State officials had planned to give a pre-recorded presentation on a controversial Anastasia Island development project at a Tuesday public meeting — and not take any questions, according to a report.
But public outcry over plans to bring a hotel, disc golf course and pickleball courts to the barrier island forced the Florida Department of Environmental Education to scrap the session.
The Florida Times-Union said a leaked memo revealed the Office of Parks’ intent to limit public engagement at Tuesday’s aborted session.
While feedback was to be gathered, no questions would be directly answered.
But the ensuing backlash compelled the DEP to reschedule the meeting.
“Due to the overwhelming interest with the 2024-25 Great Outdoors Initiative, DEP is looking for new venues to accommodate the public,” the agency wrote on X. “We want to ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate. Public input is vital to DEP decision-making.”
Anastasia Island is one of nine state parks identified for development projects in the state’s campaign.
The DEP said the additions would boost public access to the sites and offer a wider array of recreational opportunities.
Opponents argue that Anastasia State Park is enjoyable as is and does not need further development and increased overnight lodging.
A protest is planned at the site on Sunday.
