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Opinion


Making a splash: RaceTrac decision prompts wellfield discussion

In February, Santa Rosa County commissioners approved letting RaceTrac install underground fuel storage tanks in a wellfield zone that supplies clean drinking water to about 100,000 residents. On Monday, Commissioner Colten Wright, who voted to approve the variance allowing the tanks, proposed updating the wellfield protection ordinance to address issues raised during the RaceTrac debate – including what to do about existing underground tanks in the area.

Water under the bridge? RaceTrac decision raises questions about county’s process

Did Santa Rosa County compromise the integrity of its water protection zone by approving a variance to allow RaceTrac to install underground storage tanks at a station on State Road 87? We don’t think so, but the unpopular decision raises some questions about how the county manages its various overlay districts.

Calkins’ video is transparent campaign grandstanding

Bless his cotton-pickin’ heart. James Calkins must lay awake nights trying to think of ways to get attention.

Lower millage rates could hinder first responders

“In Santa Rosa County, our sense of safety is a testament to the dedication and hard work of my men and women in uniform and the other First Responders, whose partnerships we greatly appreciate and depend on. Yet, this safety net faces a critical threat—one that originates from unsurmountable growth within our county.

Out and About

Sandi Kemp
December 21, 2023
I recently heard a sermon from my home church, First Baptist Orlando, that 100% inspired this column. I love Christmas for many reasons, but first and foremost because we are celebrating and recognizing the significance of the birth of Jesus. How does the world celebrate Christmas? By giving gifts and acts of kindness to one another to demonstrate our love for others.

Brian Out Loud

Brian Lester
March 18, 2024
There is some great softball in this area. Pace and Jay tend to lead the way in Santa Rosa County.
The facts speak for themselves.

For God’s Sake: let us eat!

Guest Columnist
March 14, 2024
I come from a very large family – nine kids – and the mealtime rule in our house was you ate what was put before you. If you refused to eat it, well, you didn’t eat. If one of us asked for something else to eat, my mother’s stock answer was, “What do you think this is, kid, a restaurant?”
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