Commission forms committee to study splash pad and skate park after residents push for youth amenities

Commissioner Langston told the Port St. Joe commission on May 7 that young adults had gathered signatures and requested municipal help to create recreational amenities such as a splash pad or skate park. He asked the commission to appoint a small committee to gather community input and prioritize options.

The commission moved to form the committee, with Commissioner Lowery making the motion and Commissioner Hoffman seconding. During public comment, Christy McElroy said Superintendent Jim Norton previously leased property for a dollar to a group that intended to build a skate park, which she said could yield savings for the city. A resident advised the commission to appoint a committee chair and keep minutes.

"...I'm gonna take a little bit of time and, if you know that I did, talked to a few people, young adults, got a bunch of signatures," Commissioner Langston said while urging the formation of a committee. The commission approved the motion and directed staff to facilitate committee formation.

Why it matters: Commissioners signaled support for new youth amenities and community engagement; staff and commissioners discussed funding partnerships and long‑term maintenance considerations, including possible county and TDC contributions.

Next steps: Committee formation and planning; staff and commissioners will pursue potential funding and partnership opportunities and return recommendations to the commission.