The Safety Harbor City Commission on Sept. 15 approved a $35,000 contract to replace temporary fencing at Folly Farms's farmhouse with a permanent fence aimed at improving site security and protecting animals.

City staff explained the existing chicken-wire posts were not intended to be permanent and said the project would install a six-foot chain-link fence around the farmhouse and a decorative wood fence on the south side. "The main purpose is site security," a staff presenter said, adding the temporary fence "can be easily jumped" and that the upgrade would better protect animals and staff.

The nut graf: commissioners debated the cost and community benefit of fencing used to secure a public park's animals and educational programs. One commissioner questioned whether the city was "showcasing animals" and noted recurring maintenance costs; others said Folly Farms draws community use, youth programming and volunteer sponsorships that help underwrite operating expenses.

Several commissioners and members of the public said the farm is a community asset used for camps, scout projects and education. Staff noted that individuals and sponsors donate to animal care and that a sponsorship program exists to defray feed and care costs. The commission approved the consent-item purchase 5-0 after discussion.

Background and next steps: the fence replacement was included in the city's capital improvement program and is intended to match existing six-foot chain link on MLK and other architectural elements at the farmhouse. Staff said they will provide cost breakdowns on animal procurement and ongoing expenses if requested by commissioners.