Tarpon Springs Commission Candidates Talk Sponge Docks

One of the hot topics surrounding the city as well as the Tarpon Springs City Commission hopefuls is the idea of a makeover for the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks. 

Although merchants on the docks and city officials have yet to reach an agreement, the issue is something folks are still concerned with.

As the race continues for Seat 4, here's what the candidates had to say:

"I've sat through a lot of different focus groups on the sponge docks. We have to support the sponge docks without forsaking downtown. The sponge docks are our cultural identity, here in Tarpon Springs and whatever the city can do to help advance and keep that modern, I would be in support of."

-David Banther

"I think a facelift is needed, but I think we need to take an overall approach to tourism that unites the effort of downtown and the sponge docks. We need to approach economic development in such a way where there is one unified effort and the overall economic platform includes a number of focal points like tourism. Even though the areas are unique with their own personalities, they need to start helping each other, in my opinion. For the sponge docks, I think that the overall plan to clean it up is good."

-Jim Bouldin

"I've talked to a lot of business owners down on the sponge docks and they've been waiting a long time for it (facelift). We definitely do need to focus there as well as downtown. I think making the sponge docks what it used to be will require redevelopment. We have to look at our budget and see what we can do for that development, considering the recession. We need to get some new businesses into the area and need to grow more tax base. That's where we can increase revenue, not increasing any costs. It's already way too expensive to be a business in Tarpon Springs."

-Tommy Frain

"I am in favor of doing a face lift at the sponge docks all the area venues are updating and constantly making improvements,  there are infrastructure issues needing addressed and  more we are in a competitive area for tourist dollars...I would like to see a written survey given out at the sponge docks via a prepaid postcard. Just several appropriate questions to be determined and encourage the visitors to participate in  shaping the facelift."

-Tim Keffalas

What is your stance on the issue? Share your comments below.