As of 10/01/08, there is still no fee collection system in place.
South County Land Manager, Pam Leasure reports that her office has been “instructed to begin a fee-based permitting process beginning October 1, 2008”.
“Until October 1st… (the County) … will implement a simple, no-cost approach to issuing permits. On our camping information webpage we will include a PDF file that lists of the rules and regulations of Shell Key Preserve and requires a signature to validate the permit. Campers will be required to obtain, sign and carry this one page document with them while on Shell Key.”
While county staff suggested that there would be no fees in the immediate future, we had a feeling that it was only a matter of time before the permits were put to work generating revenue for the County. The permits will be still available online 24/7.
We will keep you posted on status and cost of the new permits as we hear from the county.
Update: The county now has a basic permitting system in place. You can get the permit online here …
URL Updated 06/04/2011:
http://www.pinellascounty.org/park/managedlands/skp-camping-info.htm
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Opinion:
Certainly, plenty of folks will be immediately put off by the announcement of fees for camping. Nobody likes being charged for something they used to do for free.
But, I am inclined to look for the silver lining in this announcement. I believe this represents an opportunity for everyone (county, birders and campers alike) to make a meaningful investment for the future of recreational activity on Shell Key.
Many of us grew up with the sense that we had a “right” to camp on “Shell Island”. But when the County assumed it’s lease of the island in 2000, the island and surrounding waters became a “political entity” who’s access and use are guided by the interpretation of that lease. Various interest groups, ranging from environmental preservation to commercial interests lobby the County for access to – or restrictions on Shell Key.
Until now, campers have been, essentially unrepresented citizens with little or no influence in the public policy issues and decisions being made for Shell Key. As “paying customers”, we can establish some security for the role of our activities – while simultaniously promoting preservation and responsible use of the island…
We have already argued extensively that permits would improve the overall camping experience by encouraging recreational users to abide by the “leave no trace” ethic. As nature lovers ourselves, this represents an investment in our relationship with our brothers and sisters in the various environmental advocacy groups.
But, from a purely economic perspective, fees represent an opportunity for campers to occupy a small but legitimate niche in the sometimes mysterious beurocracy of county politics. It’s no secret that Pinellas County, like all Florida counties, will be facing considerable budget shortfalls for several years. To them, this represents a way to look for pocket change under the proverbial couch cushions. It’s not a lot of revenue, but they’ll take what they can get. And even when this current budget crisis passes, I believe fees will help secure a place for campers on Shell Key.
We welcome your views and would love to hear from anyone who has another perspective on this issue.
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