As the city’s ongoing legal battle with developers of a proposed strip club on Airport Road continues, there were no decisions made after Monday night’s executive session.
The only discussion that took place was from a few concerned residents. Beverly Henry said she has seen many things change in the city, whether good or bad, during her 30-plus years in Destin.
“There is cancer knocking at the door of Destin,” she said. “Once cancer gets into a body, it’s hard to get rid of.”
More than 75 people turned out Monday night to show their objection to the proposed club that would be situated across the street from the Kell-Aire Gardens neighborhood.
After meeting for more than 45 minutes behind closed doors with its legal team, the only announcement made by the city staff was that they would meet again April 21 at 5 p.m. for another executive session.
Longtime boat captain George Eller echoed Henry’s sentiments and offered support.
“I have every confidence this council will do what they can legally do to preserve the integrity of this city,” he said. “You will do your best with what you have to work with. Nobody can ask for any more than that.”
With difficult decisions ahead of them, Henry urged the council to take a stand against the proposed strip club. She said it would not be easy as litigation hangs over their heads, but it’s for the greater good of the city.
“Mr. Bagby, Mr. Destin made a stand, why can’t you?” she said of the only two councilors to vote against the original settlement agreement. “Why can’t you do that? It just takes courage to say no.”