The Lafayette County Commission on Monday approved a special exception for 136 RV sites for the Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort and Campground. Owners Frank and Susie Page will proceed with the purchase of 19 acres adjacent to the Rendezvous for the new sites.

Discussion followed regarding the impact on the dirt road of existing traffic during special events and the increased traffic due to the additional 136 sites. Questions were raised regarding nearby agricultural land use and other public safety concerns. According to County Inspector Bobby Johnson, the current regulations only address allowable space per unit, which is 1200 square feet. Staff was directed to study the possibility of increased regulations and make a recommendation to the board.

In other business, the board passed an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan to include all new subdivisions being reviewed and approved by the local school board. It is critical that the school system be involved with new development and its impact on the classroom and all other aspects of educational needs.

Ken Monaghan, marketing specialist with FACT (Florida Association of Counties Trust), presented the board with a plaque for their 20 years of continuous membership. FACT provides insurance liability coverage for counties, their boards/commissions, elected and appointed officials, employees and volunteers.

“Considering today’s economic climate, we are financially strong,” said Monaghan. “Our December audit showed a surplus and our growth investments grew last year.” Monaghan stressed that FACT understands the tight budget environment and that their risk management specialist accompanying him at the meeting, Marcella Bridier, will be happy to “do a workshop just for you” to answer all the board’s questions.

Donnie Land, public safety director, updated the board on current projects, training needs and the expansion of “CodeRed.” A geographical based notification system, CodeRed “gives county officials the ability to deliver pre-recorded emergency telephone notification/information messages to targeted areas or the entire county at a rate of up to 60,000 calls per hour. To ensure no one is omitted, Emergency Management encourages all individuals and businesses to log onto the Emergency management website, www.lafayettecountyflorida.org and follow the link to the ‘CodeRed Residential and Business Data Collection’ page or call 294-4178. No one should automatically assume his or her phone number is included.”

Other agenda items were completed and the board adjourned at approximately 6:30 p.m. The next board meeting is Monday, Feb. 9, at 9 a.m. The public is invited and encouraged to attend.