Unfortunately the public has been painted a picture on the redevelopment of Parkside that is just not true, specifically on the topic of stormwater detention needed for the Midway Blvd. construction project. In an editorial Wednesday, the Charlotte Sun stated “County staff has dismissed this community developed park plan and instead created a controversial proposal to convert two-thirds of Lake Betty Park in Port Charlotte into stormwater drainage ponds.” The Sun also stated, “Only under pressure from Commissioners Duffy and Parkside advocates did the growth management department under Dan Quick come up with the two alternatives.” These statements are not accurate.

On April 30, 2012, the Board of County Commissioners entered into the design contract with Giffels Webster Engineering to complete the design of Midway Phase 2, a road-widening project. Approximately four months ago, Charlotte County staff had one-on-one meetings with all five commissioners to brief them about the use of Lake Betty Park for drainage detention. They all understood the concept; however, based on their input and conversations with administration, Giffels Webster Engineering was directed to seek out and find any feasible option. The result of their work is the administration’s recommendation to purchase property from the Presbyterian Church. Other options that were determined include the use of Lake Betty Park or the purchase of occupied single family lots. These options are in the Sept. 25 presentation to Board of County Commissioners.