To the Mayor and City Commission of St. Pete Beach:

We, the undersigned residents, property owners, visitors, business owners, and supporters of St. Pete Beach, respectfully urge the City Commission to adopt an ordinance formally recognizing and protecting the public's customary use rights on the beaches of St. Pete Beach.

For generations, residents and visitors have openly, continuously, and peaceably used the dry-sand areas of St. Pete Beach for walking, sunbathing, fishing, exercising, enjoying sunsets, spending time with family, and other customary recreational activities. These longstanding customs are part of the unique character, identity, and appeal of our community.

St. Pete Beach's beaches are among our most important public resources. They support local businesses, attract visitors from around the world, and contribute to the quality of life enjoyed by residents. The public's ability to enjoy these beaches has long been a defining feature of our city.

Recent disputes regarding access to portions of the beach have created uncertainty and conflict. Rather than allowing confusion and confrontation to continue, the City should take affirmative steps to recognize and protect those customary uses that have historically existed on our beaches.

We respectfully ask the City Commission to:

·       Initiate and complete the process necessary to recognize customary use where supported by historical evidence and public practice;

·       Adopt a customary use ordinance that protects the public's longstanding recreational use of St. Pete Beach's dry-sand beach areas;

·       Ensure that future beach-management policies preserve the traditions and community values that have made St. Pete Beach a welcoming destination for residents and visitors alike; and

·       Promote clear, fair, and consistent rules that reduce conflict while respecting both private property rights and the public's historic use of the beach.

This petition is not intended to diminish legitimate private property interests. Rather, it reflects the belief that longstanding customary uses should be recognized, respected, and preserved for future generations.  By signing below, we express our support for the protection and recognition of customary use on St. Pete Beach and urge the City Commission to take action accordingly.