Advisory Park Board Meeting - 14 Jul 2026 4:00 PM

AGENDA Advisory Park Board Meeting Tuesday, July 14, 2026 at 4:00 PM Gulf Breeze City Hall 1070 Shoreline Drive Gulf Breeze, FL 32561 1. ROLL CALL 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 3-7 A. May 5, 2026, Advisory Park Board Meeting Minutes Advisory Park Board Special Meeting - 05 May 2026 4:00 PM - Minutes - Pdf 9 - 10 B. June 18, 2026, Advisory Park Board Meeting Minutes Advisory Park Board Special Meeting - 18 Jun 2026 3:00 pm - Minutes - Pdf 3. AGENDA ITEMS 11 - 12 A. Recommendation to Initiate the Certified Local Government (CLG) Application Process Agenda Memo - Recommendation to Initiate the Certified Local Government (CLG) Application Process - Pdf 13 - 14 B. Staff Project Updates for Parks and Recreation Agenda Memo - Staff Project Updates for Parks and Recreation - Pdf 4. DISCUSSION ITEMS 5. NEW BUSINESS 6. PUBLIC FORUM Page 1 of 14  7. ADJOURNMENT If any person decides to appeal any decisions made by the City Council or any City Board with respect to any matter considered at such meeting or public hearing, such person will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, that person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and any evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. The public is invited to comment on matters before the City Council, City Boards or Committees upon seeking and receiving recognition from the Mayor or Chairperson. If you are a person with a disability who needs accommodation in order to participate in a public hearing you are entitled to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact the City Clerk’s office at (850) 934-5115 or at 1070 Shoreline Drive, Gulf Breeze, Florida, at least 48 hours prior to the date of the public hearing. Page 2 of 14  MINUTES Advisory Park Board Meeting May 5, 2026 at 4:00 PM Gulf Breeze City Hall 1070 Shoreline Drive Gulf Breeze, FL 32561 The Advisory Park Board Meeting of the City of Gulf Breeze, Florida, was held at Gulf Breeze City Hall on May 5, 2026. The meeting was called to order at 4:00 PM. 1. ROLL CALL BOARD MEMBERS Lynn Howe, Vici Papajohn, Robert Turpin, and Bill Wein PRESENT: BOARD MEMBERS Ingrid Hewette ABSENT: 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Bill Wein made a motion to approve the January 13, 2026 Advisory Park Board Meeting Minutes with scrivener's error correction. Vici Papajohn seconded the motion. The vote for approval was 4 - 0 unanimous with Ingrid Hewette absent. Bill Wein made a motion to approve the February 12, 2026, Special Advisory Park Board Meeting Minutes with scrivener's error correction. Robert Turpin seconded the motion. The vote for approval was 4 - 0 unanimous with Ingrid Hewette absent. 3. AGENDA ITEMS a) Staff Project Updates for Parks and Recreation Reference: Director of Parks and Recreation memo dated April 28, 2026 Recommendation: This item is presented for informational purposes. Staff will continue to provide updates as projects progress. The Board provided the following updates in response to Board inquiries: Upward Intuition / Skate Park Provided an update on the February 23, 2026 meeting with Upward Intuition and their designer, noting the discussion focused on maintaining project momentum and identifying next steps. Upward Intuition will develop two to three initial design concepts that reflect varying sizes, scope, and potential uses for the space. A preliminary planning estimate of approximately $65 per square foot was discussed as a general cost reference. Staff will bring the concepts back to the Advisory Park Board for review and direction, and the Board’s feedback will guide the next phase of the design process. ADVISORY PARK BOARD MEETING MINUTES MAY 5, 2026 Page 1 of 5 Page 3 of 14  Food Truck Initiative at Parks Reported that efforts are underway to bring food trucks and food vendors to park areas, with a target timeframe of June 1 to align with snapper season. An administrative assistant/graduate intern, Spencer, is conducting research and outreach, prioritizing partnerships with local restaurants; if those efforts are not successful, staff will pivot to traditional food trucks. This initiative follows prior Board approval, and staff confirmed that implementation is underway. Mariners Landing – Restrooms & Facilities Board members commended staff on the successful ribbon cutting and overall presentation at Mariners Landing. Staff provided an update on restroom facilities, noting that the trailer-style restrooms were on- site but locked following the event. Staff explained they are finalizing a pumping and maintenance contract to ensure proper servicing before opening. Water and power connections have been confirmed using existing infrastructure, and the restrooms are expected to be operational within the week. Once activated, temporary portable restrooms will be removed. The City has two trailer restroom units, with one to remain near the main event area and a second planned for installation at North Point near the fishing pier once a receptacle is installed. The goal is to keep the trailer restrooms open 24/7 to accommodate night fishing, with park staff responsible for stocking and maintenance. Woodland Park Project The Board inquired about the timeline following issuance of the Notice to Proceed. Staff reported that the contractor, Empire Builders, is currently in the submittal and permitting phase, providing materials and specifications for pilings, dock components, restrooms, and related elements. Submittals are under review by Public Works and Development Services. Staff explained that once submittals are approved and permits are secured, construction will begin with dredging, followed by additional project activities, which is why no site work is currently visible. Board member Turpin asked whether composite or fiberglass-reinforced pilings were specified; staff had not yet confirmed and will review this option with Public Works, noting potential long-term cost and maintenance benefits. b) Gulf Breeze Landmark Art Program Reference: Director of Parks and Recreation memo dated April 28, 2026 Recommendation: That the Advisory Park Board provide feedback on the continued integration of public art within the Parks and Recreation system and alignment with future park planning initiatives. The Director of Parks & Recreation introduced the Landmark Art Program as a continuation of the City’s recent public art efforts, transitioning toward smaller, site-specific installations focused on parks, trails, and heritage themes. Examples were shared to illustrate potential direction, including the use of carved sculptures created from dead or storm-damaged trees, which could be incorporated along trails and public spaces. The program is in an early concept phase, with no set number of installations, and ideas will be developed collaboratively with input from the Advisory Park Board, staff, and the community, potentially through a small working group model. ADVISORY PARK BOARD MEETING MINUTES MAY 5, 2026 Page 2 of 5 Page 4 of 14  The Board supported the concept and the potential to engage local artists, including wood sculptors and supported exploring connections to heritage interpretation, including potential integration with waterfront or Blueway features such as historic or underwater markers. No action taken. c) Historical Marker Program & Heritage Trails Initiative Reference: Director of Parks and Recreation Director memo dated April 28, 2026 Recommendation: That the Advisory Park Board approve the proposed historical markers as part of the City’s Historical Marker Program and Heritage Trails Initiative, and recommend approval for submission to the State of Florida Division of Historical Resources. Staff presented the Historical Marker Program and Heritage Trails Initiative, requesting that the Board review and provide feedback on eight draft historical marker concepts and recommend approval for submission to the State. The initial concepts are preliminary and represent the first phase of an ongoing program, with additional locations and stories to be added over time. Board members discussed potential additions and enhancements, including the post office area and its early history, historic waterfront homes, the Kefira family residence, and other early cottages accessible only by boat. The importance of capturing stories of longtime local families and historically significant figures, such as Mark X. and E. Louise Benson, was also emphasized. Staff requested that the Board provide the initial feedback on the first eight markers by the end of May, with continued input encouraged beyond that phase. Mrs. Papajohn reported that concerns were raised regarding “sign fatigue,” particularly in residential areas. Staff responded that markers may be placed off-site with directional language to minimize impacts. Staff outlined that Board approval would enable submission to the State for eligibility purposes, including potential grant opportunities, while funding decisions would be considered by the City Council at a later date. The Board clarified that approval was for submission only, not final content, and that revisions would be incorporated prior to submission. Robert Turpin made a motion to approve the proposed historical markers as part of the City’s Historical Marker Program and Heritage Trails Initiative, and recommend approval for submission to the State of Florida Division of Historical Resources, subject to incorporation of the Board's edits to the initial eight markers before submittal. Vici Papajohn seconded the motion. The vote for approval was 4 - 0 unanimous with Ingrid Hewette absent. d) Florida Trail Town Designation by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection – Program Overview and Next Steps Reference: Director of Parks and Recreation memo dated April 28, 2026 Recommendation: Informational Item. No formal action required. ADVISORY PARK BOARD MEETING MINUTES MAY 5, 2026 Page 3 of 5 Page 5 of 14  The Director of Parks and Recreation presented this item and answered questions. He reported that FDEP has provided Trail Town signage and outreach materials. The City plans to leverage the designation in partnership with local businesses to support trail users. Board members discussed existing and potential trail connections, including the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail near Shoreline Park South, and the opportunity to enhance access and wayfinding for paddlers. Additional discussion included the importance of Santa Rosa County access points, regional trail connections, and the integration of greenways, blueways, birding, paddling, and eco-tourism. The Board also noted opportunities to connect trail users with local businesses and services. e) Recreation Trails Program (RTP) 2026 Grant Application Submittal for Trail Connectivity and Pedestrian Safety Improvements Reference: Director of Parks and Recreation memo dated April 28, 2026 Recommendation: This item is for informational purposes. No action is required. Staff reviewed plans to resubmit the prior year’s RTP grant application for a senior loop connector path and centralized fitness area near the Community Center. Staff noted that the previous application ranked 6th out of 25, with funding awarded to the top four projects. The current grant cycle has reopened with a submission deadline of May 28. The Board discussed the safety benefits of the project, including reducing pedestrian conflicts in parking areas, as well as the multi-generational value of the connector. Members also discussed the condition and prior use of the existing exercise equipment and expressed strong support for resubmitting the application. It was noted that this meeting would serve as documentation of Board support in lieu of individual letters. f) Frontier Land Initiative Reference: Director of Parks and Recreation memo dated April 28, 2026 Recommendation: That the Advisory Park Board recommend that staff proceed with preliminary design and site evaluation for the Frontier Land concept. The Director of Parks and Recreation presented this item and answered questions. Board members expressed support for the concept, noting its strong potential as an Eagle Scout or similar youth/community-built project. Members also highlighted its appeal for children and families and its alignment with the City’s emphasis on trails and outdoor experiences. No significant concerns were raised; discussion focused on concept refinement and site selection, to be addressed by staff in the next phase. Vici Papajohn made a motion that staff proceeds with preliminary design and site evaluation for the Frontier Land concept. Bill Wein seconded the motion. The vote for approval was 4 - 0 unanimous with Ingrid Hewette absent. ADVISORY PARK BOARD MEETING MINUTES MAY 5, 2026 Page 4 of 5 Page 6 of 14 4. DISCUSSION ITEMS a) Potential Expanded Role of the Advisory Park Board in Historic Preservation Initiatives Reference: City Manager's memo dated April 29, 2026 Recommendation: Staff requests feedback from the Board regarding support for the proposed expanded role of the Advisory Park Board, any concerns related to additional responsibilities, meeting frequency, or board structure, and any recommendations or suggestions for further consideration. The City Clerk provided a brief overview of the Certified Local Government (CLG) program and answered the Board's questions. The Clerk will distribute the City’s current Historical Landmark Ordinance No. 16-2019 and provide a link to another CLG municipality’s website for the Board’s review. The City Clerk also reported that she has contacted the CLG Coordinator’s Office at the Florida Department of State Historic Preservation to request that a representative attend the next meeting to present additional information on the CLG program and answer questions. At the Board’s request, this item will be placed on the July 14 meeting agenda to allow additional time for review. No action taken. 5. NEW BUSINESS None. 6. PUBLIC FORUM The following citizen(s) spoke during the public forum:  Richard Nall, 208 Williamsburg Dr. 7. ADJOURNMENT Robert Turpin made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 5:19 p.m.. Vici Papajohn seconded. The vote for approval was unanimous. Leslie A. Guyer, MMC, City Clerk ADVISORY PARK BOARD MEETING MINUTES MAY 5, 2026 Page 5 of 5 Page 7 of 14 Page 8 of 14  MINUTES Advisory Park Board Meeting June 18, 2026 at 3:00 PM Gulf Breeze City Hall 1070 Shoreline Drive Gulf Breeze, FL 32561 The Advisory Park Board Meeting of the City of Gulf Breeze, Florida, was held at Gulf Breeze City Hall on June 18, 2026. The meeting was called to order at 3:00 PM. 1. ROLL CALL BOARD MEMBERS Lynn Howe, Vici Papajohn, Robert Turpin, Bill Wein, and Ingrid Hewette PRESENT: BOARD MEMBERS Christian Williams ABSENT: 2. AGENDA ITEMS a) Presentation by Tyler J. Smith, Certified Local Government Coordinator, Florida Department of State – Certified Local Government (CLG) Program and Historic Preservation Commission Reference: City Manager memo dated June 17, 2026 Recommendation: Mr. Tyler J. Smith, Certified Local Government Coordinator and Dr. Kyra Lucas with the Florida Department of State's Division of Historical Resources, presented an overview of the Certified Local Government (CLG) Program and its role in historic preservation. Mr. Smith explained that the CLG Program is a partnership among local, state, and federal governments designed to identify, evaluate, and protect historic resources. He outlined the requirements for certification, including adoption of a historic preservation ordinance, establishment of a Historic Preservation Board or Commission, and approval by the State Historic Preservation Officer and the National Park Service. Mr. Smith reviewed the benefits of CLG designation, including eligibility for preservation grants, technical assistance, training opportunities, and participation in the review of National Register nominations and certain state and federal projects. He also summarized the responsibilities of Certified Local Governments, including maintaining a preservation ordinance and active board, submitting annual reports, and completing required training. Mr. Smith highlighted available grant funding of up to $50,000 for eligible preservation projects and noted that Certified Local Governments may qualify for waived matching fund requirements. He also summarized the economic and tourism benefits associated with historic preservation in Florida. ADVISORY PARK BOARD MEETING MINUTES JUNE 18, 2026 Page 1 of 2 Page 9 of 14 3. NEW BUSINESS None. 4. PUBLIC FORUM None. 5. ADJOURNMENT Boardmember Wein made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 4:17 p.m. Boardmember Papajohn seconded the motion. The vote to adjourn was unanimous. 6. June 18, 2026, Advisory Park Board Meeting Minutes Leslie A. Guyer, MMC, City Clerk ADVISORY PARK BOARD MEETING MINUTES JUNE 18, 2026 Page 2 of 2 Page 10 of 14 Memorandum To: Advisory Park Board From: Roger Jackson, Parks & Recreation Director Date: July 9, 2026 Subject: Recommendation to Initiate the Certified Local Government (CLG) Application Process REQUEST: That the Advisory Park Board consider recommending that the Gulf Breeze City Council authorize staff to initiate the Certified Local Government (CLG) application process through the Florida Division of Historical Resources. BACKGROUND: At the May 5, 2026, Advisory Park Board meeting, staff presented an overview of the Certified Local Government (CLG) Program and discussed the City's Strategic Plan initiative to expand historic preservation efforts. During that discussion, the Board requested additional information regarding the program before making a recommendation to the City Council. To provide additional information, a Special Advisory Park Board meeting was held on June 18, 2026. Tyler J. Smith, Certified Local Government Coordinator with the Florida Department of State, Bureau of Historic Preservation, presented an overview of the CLG Program, including its purpose, certification requirements, responsibilities of participating local governments, available grant opportunities, and the benefits of designation. With the requested information now provided, the Board is in a position to consider whether to recommend that the City Council authorize staff to begin the application process. DISCUSSION: The Certified Local Government Program is a partnership between local governments, the Florida Division of Historical Resources, and the National Park Service that encourages the identification, preservation, and promotion of historic resources. Communities designated as 850.934.5115 • FAX 850.934.5114 P.O. BOX 640 • 1070 SHORELINE DRIVE • GULF BREEZE, FLORIDA 32562-0640 Page 11 of 14 Certified Local Governments become eligible for additional technical assistance, training opportunities, and state and federal historic preservation grant funding. If authorized by the City Council, staff would begin preparing the documents necessary to pursue Certified Local Government designation, including:  Review Ordinance No. 16-2019, Historic Preservation Ordinance, to determine if an amendment is needed to comply with the Certified Local Government Program.  Preparing the Certified Local Government application and supporting documentation.  Coordinating with the Florida Division of Historical Resources throughout the certification process.  Developing the policies and procedures required to satisfy CLG program requirements.  Returning to the Advisory Park Board and City Council with the necessary agreements and implementation documents for future consideration. Authorization to begin the application process does not commit the City to the Certified Local Government Program. Those actions would require future review and approval by the City Council. RECOMMENDATION: That the Advisory Park Board consider recommending that the Gulf Breeze City Council authorize staff to initiate the Certified Local Government (CLG) application process through the Florida Division of Historical Resources. 850.934.5115 • FAX 850.934.5114 P.O. BOX 640 • 1070 SHORELINE DRIVE • GULF BREEZE, FLORIDA 32562-0640 Page 12 of 14 Memorandum To: Samantha D. Abell, City Manager From: Roger Jackson, Parks & Recreation Director Date: July 10, 2026 Subject: Staff Project Updates for Parks and Recreation DISCUSSION: Woodland Park Improvements  The City terminated the contract with Empire Builders and awarded the project to the next lowest responsive bidder, Loftis Marine.  A new contract with Loftis Marine has been negotiated and fully executed.  The project has a 365-day construction duration.  A pre-construction meeting is anticipated during the week of July 13.  Following the pre-construction meeting, the City will issue the Notice to Proceed (NTP). Skate Park Improvements (Shoreline North)  Staff continue coordinating with the design consultant.  No additional meetings have been held with Upward Intuition since the previous update.  Initial design concepts will be developed and presented to the Advisory Park Board for review and feedback.  Following the Advisory Park Board's recommendation, the proposed design concept will be presented to the City Council.  City Council will consider amending the Ten-Year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) to include the project schedule and proposed funding sources.  Upon approval, City staff will pursue funding opportunities in accordance with the adopted CIP schedule. Community Center Front Entrance Repairs and Painting  City Council awarded the project to EcoGardens, and contract terms have been successfully negotiated.  The next steps include holding the pre-construction meeting and issuing the Notice to Proceed. 850.934.5115 • FAX 850.934.5114 P.O. BOX 640 • 1070 SHORELINE DRIVE • GULF BREEZE, FLORIDA 32562-0640 Page 13 of 14   Once materials are ordered, the aluminum components are expected to have a lead time of approximately 60 to 90 days. Community Center Generator Project  The project was re-advertised after bids exceeded the available budget and staff identified construction challenges associated with installing a full replacement generator.  The revised project scope includes installation of a new 1,600-amp Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) with an exterior quick-connect ("pigtail") connection. During emergency events, a temporary rental generator can be connected to power the facility. Procurement Schedule  RFP Advertised: June 30  Pre-Proposal Meeting: July 7  Inquiry Deadline: July 17  Submittal Deadline: July 23  Evaluation Committee Meeting: July 28  Presentations: August 4  Anticipated Award: August 17 Frontier Land Update  Staff continues to refine the Frontier Land concept and evaluate potential locations within Shoreline Park South.  Two potential sites have been identified: o The Welcome Area near the Wetlands Trail Boardwalk. o Just inside the main walking trail beneath the existing mature tree canopy.  Both locations will be evaluated for accessibility, safety, environmental impacts, and connectivity to the City's existing trail system before a final site is selected.  Staff has begun discussions with Hurd Brothers Tree Service regarding the donation of natural timber from local tree removal projects. The donated materials could be repurposed into balance beams, stepping stumps, log forts, and other nature-based play features, helping reduce project costs while maintaining the natural character of the park.  Staff will continue developing conceptual layouts and identifying potential funding opportunities as the project advances.  A future concept plan will be presented to the Advisory Park Board for review and feedback prior to proceeding with final design. RECOMMENDATION: This item is presented for informational purposes only. Staff will continue to provide updates to the Advisory Park Board as each project progresses through design, procurement, and construction. 850.934.5115 • FAX 850.934.5114 P.O. BOX 640 • 1070 SHORELINE DRIVE • GULF BREEZE, FLORIDA 32562-0640 Page 14 of 14