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Public -Works Director Jim Davis reviewed the project with the <br />aid of an overhead aerial photo. <br />Commissioner Eggert wanted to know at what point a residence <br />would be so undermined that condemnation rather than a seawall <br />would be recommended, and Director Davis stated that the Director <br />of the Building Division, Ester Rymer, would need to address that <br />question. <br />Commissioner Eggert commented that she had heard a rumor that <br />huge boulders were to be placed on, the beach, and Director Davis <br />responded that the shore protection manuals show boulders placed at <br />the bottom of the seawall which is a standard design technique to <br />dissipate the energy at the seawall and provide some degree of <br />support. <br />Coastal Engineer Jeff Tabar stated there is usually some type <br />of rock at the base of a seawall and the Florida Statutes suggest <br />boulders as a method to protect the wall. <br />Commissioner Ginn wanted to know whether the system used at <br />Caledon Shores could be installed in this area, and Director Davis <br />stated that he and Jeff Tabar had met at Caledon Shores 2 weeks ago <br />to check that system; it is working quite well and has been in <br />place for 8 or 9 years. However, the system is quite expensive, <br />$800 to $900 per foot, and requires quite a bit of room. It would <br />require a number of property owners going in together. <br />Commissioner Ginn commented that the beauty of the system is <br />that there is no adverse impact on neighboring beaches. It is a <br />natural system. <br />Chairman Adams inquired about the height of the seawall when <br />completed, and Coastal Engineer Jeff Tabar indicated the wall will <br />be 7 feet above the ground elevation of the existing residences. <br />The Chairman opened the public hearing and asked if anyone <br />wished to be heard in this matter. <br />Tom Thomasello, an attorney from Tallahassee representing the <br />property owners, commended staff for their very professional <br />approach, and explained that the property owners are not asking for <br />government handouts or help. They will each spend $500 to $1,000 <br />per foot to protect their own property. They only need the <br />permission of the Board as they are now in an emergency situation. <br />He commented that Director Davis has admitted they will be back in <br />a couple of months under dire circumstances if the Board does not <br />approve the seawalls today. <br />900K 99 PAGE 888 <br />NOVEMBER 19, 1996 31 <br />