Comments on: Escambia Gives Final Approval $3.6 Million 4-H’s Langley Bell Sale To Navy Federal

By: L.M

L.M — Wed, 09 May 2012 01:55:21 +0000

The property on Crab Tree would be a DREAM. Beautiful, high and dry with a gated entrance and fenced. Wonderful community around. MANY livestock and horse owners around plus farmers abound. Superb access from HWY 29. I hope they go for it as i would love to have my kids involved in 4H!

By: 429SCJ

429SCJ — Tue, 08 May 2012 12:46:24 +0000

I am optimistic this Morning, as bad as this is 4H will continue wiser and stronger
for the ordeal.

We have learned much as much has been revealed pertaining to those we elected
to be the stewards and caretakers of our county and trust. The true colors and
hidden agendas of many has been revealed, even though much remains hidden
the light is on this matter and the memories of these events are and will remain in
our hearts and mind. Let us not forget, when we exercise the power of our VOTE.

By: G.David Lamb

G.David Lamb — Sun, 06 May 2012 03:42:06 +0000

The foundation members are appointed by Extension Director. I have talked with 2 of the members. I tried to talk with the Realtor. He basically told me to ” get lost’. he needs removed immediately. He did not want to discuss anything with me It is split into 2 groups. one group consists of 4H associated members, ie… Jackie Cunningham and others. The lists should be a public record.
The other group is non-4H affiliated as told to me by Extension director ,so that they have no vested interest in their decisions, I AM Skeptical though!.
i have seen their names and one is a 4H hall of famer.
Most appear to be ok, if they can or do not have to follow cthe “party line”..
Find the list an be sure to voice your opinion!

By: me

me — Sat, 05 May 2012 18:29:53 +0000

Jeeperman – the problem with the decision and handling of the 4-H money being the responsibility of the Escambia County 4-H Foundation is that I am pretty sure these adult members that you mentioned are carefully handpicked/selected and appointed to this Foundation by the Director of Extension. Most are not always associated with any clubs or even 4-H in some cases, there is a realtor, a CPA, a County Commissioner, and even an employee of Navy Federal to name a few. And their meetings are not subject to the Sunshine Law.
Scary part is that she will probably be the one appointing the members of the
4-H Task Force mentioned in the MOU – the Task Force that is supposed to study which option to go with (the Bayer Property or not).

By: Former 4-H member, State Winner in Agriculture

Former 4-H member, State Winner in Agriculture — Sat, 05 May 2012 00:53:28 +0000

I think the Bayer Property is the best alternative. I think there should be more access for the 4-H ers for projects, Livestock shows and summer camps. I think we are lucky such a property as Bayer Property is currently available. I hope the decision makers secure this property very soon.

By: InTheKnow

InTheKnow — Fri, 04 May 2012 18:53:41 +0000

Thank you Mr. Lamb for a well researched and thought out response!

By: No Excuses

No Excuses — Fri, 04 May 2012 18:27:12 +0000

Gerald,

I’ve followed this story with interest, especially since I live in Molino and I have livestock. For personal reasons, I’d love to see the 4-H facility end up on the old Bayer property as I would like for my kids to be more involved, and with the set up closer to home, that would be possible for them. On a non-personal level, it makes more sense to build where development has not yet begun to encroach. It will come soon enough as the only way left to grow for Pensacola and surrounding areas is north, for the most part, but it would be years before that would even be a consideration if the property were placed on the Molino site. Keep up the great work!

By: Gerald Lamb

Gerald Lamb — Fri, 04 May 2012 17:53:34 +0000

In the know: There are actually 88 acres of wetlands @ LBC. It is still wildlife habitat and does have some management potential.. As far as only 30 to 40 acres being utilized, that is because much was timber that could have been managed for profit!. Also as i stated earlier, many restrictions were put in p[lace to limit the usage for reasons, that seem silly. Insurance, lack of vision/leadership and other factors prevented uses that were there before and not there now. The hurricane destroyed some infrastructure and it was not rebuilt wjhich also limited the uses. I know that i am being harsh on Extension Office, but I see that a lack of incentive/leadership/ vision are strong factors. The 23 acres on Stefani Rd and the additional 20 to 30 acres are still rural residential with all the drawbacks of growth and risks. Combining it all into one facility, Bayer,just makes more sence. It is zoned AG and neighbors know it. It can bvought cheap too, leaving 2,000,000 plus to operate on.

By: JSCS

JSCS — Fri, 04 May 2012 17:52:50 +0000

The sale of 4-H property to NFCU is a very good move. Now we need to ensure that the kds have a place where they can have the activities that 4-H represents. The Bayer property is perfect for growth, activities, raising livestock, gardening, and other things. Buildings on the property are a big plus. Rural community is a big plus. Environmental study is neededfirst but what a great opportunity for young people far into the future to be able to have this place. Stefani Road location is a residental area and not suited for activities of 4-H. The agent in charge should accommodate the 4-H not herself. Simple solution: move extension office to Bayer property.

By: 429SCJ

429SCJ — Fri, 04 May 2012 17:15:02 +0000

In the know, an incumbent about to go!

I hope these kids can recieve a measure of fair compensation for their/our loss.

I wish I knew the whole story from cradle to grave of what led NFCU to covet
this beautiful land. They learned of it somehow, someone planted a seed?