JEKYLL ISLAND-STATE PARK AUTHORITY
May
09, 2005
The Jekyll Island-State Park Authority met in public session on Monday, May 9, 2005, in Meeting Room 9 at the Jekyll Island Convention Center on Jekyll Island, Georgia. Chairman Wood called the meeting to order at 9:30 a.m.
Members Present: Richard Wood, Chairman
J. Y. Jones, Secretary
Jack Collins
Becky Kelley (conference phone)
Mike Hodges
Ed Boshears
Sybil Lynn
Tom Lewis
Members Absent: Steve Scheer
Legal Counsel Present: Alison Spencer, Assistant Attorney General
Staff Present: Bill Donohue, Executive Director
Laura Bonds, Deputy Director/CFO
Cynthia Hutchinson, Executive Secretary
Guest Present: Representative Jerry Keen
Various members of the public were present, including Mr. Runner, Mr. Hart, Mr. Eyler, Mr. Mirasola, Mr. Jefferies, Mr. V. Hughes, Mr. S. Holloway, Mr. W. Forehand, Jr., Ms. M. Gamble and Mr. Morrison with Jekyll’s Golden Islander.
Chairman Wood welcomed Representative Jerry Keen, and gave him an opportunity to address the Board. Representative Keen gave an update on the Blue Ribbon Committee that was established by Governor Perdue to study operations of governmental departments and agencies.
Chairman Wood requested information regarding the make up of the committee. Representa-tive Keen explained that the committee is to be appointed by Governor Perdue. One of the committee’s tasks will be to provide an understanding of Jekyll Island to the members of the General Assembly. The committee will ensure that the pristine character of Jekyll Island is kept and there is a return on the taxpayers’ investment making sure that the legislature and State of Georgia are good stewards of the taxpayers’ money. Information from the study committee will be used in preparing the state’s budget for next year.
The Board was assured by Representative Keen that he and Senator Tommie Williams, who formerly represented this district prior to realignment of districts, will work to help Jekyll Island. He wants to see conventions return to Jekyll Island rather than go elsewhere due to of inadequate facilities.
Mr. Lewis stated that he had an opportunity to meet with Representative Keen and acknowledged that Jekyll Island is fortunate to have Representative Keen representing Jekyll Island as we attempt to go to the next level.
Dr. Jones questioned the formation of the Blue Ribbon Committee and why it would go to Governor Perdue first instead of just appointing the committee. Representative Keen responded that legislative study committees are appointed all the time and by being appointed by the Governor, the committee would be able to get resources and help needed. The committee will help make Jekyll Island’s needs and potential noticed. Representative Keen thanked the Board for the opportunity to come by and share insight and exited the meeting at 9:47 a.m.
-Coastal Barrier Resource Act (CBRA) –
Chairman Wood made note that the Resolution approved at the March 14, 2005, meeting was not sent. The thought was that upon further review the resolution would serve no purpose. In preparation of the resolution, there were answers we did not have, including why Jekyll Island was included in the Otherwise Protected Area (OPA). A letter was drafted to Acting Director, Matthew J. Hogan1, of U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. As of this date, we have not received a response. Another letter was also sent to Senator Johnny Isakson2. Chairman Wood commended Ms. Bonds for the outstanding job she has done, along with input from U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and the Authority, preparing the map. At present, 66% of the Island will be protected. The Chairman noted that no residents or businesses will be included in the OPA.
Ms. Spencer, Legal Counsel, recommended to withdraw the resolution at the public session.
Dr. Jones felt it was very important that we should get an answer why Jekyll Island was included in the OPA. Chairman Wood was hopeful that the problem would be resolved soon. It was explained to member of the Board, Mr. Hodges, regarding the map that areas have been carved out so that the 34% will be able to get insurance. It was also noted that Cooper Carry has set excellent guidelines in the redevelopment plan draft.
-Parking Fee & 4-H Center Committees-
Chairman Wood stated that the budget will be addressed and looked at very closely due to declining revenues. The Chairman reported it has been strongly suggested that Jekyll Island Authority remove the $3 parking fee or relocate the parking fee to other sites on the island. The Chairman proposed the creation of two committees: parking fee and 4-H Center. The parking fee committee will study the parking fee structure and whether any changes, including removal of the fee, are warranted. Committee volunteers were Mr. Collins, Mr. Hodges and Dr. Jones. 4-H Center committee will focus on the issue of present location of the 4-H Center in connection with future redevelopment goals as proposed in the re-development study. Committee volunteers were Mr. Boshears, Mr. Lewis and Ms. Lynn. The present site is a potential development site; therefore, decision needs to be made if the Center will remain somewhere on the Island or find a substitute location.
Mr. Lewis expressed that he understands the proposition of removing the $3 parking fee; however, we must be careful and make sure that there will be replacement revenue for the $1.4M that will be lost if the parking fee is removed.
Lengthy discussion occurred regarding removing the $3 parking fee. Comments varied from how the legislative budget works, if the ones wanting parking fee removed fully understand Jekyll Island, to whether a solution could be accomplished by next board meeting. Chairman Wood stated that the House and Senate would be asked to give the Board authority to so some things. Ms. Lynn noted that she has been told that it hurts businesses to have the $3 parking fee. Mr. Boshears questioned if any Jekyll Island Authority staff would be available to assist the parking fee committee. Mr. Donohue advised that historical data could be run. Ms. Spencer, Legal Counsel, cautioned about Open Meetings Act and advised that committee meetings should be announced and be open to the public. Chairman Wood felt that the Board would be making a gesture that a plan for eliminating the $3 parking fee is being worked on. Mr. Lewis’ thoughts were that maybe the removal of the parking fee would be one of the things that the Blue Ribbon Committee would look at. Chairman Wood noted that every week Jekyll Island loses customers due to declining services.
-Re-development Plan-
Mr. Boshears commented that rumors were that the Jekyll Island Airport was to be closed. Mr. Donohue responded that plans show the airport to continue operating as an airport.
Chairman Wood commented that a legal document would be needed on the final guidelines. Mr. Donohue noted JIA has in-house staff that could be available to assess design proposals. The closest thing to a new hotel at this time is Mr. Holloway’s plan for the Georgia Coast Inn, Mr. Donohue stated. Mr. Boshears questioned if plans could be built with present water and sewer systems. Mr. Donohue explained that the net increases would not change. Mr. Hodges commented that a look should be made at the infrastructure load. Mr. Donohue reminded that this would be a 10-year project. The architectural height restrictions would be kept in line with the Jekyll Island Club Hotel whose height is 54 feet to the roofline and 72 feet to the top of the flagpole. Chairman Wood remarked that height restrictions should be kept at 54 feet but can go up to 80 feet. Dr. Jones commented that the re-development plan is impressive. The distinction was made that it is a re-development plan, not a development plan. Mr. Donohue noted that a design guidelines workshop meeting on April 19, 2005, was presented and well received.
Meeting recessed at 10:55 a.m. on Monday, May 9, 2005.
Public session reconvened and meeting was called to order at 11:05 a.m. on Monday, May 9, 2005 in Beachside Hall at the Jekyll Island Convention Center.
It was noted that Ms. Kelley was present via conference phone at 11:06 a.m.
Newly appointed board member, Mr. Mike Hodges, was welcomed and signed official Oath of Office.
Mr. Brad Stewart and Mr. Ron Stock represented Friends of Historic Jekyll and presented a check in the amount of $12,000 to Ms. Cindy McDonald on behalf of the Jekyll Island Foundation to be used for the Georgia Sea Turtle Center. Friends of Historic Jekyll acknowledged Jekyll Island Authority and the Jekyll Island Club Hotel for support of the Annual FOHJ Dinner. Over 150 people were in attendance for that event.
Dr. Jones made a motion, which was seconded by Mr. Collins to approve the minutes from the March 9, 2005 Jekyll Island-State Park Authority Board Meeting. Motion was carried with all in favor.
Mr. Lewis motioned to nominate Dr. Jones to serve in the position of Vice-Chairman and Mr. Hodges to serve in the position of Secretary. Ms. Lynn seconded nomination. Motion passed with all in favor.
Under old business, motion for the proposed resolution to Congressman Kingston approved at March 14, 2005 meeting was rescinded since it would serve no purpose. Motion was made by Mr. Boshears and was seconded by Mr. Lynn. Motion was carried with all in favor.
There being no further business items to discuss or take action upon, Chairman Wood recognized Mr. Donohue to present the Executive Director’s Report, who stated so far we have experienced a good Spring overall.
Further items of note in the Executive Director’s Report were as follows:
Conservation Plan: Distributed 4-page draft of Jekyll Island Conservation Plan Organizational Components3 to Board members.
Historic District Tours: Tour areas smashed records for the month of April.
Golf Championship: State golf championship tournament in progress on Jekyll Island.
Buccaneer Resort and Oceanside Inn: Referenced page D-5 of staff report that Buccaneer Resort and Oceanside Inn hired BARE Associates to conduct a follow-up evaluation of both properties. Results showed very good improvement.
Staff Reports: Referenced several items of interest including 75% completion of installation of fire hydrants and vales at Clam Creek, fuel services to be available at Airport soon, website requests for vacation information and golf requests up in staggering numbers. Hopefully it is an indication that all will go well for what the Summer will bring.
See America/National Tourism Week: See America/National Tourism Week to be observed May 7 – May 14, 2005. State Patrol “Pullover” helped to recognize visiting couple from Canada. Saturday was a good day at the Welcome Center.
Restoration Award: John Hunter and Jim Broadwell received Excellence in Restoration Award for Horton House from the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation at State Preservation Conference held in Thomasville, GA April 2, 2005. This was one of five awards given this year.
Georgia Sea Turtle Center: Mr. Donohue asked Ms. McDonald to give Georgia Sea Turtle Center update. She stated that funds were still being raised for GSTC. $453,486.60 still needed as of May 9, 2005. Voluntary donation boxes have been implemented at various amenity locations. GSTC will be the cover for the August issue of Georgia Voyager Magazine.
Mr. Hodges exited the meeting at 11:22 a.m.
Washington Fly-In: Met with area Senators, Representatives and staff one on one. Request to support CBRA and GSTC is being supported by them.
Mr. Donohue referenced the Community Management Study4 research done by University of Georgia visiting Jekyll Island and Tybee Island performing a survey of the public’s willingness to support a fee based system to help pay for beach renourishment.
Mr. Runner, representing Jekyll Island CVB shared a lodging situation analysis5 of 18 years worth of data. Hotel business is falling off due to quality of hotel rooms. He encouraged everyone to work towards rectifying this issue. Mr. Lewis commended JICVB for report. Mr. Collins commended Mr. Runner on well-done job.
Referencing the sign-in sheet6 for public comments, Mr. Frank Mirasola was recognized to address the board.
Mr. Mirasola stated he was addressing the board as a resident and voiced his concerns regarding the proposed changes to the parking fee structure and 4-H Center location. There are talented residents, according to Mr. Mirasola, who would be willing to help on any committee.
Chairman Wood explained that the committee is being appointed to make the Island more accessible to all. It will study all parts and advise Board. Comments made earlier were only suggestions. Dr. Jones, a member of the 4-H Committee, pointed out that the discussion is a broad spectrum. It will not occur right now but down the road.
Mr. Boshears commented that any legislators wanting to eliminate the parking fee should be asked if they are willing to make up the $1.4M and he is in agreement with the redevelopment plan. The greatest concern is the 4-H Center and any decisions made regarding it should be looked at carefully.
Mr. Walter Borden, St. Simons Island resident, thanked Mr. Boshears for his comments. He commented on the Soccer Complex, the birding habitat, which is a popular hobby, and Tidelands.
Mr. Tise Eyler, JICA President, thanked the Board for rescinding resolution. He too commented on parking fee. Mr. Eyler made it known that he would be happy to work on any committee if needed.
Mrs. Jean Poleszak asked if it was possible to get a copy of the conservation plan.
Mr. Larry Dobbs, a part-time Jekyll Island resident, addressed the Board and noted a water issue with the swimming pool at Georgia Coast Inn.
Mr. Eyler stated that committees and consultants give their best and volunteers benefit the Island by showing their appreciation and giving their time and talent. Chairman Wood acknowledged the fact that residents volunteer their time and talent.
Mr. Van Hart, Jekyll Island business owner, was recognized and voiced concerns over public perception and the quality of island facilities. He thanked the board for all they do.
Mr. Boshears responded to Mr. Hart’s comments and assured all that there is no secret plan to sell Jekyll Island. Input is needed from all of the residents. The greatest asset to Jekyll Island is the people that live here. Several other Board members were in agreement with Mr. Boshears’ remarks.
There being no additional business to discuss, a motion was made by Mr. Collins and seconded by Ms. Lynn to adjourn the May 9, 2005 meeting of the Jekyll Island-State Park Authority.
Meeting was adjourned at 12:10 p.m.
ATTEST: APPROVED:
_________________________ __________________________
William A. Donohue Richard V. Wood
Executive Director Chairman
- Agenda
1
USFWL Letter
2
Senator Isakson Letter
3
Jekll Island Conservation Draft
4
Community Management Study
5
Loding Situation Analysi
6
Sign-In Sheet