by Max Marbut
Staff Writer
Lynette Self brought something valuable with her to City Hall when she was elected to represent the people of Council District 2 eight years ago. Owning Rose of Sharon European Florist on University Boulevard taught her the value of having a plan when it comes to achieving goals and ensuring success.
She was able to put that concept to work as soon as she took office because she had inherited a project in her district that was primed for its next step.
What was once the 144-acre Dunes Golf Course in Arlington was a prime location for a neighborhood park. The site had been purchased through the efforts of Self’s predecessor, Jim Tullis, during former Mayor Ed Austin’s administration.
“The Police Athletic League was already there and they were offering soccer and basketball, but there was no plan for a park when I took office,” said Self. “I’m a planner and I think that makes a big difference. We held several public meetings and my goal was to have a master plan, then design and engineer everything beginning with all the infrastructure.”
Today, the PAL programs at Ed Austin Regional Park on McCormick Road have been expanded beyond the original activities to also include softball, boxing, karate, disc golf and after-school mentoring programs for the area’s students.
There are lighted softball fields with concession stands, picnic shelters, playgrounds, restrooms, paved trails and parking for more than 900 cars.
After the preferred activities for the younger demographics were in place, Self directed her attention to another group of residents in the district.
“One of my dreams was to have a senior center at the park – but not your typical senior center,” said Self.
The grand opening of what she called “an intergenerational senior center” that will connect seniors with the younger generation will be held June 7, three weeks before Self leaves the Council.
Another thing that will happen before her term expires, Self said, is awarding the contract to build a facility at the park dedicated to skateboarders. The three-phase project will include first a “streetscape” installation with stairs and rails – just like skateboarders use on streets and at parks where the activity is prohibited – then a concession stand and restrooms and finally a bowl.
In addition to the park that primarily impacts her district, Self has also been able to work on a project that benefits the entire county.
She chaired the Waterways Commission for seven of her eight years as a Council member and said she is truly proud of what has been done to preserve the St. Johns River during her watch. Self said a lot has changed in the past eight years including the roles of the commission and the Riverkeeper program as well as putting measures in place to control runoff and sediment.
“We’ve gone from just being concerned about manatees to making a commitment to the health and future of our river. We’ve found ways to fund improving the public’s access and we have enacted laws to protect the river.”
When asked what’s next on her agenda, Self said she will soon decide if there will be another run at public office in her future. She hasn’t opened her campaign account yet but, “I’m looking at running for Stan Jordan’s seat in the state legislature and I’m going to make my decision by this Friday.”