<a href=”http://www.archdaily.com/228578/infographic-leed/”><img src=”http://ad009cdnb.archdaily.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/1335569921-leed6.jpg” /></a> <strong><a href=”http://www.archdaily.com/228578/infographic-leed//”> The Bauhaus – more at ArchDaily.com</a></strong>
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Choose an AIA Architect
Original infographic link: http://www.archdaily.com/235162/infographic-the-aia-history/
Choose a quality AIA registered Architect for your design needs.
Braden & Braden AIA
Architects and Planners
www.bradenarchitects.com
www.facebook.com/BradenArchitects
417 Coconut Ave.
Stuart, FL 34996
(772) 287-8258
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Groundbreaking for 100th Habitat Home
From-
http://www.tcpalm.com/news/2012/jul/10/port-salerno-family-celebrates-being-chosen-for/
Port Salerno family celebrates being chosen for Habitat's 100th house | Photo Gallery
PORT SALERNO — For two years, Lavern and Kimberly McClain didn't dare tell their children they'd applied for a Habitat house. Habitat builds homes for about 12 families a year from its 375 applicants.
"We didn't want them to be disappointed," Kimberly said.
Tuesday morning, the McClains celebrated the fulfillment of their secret dream with their four children, along with a few dozen friends, Habitat executives, county officials, photographers and reporters gathered to commemorate the groundbreaking of Habitat for Humanity of Martin County's 100th home.
"The 100th home build is only the beginning of many more home builds to follow," Habitat Executive Director Margot Graff told the crowd.
The Atlanta-based, nonprofit established its Martin County chapter in 1986. Like other affiliates, it raises money locally to build homes for residents in need. Beneficiaries are responsible, working people who long for a home of their own, but can't secure a conventional mortgage. Habitat builds the homes with volunteer labor, including the future owners.
"I'll know more about how to fix things when I need to," Lavern said, referring to the benefit he'll gain from helping build his home.
Habitat finances beneficiaries' homes interest-free. Of the current 99 local Habitat homeowners, only one has defaulted, Graff said, and four have paid their mortgages off.
"This will give us an opportunity to save money," Kimberly said.
She's been living in a rental home in Port Salerno with her husband, twin 15-year-old girls, 11-year-old boy and 5-year-old girl. A fifth baby is due next month.
Their house will be the sixth in a stretch of Habitat homes along Driftwood Avenue. Martin County's Community Development Department used funds from the Port Salerno Community Redevelopment Agency to run water and sewer lines down the street. Every Habitat house is connected to public utilities and neighbors along the street also have the opportunity to connect.
The McClains' four-bedroom, two-bath house will be the biggest Habitat project on Driftwood. Like the neighboring houses, it will have a stucco facade, front porch and storage room in back.
"The porches give people more of a sense of neighborhood," said Daniel Braden, a Stuart architect who designed the Habitat homes at no cost.
One of the Habitat houses has tomato plants in front of the porch. Another has cages of chirping birds. Every house is spotless; every yard clear and well kept.
Habitat's mission extends beyond its homes to nearby existing homes. An attractive, new home going up draws neighbors who suddenly realize their house needs a coat of paint, maybe a new door, a set of window screens. Habitat helps them through its Brush With Kindness program.
"We provide volunteers and paint and landscaping," Graff said. "That gives the neighbors a little self-esteem. It's extremely contagious.
"Our goal is not only to build a house, but also transform the community and change the lives of people forever."
TO VOLUNTEER
Habitat has many volunteer opportunities, including home-building. To volunteer, visit www.habitatmartin.org and click on the "volunteer link."
To contribute to Habitat, click the "Make a donation" button on the site.
Habitat can be reached by email at info@ habitatmartin.org or by phone at 772-223-9940.
The Habitat ReStore, at 2555 S.E. Bonita St., Stuart, accepts and sells used building materials to benefit Habitat. Store hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
Thursday, June 21, 2012
C.R.A. visit
 |
| Malia Schramm, Jason Leonard, Brett Zurich, Mike Flaugh, Dan Braden, Ryan Strom |
Braden & Braden A.I.A. Architects co-presented to the Martin County Community Redevelopment with Team Park, Mike Flaugh A.S.L.A., and Blue Water Edition of Southeastern Printing Co. about a recent renovation of an old bank building into a gallery space.
Monday, June 11, 2012
Community comes together to build new home for Stuart couple
By
Alisha McDarris
Saturday, June 9, 2012
STUART — When a house fire left John and Ruth Sandifer of Stuart
homeless last September, Martin County residents jumped on the
opportunity to help their neighbors.
A faulty air conditioning unit started the blaze that left the Sandifer's home severely damaged, but last Friday marked the first official day of rebuilding thanks to John Haas, Habitat for Humanity, Driftwood Homes and a large, caring community.
With permits finally secured after months of delays, trusses were put in place in the intermittent rain on Thursday as John and Ruth Sandifer watched. The next weeks will see the roof finished, interior walls and windows framed and hundreds of man hours as carpenters, technicians and volunteers come together to give the Sandifers not just a place to live, but a new home.
"They're great people," Alan Morris, owner of Driftwood Homes, said of the Sandifers. Ruth Sandifer wasn't too shy to give Morris a great big hug to thank him for donating his time and carpentry expertise. "We were happy to help. It's a great cause."
Since demolition day in November, when the house on Central Avenue was gutted, volunteers have been crawling out of the woodwork. In addition to Habitat for Humanity's coordinated volunteers, members of local churches and even a group of students from South Fork High School have been out to help the Sandifers rebuild.
"People here in Martin County tend to respond when neighbors are in need. It's an amazing place," Donna Dupuy, a marketing consultant who is donating her time as a public relations representative to help the Sandifers' cause, said.
John Haas, who works for Morgan Stanley, spearheaded the rebuilding project when he saw a family in need. He promptly scheduled a fundraising event at his home where friends and family donated $32,000 to help a deserving family.
"These are two hardworking people who never rest and never held their hands out," Haas said.
Local businesses also contributed. Martin County NisAir Air Conditioning and Heating donated an air conditioning system and Martin County resident Dan Braden volunteered his architectural services. Hurley Electric has volunteered their services for electrical work, Mancil's took care of the demolition at no cost and Waste Management offered large garbage bins and removal services for the garbage.
"It's really been a community effort," Haas said.
Ruth Sandifer couldn't be happier at the prospect of a new home, but said she never lost hope.
"My peace and joy are a gift from God. You can weather any storm with those two things," she said.
Ruth said almost immediately after the fire, friends and neighbors began responding with help in the form of food, furniture and living essentials. She never expected so many people to donate their time and energy to rebuild their home, either.
"We're so blessed. I'm so thankful for each and every one of (the workers) out there. I could never thank them enough," she said.
Morris said he hopes to get the Sandifers moved into their new home by the end of the summer.
To contribute to the rebuilding process, contact Habitat for Humanity in Martin County at (772) 223-9940.
A faulty air conditioning unit started the blaze that left the Sandifer's home severely damaged, but last Friday marked the first official day of rebuilding thanks to John Haas, Habitat for Humanity, Driftwood Homes and a large, caring community.
With permits finally secured after months of delays, trusses were put in place in the intermittent rain on Thursday as John and Ruth Sandifer watched. The next weeks will see the roof finished, interior walls and windows framed and hundreds of man hours as carpenters, technicians and volunteers come together to give the Sandifers not just a place to live, but a new home.
"They're great people," Alan Morris, owner of Driftwood Homes, said of the Sandifers. Ruth Sandifer wasn't too shy to give Morris a great big hug to thank him for donating his time and carpentry expertise. "We were happy to help. It's a great cause."
Since demolition day in November, when the house on Central Avenue was gutted, volunteers have been crawling out of the woodwork. In addition to Habitat for Humanity's coordinated volunteers, members of local churches and even a group of students from South Fork High School have been out to help the Sandifers rebuild.
"People here in Martin County tend to respond when neighbors are in need. It's an amazing place," Donna Dupuy, a marketing consultant who is donating her time as a public relations representative to help the Sandifers' cause, said.
John Haas, who works for Morgan Stanley, spearheaded the rebuilding project when he saw a family in need. He promptly scheduled a fundraising event at his home where friends and family donated $32,000 to help a deserving family.
"These are two hardworking people who never rest and never held their hands out," Haas said.
Local businesses also contributed. Martin County NisAir Air Conditioning and Heating donated an air conditioning system and Martin County resident Dan Braden volunteered his architectural services. Hurley Electric has volunteered their services for electrical work, Mancil's took care of the demolition at no cost and Waste Management offered large garbage bins and removal services for the garbage.
"It's really been a community effort," Haas said.
Ruth Sandifer couldn't be happier at the prospect of a new home, but said she never lost hope.
"My peace and joy are a gift from God. You can weather any storm with those two things," she said.
Ruth said almost immediately after the fire, friends and neighbors began responding with help in the form of food, furniture and living essentials. She never expected so many people to donate their time and energy to rebuild their home, either.
"We're so blessed. I'm so thankful for each and every one of (the workers) out there. I could never thank them enough," she said.
Morris said he hopes to get the Sandifers moved into their new home by the end of the summer.
To contribute to the rebuilding process, contact Habitat for Humanity in Martin County at (772) 223-9940.
© 2012 Scripps Newspaper Group — OnlineSource: http://www.tcpalm.com/news/2012/jun/09/community-comes-together-to-build-new-home-for/?print=1
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Habitat for Humanity Business of Excellence
Braden & Braden, AIA, PA, October 2011
Braden and Braden, AIA, PA, architects and planners, were recently named the October 2011 Business of Excellence.
Dan Braden’s father started the relationship with Habitat for Humanity of Martin County 25 years ago. Dan continues this friendship by providing engineered plans and house designs (at no cost). We are fortunate to have found a wonderful supporter of Habitat and his community with Braden and Braden, AIA, PA.
In the photo below is Dan Braden, Ron Morrow and Chris Urban.
Thank you, Braden and Braden, for your continued support of Habitat for Humanity of Martin County!
Source: http://www.habitatmartin.org/p/214/business-of-excellence
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Braden & Braden Architects A.I.A. joins Facebook!
This week we have launched our Facebook page,
www.facebook.com/BradenArchitects
This site will mostly feature more extensive project photo collections as construction is completed.
We will also include the occasional past project photo album.
"Like" us to keep up to date on Braden & Braden news easily through your facebook!
www.facebook.com/BradenArchitects
This site will mostly feature more extensive project photo collections as construction is completed.
We will also include the occasional past project photo album.
"Like" us to keep up to date on Braden & Braden news easily through your facebook!
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Hibiscus Children's Center - Shuckers throws a party
By Jackie Holfelder
Thursday, September 15, 2011
On Aug. 20, Shuckers on the Beach. located in Jensen Beach, celebrated its second birthday by throwing a big party to thank all their customers.
They provided a huge buffet of free food and drinks. Owners Tony and Karen Carpentier went a step further and had all donations benefit Hibiscus Children’s Center.
The Carpentiers also have the children that reside at the Jensen Beach shelter visit the restaurant during the Christmas season for a visit from Santa Claus and a lunch party.
Hibiscus Children’s Center was founded in 1985 by LaVaughn Tilton, and since then has served abused, abandoned and neglected children on the Treasure Coast through a variety of programs.
To learn more about Hibiscus, call (772) 334-9311.
© 2012 Scripps Newspaper Group — Online
(http://www.tcpalm.com/news/2011/sep/15/hibiscus-childrens-center-shuckers-throws-a/)
Monday, June 13, 2011
Editorial: Stuart commissioners should rethink decision to hire consultant to develop ideas for downtown waterfront
Editorial board
Sunday, June 12, 2011
When in doubt ... hire a consultant.
Such is the modus operandi of many local governments. The city of Stuart appears to have embraced this approach.
First, the Stuart Commission approved $30,000 for Captec Engineering to recommend changes to Colorado Avenue between U.S. 1 and Confusion Corner. Recently, commissioners voted (unanimously) to spend $15,000 on a consultant to determine if developing the downtown waterfront — now occupied by City Hall, the City Hall Annex and the vacant city-owned building that once housed Arthur's Dockside Restaurant and Fiji Bar — would be economically feasible.
The city purchased the 0.6-acre Dockside land for $3.8 million in March 2009.
Let's be clear: The consulting appropriations are relatively minor expenditures in the city's $18.8 million budget. However, they come against the backdrop of continuing declines in overall property valuations — three years in a row, as well as a projected 10 percent drop next year — and a projected budget shortfall of $700,000 for the next fiscal year.
Taxpayers are correct to ask: Can the city afford to retain consultants when city revenues are declining and there are difficult budget decisions looming?
The consulting funds for Captec already have been spent. But it's not too late for commissioners to rethink their consulting appropriation for the downtown waterfront.
For several years city officials have discussed the possibility of attracting a resort-style hotel to the waterfront. Given the fact there is little room for residential growth within the existing municipal boundaries, commissioners are correct to see Stuart's economic future increasingly as a destination location. The downtown waterfront indeed holds promise for such a purpose.
But does the city really need to spend $15,000 to create ideas for this project? Why not invite local architects and developers to present their ideas to the city, as local architect Dan Braden did in 2006 with input from the editorial board of the Stuart News? The development community likely would come out of the proverbial woodwork if given the chance to participate in the project. Let's make this the starting point — not an appropriation to a consultant.
Stuart commissioners should reconsider the $15,000 consulting decision. At the very least, they should cease and desist hiring consultants until the city's financial picture improvements.
© 2012 Scripps Newspaper Group — Online
(http://www.tcpalm.com/news/2011/jun/12/editorial-stuart-commissioners-should-rethink-to/?print=1)
Friday, November 12, 2010
Good for You, Trea
sure Coast, Nov. 14
By reader submitted
Friday, November 12, 2010
Hibiscus’ Braden named ‘Citizen Architect’
Hibiscus Children’s Center announces that volunteer Dan Braden of Braden & Braden, A1A, P.A., has been awarded “Citizen Architect” for his community involvement by the American Institute of Architects. Headquartered in Washington D.C., this is its highest community involvement award. Braden received this award because of his long time work with local non-profits, including Hibiscus Children’s Center, where he currently serves as the chairman of the Hibiscus Governing Board of Directors.
Braden’s dedication and commitment to helping abused and neglected children in the community began 25 years ago when he combined his skills and talents as a renowned architect with his passion for protecting children and making life better for them in the community. He donated his professional services to the designing and building project of the Tilton Family Children’s Shelter (formerly the Hibiscus Children’s Shelter) in Jensen Beach. The shelter was the first of its kind on the Treasure Coast — a fully licensed residential facility for children removed from their homes due to egregious abuse and neglect. To this day, he has remained an active participant in the shelter’s growth and needs of the physical facility. He is a member of the facilities committee, which oversees the shelter and other Hibiscus facilities’ repairs and improvements. Braden has held several leadership roles over the years and has remained an integral part of every major Hibiscus decision and has always been supportive of the many special events and activities that provide funding for the Hibiscus programs.
As the needs of our community’s children increased, Braden put his skills to work by designing the Hibiscus Children’s Village, which opened its doors in 2004, to serve abused and neglected children in a more family-like setting with eight individual homes .
© 2012 Scripps Newspaper Group — Online
(http://www.tcpalm.com/news/2010/nov/12/good-for-you/)
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Habitat for Humanity completes 'green' home in Martin County
By Kim Hughes
Originally published 09:37 p.m., November 10, 2010
Updated 09:38 p.m., November 10, 2010
STUART — Leo Rodriguez and his new home in East Stuart were the center of attention Wednesday, with good reason — it’s the first green home completed by Habitat for Humanity of Martin County.
Margot Graff, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Martin County, said the project started a year ago when the city of Stuart and the Community Redevelopment Agency started looking into “green” opportunities.
Upon learning of the city’s grant program focusing on “green initiatives,” Habitat for Humanity of Martin County applied for and was awarded $100,000 to build three green homes. The Rodriguez home is the first of those to be built in Stuart. Two more will be completed in December and January.
Graff said these homes are a great fit for Habitat for Humanity homeowners, for whom affordability is an issue. “We work every way we can to keep their expenses down,” Graff said. Greener features mean lower utility bills and fewer maintenance costs.
Braden and Braden Architects designed the homes. Dan Braden, principal architect, said many components were incorporated to help the Rodriguez home meet green certification standards set by the Florida Green Building Coalition.
These features include a high-efficiency air conditioning unit; an on-demand water heater; closed-cell foam insulation; double-pane insulated windows; energy-efficient appliances; low-flow toilets, faucets and shower heads; and low VOC (volatile organic compound) paints and adhesives.
The exterior of the home features gutters and rain barrels to catch water that can be used to irrigate the home’s small yard. The landscape plan was designed by Robin Pelensky, an LEED-certified professional with HJA Design Studio. To further the green theme, Pelensky chose native plants and grass that requires minimal maintenance and water.
Kyle Abney of Abney + Abney Green Solutions, which consulted on the project, said cost no longer keeps homeowners from going green. “It’s getting to the point where it’s almost a no-brainer. There’s really little or no additional cost.”
Rodriguez and his son, Joshua, a Martin County High School graduate, plan to move into their new two-bedroom, one-bath home over the next few days.
© 2012 Scripps Newspaper Group — Online
(http://www.tcpalm.com/news/2010/nov/10/habitat-for-humanity-completes-martin-countys/)
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Habitat for Humanity to dedicate first green home in Martin County
Kelly Beard, a member of the Treasure Coast community. This story is neither endorsed by nor affiliated with this site.
Originally published 06:19 p.m., November 3, 2010
Updated 06:19 p.m., November 3, 2010
STUART — On Wednesday, Nov. 10 at 4 p.m., Habitat for Humanity of Martin County will dedicate the first green home in Martin County and the city of Stuart, also the first green build for the local Habitat affiliate.
The home is located at 808 Tarpon Avenue in East Stuart and it is the first home Leonardo Rodriguez’s family will own. The Stuart resident is currently renting an apartment with his son.
“It’s a miracle; a dream come true,” Rodriguez said. “I’m the first member of my family to build and own a home in the United States.”
Rodriguez contributed 300 sweat equity hours working on his home and the homes of others as a requirement to become a Habitat homeowner. Through donations of funds, materials and volunteer labor, Habitat was able to build the home and sell it at an affordable price. Rodriguez will purchase the home with a no-profit loan and his monthly mortgage payments will be used to build more Habitat homes.
The construction of Habitat’s green homes conforms to environmentally sensitive standards, meeting gold rating requirements by the Florida Green Building Coalition.
“This Habitat project in Martin County proves you can build green-certified homes with little to no additional costs,” Habitat’s green consultant, Kyle Abney of Abney + Abney Green Solutions, Inc said. “Green features such as proper orientation, using light interior colors to reflect natural light, low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints and adhesives, extended overhangs for shade, not installing a garbage disposal, using low-flow shower heads, faucets and toilets, and xeriscaping are all utilized in this home and can be done in any home.”
This project is made possible thanks to the City of Stuart Community Redevelopment Agency, which provided a $100,000 “green initiatives” grant to help finance three green homes. Habitat is partnering with Abney + Abney Green Solutions, Inc., Braden & Braden architects and HJA Design Studio which provided consultations on the construction of this and the other Habitat green homes in East Stuart. Special thanks to the generous sponsors who also contributed to this project: Boys and Girls Club of Martin County, The Batchelor Foundation, Publix Super Markets Charities, Realtors Association of Martin County, TD Bank Charitable Foundation, Treasure Coast Community Church and Wachovia Wells Fargo Foundation.
“We’re really excited about this project. This is our first green home, made possible by a grant from the City of Stuart,” said City Manager Dan Hudson at the home’s groundbreaking in February. “What we’re looking to do here in the East Stuart community is promote homeownership. Thanks to our partnership with Habitat, it’s becoming a reality for qualified applicants.”
The event will include a ceremonial dedication, open house and refreshments. Habitat staff and consultants will be on hand to answer questions about the construction, as well as the sustainable/environmentally friendly components.
To learn more about Habitat for Humanity of Martin County, visit http://www.HabitatMartin.org or call (772) 223-9940.
About Habitat for Humanity of Martin County
Habitat for Humanity of Martin County is a not-for-profit, volunteer-driven organization that extends the opportunity to purchase simple, decent, affordable homes to local families who would not otherwise have that chance. The three key criteria necessary in order to make homeownership a reality for families include the need for shelter, ability to pay, and willingness to partner with Habitat for Humanity. For more information, call (772) 223-9940 or visit http://www.HabitatMartin.org.
This story is contributed by a member of the Treasure Coast community and is neither endorsed by nor affiliated with this site.
© 2012 Scripps Newspaper Group — Online
Sunday, October 10, 2010
For last 25 years, Hibiscus Children's Center helping abused, neglected kids
By Tyler Treadway
Sunday, October 10, 2010
LaVaughn Tilton knew she had an uphill battle on her hands when she started talking about the need for a safe place for abused, neglected and abandoned children 25 years ago.
“Most people didn’t want to hear about it,” Tilton recalled. “It was too unpleasant a subject.”
But Tilton was persistent, and got a group of 10 to 12 people together at a meeting in April 1985. The outcome was the creation of the Hibiscus Children’s Center, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year and will name its Jensen Beach facility the “Tilton Family Children’s Shelter” in ceremonies Oct. 21 in honor of the founder.
When the shelter in Jensen Beach opened in 1989, Tilton said, “it was designed for 24 children, and we started with six girls and six boys. From the day we opened, it wasn’t enough room. Now, thanks to expansions, it holds up to 40 children in 12 bedrooms.”
Hibiscus officials calculate that since it’s opening, shelter has provided more than 148,000 nights of safety to thousands of children from the Treasure Coast seeking refuge from their own homes.
Tilton recalls the last 25 years as “hectic.”
Dan Braden, one of the center’s founders and still a board member, prefers to say organizers went through “a learning curve.”
Although the nonprofit Hibiscus Children’s Center has more than 200 employees, the organization is highly dependent on the approximately 600 volunteers who work in Martin, Indian River, St. Lucie and Okeechobee counties.
“It used to be that we had to beg and plead for people to join our board (of directors),” Braden said, “but then it became ‘the’ board to be on.”
Volunteering at Hibiscus has become so popular, Tilton said, “it’s not unusual to see some rather well-heeled ladies working in our laundry.”
Tom Maher, Hibiscus CEO, said Tilton is a primary reason the shelter has become “the” place to volunteer.
“Mrs. Tilton’s impact has been so significant,” he said. “Her passion has been contagious. Everybody sees how much she cares, and it rubs off on them. You can’t help but be affected.”
Tilton countered: “I think it’s because we’ve all worked so hard to be successful.”
As Hibiscus has grown, Braden said, the state’s emphasis on children’s shelters “ebbs and flows,” with the current philosophy being that kids remain with their parents in most cases, making shelters a haven of last resort.
In response, Hibiscus has branched into services both for children and their parents beyond housing at shelters. The result is that while Hibiscus houses an average of about 20 kids at the Jensen Beach shelter and 40 at the Hibiscus Children’s Village in Vero Beach, the organization works with about 1,000 people a month.
“Now we offer more of a continuum of care,” Braden said.
But the Jensen Beach shelter remains Hibiscus’ keystone.
“I’ve always believed that this is the answer to the abuse that’s happening to children,” Tilton said. “I couldn’t possibly let it founder. That would be a tragedy. To shut these doors: I can’t imagine anything worse.”
Hibiscus flowers into range of services
Here’s a list of some of the programs and services offered by Hibiscus Children’s Center:
Hibiscus Children’s Shelter: A 24-hour emergency shelter in Jensen Beach for children ages birth to 12 and their siblings who have been removed from their homes because of abuse and neglect.
Hibiscus Children’s Village: A facility with seven group homes in Vero Beach for children removed from their homes because of abuse and/or neglect that includes a preschool for ages birth to 5 years.
Hibiscus Community Health: Provides residential and outpatient mental health services for children up to 18 years old and their families.
Support for Families in Crisis: A prevention program that families seek voluntarily to reduce the impact of poverty, unemployment, domestic violence, behavior management and other stressful situations that can precipitate child abuse.
Hibiscus Foster Care: A program to recruit, train support and license foster parents.
Hibiscus Hope: A reunification program for families in which children have been removed because of allegations of abuse and neglect.
For information: Call (772) 334-9311, ext. 201 or visit hibiscuschildrenscenter.org.
© 2012 Scripps Newspaper Group — Online
Thursday, October 7, 2010
On the Move: Hibiscus Children's Center of Jensen Beach honored
By staff report 
Thursday, October 7, 2010
JENSEN BEACH — Hibiscus Children’s Center of Jensen Beach recently received the “25 Years of Saving Children” Proclamation from the Martin County Board of Commissioners.
Hibiscus began as a 12-bed shelter for abused and neglected children and has grown to provide more than 1,000 children and families with services every month across the Treasure Coast.
© 2012 Scripps Newspaper Group — Online
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Editorial: Seizing the opportunity
Staff Reports
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Historic.
This may be the word future generations of Stuart residents use to describe the City Commission’s recent, strategic purchase of the Arthur’s Dockside Waterfront Restaurant property adjacent to City Hall.
The future of City Hall — should it stay put or be relocated? — and the downtown waterfront — should the city approve the construction of condos, retail shops, a parking garage? — has long been a subject of discussion and debate in our community.
Several times in recent years developers have attempted to advance proposals to redevelop the city-owned property. In 2006, Stuart residents, seeking to ensure a voice on this critical issue, overwhelmingly supported an initiative requiring a referendum before the city can sell or lease waterfront property.
But the X-factor in the waterfront-development issue has always been Arthur’s Dockside — the lone property north of St. Lucie Avenue not under city control.
This is about to change — if the city’s plans proceed according to schedule.
City commissioners were prepared to bid on the property at a Nov. 5 foreclosure sale. But after the public auction was cancelled — one of the mortgage holders on the Dockside property filed for bankrupcty — the commission accepted an offer to buy the property directly from the owner, Paradise Enterprises of Brevard Inc.
“This is the greatest opportunity the city will have in a long time to get this last piece of the puzzle,” said Vice Mayor Michael Mortell of the pending $4.43 million deal.
The city has until Feb. 27 to negotiate with lien holders.
The beauty of the commission’s acquisition of Arthur’s Dockside is that it will give the city complete control over the redevelopment of the downtown waterfront area.
In 2006, when this issue was a hot topic, then-Mayor Carol Waxler challenged residents to articulate their vision for the city-owned property north of St. Lucie Avenue.
Shortly thereafter, the News’ editorial board printed a plan developed by Dan Braden, a Stuart architect with Braden & Braden. It is reproduced on this page — not as the sole alternative, but as one of many potential answers to the question, “What is the future of downtown Stuart?”
Let the discussion and debate begin.
HOW WOULD YOU PULL THIS OFF?
There could be numerous ways to do this, but one that might make the most sense. Put the concept through public hearings. If residents and council are interested, get word out that someday, such a project could be built. Developers interested in the project would ask to buy part of and/or lease the Town Hall property. Revenue from leases or sales of property, and incremental property taxes generated in area,would help fund the project. Grants for parks,
riverfront preservation may be available.
COST?
No idea; good ideas are priceless. That’s for Realtors, developers and city planners to determine.
DESIGNED BY:
Dan Braden, a Stuart architect with Braden & Braden, with input from the News editorial board. Braden’s father, Philip, designed the current City Hall, built in the early 1970s, and the restaurant next door. The younger Braden designed a City Hall addition more than 15 years later.
ARCHITECT’S COMMENTS
“I think it is important to emphasize that this plan is to show what may be possible in the long term. It is a plan that can be moved toward at a slow pace. The properties need to be assembled, mainly the restaurant. “The main building could be built first. When completed, the existing City Hall could be demolished to allow for the waterfront boulevard and the park. This plan allows for total public use and access with no private ownership, thus eliminating the possibility of future restrictions.
“The building and adjacent plazas will allow for views to the water across the open green space. The green parkway adjacent to the river becomes an ideal place for weekday lunches and weekend art shows.
“Most of all, the public should understand this is an idea to start discussion and hopefully start us on the direction of one day having a riverfront that is an asset to the general public.” — Dan Braden
© 2012 Scripps Newspaper Group — Online
(http://www.tcpalm.com/news/2008/dec/23/editorial-seizing-opportunity/?print=1)
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