After extended discussion and public comment, the Destin City Council approved a substitute motion that preserves city ownership and control of Dalton Threadgill Park while granting Destin Little League priority use during the off‑season.

Council members and staff said the substitute followed league requests for greater certainty for off‑season programming and the council’s prior direction to retain city control. Matt Dahlman, treasurer and board member of Destin Little League, told the council the league is prepared to invest substantial funds in the facility and sought the ability to schedule fall and off‑season clinics and tournaments without repeated approvals.

City staff described the negotiated lease language as differing from council direction only in how off‑season priority is expressed: the league requested exclusive control for all months, subject to city requests, while councilors said the city should retain overarching authority and be able to request access. Councilman Destin offered a substitute motion to restore city control while guaranteeing priority to the league; it carried after discussion about lock systems, lighting timers and liability.

Council members who voted in favor said the adopted language protects the city’s property interests, clarifies responsibilities for maintenance and liability, and still allows the league to plan programming. The council directed staff to finalize the lease consistent with that substitute motion and noted that, unless the council instructs otherwise, the finalized agreement will not return to council for another vote.

The council also discussed parking, lighting timers and keys; staff said they will coordinate with the Little League to facilitate event scheduling while maintaining city stewardship responsibilities.