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Live Oak council approves $149,331 Economic Development Corporation grant for kayak launch at main city park over one dissent
Summary
The City Council approved a $149,331 contribution from Economic Development Corporation funds to build a kayak launch at the main city park; Councilman Simmick voiced opposition, saying the project benefits a select group and he could not support the expenditure.
The Live Oak City Council voted to approve a resolution authorizing a $149,331 contribution from the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) funds for a kayak launch as part of main city park improvements.
Council considered the resolution during the Sept. 30 meeting. The motion to authorize the expenditure passed by a 4-1 margin. Councilman Simmick stated during discussion that he could not support the EDC expenditure because he believed the kayak launch would benefit only a "select group" and opposed spending EDC funds on the project.
The staff presentation described the expenditure as "a contribution to the Kayak Launchpad project for the main city park improvements." The motion on the floor (resolution authorizing expenditures of $149,331 from EDC funds) was seconded by Dr. Perez, according to the meeting record.
Why it matters: The EDC contribution directs economic-development resources toward park amenities. Councilman Simmick's objection framed the decision as a choice about whether EDC funds should target a broad public benefit or a narrower recreational amenity.
Clarifying details: The resolution’s funding source was Economic Development Corporation funds; the amount authorized was $149,331. At least one councilmember publicly objected on the record; the motion carried 4–1. No ordinance number or additional contract details were provided during the meeting minutes presented.
Context: The item was discussed after council pulled it from the consent agenda for separate consideration. Councilman Simmick spoke against the expenditure before the council voted.
Ending: The council approved the EDC contribution; staff and the EDC will move forward with the kayak launch project as funded by the authorized EDC contribution.
