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Board orders removal of unsafe Hernando Beach observation tower, directs design and funding plan to rebuild
Summary
After an engineer found the Hernando Beach observation tower unsafe, the board approved removal and authorized staff to design a replacement and pursue tourism tax/bonding and private contributions to fund a new tower. The community urged rapid action and private fundraising.
A structural analysis presented Sept. 9 found Hernando Beach27s observation tower structurally unsafe for public use. The board voted unanimously to remove the structure and directed staff to prepare design options for a replacement and funding plan that could use tourism‑destination revenues and a bond amortized by future visitor taxes.
Engineering recommendations cited foundation and member deterioration; staff and the engineer advised that repairing piecemeal pieces would be nearly as costly as replacement. Commissioners and residents debated options including private‑sector sponsorship, a fundraising drive and using tourism tax/bond financing. Chairman Champion and other commissioners urged a visible public outreach and a transparent funding plan if the board is to rebuild rather than demolish permanently.
Public commenters objected to demolition without a clear plan; multiple residents offered to assist with private fundraising and community events. The board approved a motion directing removal of the unsafe structure, allocating the budgeted CIP removal funds and asking staff to return with design alternatives and a tourism/bond funding recommendation. The vote carried 5–0.
