?DID=3003

This section will give some "bite" to the parking problems in Grayton Beach.

(Click on image to enlarge)

30A Songwriters Festival Jan 14-16

2011-01-04T15:11:00.000-06:00

Scenic Highway 30A will again be transformed into a music highway this coming Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend, Jan. 14-16, 2011, when an internationally prominent lineup of singer-songwriters converge for the second annual 30A Songwriters Festival.

LINK: http://www.waltonsun.com/news/songwriters-6045-30a-highway.html

Beach Permits & Registered Voters

2010-12-30T19:07:00.001-06:00

Update on term Registered Voter (Beach Permits)
My Personal Opinion so you need to link over to:
http://annsgraytonopinion.blogspot.com/

Date Corrections

2010-12-16T08:28:00.001-06:00

Next Commissioner's Meeting to discuss the Driving on Beach will be Feb 8th in South Walton. Please note correction on your calendars.

Jan 11 the Commissioners will be discussing the Parking Ordinance that will deal with the Grayton Beach parking problems.

Link to Newspaper article about Beach Permits:
http://www.waltonsun.com/news/beach-5947-ordinance-questions.html

Driving on the Beach Ordinance as of 12-14, 2010

2010-12-15T20:21:00.002-06:00

This is the newest copy of the Driving on the Beach Ordinance. This copy was updated just before the 4PM meeting on the 14th. The newest additions are highlighted in yellow. Those items deleted are ~~strikethroughs.~~ This is the copy that you should use as a reference for any of your emails to the Commissioners. REMEMBER this is only a working copy...it was not voted on and will be discussed again at an open forum on February 8th. (correction)

ORDINANCE
2010-_______

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING WALTON COUNTY ORDINANCE 2010-01, SECTION 22-57 OF THE WALTON COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES, TO ELIMINATE THE REQUIREMENT TO HAVE A HABITABLE STRUCTURE; TO REDUCE THE NUMBER OF CHARTER PERMITS; TO PROVIDE FOR A CAP ON THE NUMBER OF DRIVING PERMITS; TO PROVIDE FOR AN EXEMPTION FOR DISABLED PERSONS; TO PROVIDE FOR SEVERABILITY AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE

WHEREAS, the Walton County Board of County Commissioners issues permits for authorized vehicles to operate on limited access areas of Walton County Beaches;

WHEREAS, the Walton County Board of County Commissioners desires to limit the number of permits issued each year for vehicles to operate on designated limited access areas on the beach and for the use of other authorized vehicles;

WHEREAS, the Walton County Board of County Commissioners finds that the health, safety, and welfare of citizens, and visitors to, Walton County would be best protected by the regulation of vehicles on the limited access areas of the beach;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF WALTON COUNTY, FLORIDA, AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. Authority, purpose and intent.

This ordinance is adopted pursuant to Section 125.01 Florida Statutes.

Section 2. Section 22-57 of the Walton County Code is amended to read:

Section 22-57. Permitted vehicles on the beach.

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to drive, or cause to be driven, an unauthorized vehicle on the beach of Walton County unless permitted as provided herein.

(b) Before any vehicle shall be allowed in the designated limited access areas on the public beaches of Walton County, a permit must be obtained for the vehicle in the form of a decal, and permanently affixed in the back window of said vehicle, or the rear of the motor vehicle. The Walton County Tax Collector shall accept applications for permits between ~~June 1 and August~~ 1 April 1 and June 1 of each year. ~~Any application for a permit received after August 1 of each year shall be denied as untimely.~~ After June 1st of each year, an additional 150 permits may be issued by the Walton County Tax Collector, in the order in which the applications are received. Such applicants must meet the criteria set forth in this ordinance except the requirement of having had a permit for the year preceding the date of application. These 150 permits are only valid for one year and may not be renewed. This provision will be effective January 3, 2011.

(c) The permits shall be issued each year based on the requirements of this Code, including, but not limited to, the criteria set forth below.

(i) Walton County Real Property Owners, Residents, and Registered Voters.

Walton County registered voters, or real property owners, who are residents of Walton County, and immediate family members residing with the property owners in Walton County may obtain a permit for the use of a properly registered and authorized vehicle along the designated limited access areas on the beaches of Walton County, if the following criteria are met, in addition to any other requirements contained in this Code:
a. The person applying for the permit must have had a permit as of the effective date of this ordinance and for the year preceding the date of application. Each parcel of property shall only be entitled to one vehicle permit and one boat trailer permit each year.
~~b. The real property shall have constructed on it a habitable residence.~~

bc. The ad-valorem taxes for the real property shall not be delinquent.

cd. The vehicle being registered must be titled in the name of the permit holder.

de. Proof of real property ownership (such as a deed or tax receipt) and proof of residency (such as voter’s registration card, homestead exemption card, or driver’s license) must be presented to the Tax Collector at the time of application to document the requirements of this section. For property titled in the name of a business or owned by multiple owners, the person applying for the permit shall show proof that they own a controlling interest in the property or that they are otherwise entitled to obtain a permit for the property. “Controlling interest in the property or that they are otherwise entitled” means that the person applying for the permits owns more than 50% ownership interest in the property or has a resolution signed by the other owners of the property grants the person applying for the permit the authority to apply for the permit.

(ii) Walton County Real Property Owners, Non-Residents.

Walton County real property owners may obtain a permit for the use of a properly registered and authorized vehicle along the designated limited access areas on the beaches of Walton County, if the following criteria are met, in addition to any other requirements contained in this Code:

a. The person applying for the permit must have had a permit as of the effective date of this ordinance and for the year preceding the date of application. Each parcel of property shall only be entitled to one vehicle permit and one trailer permit each year.

~~b. The real property shall have constructed on it a habitable residence.~~

bc. The ad-valorem taxes for the real property shall not be delinquent.

cd. The vehicle being registered must be titled in the name of the permit holder.

de. Proof of real property ownership (such as a deed or tax receipt) must be presented to the Tax Collector at the time of application to document the requirements of this section. For property titled in the name of a business or owned by multiple owners, the person applying for the permit shall show proof that they own a controlling interest in the property or that they are otherwise entitled to obtain a permit for the property. “Controlling interest in the property or that they are otherwise entitled” means that the person applying for the permits owns more than 50% ownership interest in the property or has a resolution signed by the other owners of the property grants the person applying for the permit the authority to apply for the permit.

(iii) Walton County Charter Fishing Operations; 20 15 Permits Total.

Under this section (c) (iii), there shall be a limit of 20 15 permits total to be issued which shall be issued to the first 20 15 applicants to file completed applications. Walton County residents that are also licensed charter boat captains and operate charter fishing businesses in Walton County (“Charter Operator”) may obtain a permit for the use of a properly registered and authorized vehicle along the designated limited access areas of the beaches of Walton County, if the following criteria are met, in addition to any other requirements contained in this Code:

a. The vehicle and boat trailer being registered shall be owned by the Charter Operator and used for the charter operation.

b. Proof of residency (such as voter’s registration card, homestead exemption card, or driver’s license) must be presented to the Tax Collector at the time of application.

c. Proof of a current Coast Guard Captain’s license.

d. Proof of a current Florida charter fishing license.

A copy of the beach access permit and the application showing the name of the individual to whom it was issued must remain in the vehicle while being operated on the beach. Additionally, at all times while a properly permitted vehicle and boat trailer are on the designated limited access area, the properly permitted vehicle and properly permitted boat trailer shall remain connected to the properly permitted vehicle.

(d) The Walton County Tax Collector will issue the permits annually upon receipt of a completed application. The Walton County Tax Collector shall retain $10.00 ~~(five~~ ten dollars) as a processing fee. On or about October 1 of each year the Walton County Tax Collector shall submit to the Walton County Board of County Commissioners a written report of the number of permits that have been issued during the current year.

(e) Only four-wheel drive vehicles that have a current motor vehicle registration to be driven on the highways shall be permitted.

(f) The designated limited access area permit described in subsection (c) above, shall cost the sum of $125.00 per vehicle. One decal (vehicle permit) shall be issued for each vehicle authorized to use the limited access area. ~~Permanently~~ Disabled ~~landowners~~, ~~who meet the requirements of subsection (c) abovenon-residents,~~ upon proof of disability (~~Florida~~ Handicap Parking Placard, SSI Disability letter, etc.), will be ~~exempt from tthis fee~~ eligible to receive a no-cost temporary permit from the Code Enforcement Department. Disabled residents, upon proof of disability (Florida Handicap Parking Placard, SSI Disability letter, etc.) and active military residents, may be issued an annual no-cost permit from the Walton County Tax Collector.

(g) In addition to the designated limited access area permit described in subsection (c) above, individuals launching boats shall be required to have a corresponding trailer decal for an additional $30.00. The decal shall be placed on the tongue of the trailer.

(h) The speed limit of authorized vehicles along the designated limited access on the public beaches of Walton County shall be five miles per hour.

(i) Any reckless driving along the designated limited access of the public beaches shall constitute a violation of this article.

(j) Conviction for violation of this article shall result in automatic revocation of the vehicle permit.

(k) All permits issued shall be for a period of one year and will expire June 1st1 of each year.

(l) Permitted vehicles are not allowed on the beach other than in the designated limited access areas.

(m) All access areas shall be appropriately marked and designated as such.

(n) Driving is prohibited from 10:00 p.m. until sunrise, with the exception of vehicles launching or recovering boats. All vehicles launching boats must be parked in designated parking areas.

(o) All-terrain vehicles are not permitted on the public beach. All-terrain vehicles used by sheriff department officers, South Walton Fire Department, and county employees for official business may be driven on the beach. Beach vendor permits issued by Walton County may include all-terrain vehicles that are restricted to setting up and breaking down vending sites only. Private security all-terrain vehicles may obtain a beach vendor permit, for a reduced fee of $100, which will allow them to access the beach within the limits specified in the permit.

Section 3. Severability

In the event that any portion of this Ordinance is for any reason held invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, such portion shall be deemed a separate, distinct, and independent provision and such holding shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance.

Section 4. Effective Date

This Ordinance shall become effective when filed with the Secretary of State.

Adopted by the Board of County Commissioners of Walton County, Florida, at a duly advertised public hearing, this day of ____________, 2010.

BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

WALTON COUNTY, FLORIDA

Attest:

_______________________________ BY:________________________________

Martha Ingle Scott Brannon, Chair

Clerk of Court

Results of The Driving on The Beach Hearing

2010-12-14T20:07:00.046-06:00

There were lots of folks at the meeting tonight to discuss and give their opinions to the Commissioners on the Driving on the Beach Ordinance. The Commissioners and their lawyer verbally shared the new changes that did not appear on the updated ordinance that had been emailed out over the week end. These changes were made this afternoon. I was unable to get a copy this evening but will post the latest document as soon as I get a copy.

The main change: You can get a permit (one of the extra 150 being offered) if you are a registered voter, which means you don't have to own property in Walton Co.unty to get a permit, you only have to have a voter registration card.
The application: A voter registration application is complete if it contains the following information necessary to establish the applicant's eligibility pursuant to s. 97.041, including:
1. Applicant's name.
2. Applicant's legal residence address. (can live at home or rent, does not need to own Walton County property)
3. Applican't date of birth (can apply at age 16, vote at age 18)
4. Be a citizen of the United States
5. Hold a valid Florida's driving license or a Florida Identification Card.

They were also going to open the 150 lottery on January 3rd. Folks could line up and get a permit that would allow them a 6 month permit that would take them to June. They would pay the full 125 dollars. Then they would have to stand in line and pay again for a full year permit in June. One Commissioner felt that they should accept all applications for a week and then draw 150 lucky winners.

They also told us that anyone with a handicap could get a permit any time through out the year. They also had added military personel in Walton county could apply for a permit without meeting any of the other regulations.. (The military was a new addition) (Many of us wondered and expressed our concerns how notification (fair notification) would be made by January 3rd, after all it is Christmas and New Year's)

Some of the folks in attendance were complaining, and rightly so, that they had lost their permit because they owned property but didn't have a structure on it. They had met all requirements but this one, so they lost their permit in 2010. (With the new Ordinance this requirement is deleted , so now those folks will fall into the "150 group fighting for a permit pot") They were concerned that they paid taxes, had permits up until the change in 2010, and now would be up against someone in the 150 group, that didn't own property, but did have a voter's registration card.

There were those that spoke, who forgot to renew their application, either because they didn't know, or they were out of state, or in surgery, or out of the country, or working the oil spill and they asked to be considered for the grandfather group. Some even said, they had never had a permit, but they wanted one that year and couldn't get one. The board didn't seem to buy into any of this...and just kept telling them they could get one of the 150 new permits. I got the strong impression that if one person was granted grandfathering then all would have to be granted. I am sure that many folks had good reasons for missing out on renewing their application but I didn't see the board reacting to any of the stories.

Some in the audience suggested that the county should issue different kinds of permits...week day permits, week end permits, drop off permits (just let them get their stuff down to the beach). Not sure these drop off folks realize that we have limited parking down on Hotz so what do they do with their cars while down on the beach? I am sure that suggestions like this would be a nightmare for the Tax Collector Office. Some said there shouldn't be a limited number of permits period...that they should give anyone who wanted one a permit. Many of these folks thought Grayton could have 1000 cars down there at one time with no problem. That told me, they haven't been down to Grayton Beach for awhile.
I suggested when I spoke, knew it wouldn't fly, but tried...that perhaps a permit issued to a Grayton owner be issued to the address, the home itself, as Grayton folks passed their homes down in the family...that way there would always be a permit available in case the original owner of the permit passed away. That would eliminate a lot of the concerns of the folks that live in the neighborhood where the one driving on beach is located. They didn't comment, but looking at their faces they acted like I was wasting their time with that suggestion. I believe Grant and Billy, presented a similar option to the board via letter.

Anyway, one good thing, they opted not to take a vote tonight...the Commissioners said they had heard a lot of things that they needed to rethink...so we will meet again on January 11th and there will be another hearing. Not sure with the holiday, how much time the Board will have to re-evaluate their options but I will keep posting anything that I hear. Correction Meeting Feb 8th
I can't tell you how important it is to voice your concerns...if you feel strongly one way or another let them know. I am going to get a copy of the newest ordinance up as soon as I can...so you can see the additional changes and wording that was added today before our meeting on Feb 8th. The contacts for the Commissioners are located on the right side of the blog I would contact all five Commissioners not just Ms. Jones, as all 5 vote.

Changes in Driving on the Beach Ordinance as of Dec. 11th

2010-12-11T19:22:00.001-06:00

I have added the changes to the original Ordinance (directly below this entry) that were given to me on the 6th of December. I am color coding the new changes in BLUE.

Driving Ordinance Amenndment

2010-12-06T18:43:00.007-06:00

This Ordinance will be presented to the County Commissioners on December 14 for their consideration. The Meeting will be held at the South Walton Annex at 4Pm. I suggest if you have any thoughts on this matter and will not be able to attend the meeting that you contact the Commissioners with your concerns. Their information is located on the right side of the blog.

Changes are in blue. ~~Deletions are in strike through.~~

ORDINANCE 2010-_______

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING WALTON COUNTY ORDINANCE 2010-01, SECTION 22-57 OF THE WALTON COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES, TO ELIMINATE THE REQUIREMENT TO HAVE A HABITABLE STRUCTURE; TO REDUCE THE NUMBER OF CHARTER PERMITS; TO PROVIDE FOR A CAP ON THE NUMBER OF DRIVING PERMITS; TO PROVIDE FOR AN EXEMPTION FOR DISABLED PERSONS; TO PROVIDE FOR SEVERABILITY AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE

WHEREAS, the Walton County Board of County Commissioners issues permits for authorized vehicles to operate on limited access areas of Walton County Beaches;

WHEREAS, the Walton County Board of County Commissioners desires to limit the number of permits issued each year for vehicles to operate on designated limited access areas on the beach and for the use of other authorized vehicles;

WHEREAS, the Walton County Board of County Commissioners finds that the health, safety, and welfare of citizens, and visitors to, Walton County would be best protected by the regulation of vehicles on the limited access areas of the beach;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF WALTON COUNTY, FLORIDA, AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. Authority, purpose and intent.
This ordinance is adopted pursuant to Section 125.01 Florida Statutes.

Section 2. Section 22-57 of the Walton County Code is amended to read:

Section 22-57. Permitted vehicles on the beach.

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to drive, or cause to be driven, an unauthorized vehicle on the beach of Walton County unless permitted as provided herein.

(b) Before any vehicle shall be allowed in the designated limited access areas on the public beaches of Walton County, a permit must be obtained for the vehicle in the form of a decal, and permanently affixed in the back window of said vehicle, or the rear of the motor vehicle. The Walton County Tax Collector shall accept applications for permits between ~~June 1 and August 1~~ May 1 and June 30 of each year. On July 1, an additional 150 permits may be issued, on a yearly basis, by the Walton County Tax Collector in the order in which applications are received. Such applications must meet the criteria set forth in this ordinance except the requirement of having had a permit for the year preceding the date of application.

(c) The permits shall be issued each year based on the requirements of this Code, including, but not limited to, the criteria set forth below.

(i) Walton County Real Property Owners, Residents.

Walton County real property owners, who are residents of Walton County, and immediate family members residing with the property owners in Walton County may obtain a permit for the use of a properly registered and authorized vehicle along the designated limited access areas on the beaches of Walton County, if the following criteria are met, in addition to any other requirements contained in this Code:

a. The person applying for the permit must have had a permit as of the effective date of this ordinance and for the year preceding the date of application. Each parcel of property shall only be entitled to one vehicle permit and one boat trailer permit each year.

~~b. The real property shall have constructed on it a habitable residence~~.

c. The ad-valorem taxes for the real property shall not be delinquent.

d. The vehicle being registered must be titled in the name of the permit holder.

e. Proof of real property ownership (such as a deed or tax receipt) and proof of residency (such as voter’s registration card, homestead exemption card, or driver’s license) must be presented to the Tax Collector at the time of application to document the requirements of this section. For property titled in the name of a business or owned by multiple owners, the person applying for the permit shall show proof that they own a controlling interest in the property or that they are otherwise entitled to obtain a permit for the property. “Controlling interest in the property or that they are otherwise entitled” means that the person applying for the permits owns more than 50% ownership interest in the property or has a resolution signed by the other owners of the property grants the person applying for the permit the authority to apply for the permit.

(ii) Walton County Real Property Owners, Non-Residents.

Walton County real property owners may obtain a permit for the use of a properly registered and authorized vehicle along the designated limited access areas on the beaches of Walton County, if the following criteria are met, in addition to any other requirements contained in this Code:

a. The person applying for the permit must have had a permit as of the effective date of this ordinance and for the year preceding the date of application. Each parcel of property shall only be entitled to one vehicle permit and one trailer permit each year.

~~b. The real property shall have constructed on it a habitable residence.~~

c. The ad-valorem taxes for the real property shall not be delinquent.

d. The vehicle being registered must be titled in the name of the permit holder.

e. Proof of real property ownership (such as a deed or tax receipt) must be presented to the Tax Collector at the time of application to document the requirements of this section. For property titled in the name of a business or owned by multiple owners, the person applying for the permit shall show proof that they own a controlling interest in the property or that they are otherwise entitled to obtain a permit for the property. “Controlling interest in the property or that they are otherwise entitled” means that the person applying for the permits owns more than 50% ownership interest in the property or has a resolution signed by the other owners of the property grants the person applying for the permit the authority to apply for the permit.

(iii) Walton County Charter Fishing Operations; 20 15 Permits Total.

Under this section (c) (iii), there shall be a limit of 20 15 permits total to be issued which shall be issued to the first 20 15 applicants to file completed applications. Walton County residents that are also licensed charter boat captains and operate charter fishing businesses in Walton County (“Charter Operator”) may obtain a permit for the use of a properly registered and authorized vehicle along the designated limited access areas of the beaches of Walton County, if the following criteria are met, in addition to any other requirements contained in this Code:

a. The vehicle and boat trailer being registered shall be owned by the Charter Operator and used for the charter operation.

b. Proof of residency (such as voter’s registration card, homestead exemption card, or driver’s license) must be presented to the Tax Collector at the time of application.

c. Proof of a current Coast Guard Captain’s license.

d. Proof of a current Florida charter fishing license.

A copy of the beach access permit and the application showing the name of the individual to whom it was issued must remain in the vehicle while being operated on the beach. Additionally, at all times while a properly permitted vehicle and boat trailer are on the designated limited access area, the properly permitted vehicle and properly permitted boat trailer shall remain connected to the properly permitted vehicle.

(d) The Walton County Tax Collector will issue the permits annually upon receipt of a completed application. The Walton County Tax Collector shall retain $10.00 ( ten dollars) as a processing fee. On or about October 1 of each year the Walton County Tax Collector shall submit to the Walton County Board of County Commissioners a written report of the number of permits that have been issued during the current year.

(e) Only four-wheel drive vehicles that have a current motor vehicle registration to be driven on the highways shall be permitted.

(f) The designated limited access area permit described in subsection (c) above, shall cost the sum of $125.00 per vehicle. One decal (vehicle permit) shall be issued for each vehicle authorized to use the limited access area. Permanently disabled persons ~~landowners, who meet the requirements of subsection (c) above,~~ upon proof of disability (Florida Handicap Parking Placard, SSI Disability letter, etc.), will be eligible to receive a temporary permit from the Code Enforcement Department at no cost.

(g) In addition to the designated limited access area permit described in subsection (c) above, individuals launching boats shall be required to have a corresponding trailer decal for an additional $30.00. The decal shall be placed on the tongue of the trailer.

(h) The speed limit of authorized vehicles along the designated limited access on the public beaches of Walton County shall be five miles per hour.

(i) Any reckless driving along the designated limited access of the public beaches shall constitute a violation of this article.

(j) Conviction for violation of this article shall result in automatic revocation of the vehicle permit.

(k) All permits issued shall be for a period of one year and will expire June 30th of each year.

(l) Permitted vehicles are not allowed on the beach other than in the designated limited access areas.

(m) All access areas shall be appropriately marked and designated as such.

(n) Driving is prohibited from 10:00 p.m. until sunrise, with the exception of vehicles launching or recovering boats. All vehicles launching boats must be parked in designated parking areas.

(o) All-terrain vehicles are not permitted on the public beach. All-terrain vehicles used by sheriff department officers, South Walton Fire Department, and county employees for official business may be driven on the beach. Beach vendor permits issued by Walton County may include all-terrain vehicles that are restricted to setting up and breaking down vending sites only. Private security all-terrain vehicles may obtain a beach vendor permit, for a reduced fee of $100, which will allow them to access the beach within the limits specified in the permit.

Section 3. Severability

In the event that any portion of this Ordinance is for any reason held invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, such portion shall be deemed a separate, distinct, and independent provision and such holding shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance.

Section 4. Effective Date

This Ordinance shall become effective when filed with the Secretary of State.

Adopted by the Board of County Commissioners of Walton County, Florida, at a duly advertised public hearing, this day of ____________, 2010.

BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

WALTON COUNTY, FLORIDA

Attest:_______________________________ BY:________________________________

Martha Ingle Scott Brannon, Chair
Clerk of Court

Ann's Personal Opinion: http://annsgraytonopinion.blogspot.com/

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-22T17:26:00.000-06:00

HAPPY TURKEY DAY

from your

GBNA

30 A SongWriters Festival January 14-16, 2011

2010-11-18T15:21:00.000-06:00

2ND ANNUAL 30A SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL WILL TRANSFORM

SCENIC 30A INTO MUSIC HIGHWAY WITH HEADLINERS EMILY SALIERS,

SHAWN MULLINS, JEFFREY STEELE, RODNEY CROWELL & DAR WILLIAMS

Over 100 Artists to Fill the Beaches of South Walton
Over 3-Day Holiday Weekend

Walton County, FL, November 18, 2010 - Scenic Highway 30A will again be transformed into a music highway this coming Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend (January 14-16, 2011) when an internationally prominent line up of singer-songwriters converge in Northwest Florida's Beaches of South Walton for the second annual 30A Songwriters Festival.
Produced by the Cultural Arts Association of Walton County and proudly sponsored by the Beaches of South Walton, the 30A Songwriters Festival will feature three nights and two days of stellar musical performances by over one hundred industry greats, rising songwriting stars and local talent. The artists will perform in seventeen venues up and down 30A, which is the scenic highway that runs along the Gulf of Mexico. Fans of great music, miles of white beaches, world class restaurants and unique bars are invited to be a part of this holiday weekend.
The Festival kicks off Friday, January 14 at 4:00 pm with an opening celebration for all artists and attendees at Pandora's in historic Grayton Beach. From there, venues will be open for three nights and two days of songwriter performances, including intimate solo shows and "in the round" singing and storytelling sessions, along with large scale concerts in big outdoor venues. A weekend wrist band will allow access to all shows and workshops. Seating is first come, first served in all venues.
Weekend passes may be purchased online at 30ASongwritersFestival.com for $75, and $35 day passes will also be available. Weekend passes may be purchased locally at Central Square Records at 89 Central Square in downtown Seaside, FL.
Festival attendees will be treated to multiple performances by award-winning artists Emily Saliers of the Indigo Girls (Closer To Fine, Galileo, Least Complicated), Jeffrey Steele (When the Lights Go Down - Faith Hill, What Hurts the Most, These Days - Rascal Flatts; The Cowboy in Me - Tim Mc Graw), Shawn Mullins (Lullaby, Beautiful Wreck, Light You Up), Rodney Crowell (After All Of This Time), Chely Wright (Shut Up and Drive, Single White Female), Gary Nicholson (One More Last Chance), Gretchen Peters (Independence Day), Tim Nichols (Live Like You Were Dying, Girls Lie Too), Dar Williams (Beauty of the Rain, Mercy of the Fallen), Mat Kearney (Nothing Left To Lose), Mary Gauthier, Greg Barnhill (Walkaway Joe, House of Love), Vicki Peterson (The Bangles), Randall Bramblett, Chuck Cannon (I Love The Way You Love Me), Lari White, Bryan Kennedy (American Honky Tonk Bar Association), Vienna Teng, Susan Cowsill (The Cowsills), Michelle Malone, Kevin Kinney, Suzi Ragsdale, Kyle Jacobs, Jennifer Knapp, Chas Sandford, Lucy Wainwright Roche, Joe Leathers, Tania Elizabeth (The Duhks), Fred Wilhelm, Brian White, Karyn Williams White, Pete Sallis, Nicole Witt, Billy Montana, Sonia Leigh, Ben Glover, Reed Waddle, The Smoking Flowers, Louise Mosrie, Reed Waddle, Billy Bright, Jen Foster, Pearl Heart, Kelsey Anna, Mike Whitty, Blake Guthrie, Carmel Mikol, Jeep Rosenberg, Emily Lynch, Sterling Fletcher, Daphne Willis and Franko "Washboard" Jackson, Angel Snow, Donnie Sundal, Tim Jackson, Jon Black, Kaci Bolls, Rachel Loy and Lauren Lucas. More artists will be announced soon.
Venues that span thirteen miles of Scenic Highway 30A from Rosemary Beach to Gulf Place will be filled with live musical performances and/or songwriting workshops throughout the Festival. Venues include Town Hall, Amavida Coffee and The Summer Kitchen in Rosemary Beach; Caliza Restaurant and the Amphitheater in Alys Beach; La Botana in Seagrove Beach, Bud & Alley's, Central Square Records and the Seaside Meeting Hall Theatre in Seaside; Fish Out of Water, The Bait House and The Boat House in WaterColor; Shorty's, Hibiscus and Pandora's in Grayton Beach; and the Naked Grape Wine Station and Amphitheater in Gulf Place.
Special Festival accommodation packages will be available with 30A Songwriters Festival official lodging partners Candlewood Suites, Seaside Cottage Rental Agency, Hibiscus Guesthouse, Beach Seekers, Alys Beach, WaterColor Inn & Resort and Sunburst Beach Vacations.
30A Songwriters Festival Partners include Beaches of South Walton, Oaseas Resorts, ASCAP, WUWF (88.1 Pensacola), Merrill Lynch, 30A Radio, Nashville Lifestyles Magazine, Birmingham Magazine, The Beachcomber, The Piedmont Review, The Thirty-A Review, 30A.com, Sowal.com and Southwaltonscene.com.
For information on becoming a Festival Partner, contact Jennifer Steele at Jennifer@30ASongwritersFestival.com.
For more information about the Festival, visit 30ASongwritersFestival.com or call the Cultural Arts Association of Walton County at 850-622-5970.
PR CONTACTS:
Jennifer Steele, CAA
jennifer@culturalartsassociation.com
850.622.5970
Jessica Draper, ASCAP
jdraper@ascap.com
615.742.5073

About Cultural Arts Association of Walton County
The Cultural Arts Association of Walton County, Florida serves as an umbrella organization to support the arts through leadership, advocacy, funding, programs and education. The vision of the CAA is to be a catalyst for Walton County's growth as a center for cultural and artistic excellence through which lives are enriched, economy is stimulated and community is strengthened. CulturalArtsAssociation.com

Cultural Arts Association
Bayou Arts Center
105 Hogtown Bayou Lane
Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
850.622.5970 phone
850.622.5971 fax
info@culturalartsassociation.

Local legislators Hope to Delay Septic Tank Inspections

2010-11-13T22:19:00.000-06:00

http://www.thedestinlog.com/news/large-34882-nwfdn-florida-septic.htm

DEP: Sea Life Shows No Effect From Oil Spill Or Cleanup

2010-11-12T11:21:00.001-06:00

http://www.thedestinlog.com/articles/santa-15852-effect-sea.html

Pull Out Those 2011 Calendars

2010-11-05T19:41:00.001-06:00

Mark your 2011 calendars NOW for our Annual Meeting and Party that will be held on April 23rd. Meet old friends and enjoy great food. Find out what's been going on in Grayton Beach.

(Pictures are from our 2010 Meeting and Party)

Click on pictures to see them upclose.

Grayton Beach Septic Tank Owners

2010-11-05T09:10:00.000-06:00

The Florida State Government has delayed the inspection dates that were to start in January 11,2011. They will be looking at this law in the Spring and will be making changes. Will post any updates that I hear.

Original Law:

As of 1/11/2011, SB 550 will require that all septic tank owners in Florida have their tanks pumped and inspected every five years. The inspection requirement will be phased in over the following 5 years.

The Florida Department of Health is drafting rules to enforce compliance. This must be done whether the tanks have shown any problems or not. Inspection and pumping will probably cost in the neighborhood of $400 to $500. This rule will cost the state's 2,600,000 septic-using homeowners a grand total of approximately $1.3 billion dollars every 5 years for inspections alone.

If your tank fails the state inspection, it must be repaired or replaced and brought up to the new inspection standards. To completely replace some drain fields, the cost will be in the range of $3,000-9,000 or more, plus the inspection fees.

If you fail to have your tank inspected, the fine is $500 per day plus you may also be charged with a misdemeanor. If your septic does not pass and you can't afford to repair it, and cannot qualify for a grant, you may not be allowed to live in your house. The law provides for termination of electric service for those owners who have a non-compliant, non-government certified septic system.

Walton County Tax Notice is on its Way

2010-10-31T17:17:00.002-06:00

Walton county tax notices to be mailed Nov. 1
Taxpayers responsible for payment regardless of receipt of bill

Walton County tax bills will be mailed on Monday, Nov. 1. The Walton County Tax Collector’s Office urges property owners who haven’t received a bill to please contact the office at 850-892-8121 or through the contact us page at waltontaxcollector.com.

Each year a substantial amount of tax bills are returned to the Walton County Tax Collector’s Office as undeliverable. While a tax bill may not have been deliverable to the taxpayer, the property owner is still responsible for paying their taxes by the March 31 deadline to avoid penalty.

“Undeliverable mail is an issue for every tax office in the State,” said Tax Collector Rhonda Skipper. “We are required by law to mail the bill to the address that is on the official tax roll. Property owners often change addresses and forget to notify the Property Appraiser’s Office of their new mailing address.”

Property owners who have not received a bill can visit waltontaxcollector.com and utilize the tax search feature to find out the amount owed or contact the office for another bill.

A four percent discount is extended to property owners who pay current year taxes by Nov. 30.
To make official address changes to the tax roll, taxpayers can contact the Property Appraiser’s Office at 850-892-8123 or download and submit a change of address form from
http://waltonpa.com/

For information regarding property taxes or services provided by the Walton County Tax Collector’s Office, please contact us at 850-892-8121 or visit www.waltontaxcollector.com.

County Commissioners Meeting October 26, 2010

2010-10-26T18:09:00.001-05:00

The County Commissioner's Meeting was a short and quick one this evening. Those items discussed that had to deal with Grayton Beach were as follows:

1. Short Term Rental Ordinance ( A new ordinance will be drawn up and submitted within 60 days and then a public hearing will be held. You can contact the following two people with any comments or suggestions as they have been charged to draw up a new Short Term rental Ordinance and also tie it into our Land Use Business Ordinance.:

Ms. Lynn Hoshihara
hoslynn@co.walton.fl.us
Phone: (850) 892-8110
Fax: (850) 892-8471

Office of the County Attorney
161 East Sloss Avenue
DeFuniak Springs, FL 32433

or

Gerry Demers
Director of Planning and Development Services
demgerry@co.walton.fl.us

2. Driving on the Beach Permit (public hearing Dec 14th, 2010 at South Walton Annex) The Commissioners wanted the new draft to look at:
a. Improvement of disability permits
b. Perhaps having a cap of 900 permits issued (at present there are 726 permits)
c. Having a lottery for new permits issued
(This would allow 174 permits in the lottery if the 900 cap number sticks)
d. Changing requirements for permits

Ms. Hoshihara was charged with drawing up a new Driving on the Beach Ordinance, so feel free to contact her with your suggestions or concerns.

Also for those of you with dogs, the local Bark Park will now join Alaqua Animal Refuge and fall under their supervision. For those of you who might not know, they were having some financial difficulties.

For my personal reactions to this meeting please visit my personal page:
http://annsgraytonopinion.blogspot.com/

Agenda for Commissioner Meeting on October 26th

2010-10-25T21:15:00.003-05:00

Here is the link for the agenda for the County Commissioner's Meeting for October 26 at the Walton County Annex at 4PM.

http://www.co.walton.fl.us/archives/47/October%2026%202010%20bcc%20agenda%20w%20links%20r1.pdf

There are a few items that are on the agenda that might be of interest to Grayton:

The Renter's Ordinance and Driving on the Beach Update.

http://fl-waltoncounty.civicplus.com/DocumentView.aspx?DID=2836

I will report on the meeting tomorrow evening.

If your Grayton Beach Property has a Septic Tank

2010-10-22T09:38:00.002-05:00

Septic Tank Inspection Legislation

http://www.thedestinlog.com/news/want-34132-nwfdn-law-residents.html

A little more info update:

As of 1/11/2011, SB 550 will require that all septic tank owners in Florida have their tanks pumped and inspected every five years. The inspection requirement will be phased in over the following 5 years.
The Florida Department of Health is drafting rules to enforce compliance. This must be done whether the tanks have shown any problems or not. Inspection and pumping will probably cost in the neighborhood of $400 to $500. This rule will cost the state's 2,600,000 septic-using homeowners a grand total of approximately $1.3 billion dollars every 5 years for inspections alone.
If your tank fails the state inspection, it must be repaired or replaced and brought up to the new inspection standards. To completely replace some drain fields, the cost will be in the range of $3,000-9,000 or more, plus the inspection fees.
If you fail to have your tank inspected, the fine is $500 per day plus you may also be charged with a misdemeanor. If your septic does not pass and you can't afford to repair it, and cannot qualify for a grant, you may not be allowed to live in your house. The law provides for termination of electric service for those owners who have a non-compliant, non-government certified septic system.
At this time, some state legislators have made statements that they'd like to see this law repealed.

South Walton Walmart Breaks Ground

2010-10-22T09:34:00.001-05:00

Construction of the 78,290-square-foot building at the intersection of U.S. Highway 98 and West Hewett Road is expected to take less than eight months.
http://www.waltonsun.com/news/walmart-5667-flatten-way.html