Baptist Hospital Campus Redevelopment

Pensacola City Council is moving forward with planning the redevelopment of the former Baptist Hospital campus. The city approved a contract Monday with a New Orleans consulting firm to develop the master plan. But Councilman Delarian Wiggins, whose district includes the property, sounded a cautionary note. He pointed to past redevelopment projects where the Black community didn't benefit fairly, and he's concerned about gentrification and residents being priced out. Despite those concerns and opposition from some residents, council unanimously approved the 180-day contract. The consulting firm will provide monthly updates as the project moves forward.

Escambia County Launches Push for Coast Guard Training Center

Pensacola, FL (Newsradio 92.3) -- Escambia County is mounting an aggressive campaign to bring the Coast Guard's first recruit training center to Naval Air Station Pensacola. County Commissioner Mike Kohler is coordinating the effort with federal and local leadership after responding to a Coast Guard Request for Information in late November.

Building Support

The proposal has attracted bipartisan federal backing. Senators Ashley Moody and Rick Scott, along with Congressman Jimmy Patronis, have all endorsed the bid. Moody sent a letter to the Secretary of Homeland Security, signaling strong state-level support.

Locally, Kohler is mobilizing everyone from city officials to the Northwest Florida Defense Coalition. "It's all hands on deck, but we're at the start line, we're not at the finish line," he said.

Why NAS Pensacola?

The Coast Guard plans to train 15,000 new personnel over the next two years and needs a second facility beyond Cape May, New Jersey. The RFI calls for 150-250 acres, lodging for 1,200 recruits, dining facilities, medical services, classrooms, pools, and office space.

"The majority of their requests in Escambia County can meet most of the deliverables," Kohler said.

The Economic Impact

If successful, the facility would infuse hundreds of millions into the local economy. Pensacola's lower cost of living compared to other regions would also save the federal government significant money over time.

Competition and Next Steps

Kohler doesn't know how many communities nationwide are competing, but believes Escambia County may be Florida's only submission. Multiple federal agencies—including the Navy and Department of Homeland Security—will need to approve any final decision.

"I believe we can train Coasties better than anyone," Kohler said. "With the right leadership and our community engaged, we have a good chance."

For Escambia County, the training center represents a potential game-changer for the regional economy and military presence.

Christmas Tree Stolen from Downtown Winterfest Display Returned

Pensacola, FL (Newsradio 92.3) -- A Christmas tree that was stolen from downtown Pensacola's Winterfest display over the weekend has been returned, thanks to quick police work.

Two individuals took the decorated tree from the county parking garage, but Pensacola Police detectives were able to identify them. When contacted by detectives, the suspects had a change of heart and decided to bring the tree back.

According to Pensacola Police PIO Mike Wood, the individuals claimed they wanted to fix a broken light on the tree before returning it to the display.

"One of our detectives figured out who they were. And then they were contacted by the detective and instantly their hearts grew three times bigger and they decided to bring it back and all is well," Wood said.

The tree is now back in place at the Winterfest display in downtown Pensacola.