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Hernando Today

S. Brooksville Revitalization On The Way

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By LINNEA BROWN

Hernando Today

Published: July 24, 2008

BROOKSVILLE - Community teamwork can go a long way, especially in areas like South Brooksville that have been historically neglected.

Tuesday, Hernando County commissioners unanimously approved a recommendation by county administrator David Hamilton to form a community initiative team with the goal of revitalizing and preserving culture in South Brooksville, where roads are finally being repaved and parking issues addressed.

"We believe there is something very special and precious in South Brooksville, with (residents) who can help us start addressing the problems," Hamilton said.

The team will include a staff member from each of the county's departments and offices, including the sheriff's office, parks and recreation, code compliance and public works and engineering.

With input from town hall meetings and a community walk with residents, the team will have 12 areas of immediate concern to address. They include a lack of street lighting in residential areas, malfunctioning fire hydrants and water line breaks and a struggling local business district, Hamilton said.

"We had the opportunity to observe the areas where work is either ongoing or (awaiting approval)," he said.

Other expected capital improvements include the addition of youth and recreation centers, drainage improvements and the creation of a "second chance" job program, aimed at helping residents on the streets make a living wage.

And community participation must remain paramount, Hamilton added.

"The days of government showing up with initiatives are (over)," he said.

Chairman Chris Kingsley will be responsible for leading the team and bringing all expenditure recommendations to the commission for consideration, and the Hernando County School District and the City of Brooksville are expected to form a similarly configured team.

And while the team's first goal will be South Brooksville, it will also serve as a voice for other communities and neighborhoods throughout Hernando County.

"We believe not only would we be able to better assist South Brooksville with this (team), but also change the way we work in conjunction with the leadership from the community," Hamilton said.

Reporter Linnea Brown can be reached at 352-544-5289 or lbrown@hernandotoday.com.

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