First half-cent sales tax funded playground opens

JAY — Dozens of children and parents stood in line Friday afternoon awaiting the official opening and ribbon cutting of the new Chumuckla Playground.

“I want to thank all the citizens of Santa Rosa County for supporting last year the half-cent sales tax,” Commissioner Don Salter said. “It takes the pressure off your property taxes and it allows projects like this to be done.”

While the county entered into a contract with a company to install the playground equipment, county staff poured the foundation and did all the work that “can’t be seen,” Salter said.

The park, located adjacent to the Chumuckla Community Center and across from Chumuckla Elementary, is the first playground to be built with funds from the local option sales tax, according to Santa Rosa County Administrative Services Manager Tammy Simmons.

The project included the replacement of existing, 14-year-old playground equipment with an all-inclusive playground, which is expected to last 15 years.

The new equipment comprises play structures designed for two age groups: 2 years old through 5 years old, and 5 years old through 12 years old. The project also includes ADA upgrades to the park and restrooms. Simmons said the next project will be to renovate the restrooms later this year.

Commissioners approved the project in the fiscal year 2017 Local Option Sales Tax budget for $140,930.

Commissioner Bob Cole listed the other projects funded by the half-cent sales tax including the purchase of 57 sheriff’s office vehicles; purchase of the Navarre radio antenna to improve reception for deputies and first responders; construction of Sweet Bay Bridge in Pace; installation of new lighting at Tiger Point Park; construction of Bagdad Mill Site Park restrooms; and upcoming improvements of Floridatown Park and Optimist Park.

“All this is thanks to you for approving a half-cent local option sales tax,” Cole said.