Water woes at The Great Outdoors

... Homeowners fear looming fire disaster

From Staff Reports

When Bob Strand's Great Outdoors home (background) caught on fire, no water was available at this hydrant—sitting less than 50 feet away from the flames.

      This past winter, a fire occurred at Bob Strand's home on Fairways Drive in The Great Outdoors. A tanker truck was called in from the Brevard County Fire Dept. on SR-407. The truck used its 3,000 gallons of water on board—because the hydrant in front of Strand's home was dry! Luckily, in this case at least, the damage was limited. But, what about next time?
      The Great Outdoors RV/Nature Preserve & Golf Club (TGO) was originally conceived as a winter retreat for 2,000 RV enthusiasts who wished to enjoy the Florida lifestyle for six months out of the year. Original amenities included only a concrete pad, a small shed, and water, sewer, cable and phone hookups.
      Begun in 1990, the developer, Jim Swan, filed a Notice of Proposed Change (NOPC) in 1991, to add 400 "cabins" of not more than 1,000 sq. ft. each. In 1994, another NOPC called for 525 homes up to 1,200 sq. ft. each. By 1996, that grew to 700 lots. And in 1998, an NOPC deleted size limits entirely, deleted the six-month "part time" stay requirement, and changed 50 percent of the RV sites to home sites.
      Located on the south side of SR 50, west of I-95, on county land, all this growth was taking place while no regard was taken to assure that the original fire suppression system was upgraded to protect all the new homes planned for.
      The hydrant system in TGO is actually two separate systems. One connects to the potable supply (suitable for drinking and washing) provided by the Cocoa water department, and the other to a "reused" water supply provided by the Titusville water treatment plant on SR-50, just east of TGO. The reused system also is used to water to golf course and many homes' lawns. And therein lies part of the problem: Neither of the systems provides the required 750 gallons per minute (gpm), nor the 20 pounds per square inch pressure (psi) required on the original development order for TGO.
      Brevard County had ordered a moratorium on the granting of any further building permits at TGO because of the lack of fire suppression available.
      On March 16, at a Brevard County Commission meeting, District 1 County Commissioner Truman Scarborough stated that, "We all want a fire-safe community. The developers are not compliant (with the 750 gpm @ 20 psi) nor substantially close—(if so,) we have to keep the moratorium on building permits."
      State Law provides that "Local government shall not issue any permits or approvals, or provide any extensions of services if the developer fails to act in substantial compliance with the development order."
      Mason Williams, an attorney for the developers stated, "We have potable hydrants, 'reused' hydrants and tanker trucks available. The County provides adequate fire protection."
      Many others present disagreed.
      Todd Kinsey, Maintenance Supervisor at TGO, called the dual-use system "unreliable." He cited 78 different failures of nine to 24 hours each, with a 45-hour average down time. He also cited 14 days of inadequate pressure because of a pump breakdown, and water rate and pressure of only 340 gpm and 4 psi at times.
      At the March Commission meeting, scores of TGO residents turned out to express their concerns. Several retired engineers and public officials were outraged that the problem hasn't been resolved, or even addressed until the County issued its moratorium. Most agreed that the hydrants, golf course and residential sprinklers should have been kept separate from the beginning of planning.
      TGO now has over 3,000 sq. ft. "McMansions" situated only yards away from undeveloped brush areas. A small brush fire has the potential to cause major devastation if the winds are right. Usually a large RV, containing 100 gallons of gas or diesel fuel, is parked in an attached "RV-port," another potential fire hazard.
      Ron Reynolds, of Plantation Drive, a former underground inspector in Cocoa, pointed out the lack of "back-feed" protection. "We may be drinking reused water, now," he stated. He also found sewer lines buried directly over water lines. If a heavy vehicle rode over them and they broke, it could lead to serious contamination and health problems for residents.
      In the end, the County Commission passed a motion which called for no more building permits at TGO unless the developer posts a performance bond of 110 percent of the "reasonable estimated" cost of bringing the fire protection system into compliance with the 750 gpm at 20 psi requirement, and comes up with a reasonable schedule for completing the work.
      The Commission also approved a variance on the height requirement to 120 feet for any water tower that may be part of the plan to upgrade the system. "Towers rely on hydraulic pressure. Electric booster pumps and generators fail. Gravity never fails," is how one concerned resident of TGO put it.
      In late April, Commissioner Scarborough and other County officials were to visit TGO for a meeting with the Community Services Association. Unfortunately, that meeting was cancelled as recommended by County Attorney Scott Knox because the main builder in TGO, Land Planners, has filed suit against the County and TGO Community Services Association.
      But, as this paper went to press, TGO Community Service Association, along with their attorney, were meeting to respond the developer's newest offers of compliance.
      We will report on any changes in this situation as they occur.

Groundbreaking ceremony marks start of pier restoration

From STAFF REPORTS

      After a long wait, local fisherman, shrimpers and the like will be pleased to know that in approximately six months from now they will finally be able to cast their lines and nets again off the Veterans Memorial Fishing Pier in Titusville.
      The groundbreaking ceremony for the Titusville Veterans' Memorial Pier Concession Building—the facility that will bring the pier within reach again—was held Monday, May 10, at 9 a.m.
      A joint effort by Brevard County and the City of Titusville, many City and County officials were in attendance, including County Commissioner Truman Scarborough, who lead the ceremony, City of Titusville Vice-Mayor Ken Ward, and Ted Beck, Chairman of North Brevard Parks and Recreation Commission, as well as the architects and engineers who designed the new facility. Many Parks and Rec employees, who will be managing the pier concession stand, were also in attendance.
      Representing the City of Titusville during the ceremony, Vice Mayor Ken Ward stated, "A lot of folks have worked really hard—the committee, the volunteers, the fishermen, the engineering firm, the City and the County. It's taken a while, but today's the day we'll begin to realize those efforts."
      Ward concluded by saying, "We'll all enjoy this facility when it's completed."
      Local activist Walter Pine made a few comments before the groundbreaking, urging officials to ensure the designation of the facility as a Veterans Memorial stays intact. "We will continue to fight to maintain—and improve—this Veterans Memorial," he remarked.
      On another note, Commissioner Scarborough made mention that, due to the efforts of State Representative Tom Feeney, the A. Max Brewer Bridge has been turned back over to the State, and efforts are underway to acquire $27 million for the construction of a much-needed new bridge.

KALEIDOSCOPE

Titusville: A walled city?

By FRED KRUPSKI

      A recent editorial in the local daily encouraged citizens to become involved in the political process and consider running for office. Very noble. However, anyone seriously thinking about running for one of the seats open in our city in November should have their priorities in order and understand what the citizens want—or appear to want. First, it was growth. Now, it seems to be halting further development. So what is a guy (or girl) to think?
      Some citizens are comparing our recent reckless "growth" with south and central Brevard. I don't see it that way, but apparently, like Nostradamus, their prophecies of doom, gloom and gridlock have some residents running for cover. This presents a palpable problem for any office seeker in deciding the kind of platform to run on.
      Or run from...
      They must first ascertain whether they will be a growth, or "don't-try-to-fix-it-if-it- ain't-broke" candidate and keep the status quo in our fair city.
      Underneath the many objections given for growth, the real reasons are understandably seldom dogmatized. Many residents, when speaking about "garden" or "patio homes," equate potential new residents as owning old pickup trucks with unburned motor oil exploding from broken mufflers and tailpipes. They want to keep the character of their neighborhoods intact, and oppose any immigrant population from disturbing their tranquility and having the potential of lowering their property values. I don't think that will happen with the right controls established by this Council, but then all of us have our "chicken little," and Titusville is certainly no exception. I do agree that these political activists and other concerned citizens make a point involving the submerged land issue. By the time this paper is on the streets Wednesday, Council will have probably passed the ordinance halting the use of submerged lands in deciding how many housing units can be built on a site. It will effectively eliminate the use of these moist lands in figuring housing density, and includes all property on the shoreline with the exception of lakes and retention ponds.
      The problem the candidates for the three open local offices will be one of commitment to either this considerable group of citizens demanding caution, or much of the business community who succeed or fail contingent on population numbers.
      From what I hear some of these throwing their hats in the ring will certainly give voters clear choices, and make no bones about where they stand.
      Or, lie...

Bigger not always better

This can be no truer than in the banking business.
      Last week, I opened a personal (mad money) account at The Bank Brevard over on U.S. 1 and Knox McRae. I did so at the suggestion of my friend Bob DeTorres (currently cruising the islands) who said he was really impressed by the people there. I should not be surprised, having known their president and CEO, Bill Brennan, for more than 18 years when he was with SunBank (now SunTrust).
      I was delighted to learn he was opening a branch of his new bank in Titusville last year, because I know his banking philosophy which is totally directed in serving the local community and having a board committed to local businesses. Bill Brennan will put his bank's money where his mouth is—in the hands of local people—without the big bank bureaucracy and foot-dragging on decisions. I also know the majority of the boards members, including one local member to be appointed shortly, and assure you that Brennan means what he says, and says what he means when he talks about the problems with large banking organizations and their indifference to depositors and their needs in terms of loans and services. You will also not be nickel and dimed by services and transactions that the big guys gouge you.
      It's about time Titusville finally has a bank, a president, Vice President-North Brevard, Jack Gould, and board that cares about little people and are not arrogant.
      I suspect you will say, "Yeah, but then they'll get big, too, and be like all the rest."
      I don't think so. I know Bill Brennan. He would not have left the security of a mega-bank if he was blowing smoke.

New drug plan is a scam

      You're better off gambling with a 52 card deck playing poker than with the choices we will have with the new prescription fiasco and the drug cards.
      The kindest thing I could say about the Medicare discount drug program is a joke—the discounts won't be equal to the increases we will all soon pay.
      For all the benefits we're supposed to receive, we will be better off taking a regular trip to Canada for our drugs. If one is subsisting on Social Security, and perhaps an additional small income and are considered in the lower-income bracket, you might as well try to receive SSI for necessary health coverage. Through Medicaid, too many choices are available—and are totally confusing. Additionally, this highly touted prescription program will become the catalyst for other health care problems. While there is no enrollment fee if you qualify for the $600 credit, here is the rub... If you do not qualify, you will need to pay an annual enrollment fee of about $30 for the card, but to get the credit your annual income is restricted to $12,569 or less, if single; or $16,862 or less, if married. This includes your own and your spouse's income.
      If, like many, you are surviving off Social Security alone you are in deep doo-doo. In fact, if married, you may want to think about filling for divorce.
      President Bush's proposals are inadequate and demonstrate his administration's total failure to understand the breadth of our healthcare crises. The Dem's aren't proposing anything any better. The only thing that will solve the healthcare crises (I'm sorry to say) is universal healthcare coverage for all Americans.

Something for almost nothing

      My neighbor and I have been rummaging through our garages during a self-imposed "Spring Cleaning" binge, and found some gems we're going to sell.
      We both have extra breakfront cabinets we can no longer use. They're both about the same size (over 6 ft. high and about 42 inches long). One has the South Florida look in mauve and white stucco finish with glass doors and wired for lighting. My neighbor Max paid over $4,000 for it and will sacrifice it for $200. Mine is almost identical in size, solid wood, in a light cream color which looked great at our former house, but does not make it in our smaller town house. Originally it cost over $1,500 but we'll consider anything over $100.
      I also have a Harley-Davidson Bicycle. This brand new 20" Blackhawk is made by Roadmaster Corp., (I still have the shipping carton) and is the only product of its kind that Harley ever approved for sale. I understand it's now a collector's item valued at about $800. My bottom price is $350. If interested in any of the three items, call 267-1332 and leave a message. We'll return your call and set up a time for you to drop over and look at everything. Only serious buyers need apply.
      Both Max and I decided that if we haven't used anything for the last 12 months, there's no sense keeping it. Plus, we need the space in our garages for our vehicles. You know how that goes...

Retailers son making dad blink twice

      Recently Sue and I stopped by the new furniture store in Rockledge to see what Chad Stephens was up to. Fired by his father earlier this year in differences of opinion and merchandising policy, Chad has pulled this new concept off. We found furniture and accessories hundreds of dollars below retail; much of the stuff was priced at a true wholesale price and the quality was exceptional. Chad and his partner will only keep one store open for 10 days, 10 times a year. The other time will be spent on locating the merchandise. It's a no frills, cash and carry operation only. This concept is going to catch on quickly, and this young scion of the well known Brevard furniture family is going to turn furniture buying on its ear.
      Believe me, I know a bargain when I see one...
     

IT'S MY TURN

By BOB SOCKS

      Last week, we honored and buried a true American hero. Pat Tillman, an NFL player who turned down millions of dollars to pursue a military career as an Army Ranger, and gave his life for the freedoms he so deeply believed in.
      Pat was a man of honor, integrity, and was deeply patriotic. His grandfather served at Pearl Harbor on December 7 of 1941. His family had a long history of service to our country, and Pat gave up a life of luxury and privilege to make $19,000 a year as a Ranger.
      He was a man among men; a man whose beliefs were so strong that he perished so all of us can live the American dream. He was the best of the best, a man who followed his dream to eternity.
      Pat Tillman, America and the free world will miss you...
      Also last week, the Florida Legislature's two months of session came to a halt with the passage of the state budget as mandated in the state Constitution, and very little else passed. The last day of the session was a disgrace to the taxpayers and voters of Florida. Most of the blame can be centered on one man—House Speaker Johnnie Byrd.
      Speaker Byrd has completed his eight years in the house and will be grandfathered out due to term limits. He now appears to have a desire to run for the U.S. Senate, and has accumulated several million dollars to begin the run. What Byrd did to the people of Florida is unforgiving. Basically there was very little Florida business that took place. Due to the Byrd ego, house members were treated like children, or sheep—as he puts it—and he is the shepherd.
      Johnnie Byrd is gone and, hopefully, forgotten. He has no chance of getting elected to the U.S. Senate.
      So, Pat Tillman was killed in action in Afghanistan, a man of the highest valor and beliefs, and Johnnie Byrd will die a slow political death in Florida, a victim of his own ego and selfish ways.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

It's their turn!

      Finally! Someone has spoken up about the growing problem in Titusville of large empty spaces which no one wants. Thank you for penning what a lot of us think.
      Speaking for a lot of us, I feel we do not have inside info to be able to speak objectively, but you ask for ideas, so here are mine...
      I don't know the proximity of the nearest school to the empty grocer (10 years!) on Harrison, but it would be a good place to put one, I think.
      Hated to see the Scotty's close on Garden, and now OfficeMax. Is Scotty's large enough to house a Wal-Mart at that end of town?
      When we first moved here (1987) someone asked us our address. When we told them, they commented that we lived out in the boonies—and it sure feels more like it each year, with everything moving south. I do not mind; we have a lovely home in a safe neighborhood and, while I feel we could use an Albertson's here, Winn-Dixie suits all my needs—and I can walk to it.
      Traffic is never so heavy that I cannot get where I want to go (like the American Police Hall of Fame and Museum, where I do volunteer work), but it would be a convenience for a "do-it-all" like Wal-Mart closer to home.
C.J. Guttormsen,
Titusville

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      I read Bob Socks' "It's My Turn" column in the April 28 issue referencing the empty buildings in Titusville. I would like the opportunity to elaborate on his facts.
      Socks mentioned tax incentives to sell or lease these buildings. The owners have the natural incentive of receiving no revenues from these buildings unless they are rented. Any incentives to the owners would just be subsidizing their positions. The market will dictate the end price. We have researched this with other communities and could not identify any community in Florida that has any program to incentivize the leasing or sale of empty buildings.
      As far as attracting new users, we send out packets on a weekly basis to potential retailers to come into the area. The fact is that major retailers will only go into an area when they see market growth sufficient to support their operations. Fortunately, we are starting to see the kind of growth that will attract these businesses.
      The Goodings building on Harrison and the old Wal-Mart both have existing leases on them. The actual owner is receiving money from Goodings on an annual basis and, therefore, has no incentive to lease. The same I believe is true with the old Wal-Mart.
      Scotty's still holds a lease on the building.
      We've talked to the real estate company representing Goodings just recently, and they told us that until the lease runs out the owner is not motivated to do anything.
      We have shown the Smart-Choice (not Eckler) building to numerous prospects, but have not found a buyer yet. We came close a couple of times, but the owners seemed to have a higher expectation of the value than the marketplace. The real estate agent dealing with the property couldn't get the owners and the purchasers to agree on a price. It would be unrealistic—and probably unacceptable— to the taxpayers for the City to bridge the gap.
      (The City of Titusville does offer tax abatement to new construction, or the expansion of existing manufacturing businesses; these are wealth-creating businesses that import money into our community. I would like to talk to you about this, as the referendum is coming up again in November.)
      Finally, the AIS building, Office Max and the Patch Building have all just recently come on the market. We added them to our database and hope to show them to our prospects very soon.
      On a personal note, this office has been trying to present Titusville in a positive light because, as you know, nothing succeeds like success. This particular article Socks wrote put a negative slant on things, which really doesn't help the cause.
Karen Steil,
Space Coast Economic Development Commission

BUSINESS BRIEFS

By BOB SOCKS

Titusville Business License Report — April 2004

Number of new licenses issued — 32

• Breakdown as follows:
• Home Based Business - 16
• Boat Detailing - 1
• Skin Care - 1
• Restaurant - 2
• Janitorial/Commercial - 1
• Business Office - 1
• Sales-Air Purifier - 1
• Party Planner - 1
• Retail Sales - 1
• Mobile Vendor-Shoes - 1
• Mail Order - 1
• Physician - 1
• Used Book Sales - 1
• Tile, Granite, Marble Sales - 1
• Photography - 1
• Fishing Service - 1

Senior citizens in demand

      There is a new, largely untapped pool of eager workers who toil odd hours, show up on time, and usually forego costly health benefits.
      Senior citizens who postpone retirement or return to work after retiring have become the new darlings for recruiters in the country's growing retail and service sectors.
      Why? They are refreshing, less demanding, stay on a job, are patient with customers, bring valuable experience, and have no small children who distract.
      Firms needing seniors: Home Depot has a need for 35,000 workers this year...contact AARP. Also Radio Shack, General Nutrition Centers and Cost Plus World Markets are actively pursuing older workers through Seniors4Hire.com, Senior Job Bank and other national job boards.
      Workers older than 55 are the fastest-growing segment of the country's work force, while employment for other age groups has dropped, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. By the end of this decade, the agency estimates that 26.6 million Americans older than 55 will be working, a 46 percent increase since 2000, fueled by retirees and aging baby boomers. At the same time, retiring baby boomers will create a labor shortage of 10 million people by the end of the decade.
      So, for the seniors who wish to work full or part time, the future looks very bright. And, as a bonus, the country needs you working to help fill the millions of jobs that will become available.

'Surf Cop'

      Titusville Police Dept. Commander Skip Toney, in preparation of his retirement in the next few years, has opened Inland Port Surf Shop with his fiancee, Linda Myers, at 3270 Curtis Blvd. in Port St. John, and will be celebrating their grand opening on Sunday, May 16, starting at 1 p.m.
      Toney, who has been an avid surfer for 40 years, has planned many activities for the grand opening, including a DJ, bands, refreshments, and a raffle for a surfboard and a complete skateboard.
      Best wishes regarding your new ventures, Skip—both business and personal.

By DIANNE SIMMONS

Kids aren't just allowed at the Titusville YMCA Family Center...they're invited! Join now and save $50 off your joiner's fee.
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Be sure to make it to the big one day spring cleaning sale at Simply Precious Crafts and Gift Shop taking place Saturday, May 15. There will be door prizes and refreshments - and great deals!
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Take advantage of Plantation House Restaurant of Titusville's golf & dinner special. See their ad for more details.
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Do you color your hair? Antona's Salon & Spa is introducing a new hair product line called Pureology, which gives you longer lasting colour - guaranteed! Look for their ad for more information on the product line.
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RememberŠ the "Save Our River Front" poker run benefit is on Saturday, May 22 at Fuzzy's Tavern. Sign up at 9:30 am. to ride. Everyone's welcome to join the benefit, which starts at 3 p.m.
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Star Dance Academy was located at Sand Point Village Shopping Plaza in Titusville and has relocated to Fay Plaza, 4795 Fay Blvd. in Port St. John. Check out their ad for free dance classes.
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Do you like to entertain and have talent? Stop in Searstown Mall at C.R.N.—Carter, Roberts & Norris Entertainment and inquire about their services for actors, models, singers, comedians, etc.
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Sand Point Senior Living is offering the independent lifestyle you deserve. See the ad and call Kathy for an appt. to tour their facility.
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Park Villas Apartments is Titusville's newest apartment community! They are offering half off your first month's rent and security deposit. See ad for more details.
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Let Holistic Family Health Clinic help you to stop smoking with therapy. Look in The Beacon's Health Care section for their ad and give them a call.
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PRC Bulk Mail offers complete direct mail services. See their ad to view all kinds of services they offer.
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Nataucha's Hair & Nails has a perm special at a low price. Take in their coupon and save.
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Indian River Fence Co. carries all types of fencing. They can install or you can do-it-yourself.
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Check out Buck's Lawnmower Shop's ad for savings on a blower, line trimmer, and fire ant killer.
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Ted & Marilynn Little have opened Covenant Lock and Key, Inc. at 1077 Cheney Hwy. They offer services for residential, commercial and vehicles. See their ad and give them a call.
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Don't hesitate to call ERA The Property Place, 269-2226, or stop by their office at 3436 S. Hopkins Ave., for advice or information from your local real estate experts Jeanette Goff, Kathy L. Knispel, Michael J. Martucci, Donald B. McCarter Sr., Phillip R. Poppell, Willie R. Risner and Pamela Shaffner.
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The Titusville Area Chamber of Commerce will be hosting the next "Titus Nites" Street Party on Friday night, June 4. "Schools Out" is the theme for this street party, so expect a lot of kids to go downtown. They will be featuring "GirlZone," a hot young group of talented singers that were a huge hit at the Indian River Festival. Make sure to come hungry and enjoy some delicious food from one of our local restaurants in the downtown area or from one of the street vendors.

There will be games and activities for the kids of all ages to enjoy. Car buffs will love the antique car show, low rider cars, and brand new beauties from Pat Fisher Chevrolet-Nissan. Other local businesses will be featuring their products and services. Don't forget to include time for browsing through the shops and dancing in the street.

The street party starts at 6 p.m. and will end at 10 p.m. Admission is free. Come on down to north bound U.S.1 between Julia St. and Broad St. and enjoy one of our wonderful Florida nights in Historic Downtown Titusville.
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Kathleen (Kay) Taylor passed away Sunday, March 28, 2004.
Kay was born in Zanesville, OH, and moved to Titusville in 1963 with her husband, Quincy. They had two children Jeffery (deceased) and Christie. Christie and her husband, Ralph Futch, have two children, Bobby and Hillary.
Kay has been a partner in The Dusty Rose Antique Mall since 1984, and owner since 1997. She also owned "Kay's Antiques and Collectibles" since 1983. She was a member of the Titusville Antique Club and Space Coast Region Antique Car Club. She was a member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Mims.
She will be truly missed by many...

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