Navarre Beach: Preserving Our Community’s Character

Navarre Beach’s current leasehold system, where the county retains ownership and leases the land, has played a crucial role in maintaining its largely residential character and limiting overdevelopment. This arrangement provides a level of oversight and control over land use that is less prevalent in areas with fee simple ownership. For instance, the Allowed Use clause in the leasehold agreement recently helped prevent unilateral development of pristine land during the RV Park controversy. Similar safeguards could be diminished or eliminated entirely under fee simple ownership, potentially opening the door for large-scale commercial projects that may not align with the community’s vision.

Examples from nearby areas illustrate these risks clearly. In Walton County, the removal of leasehold protections led to significant acquisitions by developers, transforming beachfront areas into dense commercial zones dominated by high-rise condos. According to county records, within five years of the transition, over 70% of beachfront properties previously under leasehold agreements were redeveloped into commercial properties. Such changes could irreversibly alter Navarre Beach’s charm and appeal as a largely residential community.

We recognize that proponents of fee simple ownership highlight potential benefits, primarily addressing concerns about double taxation (lease fees in addition to property taxes) and potentially increasing property values. However, we believe that the potential benefits are outweighed by the risks of increased development pressure, reduced community oversight, and potential loss of the unique character that makes Navarre Beach so desirable.

Moreover, Navarre Beach has already experienced a noticeable decline in full-time residents, with many homeowners selling to speculators who build short-term rental properties. According to recent census data, the full-time resident population has decreased by approximately 30% in the last five years. Fee simple ownership could exacerbate this trend by attracting developers seeking to maximize profits through high-density projects and increased tourism, potentially further diminishing the sense of community that longtime residents cherish.

We urge all residents to carefully consider the potential consequences of transitioning to fee simple ownership. While addressing concerns about double taxation is important, we must ensure that any changes do not compromise the very qualities that make Navarre Beach a special place to live. We encourage a communitywide discussion to explore all options and ensure that the future of Navarre Beach reflects the collective vision of its residents.

Jim Sutton

Navarre Beach