Lynne's Open Letter Sent To Commissioners May 19, 2026

I have been an owner in KCB for almost 15 years now and seen the shifts in community culture each time a new Mayor is elected. I am asking the Commission to establish a long-range planning committee to develop a Master Plan – a clear and enduring vision for our City — one that thoughtfully defines Key Colony Beach’s mission, values, and long-term goals. The purpose is to identify and preserve the unique qualities that make KCB so special, and to ensure those defining characteristics endure beyond changing commissions and administrations, rather than shifting with each new Mayor or Administrator. This effort should include extensive citizen participation to ensure the plan reflects the values, priorities, and collective vision of our community. An example of why this planning effort is so important — and how it can guide future decisions — is illustrated by something as simple as the bait and fish-cleaning table installed at Sunset Park. If our community’s priority for Sunset Park is preserving unobstructed oceanfront views and maintaining passive park spaces where residents and visitors can simply relax and enjoy the extraordinary waterfront setting, perhaps that table does not belong there. If, however, the goal is to embrace and support KCB’s fishing heritage and waterfront lifestyle, then the table is entirely appropriate. Without clearly defined long-range goals, decisions can become piecemeal rather than part of a cohesive vision. Over time, those decisions result in a fragmented culture and character of a community, while residents are left uncertain about the broader direction and priorities of their governing body.

Attached is my initial draft illustrating what a Master Plan for Key Colony Beach could look like, to provide greater clarity regarding the type of Master Plan I am proposing. Thanks to the Commission’s hard work in addressing much of the City’s infrastructure needs, we now have the opportunity to focus on developing an enduring plan that preserves and strengthens the qualities that make KCB special — including a sense of safety, belonging, trust, community identity, and quality of life for generations to come. I would also like to offer my services as a volunteer to participate on a long-range planning committee tasked with developing a proposed Master Plan for review and consideration by the Commission. In addition, I would suggest appointing a designated Commissioner to serve as liaison to the committee to help ensure coordination, communication, and continuity throughout the planning process.

Respectfully, Lynne Benton