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Mayor Bill Queen commented that the enthusiastic turnout, and especially the exuberance of all the children, means the town has indeed established a new tradition.

That mayor also gave special thanks to the town staff who worked so hard in decorating the gazebo and tree as well as arranged for the gifts; to Anne Taggert who will now forever be known as the “angel cookie lady.” because of the decorative cookies she baked; to John and Barbara Messmore of the Sweet Sage, who provided coffee and hot chocolate as well as cookies of their own; and to Santa Claus, who in everyday clothes bears a striking resemblance to Joe Baldanza.

Photos at the event:

Playground Contract Awarded

A contract for the new the new playground at Radcliffe Park has been awarded to Dominica Recreation Products of Longwood, a representative of Game Time equipment since 1968. The facility should be in place by the end of January.

The playground is the centerpiece of park improvements covered by a $50,000 state grant. It was designed for this particular space with equipment that should be especially appealing to youngsters in the 5 to 15 year old age bracket.

Members of the park’s advisory committee as well as members of the Commission reviewed the playground design at a special meeting on November 29.

All approved of the elements and the layout, but suggested a different color scheme that is more compatible with the gazebo and other park amenities.

Additional Homestead Exemption Approved

The commission passed an ordinance at the special meeting that provides an additional $25,000 in homestead exemption for senior citizens who can meet income criteria.

The added exemption only applies to the town’s millage.

Anyone over 65 whose annual income is under $22,693 is eligible. The income amount will be adjusted on January 1st of each year. Certain income is not counted in this total, such as Social Security and Railroad Retirement benefits, proceeds from a Roth IRA and others.

Anyone with questions about eligibility should call the town clerk at 391-4848. Application must be made to the county tax assessor.

New Crosswalks Installed

The town’s three new crosswalks are in place On Gulf Boulevard, with paved havens in the medians and street markings. Signs are to be installed within a matter of days.

Some residents have questioned whether the crosswalks will enhance safety since both motorists and pedestrians tend to ignore what the law requires. Motorists are required to stop when a pedestrian enters the crosswalk. Pedestrians are required to cross on at the crosswalk.

Mayor Bill Queen said educational material will be distributed at resorts facilities, condos, restaurants and other public places to make people aware of these requirements.

Extra police patrols will also be used to cite violators. They may begin with warnings, but that will soon shift to pricey tickets for violators.

Capital Improvements Program

The town commission has passed a capital improvements program for the years 2006 to 2010.

Included are a number of critical improvements to Gulf Boulevard, including the undergrounding of utility lines and the additional of street furniture, trees and other items for beautification.

A task force of the beach communities, which includes Mayor Queen, is currently meeting with county officials on funding for the Gulf Boulevard project.

Planning could begin as early as this coming year with actual construction in the several years following.

Park improvements and upgrades to streets and sewer lines are also part of the program.