STUART, Fla. — The future of our state parks took center stage on Tuesday during WPTV's first issue-driven Let's Hear It event.
We invited you to come out to Flagler Park in Stuart to share your thoughts on the impacts of development in state parks, especially after a controversial plan to build three golf courses at Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Martin County was withdrawn.
People have shared their concerns with our WPTV News team over the withdrawn plan.
Jack Stepongzi traveled to Flagler Park and said that, even though the Tuskeegee Dunes group pulled out of the plan, he’s skeptical another group could follow suit.
"I think they’ve pulled back until they see another opportunity," Stepongzi said. "If they have their mindset, they’re going to try again, as far as I’m concerned. They’ve tried it before. They’ve tried to slip things under."
WATCH: Resident talks state park development at WPTV Let's Hear It event
Our WPTV News team at the Let's Hear It meet-up heard concerns from residents about what's next for Jonathan Dickinson State Park, and can another group swoop in with a new proposal to rip out parks of the park?
“We would like to see permanent protection for our state parks. That’s all we want," said viewer, Allison Cross. "Permanent protection.”
One woman said she wants to hear directly from Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on the issue.
“We can’t stop we can’t just be passive and think it’s over with," stated Nathalie Chateau. "I don’t trust any of them. We have to keep fighting.”
Families visited Flagler Park late afternoon to express their love for the park.
“I’m just here to speak for the animals that don’t have a say," shared Bella Nolan.
Another WPTV viewer wondered if there is any state law or amendment that can prevent development at state parks, or if something like that can be passed by the Florida Legislature.
"I want to hear it from the people in charge. That nobody is going to build a golf course," stated Perry Fike.
The environmental group Martin County Forever, along with members of Audubon Martin County, also came to speak with our WPTV News team.
