Commissioners Divided on Perdido Key Beach Customary Use

Stroberger opposes customary use, pursues alternatives; public hearing set for February 19

Escambia County, FL (Newsradio 92.3) -- Escambia County commissioners heard a presentation Thursday on customary use for Perdido Key beaches, revealing deep divisions ahead of a public hearing February 19.

Commissioner Steve Stroberger, who represents Perdido Key, made clear he opposes customary use and is pursuing alternatives.

"We're the legislative body for the county and our job is simple. It's to protect life Liberty and property," Stroberger said. "I believe in property rights. I also believe in public access and I don't think they should be in conflict."

County attorneys presented three areas where customary use could potentially apply: 4,000 feet east of Perdido Key State Park, 1.25 miles west of the state park, and one mile near Flora-Bama.

Customary use must be ancient, reasonable, without interruption, and free from dispute.

Opposing View

Commissioner Lumon May said he will support public beach access even if it means litigation.

"There are a couple of things that God gives us. He gives us the land the sea the air the water," May said. "Unfortunately many people are limited access because of affordability."

May said he remembers his parents going to Johnson Beach for free and walking near condos "they could never afford."

Stroberger's Alternatives

Stroberger is negotiating to buy parcels near Beach Access Three with RESTORE Act funding and working with Florida DEP on free state park access for county residents.

"I'm still going to pursue more property Beach access," Stroberger said. "I think this whole subject of customary use is trouble."

He cited Walton County's "eight million dollar lawsuit" as a concern.

What's Next

The board will hold public comment February 19 at 9 AM before the regular meeting at 9:30 AM.

Some commissioners suggested waiting for an 11th Circuit Court ruling on a similar Reddington Beach case. Oral arguments are February 24, though a written opinion could take weeks or months.