One thing that we do know, the Camp Grounds at John Prince Park are getting an expensive upgrade to its voltage distribution. So, at least we should feel relatively safe that the County Commission won't be taking the camp ground valuable property for a ballfield. However, 100% trust is not in my playbook.
Shelley Vana likes to complain that JPP is making NO money. But when do parks ever make money? Are they even supposed to make money? Does the building where the Board of County Commissioners hold their meetings make money? This is all public property and maintenance and upkeep are paid by county taxes. The camp grounds DO make money--I have heard that it is over $3 mil a year.
The following was on the Board of County Commissioners May 3rd agenda:
H. FACILITIES DEVELOPMENT & OPERATIONS (Cont’d)
2. Staff recommends motion to approve: Contract with Grid-One Electrical Construction, Inc. in the amount of $1,037,000 for the John Prince Park (JPP) Campground High Voltage Distribution Replacement project, located in Lake Worth. SUMMARY: This project consists of constructing a new 25KV high voltage overhead and underground distribution system including a new primary meter system. In September 2014, Hillers Electrical Engineering completed a study on the overhead distribution system deemed necessary due to the systems apparent deteriorating condition, and the need to determine the capacity for additional electrical loads expected as a result of utility upgrades being designed for the campground. The study found that the current condition of the existing overhead lines along with electrical capacity issues necessitates an upgrade and expansion of the existing overhead distribution system from a single phase to three phase service. This work was competitively bid with Grid-One Electrical Construction, Inc. submitting the lowest responsive, responsible bid. Funding for this Contract is from Park Impact Fees Zone 2 and Zone 3, and the proposed work is consistent with the John Prince Park Campground Phase III Capital Improvements Program (CIP) project description. The Impact Fee Coordinator has approved the use of impact fees for this project. The total construction duration is 179 calendar days. The goal for Small Business Enterprise (SBE) participation is 15% and Grid-One Electrical Construction, Inc.’s participation for this Contract is 75.4%. Grid-One Electrical Construction, Inc. is a Palm Beach County company. (Capital Improvements Division) District 3 (DC)
6 comments:
I'm confused, I thought the map of where they want to put the Ballpark Stadium would be in this area. When one of my friends was at the park he talked to the workmen and found out they were working on the elec system. I figured this was for the benefit of the Atlanta Braves since I am guessing they would need lots more lighting if they play at night.
Also a friend called for the figures and the campground has made $4 million so far this year (since Jan.)
They have indicated, or it was said at the last county Commission meeting, it would be the area off of S. Congress down from JFK, which I take it as the Learning Center location. However, that is why I said that I don't trust them.
If the campgrounds (that is making over $3 mil a year...could be close to $4 and is 48 acres)is the location that they want, which is certainly desirable as there is lake frontage, it could indicate their sneakiness to upgrade the voltage there and not tell the public the "real" truth. The Braves want 100-110 acres.
Anything could be happening as the Braves were meeting with Verdenia Baker, the county administrator, this past week with their intent.
Hey, Palm Beach post--are you up on this?
I don't understand why elected officials focus on profit when discussion green and recreational spaces for residents. Its not supposed to make money, it is there for tax payers to use and enjoy.
Same thing happens with our city pool.
The campground is going nowhere.the occupancy utilization rates are excellent and they've even mentioned expanding the camoground. And while $3million revenue might be the REVENUE in a year, you fail to mention the EXPENSE of this operation. To say they made $3 million is a bogus number and inaccurate.
As implied, parks aren't supposed to make money. Because we have a campground that is always filled to capacity is a bonus to the County and to the park. What does Bryant Park cost us to maintain?
Elected officials focus on profit when it suits their agenda. Remember Scott's continuing chant that we "can't afford" our beach? The agenda always seems to favor rich developers.
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