Pace High School fireworks
The school district recently prohibited the launching of fireworks on school property, putting an end to a long-held Pace High School tradition. However, residents aren’t letting the fireworks go down without a fight.
The Cutting Board owner Steve Gregory submitted a formal letter requesting permission to use the county-owned land/holding pond near Pace Library “for the purpose of launching a small, professional fireworks display prior to all Pace High School home football games during the 2025 season and STEAM night activities hosted by Pace High School.”
The open area near the library, which Gregory calls a “safe and accessible location” would effectively bypass the fireworks ban. The fireworks would not be launched on school property, and the area is across from the Pace Fire Department, allowing for immediate response if an incident occurred. Smith expressed a desire to coordinate with the local fire departments and law enforcement in order to ensure public safety and minimal disruption.
Gregory has stated that if approved, he will provide the county with a full schedule of the planned dates and times of the displays, proof of insurance, and verification that properly licensed and trained handlers are in attendance.
East Milton wellfield water supply wells
The Office of Management and Budget seeks the approval of grants given to them by the Northwest Florida Water Management District in the amount of $2 million. The grants are for water supply infrastructure projects, including distribution and transmission facilities.
The $2 million will be used both to establish water supply wells for the East Milton Wellfield and support the replacement and extension of the Highway 182 Water Main.
There is no match requirement for the grant.
County purchasing
The county is eyeing the opportunity to buy a 10-acre pit east of Bell Lane. They believe the elevation of the pit in relation to Bell Lane would help the location be viable to meet the stormwater requirements for future roadway projects.
The agenda item states that the asking price for the land is $750,000, and these funds are available in Road & Bridge Reserves should the county wish to buy the parcel, which is currently zoned as Agricultural Rural Residential.
