Bagdad Waterfronts Florida Partnership Steering Committee Meeting

Thursday, Sept. 7, 2006

Agenda

1. Call to Order/Introductions 2. Approval of Minutes 3. Establishment of a Quorum

4. Comments by Chair

5. Report from Program Director

6. Old Business

a. Subcommittee reports (Natural Resource Protection, Cultural Resource Protection, Hazard Mitigation,

Economic Revitalization, Sign Committee, Public Access to the Waterfront) b. Mill Site Park visioning

c. Locke House follow-up

d. Vision Plan

e. Community Award Program

f. Other

7. New Business

a. Vision Action Plan Explanation and Examples b. Program Success Evaluation Procedure and Report to State of Florida c. Review of Operating Procedures/Discussion of the future plans for Partnership d. Letter to Santa Rosa County thanking departments for efforts to assist Bagdad e. Information: October is “Beaches to Woodlands” month

f. Bagdad Market Day is Saturday, Oct. 7. BVPA is seeking donations and event assistance

8. Other Business 9. Public Views

10. Adjournment

Next Steering Committee meeting: 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 5, at the Bagdad Community Center

Bagdad Waterfronts Partnership Minutes for Steering Committee Meeting of July 6, 2006 Bagdad Methodist Church Fellowship Hall The meeting was called to order at 6:05. Quorum was recognized and Dr. Lewis wished to re-establish routine visitor introductions. Mr. A.C. Lunsford was welcomed as a guest and invited to attend future meetings. Seeking approval for the Minutes of June 1st, Dr. Lewis asked those present to review their copies. No additions or objections being offered, the Minutes were approved. Dr. Lewis commented on how active subcommittee had been during the past month and current anticipation of visioning process meetings. He asked Program Manager Josh Wilks to report in greater detail. Josh's report reviewed: • First Annual Bagdad Arts Stoll, a successful event • Visioning meetings scheduled:

1. Informational Workshop on 7/10/06 2. Visioning Meeting No. 1 -- 7/27/06 3. Visioning Meeting No. 2 -- 7/29/06

• On-going pre-visioning meetings held at the Partnership Office • Program outreach in the form of post cards, door-hanger tags placed on front doors, public notice

given through newspaper advertisement • Grant award of $10,000 received by Blackwater River Foundation for implementation of urban

forestry education and planting of trees in public areas of Bagdad Subcommittee Reports: Public Access: June 29 meeting discussed improvement of public access to the Oyster Shell Pile Landing. Suggestions were made at that time for better signage, designation of a single entrance and exit, and working towards restroom facilities. Regarding Public Access to Oakland Basin Landing, the committee looked forward to an upcoming resolution from Commissioner Bob Cole for designation as a canoe and kayak launch. Suggestions for improvements at the Oakland Basin Landing included signage, defined parking spaces, and sidewalk construction to curb stormwater runoff. Hazard Mitigation: The Mitigation/Signage committee reported that the June 5 meeting identified three locations for welcome signs for Bagdad: 1) north of Pond Creek Bridge on Henry Street, 2) ¼ mile south of Forsyth on Garcon Point Rd., and 3) close to New Street on Old Bagdad Hwy. These signs must be funded privately and the selected locations are pending steering committee approval. A marquee sign, "reader board", can be larger than the welcome signs and would serve for community announcements. It would also require private funding. The committee has proposed directional signs for important locations in Bagdad and suggested the possibility of grant-awarded historical markers. Environmental Resources Protection Committee: Dr. Charles D'Asaro had no written report regarding an Environmental Resources Protection Committee meeting in June. Dr. D'Asaro gave an oral account of an Impact 100 grant application submitted by the Blackwater River Foundation. He said the proposal was for funding which would further the goals of the Bagdad Waterfronts program including improvements at the mill site of canoe launch, fishing platform, fencing along the waterfront, public education and plants for volunteers to plant per the recently awarded urban forestry grant. He mentioned the possibility of including state agency participation in a form that had

not been approved and he said it was therefore moot. He was asked by Chris Walsh to explain to the committee the moot issues and he refused. Cultural Resources Protection: Report from Pat D'Asaro via Josh Wilks included mention of ongoing plans for the oral history project. There has been further discussion of a possible Boy Scout troop. Kerry Wilson, Field Directory of the Scout Office has been contacted and Field Rep. Kim Shelton may schedule a meeting with the sub-committee. Robert Dowell mentioned that Girl Scouts and 4-H are other programs highly beneficial to the community. Mrs. D'Asaro also reported a subcommittee discussion about distinguishing between the Santa Rosa Land Development Code and the Bagdad Architectural Advisory Board. Economic Revitalization: David Bailly reported that studies of traffic patterns continue with the goal of traffic calming. Santa Rosa County Traffic Planner Nancy Model has gathered statistics from traffic studies showing count, time of day, volume and speed. Many suggestions are being considered. A smart trailer will be scheduled. The committee has proposed a Community Improvement Award. With approval by steering committee consensus, a special committee was formed to recommend judges and procedure. Jan Davis will be chairperson, Mack Thetford will assist initially and Chris Walsh will be a committee member. Steering committee discussion leaned towards a quarterly award of recognition. Following subcommittee reports Josh mentioned that Teresa Johnson has relinquished her place as member of the steering committee in favor of Beth Coogle. Josh then raised the topic of a mission statement for the Partnership and suggested members ponder what they find appropriate. With a review of the dates for the upcoming visioning meetings and no further business or public views offered, the meeting was adjourned at 7:40 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Christine Walsh, Secretary Bagdad Waterfronts Partnership

Bagdad Waterfronts Partnership Minutes for Steering Committee Meeting of August 3, 2006 Bagdad Methodist Church Fellowship Hall

The meeting was called to order at 6:15 p.m. President Richard Lewis was unable to attend and Vice-President Pat D'Asaro conducted the meeting. Visitor Ann Scott was introduced and welcomed. Quorum was not present. No new action items were scheduled for the meeting and Pat proceeded. Report from Program Manager Josh Wilks stressed the importance of the July Visioning meetings which were characterized by:

High percentage of participation by Bagdad residents Extra days to turn in the worksheet surveys Extra meetings by the Visioning Committee Several articles published by area newspapers:

Press Gazette, Pensacola News Journal and The EscaRosa Press New hours for the Partnership office have been posted to be Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday from 9 a.m. to Noon, and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Darliene Stanhope informed us that Beckie Faulkenberry would present the Bagdad Visioning Plan to the Santa Rosa County Commission on August 21. Old Business:

There were no committee reports because subcommittee meetings were cancelled during July to allow for the many meetings associated with Visioning.

Josh updated the status of the Locke House. The house is now ready to be moved and we are

awaiting technical (engineering) assistance.

Discussing "What happens next," Josh told us that the subcommittees would prioritize goals. Darliene Stanhope added that the SRC Commission would look to the subcommittees for action on goals considered to be most important.

Josh spoke briefly about the community pride subcommittee scheduled for meeting the following

week.

Because of his teaching commitments Charles D'Asaro has resigned from his position as chairman of the Environmental Resources Protection subcommittee. Volunteers for the position were solicited. Ben Russell said he "will think about it."

New Business:

Josh has found that most people prefer to meet in the evening and he suggested subcommittees schedule accordingly.

Public Access to the Waterfront and Environmental Resources will be working together until current visioning is completed. We should also consider combining other meetings such as Economic Revitalization with Hazard Mitigation.

Sharon Marsh discussed the upcoming Mill Site Visioning Workshop which will be attended by

the Public Access to the Waterfront and Environmental Resources committees as well as any

other members of the community who will work towards developing an action plan. The workshop has been scheduled for 5 p.m., August 22. Tammy Simmons, County Administrative Services Manager, will be present. Sharon said one of the first goals in developing the passive park would be eliminating the invasive species presently on site.

Josh reminded the members about our Operating Procedures which call for members to be

replaced if they are absent for more than 3 consecutive meetings.

The Bagdad Community Center is unfinished but the dedication is scheduled for August 26. The Community Center will be depicted on this years' BVPA Christmas ornament. Jan Davis told members that the Community Center would be used for voting on September 5.

Pat asked Mike Johnson to give a short report on the Bagdad Cemetery Association. Mike

discussed rules are now in place regarding plots, parking, landscaping, use of ornamental iron signs and the need to control access from Old Bagdad Highway. Vandalism is still a problem but in general Mike said things are going well.

Following closing remarks from Pat about events in Bagdad coordinated with the upcoming Beaches to Woodlands tour, the meeting was adjourned at 7:40 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Christine Walsh, Secretary Bagdad Waterfronts Partnership

Bagdad Waterfronts Florida Partnership P.O. Box 495, Bagdad, FL 32530; (850) 981-9915; Fax: (850) 981-9912, manager@BlackwaterRiver.org

MEMORANDUM

Date: Sept. 7, 2006 To: Steering Committee From: Josh Wilks, program director Subject: Monthly report

The Village of Bagdad Community Vision Plan was approved by the Santa Rosa County Board of County Commissioners on Thursday, Aug. 24. The Program Director, as well as other Partnership members were present for the discussion and approval. The Commissioners congratulated the Partnership’s efforts in facilitating the community plan.

In a letter (Aug. 18), Jennifer Carver, the Dept. of Community Affairs Waterfronts Florida

Partnership coordinator, wrote to congratulate the Partnership for a job well done.

During the month of August, all subcommittees met to prioritize Vision Plan goals. Throughout the next few months, the subcommittees will draft work plans to outline reasonable timetables for goal implementation. Prioritizing goals does not mean that more than one goal can not be pursued at one time. Priorities will change with time.

The Natural Resource Protection committee appointed a new chair, Bagdad resident Mark

Gillman, at its Aug. 21 meeting. Mark will fill Charles D’Asaro’s position as committee chair. At this meeting, it was requested that the Natural Resource subcommittee change its meeting time to the second Thursday of each month at 4:30 p.m. The meetings are currently held on the third Monday at 4:30 p.m.

On Thursday, Aug. 10, several Partnership members attended the Livable Communities

Workshop, which provided explanation and enlightening modern approaches to traffic, pedestrian and overall community safety. More information is at www.Walkable.org.

Throughout the past three months, the Economic Revitalization subcommittee has been working

with Santa Rosa County staff on brainstorming traffic-calming techniques for Bagdad. Traffic Planner Nancy Model conducted a traffic study for Bagdad, and at her request a Sheriff’s Dept. “speed trailer” was mobilized during the month of August on Forsyth Street.

Since the initial efforts of public safety improvements were presented by the Economic

Revitalization subcommittee, the ER subcommittee has chosen to meet with the Hazard Mitigation subcommittee to address public safety concerns. The ER subcommittee will continue to meet and work on issues unrelated to public safety.

In an article that appeared in the Aug. 26 edition of the Press Gazette, the Bagdad Mill Site Park

Visioning meeting was profiled, but there was some confusion sparked by the article about roles and responsibilities of various entities. A letter of correction was sent to the Press Gazette by the Program Director on Aug. 29.

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Monthly report, page 2 of 2 Sept. 7, 2006 –

In August, the Cultural Resource Protection subcommittee presented copies of “Gulf Coast Emergency House Plans: Katrina Cottages” to Santa Rosa County Commissioners and the Planning and Zoning Department. Katrina Cottages are affordable solutions to infill housing, and are being utilized along the Gulf Coast in both old neighborhoods and in the newest traditional neighborhoods. Most designs are what are known locally as “shotgun” houses.

On Saturday, Aug. 19, at least 20 residents showed up and worked at the Bagdad Community

Center beautification and landscape day, organized by the Bagdad Village Preservation Association.

On Saturday, Aug. 26, the new Bagdad Community Center was dedicated. In attendance were

more than 80 community residents, as well as local elected leaders, including County Commissioner Bob Cole, County Commissioner John Broxson, Supervisor of Elections Ann Bodenstein, Property Appraiser Greg Brown, Milton City Councilman Bunny Jernigan, and a representative from Congressman Jeff Miller’s office. A complimentary biscuit and sawmill gravy breakfast was served by the Bagdad Village Preservation Association following the ceremony.

o Santa Rosa County Disaster Guides were distributed at the ceremony, by request of the Partnership’s Hazard Mitigation subcommittee.

The executive officers and subcommittee chairs met Monday, Aug. 28, to discuss a Program

Success Evaluation Procedure that will be submitted to the State of Florida to indicate Bagdad’s overall success. Also discussed were subcommittee meeting reporting procedures, Work Plans, Media Relations, Operating Procedures, as well as the importance of the Waterfronts initiative. In attendance: Richard Lewis, David Bailly, Chris Walsh, Nathan Woolsey, Charles D’Asaro, Pat D’Asaro, and Josh Wilks.

During the month of July, with efforts lead by the Economic Revitalization subcommittee, Santa

Rosa County Public Works Department replaced green street signs in Bagdad with brown street signs to complement and signify the Village of Bagdad Historic District. The street signs were placed on the main roadways through Bagdad (Forsyth, Main Street/Old Bagdad Hwy., Garcon Point Road), but brown signs will follow throughout other areas when replacements are needed.

During the past few months, the Natural Resource Protection subcommittee alerted the

Department of Environmental Protection about possible stormwater pollution in Bagdad. DEP investigated the stormwater system and has concurred there is fecal pollution in the stormwater draining into Pond Creek. DEP is following up on the source of pollution.

The Program Director will be traveling Sept. 10 through 14 to the State of Florida’s Waterfronts

Florida Partnership conference in Bradenton Beach, Fla. The Partnership office will be closed during those days. He will be available by phone or email.

Effective immediately, the office hours for the Bagdad Waterfronts Partnership are as follows:

Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. These hours will change on occasion as needed for meetings and other events. As always, the office is open by appointment.

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Natural Resource Protection Subcommittee Report Meeting date and time: August 21, 2006; 4:30 p.m. Location: BWF Partnership office (Milligan House)

Members present: Charles D’Asaro (chairman), Josh Wilks (program director), Nathan Woolsey, Mark Gillman, Vernon Compton, Ken Kallies, Shelley Alexander, Chris Verlinde, and Mack Thetford Members absent: Meeting called to order at 4:30 p.m. Item 1: Subcommittee Chair appointment Notes: Charles D’Asaro is returning to work full time; therefore he has resigned as chairman. Mark Gillman agreed to serve as committee chair. Action: Request Mark Gillman be appointed as chairman Item 2: Change of date and time of meetings Notes: At Mark’s request, the monthly meeting time and date were requested to be changed from 4:30 p.m. on the third Monday of each month to 4:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month. This change would begin in October. Action: Request approval to change date/time of meeting to 4:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month beginning in October Item 3: Community Vision Plan work plan Notes: The committee approved to prioritize goals in the order they’re listed within the Village of Bagdad Community Visioning Plan. The committee added “removal of invasive plant species” as “task 3” under “Goal 2” to its work plan. Action: Approval of Vision Plan priorities Item 3: Coordination of Invasive Plant Species Community Workshop Notes: The Yellow River Aquatic Preserve group and The Nature Conservancy will take the lead in partnering with Santa Rosa County to remove the invasive plants at the Bagdad Mill Site Park. The Preserve and TNC will obtain the chemicals, necessary permits, and licensed applicators. They will also write the required reports. There was discussion of the need to schedule a work day to attach flags to plants and areas to e treated. There was discussion of scheduling a workshop on exotic, invasive plants for the Bagdad community. Josh Wilks will coordinate with Chris Verlinde and the Santa Rosa County Extension office to identify a workshop date. Action: No action required at this time Meeting adjourned at 6 p.m. Report submitted by Mark Gillman

Cultural Resource Protection Subcommittee Report Meeting date and time: August 17, 2006; 6 p.m.

Location: BWF Partnership office (Milligan House)

Members present: Pat D’Asaro, chair; Darliene Stanhope; Ben Russell; Susan Creel; and Josh Wilks Members absent: Meeting called to order at 6 p.m. Item 1: Community Vision Plan work plan priorities Notes: The committee approved to prioritize goals in the following order: Priority No. 1: Provide Information to the community on the cultural resources unique to Bagdad (Vision Goal No. 2) Priority No. 2: Identify archaeological resources in the area (Vision Goal No. 3) Priority No. 3: Revise County codes to clarify Historic District Zoning District regulations for the purpose of protecting historic character and property values (Vision Goal No. 1) Upon approval of priorities by the Steering Committee, the subcommittee will work on a Cultural Resource Protection Action Plan. Action: Approval of Vision Plan priorities Item 2: Review of Katrina Cottages Notes: In August, the Cultural Resource Protection subcommittee presented copies of “Gulf Coast Emergency House Plans: Katrina Cottages” to Santa Rosa County Commissioners and the Planning and Zoning Department. Katrina Cottages are affordable solutions to infill housing, and are being utilized along the Gulf Coast in both old neighborhoods and in the newest traditional neighborhoods. Most designs are what are known locally as “shotgun” houses. Action: No action required Meeting adjourned at 6 p.m. Report submitted by Pat D’Asaro

Hazard Mitigation/Public Safety (met with Economic Revitalization)

Subcommittee Report Meeting date and time: August 14, 2006; 4 p.m.

Location: BWF Partnership office (Milligan House)

Members present: David Bailly, Ken Kallies, Jan Davis, Sharon Marsh, Richard Lewis, Susan Creel, Gloria Cook, and Josh Wilks Members absent: Meeting called to order at 4:30 p.m. Item 1: Livable Communities Workshop report Notes: The subcommittee discussed the Livable Communities workshop several committee members attended August 10. The workshop provided explanation and enlightening modern approaches to traffic, pedestrian and overall community safety. David Bailly recommended publicizing the program’s Web site: www.Walkable.org. Action: No action required at this time. Item 2: Community Vision Plan work plan priorities Notes: The committee approved to prioritize goals in the following order: Priority No. 1: Reduce crime in Bagdad (Vision Goal No. 1) Priority No. 2: Improve Traffic Safety (Vision Goal No. 4) Priority No.3: Improve the ability of the community to respond to and recover from hurricanes. (Vision Goal No. 5) Priority No. 4: Relocate overhead utility lines underground (Vision Goal No. 3) Priority No. 5: Relocate Bagdad Firehouse out of storm surge area (Vision Goal No. 2) Upon approval of priorities by the Steering Committee, the subcommittee will work on a Hazard Mitigation Action Plan. Action: Approval of Vision Plan priorities Meeting adjourned at 5 p.m. Report submitted by Josh Wilks

Economic Revitalization (met with Hazard Mitigation)

Subcommittee Report Meeting date and time: August 14, 2006; 4 p.m.

Location: BWF Partnership office (Milligan House)

Members present: David Bailly, Ken Kallies, Jan Davis, Sharon Marsh, Richard Lewis, Susan Creel, Gloria Cook, and Josh Wilks Members absent: Meeting called to order at 4 p.m. Item 1: Community Vision Plan work plan Notes: The committee approved to prioritize goals in the following order: Priority No. 1: Create a new tradition for the economy of Bagdad focused on small businesses that are compatible with the historic character of the village and capitalize on the recreation and natural resources of the area. (Vision Goal No. 2) Priority No. 2: Enhance the historic character of the community with the use of streetscape improvements (Vision Goal No. 1) Upon approval of priorities by the Steering Committee, the subcommittee will work on an Economic Revitalization Action Plan. Action: Approval of Vision Plan priorities Meeting adjourned at 5 p.m. Report submitted by Josh Wilks

Welcome Sign Subcommittee Report Meeting date and time: August 24, 2006; 5:30 p.m. Location: BWF Partnership office (Milligan House)

Members present: Michael Johnson (chair), Pat D’Asaro, Chris Walsh, Josh Wilks (program director) Members absent: Meeting called to order at 5:30 p.m. Item 1: Welcome Sign Design Notes: Chris Walsh submitted several ideas for welcome signs. Some of those designs had historical significance with symbols, including a ship’s wheel, a saw blade and diamond. Welcome “slogans” were also discussed. Discussion will proceed via email, with a decision made by October. Sign materials were also discussed. Suggested material is heart of pine scraps salvaged from the Bagdad Museum’s roof, as well as other salvaged material. Action: No action required at this time. Item 2: Discussion of Bagdad Logo Notes: A Bagdad logo was discussed. The committee will discuss with other Bagdad groups and get ideas for a logo to represent Bagdad on welcome signs. Action: No action required at this time. Next meeting time and date: 5 p.m., Monday, Sept. 11 Meeting adjourned at 6:30 p.m. Report submitted by Michael Johnson

Public Access to the Waterfront Subcommittee Report Meeting date and time: August 17, 2006; Noon

Location: BWF Partnership office (Milligan House)

Members present: Nathan Woolsey, chairman; Vernon Compton; Josy Combs; Sharon Marsh; Tom Scott; and Sue Summers. Members absent: Meeting called to order at Noon. Item 1: Community Vision Plan work plan priorities Notes: The committee approved to prioritize Vision Goals in the following order: Priority No. 1: Develop the Mill Site as a passive park that capitalizes [upon] the area’s unique resources and serves as a location for special events. (Vision Goal No. 1) Priority No. 2: Continue to improve the Bagdad Ball Park as an active recreation area. (Vision Goal No. 5) Priority No.3: Improve the Shell Pile Landing. (Vision Goal No. 3) Priority No. 4: Improve the Dorr’s Fence Landing. (Vision Goal No. 2) Priority No. 5: Provide restroom facilities at public access locations. (Vision Goal No. 4) Upon approval of priorities by the Steering Committee, the subcommittee will work on a Public Access to the Waterfront Action Plan. Action: Approval of Vision Plan priorities Item 2: Bagdad Mill Site Park meeting Notes: It was suggested that the members of this Subcommittee work with the Natural Resource Protection Subcommittee in coming months, as they go forward with the development of the Mill Site Park. Nathan Woolsey said that he would look into this. He would attend their regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, August 21, at 4:30 p.m., and report back on the possibility of making this happen. Action: No action required at this time. Meeting adjourned at 1:20 p.m. Report submitted by Nathan Woolsey

Bagdad Mill Site Park DRAFT Action Plan (as of Sept. 7, 2006) Phase One – September 2006-August 2007

Replace the exterior fence Draft and submit a revised Mill Site Land Use Management Plan to the Board of County

Commissioners and the Florida Office of Greenways and Trails Establish a Bagdad Mill Site Park Foundation as a 501C3 to help raise money to fund the

establishment of the park Using community members, complete a survey of plants currently at the site, identifying

invasives and locations Provide education on invasives to community members participating

Reduce invasive plants at the Mill Site, both on uplands and wetlands acreage Have one or more “Clean-Up the Mill Site” days to remove debris from the site

Provide a BBQ or other type of food event as part of the clean-up Replant native grasses, flowers, bushes and trees to control erosion Locate funding for, or a structural engineer that will donate time or reduce charges for,

an assessment of the building currently on the site Go with the less costly of the options, repair or demolish

Locate and acquire funding for, or an architect (including landscape) that will donate time or reduce charges for, development of a site plan for the Mill Site

Existing plan plus limited boat docking, observation tower and small amphitheatre Determine best course of action for removal of most of the asphalt and replace parking

and driveway areas with gravel Establish small committee to establish an action plan for addressing issues surrounding

moving historic buildings to the site If decision is made to move historic buildings to the site, submit request for approval to

County, Division of Historic Resources and OGT Locate and acquire funding for repair of the retaining wall Locate and acquire funding for, or locate a local fencing company that will donate or

provide a reduced charge for, a functional but decorative fence for the waters edge in the Mill Site

Remove asphalt and replace main drive and parking with gravel Open the site as a park

Phase Two – September 2007-February 2009

Finalize plan with DEP to build a constructed wetlands at the site of the larger stormwater retention pond for stormwater control

Open up area between the Mill Site and Shell Landing where walking trail will connect the two areas

If historic buildings are to be moved to the site, work out any issues on ownership of buildings and process accordingly

If historic buildings are to be moved to the site, locate and acquire funding for mitigation, code requirements, repairs and house moving

If the existing site building is being retained, locate and acquire funding to repair If the existing site building is being retained repair and bring up to code and ADA

compliance (bathrooms)

If the existing site building is being demolished, locate and acquire funding to demolish If the existing site building is being demolished, demolish and clear site Locate and acquire funding for the walking trail/Boardwalk Develop the walking trail/Boardwalk on site

Paved for slow walkers/wheelchairs, joggers/fast walkers and bicyclists Install park benches and picnic tables in select areas throughout the park

Benches along the water, near the constructed wetlands and in the two garden areas Picnic tables near the constructed wetlands and the south garden area and along the

water at the south end Develop several options for connection to the Blackwater Heritage Trail and make

contact with home owners and obtain agreement. Once best option is determined submit application for funding

Locate and acquire funding for the fishing pier Develop the fishing pier Move at least one historic building, if all issues are addressed (bathrooms) Develop partnerships (including written agreements if necessary) and/or curriculum for

historical, environmental and cultural presentations at the site Develop historical interpretive materials and displays. Locate and acquire funding if

necessary Assistance from the Division of Historical Resources

Develop remaining historic areas on site with interpretative displays Locate and acquire funding for the canoe and kayak launch Develop the canoe and kayak launch

Phase Three – September 2008-August 2010

Begin providing educational opportunities on site If funding acquired, work with OGT to develop the connection between the Blackwater

Heritage Trail and the Mill Site Develop garden area/small pavilion located at the site of the old gang mill Locate and acquire funding for observation tower Develop observation tower Locate and acquire funding for a limited boat docking area Develop boat docking area Develop alternate facilities for outlying bathrooms (south end near walk to Shell

Landing and area near observation tower at north end) Composting, incinerating, regular

Develop south end garden area with native flowers that attract birds and butterflies (create habitat areas for small wildlife).

Locate and acquire funding for amphitheatre Build amphitheatre Locate an historically accurate sailing vessel to be moored at the site for tours and

education Issues with water depth at the site Partnership versus purchase

Selectively introduce related environmental activities to enhance education and visitor experiences

Media Release Bagdad Waterfronts Florida Partnership

P.O. Box 495, Bagdad, FL 32530 Phone: (850) 981-9915

Fax: (850) 981-9912 Contact: Joshua Wilks, program director Phone: (850) 981-9915; Cell: (850) 485-2219 E-mail: BagdadWaterfront@bellsouth.net

August 24, 2006 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Partnership, County present community vision plan to public BAGDAD — The Bagdad Waterfronts Florida Partnership completed its Village of Bagdad Community Vision Plan by presenting its final plan for approval to the Santa Rosa County Board of County Commissioners Thursday, Aug. 24. The commissioners voted unanimously in approval. The Community Vision Plan includes objectives related to the five areas and subcommittees of the Bagdad Waterfronts Partnership. Those areas are hazard mitigation, public access to the waterfront, economic revitalization, cultural resource protection, and environmental resource protection. Goals for each area were identified through participant surveys and group exercises. The following is a list of goals as identified through the visioning process: Environmental Protection:

Protect the quality of waterways surrounding the Village of Bagdad. Enhance and protect the upland natural resources of the Village. Provide environmental education to Village residents and property owners.

Cultural Protection:

Revise County codes to clarify Historic Zoning District regulations for the purpose of protecting historic character and property values.

Provide information to the community on the cultural resources unique to the Village of Bagdad. Identify archaeological resources in the area.

Hazard Mitigation and Public Safety:

Reduce crime in Bagdad. Relocate the Bagdad Firehouse out of the storm surge area. Relocate overhead utility lines underground. Improve traffic safety. Improve the ability of the community to respond to and recover from hurricanes.

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Public Access to the Waterfront:

Develop the Mill Site as a passive park that capitalizes the area’s unique resources and serves as a location for special events.

Improve Dorr’s Fence Landing for use as a canoe and kayak launch area. Oyster Shell Pile boat landing improvements Provide restroom facilities at public access locations. Continue to improve the Bagdad Ball Park as an active recreation area.

Economic Revitalization:

Create a new tradition for the economy of Bagdad focused on small businesses that are compatible with the historic character of the village and capitalize on the recreation and natural resources of the area.

Enhance the historic character of the community with the use of streetscape improvements. (Accomplishment of the goals and tasks identified under the previous focus areas is important for realization of Economic Revitalization in Bagdad.)

The vision plan development was facilitated by the Bagdad Waterfronts Partnership with assistance from the Santa Rosa County Planning and Zoning Department, and the State of Florida, Department of Community Affairs Waterfronts Florida Partnership program. Implementing the goals will be the responsibility of the Partnership’s subcommittees and Bagdad residents. In the coming months, the groups will prioritize goals and encourage community participation through community emails, newsletters, meetings, Web sites, newspapers, and word of mouth. The Bagdad Waterfronts Florida Partnership is a community partnership of Santa Rosa residents, local and state government officials, as well as various community groups and organizations. The five focus areas and subcommittees of the Bagdad Waterfronts Partnership are hazard mitigation, public access to the waterfront, economic revitalization, cultural resource protection, and environmental resource protection. The Partnership is currently seeking community members to serve on any of the five subcommittees. For more information or to obtain a copy of the Village of Bagdad Community Vision Plan, call 981-9915 or email BagdadWaterfront@bellsouth.net.

# # # This report was funded in part, through a grant agreement from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Florida Coastal Management Program, by a grant provided by the Office Of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management under the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Award No. NA05NOS4191074. The views, statements, findings, conclusions and recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the State of Florida, NOAA or any of its subagencies. August 2006

Bagdad is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is a designated Waterfronts Florida Partnership Community

Community Award Program Subcommittee Report Meeting date and time: August 14, 2006; 3 p.m.

Location: BWF Partnership office (Milligan House)

Members present: Jan Davis, Mack Thetford, Josh Wilks Members absent: Chris Walsh (notified by email) Item 1: Community Award Program criteria 1. Criteria

a. Landscapes are required to be: Well-groomed (properties can have a natural, wildscape appearance, but grass must be mowed)

b. Judging factors include the overall appearance, tidiness and neatness of the front of the property as evidenced by:

• Buildings, fences, porches, and patios on the property are required to be in good repair,

i.e. minimal distraction from the landscape due to deterioration, damage or construction • No visible code violations (free of litter, junk, debris and clutter) • Overall aesthetic appeal, an inspiration to others in the neighborhood • Balance appropriate to house and lot size

2. One home will be selected every six months during the months of October and April. (A Special Yard of the Month may be awarded for special circumstances.) 3. The award must be given within the Bagdad Waterfronts Partnership program area 4. All plantings must be living and healthy, no plastic, silk or artificial plants. 5. Current members of the Community Award Program committee are not eligible. The committee will be limited to five members. 6. Properties may be nominated by community members by phone, email or in writing to the Community Award Program committee. 7. Yard of the Quarter sign will be placed in the wining yard for one month. The award will also include other items, including a certificate of recognition signed by (Partnership chairperson or County Commissioner – to be determined) 8. Award recipients must be willing to have photos of themselves and the property be published in local media, websites, newsletters, etc. 9. Each property will be limited to winning the award only once every two years. Action: To approve above criteria Meeting adjourned at 4 p.m. Report submitted by Josh Wilks

Action Plan ~ EXAMPLE No. 1 Hazard Mitigation and Public Safety Goal 5 (Priority 3): Improve the ability of the community to respond to and recover from hurricanes Task 1: Enlist volunteers to establish a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), which is a FEMA initiative sponsored by the County. Action Items: • Set an appointment with County Emergency Management staff to determine what the

community needs to do to establish a CERT by Oct 1, 2006. • Set a meeting for community members to be informed about CERT and how to volunteer by

Nov 15, 2006. • Determine the interest and commitment to maintain activity before formally establishing the

Bagdad CERT by Nov 30, 2006. • Identify a community leader to coordinate volunteers and training by Dec 31, 2006. • Establish a mechanism for volunteers to enroll in the Bagdad CERT by Jan 31, 2007. • Set up first training session by March 15, 2007. Task 2: Identify resources available to property owners for “hardening” their homes against the effects of a storm. Action Items: • Research existing resources for residential hardening by December 31, 2006. Responsible

entity: SRC Special Projects/Grants • Create a brochure for community members by March 31, 2007. Responsible entity: SRC

Special Projects/Grants • Create a web page for inclusion at several web sites (County, BRF, and BFWP) by Jun 30,

2007. Responsible entity: SRC Special Projects/Grants & IT • Develop an educational presentation for property owners by September 2007. Responsible

entity: SRC Special Projects/Grants • Present at least one educational session to community members by December 31, 2007.

Responsible entity: SRC Special Projects/Grants

Action Plan ~ EXAMPLE No. 2

VISION GOAL VISION FOCUS AREA: HAZARD MITIGATION/PUBLIC SAFETY

Goal 5 Priority 3

Improve the ability of the community to respond to and recover from hurricanes

Priority/Timeline

5.1 Action Lead Role Potential Partners

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010 Enlist volunteers to establish a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), which is a FEMA initiative sponsored by the County.

1. Set up an appointment with County

Emergency Management staff to determine what the community needs to do to establish a CERT by Oct. 1, 2006

2. Set a meeting for community members

to be informed about CERT and how to volunteer by Nov. 15, 2006

3. Determine the interest and commitment

to maintain activity before formally establishing the Bagdad CERT by Nov. 30, 2006

4. Identify a community leader to

coordinate volunteers and training by Dec. 31, 2006

5. Establish a mechanism for volunteers

to enroll in the Bagdad CERT by Jan. 31, 2007

6. Set up first training session by March

15, 2007

Hazard Mitigation Subcommittee

Santa Rosa County, Bagdad Volunteer Fire Department

X

X

X

X

X

X

Bagdad Waterfronts Florida Partnership Program Success Evaluation Procedure

Revised: August 22, 2006 The following indicators identify how the Bagdad Waterfronts Florida Partnership will measure its waterfront revitalization success, how the indicators of success will be tracked and reported, including how reporting will be sustained during the second year of the program and annually thereafter.

1. Community Involvement

a. Amount of Citizen Time and Dollar Donations to Waterfronts Florida Activities

1. Citizen Time: Amounts of citizen time and dollar donations contributed to the

Bagdad Waterfronts Florida Partnership community initiative will be tracked by the program manager with assistance from committee chairs or individual members. Each subcommittee chair or individual member will submit to the program manager the time spent representing the Partnership in meetings or gatherings. These amounts of time will be reported monthly to the steering committee and reported annually to the State of Florida, Department of Community Affairs.

2. Citizen Dollar Donations: Amounts of citizen dollar donations contributed to

the Bagdad Waterfronts Florida Partnership community initiative will be tracked by the program manager. These monetary contribution amounts will be reported monthly to the steering committee and reported quarterly to the Department of Community Affairs.

b. Number of Volunteers Contributing Time to Activities Associated with Waterfronts Florida Communities

1. Volunteers Contributing Time: The program manager will be responsible for volunteer and participant sign-in records at Waterfronts-related meetings and activities. The time contributions will be collected in preparation for the activity, during the activity, and during the finishing-up period. The program manager will compile information and report it monthly to the steering committee and will also report quarterly to the Department of Community Affairs.

2. Economic Investment

a. Public Dollars Invested in Waterfronts Florida Communities

1. Public Dollars: The program manager and Blackwater River Foundation

treasurer track the amount of money spent for the Waterfronts Florida

Program in an individual bank account, including the program manager’s salary, operating costs (office rent, utilities, travel, supplies, etc.), grants and donations. The program manager will estimate a dollar amount for the time Santa Rosa County staff and others provide toward program initiatives. Additionally, the program manager will track improvements of community infrastructure lead by Waterfronts Florida initiatives. The program manager will compile information and report it monthly to the steering committee and will also report quarterly to the Department of Community Affairs.

b. Private Dollars Invested in Waterfronts Florida Communities

1. Private Dollars: Working with the Economic Revitalization subcommittee, the

program manager will track the amount of private dollars invested in the Bagdad Waterfronts Florida Partnership program area. Some assessment methods will include business and property owner surveys on private expenses spent improving target areas within the program area. The Economic Revitalization subcommittee will also track by photograph visual improvements to the area that result in economic revitalization. As this information becomes available, the program manager will collect information and report it to the steering committee and will also report quarterly to the Department of Community Affairs.

3. Community Goals

a. Number of Community Goals achieved

1. Number of Community Goals achieved: Through community workshops, the

Bagdad Waterfronts Florida Partnership has identified community goals within its Community Vision Plan. Within the focus areas of Waterfronts Florida, each subcommittee has prioritized respective goals in both long- and short-term lists. As community goals are achieved, the program manager will recognize publicly those accomplishments. These accomplishments will also be reported to the steering committee at its monthly meeting, as well as on a quarterly basis to the Department of Community Affairs.

This report was funded in part, through a grant agreement from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Florida Coastal Management Program, by a grant provided by the Office Of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management under the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Award No. NA05NOS4191074. The views, statements, findings, conclusions and recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the State of Florida, NOAA or any of its subagencies. August 2006

Bagdad Waterfronts Florida Partnership Program Success Evaluation

REPORT August 2006

The following indicators identify how the Bagdad Waterfronts Florida Partnership has measured its waterfront revitalization success.

1. Community Involvement

a. Amount of Citizen Time and Dollar Donations to Waterfronts Florida Activities

3. Citizen Time: The estimated total of citizen time for the past year is 11, 035

hours. These hours include steering committee and subcommittee meetings; visioning meetings; and community workshops. This does not include time provided by local government staff.

4. Citizen Dollar Donations: Amounts of citizen dollar donations contributed to

the Bagdad Waterfronts Florida Partnership is estimated to be nearly $1,000. This estimate includes food for events and meetings, as well as operating costs donations.

b. Number of Volunteers Contributing Time to Activities Associated with Waterfronts Florida Communities

2. Volunteers Contributing Time: The estimated total of volunteers contributing time within the community is 5,500 hours. These events include Bagdad Market Days, the Bagdad Village Front Porch Art Stroll, historic village walking tours, fundraisers, and community beautification days.

2. Economic Investment

c. Public Dollars Invested in Waterfronts Florida Communities

1. Public Dollars: Public dollars invested into the Village of Bagdad (monies that

have been tracked) are estimated to be $3.5 million. This estimate includes public assistance following Hurricane Dennis, community center construction, infrastructure improvements, program grants, as well as Santa Rosa and State of Florida staff assistance with Waterfronts initiatives.

d. Private Dollars Invested in Waterfronts Florida Communities

1. Private Dollars: The estimated private investment in Bagdad is estimated

near $1.5 million. This includes building and landscape aesthetic

improvements, purchase of property, as well as monetary contributions to community non-profits.

3. Community Goals

b. Number of Community Goals achieved

2. Number of Community Goals achieved:

Overall community goals are listed in the Village of Bagdad Community Vision Plan that was conducted during July 2006. The Vision Plan was facilitated by the Bagdad Waterfronts Florida Partnership, with assistance from Santa Rosa County and the State of Florida, Department of Community Affairs. The numbers of community goals achieved are listed below in related categories:

Public Access to the Waterfront: Establishment of Bagdad Mill Site Park visioning committee and

coordination of community meetings related to public access Designation of Oakland Basin boat landing (Dorr’s Fence Road) as a

canoe/kayak launch facility. Designation is contingent on approval by the Board of County Commissioners.

Assistance regarding public access during the Bagdad Visioning process.

Cultural Resource Protection: Established annual event, the Bagdad Village Front Porch Art Stroll. Working with Blackwater River Foundation and Bagdad Village

Preservation Association on oral history collections of villagers. Provided assistance regarding cultural resources during the Bagdad

Visioning process.

Environmental Resource Protection: Encouraged the designation change of the Oakland Basin Boat

Launch, due to low tide levels and negative environmental effects to the shoreline associated with heavy boat traffic. The Public Access subcommittee took into consideration the request and moved forward.

Alerted the Department of Environmental Protection of possible stormwater pollution draining into Pond Creek and Blackwater River. DEP has followed up on the source of pollution.

Provided public electronic versions of environmental reports via websites and CDs.

Working with DEP and Santa Rosa Extension to host a community workshop on invasive plant species management.

Supported the Blackwater River Foundation in application of 2006 Urban Community Forestry Grant. The grant was awarded and the subcommittee will assist with its implementation.

Hazard Mitigation/Public Safety: Advertisement of Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), which

allowed six Bagdad residents to qualify for storm mitigation funding Continual distribution of Santa Rosa County Disaster Guide booklets at

community events. Established an initial meeting date for Neighborhood Watch Program Working with Bagdad Cemetery Association and Santa Rosa County to

close Bagdad Cemetery Road to reduce risk of cemetery vandalism and traffic management issues with new development. The road is used as a shortcut to a major roadway.

Identified locations for future welcome signs and a marquee reader board. Construction of these projects is pending funding, as well as approval from landowners and Santa Rosa County.

Economic Revitalization: Initiated a Traffic Calming study from Santa Rosa County Initiated replacement of street signs with brown historic-designated

street signs that also show street block numbers for emergencies. Working on pictorial inventory of “as-is” state of Bagdad, and will follow

with inventories annually. Established a Community Award Program (Yard of the Month,

Architectural Improvement) that will begin in September. This report was funded in part, through a grant agreement from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Florida Coastal Management Program, by a grant provided by the Office Of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management under the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Award No. NA05NOS4191074. The views, statements, findings, conclusions and recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the State of Florida, NOAA or any of its subagencies. August 2006