Political Insider

By Butcher

April 2, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

CNN just reported that there were no injuries when Hillary Clinton came under spitwad fire at a Philadelphia Elementary School that had third graders in it. Hillary claims this is why she’s best qualified to answer the phone at 3:00am!

By Our Beach

April 2, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

I want to see the “back off the beach” plans before I let out a big whoop for the jekyll Island Authority and others. Join us Thursday morning at the capital for a fun statement to the legislature. Dress in beach attire and maybe a little sign in support of the integrity of Jekyll Island as a state park for the people. We are meeting at 9:30 a.m. in the cafeteria of the Sloppy Floyd Building and proceeding to the Legislature from there.

By Don Carson

April 2, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this

This is a start. Now let’s see how this changes the rest of the plans. Will they still plan to build a road through undeveloped land? Does this mean they won’t have to build a parking structure 1/4 mile away? Do they still want to build a new convention center? Lots of issues still to be sorted out. Porter says this “should make moot legislation that Jekyll Island residents had pushed to restrict development plans.” Legislation still seems like a good idea to me. If the JIA is going to stick to this new agreement, they have nothing to fear. However if they don’t plan on sticking to the agreement, then they should be afraid of the legislation. And by the way, Mr. Porter, this is a statewide issue. Please stop referring to those against the proposed Jekyll redevelopment plan as residents. I am from Oglethorpe county.

By CL

April 2, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

This sounds good. But this unique area should be protected forever from future whims of the Jekyll Island Authority, politicians or developers. That probably will require legislation.

By Theresa Matt

April 2, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

And I am from Oconee county, Mr. Porter. Not only that, I’m a native Georgian, and four generations of my family have visited Jekyll annually for about 40 years.

This is a huge positive step —- testimony to the power that the people still have when they unite and persevere.

I agree that we need to be vigilant and still push legislation. JIA has nothing to fear if it is truly for the people. The people have shown what they want.

By Big Jake

April 2, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

Great move for the people of Ga.Perhaps the JIA Board will now have a legacy that their Grand Children will admire.Lets not quit! More change is needed in the LLC plan.Save the wonderful Parkway coming onto Beachview Drive.A great bit of news for all Georgians who care.

By Melissa Johnson

April 2, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

Sounds like the JIA did a preemptive strike only so they would not have legislative restrictions put in place and face a defeat similar to last year’s dust up over the south end property. Keep in mind that LLC has plans to do more than just the “beach village” concept; in their “master vision plan” they had plans that span each corner of the island. I think the JIA and LLC decided that at this point, no restriction is best suited for their “partnership.” After all the stunts they have pulled in creating this controversy, it’s very hard to trust their motives.

By Mae

April 2, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

Jekyll Island is truly one of the most beautiful, serene places on earth. Why else would people travel from all over the United States to go there year after year! Let us hope the JIA and Linger Longer will heed the voices of the people for the rest of their plans for the island. I wonder if there has been an issue that involved such state and national public input on a Georgia issue? Debbie Buckner and Jeff Chapman personify what representative government is all about. Here is what I am hoping: Chapman or Buckner for GOVERNOR IN 2010!

By Pat Overholt

April 2, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

WE are pleased to see that the people’s voices are being heard. Why not take out the 2004, 20-20 plan which was quite well received when presented. That plan didn’t move Beachview Drive and intrude into tne Maritime Forrest. It utilized the old Shopping Center location and the area around the conner from it. It included shops, restaurants and condos in a 24 acre area which shoud be enough along with the new hotels that are in the planning stage.

By Bubba

April 2, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

I’ve had about enough of these elitist yankee homeowners down there.

listen folks, you’re living on land that i pay for. everyone in georgia pays for that island and your living on a dirt cheap lease. then you have the nerve to complain when the state government (that owns the island!) wants to fix it up.

here’s a news flash. Jekyll is a dump and it is not your private little island where you get to live on taxpayer subsidized land and not have anyone else walk on the beach.

here’s what the state should do - build some nice hotels and a convention center and then kick all the residents off. don’t renew a single lease.

if it’s so environmentally sensitive why are we letting people free load off the taxpayers and live there anyways?

end residential living on environmentally sensitive land.

and build some big hotels so we can all go down there and enjoy the coast.

By Tracy LeCroy

April 2, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

Jeykll Island is called a Jewel. It needs to stay that way. Let them develop somewhere else and leave the one last piece of paradise alone.

By AMS

April 2, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

I agree that legislation is still necessary in order to protect Jekyll’s future. Jekyll does not need to become another fancy resort area.

I would also vote for Chapman or Buckner in 2010 for Governor. At least they listen to the people of Georgia unlike alot of others.

By Charlie B

April 2, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

I agree with all those who take this news with guarded optimism, due to what we have seen thus far from the JIA and LL. Their idea of developing and revitalizing Jekyll is analagous to giving someone shock treatments for hiccups. Sure, the doctor gets paid, but does it help the patient? Jekyll’s true value would only be threatened and diminished by some massive, aggressive (and profitable) development scheme. Jekyll is really a special, dreamlike place in a loud and crazy world: a tranquil, safe, inclusive, fun, and unique haven for people and wildlife. But because it is also prime seaside real estate, it will always have a big target on its back with a dollar sign in the middle if we don’t pass legislation to protect it for this and future generations. So for now, we need to hang in there and also spread the word to all who may care that there is trouble in paradise. Meanwhile I am grateful to Sen. Jeff Chapman, Rep. Debbie Buckner, and Dave and Mindy Egan, among others, for their work to champion the defense of this idyllic Georgia Island. I think they have shown the bravery to stand and represent the will and best interest of the people, not to mention a very noble cause, in the face of powerful political and commercial opposition. It is no exaggeration to say they’ve championed democracy in the process. And if you haven’t done so already, go to www.savejekyllisland.org. It is a great way to keep up with just what’s been going on. But remain vigilant and involved Georgia. We need to impress on a few powerful people that it is our island, not theirs, and that we care about it, that we want revitalization that is effective but lower impact, that we love the soul of the place and that we’ll be watching what happens.

By jfize

April 2, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

sounds like bubba is a tight wad

By janie Hopwood

April 2, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

Why don’t I feel comforted by the news? Is it because I have learned a vast mistrust of our legislature and its members? I would also love to see Chapman run for Governor in 2010. Meanwhile, I would love to find someone to run for the Senate or house that feel the job entails listening to the voice of the people.

I would prefer to see legislation to protect the park, leaving the footprint the same. If ll wants to by up some leases and replace some of the homes on the island, I have no complaint if the building is in keeping with the nature of the place. I also am not from Jekyll. I live in Tifton.

By Vicki

April 2, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

Yes, it is comforting to know that the beachfront will remain as is, aside from this new conservation center. Since Linger Longer is by no means conservative with its approach to development and the JIA condones that, all eyes and ears need to remain wide open! Jekyll is one of a kind and something decent happened today thanks to so many people love this pristine place, not just its residents, Bubba!

By bubba

April 2, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

I think we’re on to something here! Yes, the new Jekyll plan.

kick all the “residents” (also known as yankee trash) off of state owned land.

turn the island into a big park with trails and more beaches. only allow a couple of nice, reasonable hotels on th e island.

it’s the people of georgia’s land. yall are right. it’s our land. so get off our island. no development on jekyll at all!!!!

By Robbie Burns - Macon, GA

April 2, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

As surprising and good as this news is, I will still remain guarded. When dealing with political appointees, they are put there by that specific politician, this time Sonny, to further his and his supporters’ interests. Ben Porter, the chairman of the JIA, is also a developer - the governor knew what he was doing.

The problem is JIA’s over the past two decades did nothing to keep Jekyll current in its accomodations and now it has reached such a point that a “solution” must be reached.

We all know Jekyll needs significant upgrading with new additions. I hope the legislature will continue to remember it’s a place for the average Georgian. If anyone doesn’t know what that means, please Google median average income in Georgia and that will answer the question.

Vigilance is the key here!

By Robbie Burns - Macon, GA

April 2, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

Bubba, The only reason why Jekyll’s residents live there is the state of Georgia allowed it in the first place. They did not “storm the beaches” and take over the island.

If you want to get your lip run out, do it with your state government that allowed it originally.

By Belle

April 2, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

Thank you to all the wonderful people who worked sooo hard to make this happen. As for Bubba (the name suits you) weren’t you ever taught that people who don’t know what they’re talking about shouldn’t open their mouths and say something stupid.

By Lorelei Shipp

April 2, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this

For those who post without back-up, I’ve asked questions. Don’t incite and make yourself look dumb.
It’s my understanding that the Initiative to Protect Jekyll Island has supporters in 49 states and about 10 countries. 2% or less are Jekyll residents. Like others, I’d like to see actual legislation to cement the agreement of protecting this public portion of OUR beach to include parking and access. Contact to multiple Represenatives yielded no responses. As busy as they are, I am too! As a non-Jekyll resident, I vacationed with my family over 30 years ago on the Island and then married in the historic district in the past seven years. This gem of Georgia’s Coast should not become overly commercialized or too expensive for the common, middle income person without a fight.

Upgrades are needed; however, another St. Simons is not. We can choose to visit that other treasure, when we need the variety.

By cyberteach

April 2, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this

If Ben Porter and the JIA are committed to “responsible development,” as he declares in his letter to Sen. Keen, it is only because of the continued pressure of thousands of people who have worked hard to see that what happens on Jekyll is revitalization, not overdeveloped—-and probably also the result of what a few lawyers had to say to them about the Shorline Protection Act.

Good news, we hope. But it doesn’t for a moment mean those of us who care can sigh and say it’s over. It will never be over. This situation will require continued vigilance.

But, I agree, kudos to Chapman and Buckner for all their hard work!

By jp

April 2, 2008 8:30 PM | Link to this

I’m of the understanding that there will be legislation introduced next year that will not allow for the renewal of any leases on the southend of the island exluding the 4-h center. Im in total agreement with this, buth think it should go farther and do away with all residential leases. No one should be allowed to have a personal residence within a state park. Just my thoughts….

By bubba

April 3, 2008 12:14 AM | Link to this

you’re right jp.

Get off our island! jekyll should be a nature preserve with some hotels and a nice beach. that’s it.

all you “let’s save jekyll from the evil developers who built the very house or condo i live in” people, it’s time to put up or shut up.

get off our island, save the beach and environment. no permanent residences on state owned land.

By susan

April 3, 2008 12:35 AM | Link to this

First I want to thank Sen. Chapman and Rep. Buckner for all that they have done to protect Jekyll Island. Their leadership and commitment to the citizens of Georgia have not gone unnoticed. David and Mindy—you two are awesome! We all would have been lost without you…

No,this is not one of those few residents from the island complaining. I am from Irwin County. I don’t know how or why this came about but I am so thankful it did. It has been an answer to my prayers!

By Susan DeHoff

April 3, 2008 8:01 AM | Link to this

Since the Coastal Resources Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources has established the jurisdictional line along the stretch of Jekyll Island beach that has recently been the focus of so much contention, it seems that the Jekyll Island Authority has made the only possible decision regarding the construction of hotels, condos, and time shares on that parcel of land. Doubtless there will be much reflection on the recent debate by those who have worked hard, been at odds, and lobbied for and against legislation that would have prevented construction that it now appears the GDNR probably would not have approved anyway.

In hindsight, why did it take the GDNR so long to establish this jurisdictional line? It would seem that a lot of political wrangling could have been avoided had they come forward with this statement much sooner. It makes it seem that not only Rep. Buckner’s amendment to SB 367 was unnecessary; a lot of unpleasant interactions with and within the Georgia Legislature were also unnecessary.

Now seems a good time for some foresight. Mr. Porter states in his April 2 letter to Rep. Keen that the Jekyll Island Authority conferred “with our revitalization partner, Linger Longer” and that “the JIA Board and our private partner are committed to the responsible redevelopment of Jekyll Island to serve all the people of Georgia.” It would seem that the people of Georgia have made it clear that they, too, want to be part of the partnership that decides the fate of Jekyll Island. They do not see themselves as outsiders in this matter. Particularly the residents of Jekyll Island, returning visitors (especially those who spend the winter months in residence), and those who own property on Jekyll also need to be considered partners. Jekyll Island is a state park, not a fiefdom with the JIA serving as landed nobility and the residents/visitors as vassals.

A little foresight now could save a lot of unhappy second-guessing later. Decisions are being made about public land. The folks who live and work on that land have a right to be speaking and listening partners in the conversation. So do all the citizens of Georgia who actually own the land. Let’s hope that some foresight will precede further decisions and actions.

By Sarah Lee

April 3, 2008 8:58 AM | Link to this

It’s good that they are finally respecting citizen’s wishes but I see this as Linger Longer’s attempt to salvage things in order to at least reap some profit. They got the original contract through underhanded dealings, and by that contract the state is still going have to pay millions to foot the bill for the development while they reap the profits when the tourists come in. One of the other three bidders (who by the way are not asking the state to foot the bill) should be given the contract.

By Yankee Trash

April 3, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this

LOOK ON THE BRIGHT SIDE, at least we are not gonna burn it like we did Atlanta, and we did spare Savannah on the March to sea. Consider this an extentsion of that, except you were gonna torch it yourself.

Sincerely, Yankee Trash

By bubba

April 3, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

I want all private residents off our island. It’s our island. who in the heck do you people think you are telling the rest of the state what we can do with our island?!

Hey JIA, eliminate all private leases! take back our island and make it a true state park.

By susan

April 4, 2008 12:02 AM | Link to this

I don’t appreciate the last two comments. This is not the time or the place to be talking trash!!!! Two wrongs don’t make a right…

By No More Ron Paul

April 4, 2008 4:50 AM | Link to this

Remember our 2nd rally to get our money back from Ron Paul. We will gather together in the underdeveloped parking lot on Jekyll. Ron Paul stole our money for his congressional race. I, and many other “former” supporters, want our money back. Please, show up early. Last time we did not have enough “blowers” to get the blimp up. See you on Saturday.