The Issue
 

 

Petition to Allow Volunteer Cleanups Beyond Locked Gates at Raymond Nehri Park

 

To: St. Petersburg County Parks and Recreation Department  
Date: April 13, 2025  

Dear County Officials,

Raymond Nehri Park is one of St. Petersburg’s hidden gems—a sanctuary for wildlife and a cherished green space for our community. Unfortunately, some areas beyond the locked gates have become inaccessible for regular maintenance, leaving litter and debris to accumulate and harm the park’s natural beauty. As passionate residents who care deeply about preserving this park, we are asking for your support to allow organized volunteer cleanup efforts in these restricted areas.  

Our Proposal: 
We propose a carefully managed volunteer cleanup program that prioritizes safety, environmental stewardship, and collaboration with park staff. Here’s how it would work:  

1. Restricted Access Areas: Volunteers will remain only in designated zones as determined by park staff to ensure safety and minimize environmental disruption.  
2. Park Ranger Oversight: A park ranger will chaperone and oversee all activities, ensuring compliance with park rules and safety protocols while guiding volunteers through the process.  
3. Safety Guidelines: Volunteers will follow strict safety measures, including wearing protective gear (closed-toe shoes, gloves, etc.), using appropriate tools (litter pickers), avoiding hazardous materials, and working only during daylight hours.  
4. Waivers: All participants will sign liability waivers before the event, acknowledging risks and agreeing to follow all established guidelines.  

Why This Matters:  
Raymond Nehri Park belongs to all of us—and we have a shared responsibility to keep it clean and thriving. By allowing volunteers to access restricted areas under supervision, we can:  
- Remove harmful debris that threatens wildlife and plant life.  
- Restore the park’s beauty for visitors and future generations to enjoy.  
- Foster community engagement and environmental stewardship among residents.

This initiative is about more than just cleaning up—it’s about coming together as a community to protect one of St. Pete’s most beloved natural spaces.

What We’re Asking From You:
We respectfully request that the St. Petersburg County Parks and Recreation Department approve this proposal so we can organize volunteer cleanup events beyond the locked gates at Raymond Nehri Park. With proper oversight and strict adherence to safety guidelines, we are confident this program will be a success.

Join Us in Making a Difference!
Sign this petition today to show your support for responsible volunteer cleanups at Raymond Nehri Park. Together, we can ensure this beautiful space remains a haven for wildlife and a treasure for our community.

Sincerely,

Concerned Citizens