by Kathy Foster
Senator George Gainer and Representative Brad Drake held a Legislative Delegation meeting at the Washington County Annex Thursday and welcomed community residents desiring help through the various branches of the government.
Ted Everett was the first to address Gainer and Drake asking for them to look at helping the tree farmers of northwest Florida. He said the tree farmers are facing major losses this year and for years to come. He noted there should be concern about all aspects of losing the timber business throughout the Panhandle.
Pointing out that it took 20 to 30 years to grow the tree crop that was destroyed by Hurricane Michael, Everett expressed the hope that Gainer and Drake could help bring some hope to the local tree farmers.
A spokesman from the Northwest Florida Water Management District was next to address the legislators and he pointed out that Washington County is facing a big cleanup task and said the District is working to help.
Washington County School Superintendent Joe Taylor was also on hand to bring Gainer and Drake up to date on the needs of the Florida Panhandle Technical College and said the school district needs legislative help with funding sources for the college. Taylor also reported that Washington County had lost students due to Hurricane Michael and faced reduced funding.
Renae Rountree, Washington County Library System, was another to talk with Gainer and Drake and thanked them for their support. She also requested that they continue to address the needs of the local library.
Habitat for Humanity was also represented at the meeting and Habitat Director Carmen Smith said she appreciated the support given by the Legislators, but would like them to increase their investment in helping make affordable housing available to the community.
Washington County Commissioner Tray Hawkins was present to raise several issues, but first was thanked by Senator Gainer for all he had personally done to help following Hurricane Michael.
Hawkins also thanked Gainer and Drake for their continued support for Washington County following the hurricane.
Hawkins was joined by Gary Owens from Vernon who spoke on the sewer problems being faced by those using the Vernon system. He requested financial help from the delegation to get tht sewer plant back up and fully functioning. Pointing out that the plant is 20 years old, Owens estimated that around $500,000 would be needed.
Karen Shaw and Julie Dillard also addressed Gainer and Drake regarding funding for a new Washington County Ag Center/Community Center facility. They said the current ag center is State-owned and is in need of work or replacement.
David Odom was the final person to address Gainer and Drake and asked they look at legislation put in place for South Florida, but is also negatively impacting the disposal of effluent in this area.