DESTIN — Temporary improvements at Royal Melvin Heritage Park are on hold after questions about an easement have come to light.
“If we proceed with the temporary improvements that were recommended by the Harbor Advisory Committee CRA, that may potentially prejudice the city’s position in working through this issue with the adjacent property owner,” City Manager Maryann Ustick told Community Redevelopment Agency board members at a recent meeting.
The city originally planned to place sod, a sign and fencing along the harbor-front park between The Fisherman’s Wharf and Dewey Destin’s Harborside restaurant. The fencing would have been placed on the western edge of the park abutting the restaurant.
An 8-foot driveway that vehicles use to get from U.S. Highway 98 to Destin Harbor sits along the property line. If the fence is placed on the western edge of the park, it would be on the opposite side of the driveway and block traffic.
“It’s the staff’s recommendation that they (the city) notify the property owner of their intent to develop the park and to cut off cross access of that easement,” City Engineer David Campbell said during a CRA Advisory Committee meeting in May.
Dewey Destin, who was at that meeting, wasn’t keen on blocking off the driveway.
Destin said he would like to work with the city without getting lawyers involved. However, he said he wouldn’t shy away if that was necessary.
“If we get a notice that says the easement is going to be cut off, then game on then,” he said. “I’m sure our attorneys, who are quite confident that we will prevail in using this road, will be happy to take action.”
“I would sure hope to negotiate without being under the gun like that, but that’s a decision that’s going to be made by the city,” he added. “This has been the only access there for a very, very long time. It’s been the only access since I was a little bitty boy.”
While Destin considers issues with the easement, officials did agree to place some mulch on the property and add a sign for the park.
Ustick said last week that it would be best for the city to work with its consultant, Tetra Tech, on a conceptual plan for the park as they move forward.
Destin Log Staff Writer Matt Algarin can be reached at 850-654-8446 or malgarin@thedestinlog.com. Follow him on Twitter @DestinLogMatt.
