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Escambia commissioners weigh ‘customary use’ for Perdido Key beaches, direct staff to expand access
Summary
After hours of public comment both for and against a proposed customary‑use approach on Perdido Key, the board directed staff to pursue expanded public access and parking options and discussed lowering Johnson Beach fees while counsel warned that no ordinance was before the board today.
The Escambia County Board of County Commissioners heard hours of public testimony about whether to pursue a "customary use" overlay for parts of Perdido Key, then directed staff to explore ways to expand beach access and parking rather than vote on an ordinance.
Citizens, condo owners and civic groups offered sharply differing views during the public hearing. Tony Hobbs urged caution, saying "a thorough evidentiary review must take place before voting on a customary‑use ordinance," and recommended outside legal counsel to avoid misguided litigation. Condo leaders said private owners have invested heavily to restore dunes and maintain property and warned that a county push…
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