Times Correspondent

BROOKSVILLE – The briefly welcoming building has been shuttered for a bleak 10 years. Vandals broke in and stripped away copper wire. Springs relaxed, leaving gaps in airtight door closures. The unused sprinkler system was iffy.

Over the past few months, tinkerers and testers have been afoot. Local building contractors are counting the days.

"The market is back," said Christopher Brown, local operations manager for 84 Lumber, which is reopening this month in its once bustling site at 2281 S Broad St. The national building supply company was founded in 1956 in Eighty Four, Pennsylvania.

The Hernando County outlet opened in the early 2000s, just before the recession descended and building construction collapsed. It soon closed its doors.

Now, said Brown, "a lot of builders are excited about our coming back. There's a lot of potential here."

The Hernando Oaks development has opened a new section for home construction nearby, while Southern Hills has undertaken new building. Both communities south of Brooksville have indicated they'll be on 84 Lumber's customer list.

84 Lumber — lumber its No. 1 commodity — is a sort of niche market, "for small builders and remodelers who may not have a lot of options in Hernando County," Brown said, as opposed to contractors building a hundred homes at a time.

"It served us well in the past, said remodeler and custom home builder Jeff West, president of Nature Coast Builders Association. "A lot of us will be opening accounts with them."

Local builders need a lumber supplier in Hernando County that can service them quickly, West said. Big box stores must order from their warehouses, so delivery can take two weeks.

84 Lumber's 35,000-square-foot Brooksville store, and its yard, will have plenty of stock on hand. Larger sales and service centers in Plant City and Ruskin will serve as backup, and also provide kitchen, bath and other specialists to consult on designs. And they'll supply windows, doors and roofing materials. The local store will focus on providing the lumber and nails, at least initially.

"We'll cater to the needs of the market," Brown said, "basic materials. As we see what the market needs are, we'll bring them in."

Already, this store's stocks aren't small.

"I've got 77,000 (studs) of 2x4x10s, and I'm not full," Brown said. "I've got 27,000 sheets of 7/16 roofing plywood."

84 Lumber touts "right prices" throughout the 250-store firm.

"Because we're such a big corporation, we've got a lot of buying power, so we buy cheaper, and it's a savings for consumers," Brown said. Served by a rail line, the Brooksville site can accommodate three train cars at lay-by, each with a capacity of four truckloads. The savings in transportation costs are passed on to customers, he said.

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Now 24, Brown grew up through the company, as have 95 percent of its employees. The Jacksonville native started as a yard worker, picking up trash his first week. He moved on to loading associate, then to front desk management trainee and now operations manager.

Hiring is still under way.

"We train from within; we promote from within," Brown said. He envisions a starting staff of seven or eight, growing as sales and demand increase.

Most recently an operations manager in Houston, Brown applied for the job here to return to his home state. Marie Whitney, a Brooksvillian for 15 years, with 20 years experience in the building trades, is acquainting him with local commerce and the government entities as she takes on duties as sales coordinator.

Brown's immediate challenges, he said, include meeting building codes and licenses for 84 Lumber's own building, as well as learning Florida home construction regulations, particularly as they pertain to hurricane protection.

Contact Beth Gray at graybethn@earthlink.net.

Former Brooksville City Councilman and Mayor Frankie Burnett passed away on Friday, February 19, 2021. He was 65.

Frankie last ran for a seat on the council in 2018, using “People Over Politics” as his campaign slogan. He lost to current Mayor Pat Brayton by just 215 votes. In 2016, he wrote to the Hernando Sun, “I am a servant. It is who I am, this is a part of my DNA. I am a positive leader and will continue to think progressively for Brooksville. I will continue to advocate for participatory democracy that seeks the inclusion of many and diverse constituents. I will continue to support the South Brooksville Vision Plan. It has been amazing and humbling to see so many volunteers through the Brooksville Vision Foundation… and now the new Main Street Program, step forward to donate time, money, and themselves because they care and are committed to Brooksville. I join them in building a prosperous future. I will continue to support all their efforts that are made selflessly because we believe in building a better tomorrow for our city. I will continue to represent those I serve and not my own self-serving ideas. I will always believe in People Over Politics.”

Burnett served the City of Brooksville for 10 years, including two years as mayor and three years as vice-mayor. In a 2016 resolution by the city upon his departure, Burnett was praised for his devotion to the City, and for making thoughtful decisions that benefited its citizens and businesses. (Dec. 2016- Hernando Sun)

While in office, Burnett was instrumental in changing a portion of Union Street in Brooksville to Muhammad Ali Way and suggested naming the field at Tom Varn Park after coach Ernie Chatman.

Mike Walker, the city’s former Parks and Recreation Director, stated, “It was an honor to work under his Leadership when he served as Mayor and a Council Member. He will be Missed!! We Love You Mr. Frankie Burnett!! Thank you for your support personally and your service to the children and families of the city of Brooksville.”

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Burnett, a Brooksville native, and pastor has been described as a community champion and a bridge builder. His Southern Baptist faith and love for God propelled his work in the community.

Upon learning of his passing, Jenn Vacha remarked, “I am very sad – we lost one of the best community “bridge builders” this morning (Friday, 19 February). In this incredibly crazy world— we could really use more builders like Mayor Frankie Burnett that:

* work to pull people together – not apart;

* want to create a better place for all – not something more for themselves; and

* show more Jesus— and less of their self.”

Then she suggested the following,

“Perhaps, in his honor, we could each pledge to find a way to extend a hand — a heart — & build, instead of this new-normal of undying biting, judgment and destruction.”

Frankie Burnett who graduated from Hernando High in 1973 was recently celebrated by the Black Coalition of Hernando County, Brooksville Main Street and Florida’s Adventure Coast. They recognized many of Burnett’s achievements including:

President CEO of South Brooksville Economic Development Commission

Contract Manager for Mid-Florida Community Services

Service on the South Brooksville Task Force

Second African American to serve on Brooksville City Council

While in office he oversaw the largest infrastructure overhaul in 90 years while reducing per capita spending by 19 percent.

Served as a member and president of the Hernando County NAACP (1990’s and early 2000’s). During this time he was well known for his re-enactment of Dr. Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” speech.

Hosted a Christmas Giveaway for 46 years

“Infamous for his fried and smoked turkeys” that he would give away during the holidays

Current city councilmember Blake Bell commented, “I was sad to hear this morning about the passing of Mayor Frankie Burnett.

“I spent many hours visiting with Mayor Burnett in his home. During those visits, Mayor Burnett gave me sage advice—to focus on the big picture rather than small ideas, to always represent every resident of Brooksville and to pray often. He stressed that a relationship with God and family is the most important in life.

“He will be remembered fondly for his dedication to Brooksville, to those he helped in need and to those he loved.

“I will miss his scripture filled text messages lifting us up daily, his story telling, encouragement and friendship.

“Mayor Burnett will be a missed voice in our community but his legacy will live on in the many, many lives he touched along the way.”

BROOKSVILLE — CEMEX Construction Materials Florida has won the legal case that blocked its expansion into new mining territory west of Brooksville. It comes after eight years of testimony by dozens of experts, a half dozen public meetings and hundreds of signed petitions opposing the expansion.

Administrative law Judge Suzanne Van Wyk ruled May 1 that the opposition had not proved "beyond fair debate" that the Hernando County Commission decision last year to rezone the 730 acres south of Fort Dade Avenue was contrary to the county's comprehensive plan for growth. Of the total, 572 acres are slated for lime rock mining.

Van Wyk also ruled that the county did not fail to protect the adjacent residential community, as the plan required. And the commission decision did not allow mining in viable gopher tortoise habitat, she ruled, because the 54 burrows found there did not indicate a viable population.

She also found the neighbors' argument that the mining expansion could negatively impact the Bayfront Health hospital across the street "was not persuasive.''

More residential property is likely not needed in the area in the near future, CEMEX experts argued. Additionally, an economic development expert testified that the expansion "will generate $38 million in net fiscal revenue to the county during the 20-year lifespan of the mining operation,'' according to the judge's order.

"Petitioner did not introduce any relevant credible data or analysis which contradicted the voluminous data submitted in support of the application,'' the judge wrote.

Neighbor Heinrich Bracker filed the challenge with the Florida Division of Administrative Hearings in July, shortly after the County Commission approved both the rezoning and the change in its comprehensive plan that allowed the mining expansion.

Previous coverage: Mine neighbor files legal action over expansion plan

CEMEX first filed for an expansion in 2011 and was fought by residents over the years.

The Hernando County Planning and Zoning Commission last year recommended denying the CEMEX expansion, but the County Commission subsequently approved it.

The faces on the County Commission had changed from earlier boards that did not generate enough support for an expansion. The County Commission also repealed its super-majority ordinance in 2017, which had required four of five commissioners to approve a comprehensive plan change, a rule that cost CEMEX approval a few years ago.

Neighbors voiced concerns about their property values, habitat destruction, water quality problems, potential damage to the adjacent historical Spring Hill Cemetery, continuing air quality problems from the operation, damage and disruption from blasting, and a negative impact on tourism because the mining expansion would come to the western entrance of Brooksville.

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Previous coverage: Hernando commission approves mining expansion

County commissioners, several of whom have received multiple campaign contributions from CEMEX-related consultants, didn't buy the arguments.

They stood by the fact that CEMEX is the county's largest taxpayer and a major employer.

Previous coverage: Commission candidates face questions about campaign contributions

The legal ruling was a blow for Brooksville resident DeeVon Quirolo, who has spearheaded opposition by gathering petitions, rallying residents and helping to raise money for consultants and attorneys. She said last week that she felt out-gunned at every corner.

"It's hard to believe that open-pit mining across from our community hospital, in an area zoned residential, on land within the Weeki Wachee Springshed, containing an historic cemetery, will be allowed, despite years of broad public opposition," she said. "Shows you how power and money can tip the scales of justice, and now Brooksville residents will have to live with the consequences for the next 20 years.''

The land will be leased to CEMEX and later turned over for residential development. It has been owned by several prominent local business people, including former mining executive Tommy Bronson and real estate broker Robert Buckner.

"It is a sad time for all of us that live, work, formerly used Bayfront Brooksville Hospital, and have respect for the deceased in the cemetery,'' resident Mary Ellen Urban wrote to supporters in an email last week. A surveyor was working on Fort Dade on recent days, she said, likely preparing for changes in the road.

One of the arguments against extending the mining south of Fort Dade Road was that it would damage a scenic tree canopy. CEMEX officials have said they would run a conveyor belt over the trees to transport materials to the existing mine north of Fort Dade.

"CEMEX operations produce materials essential to roads, bridges, schools, homes and hospitals in the region and across Florida," the company said in a statement released by external communications manager Walker Robinson. "Our facility in Hernando County helps secure a locally-sourced supply of FDOT-approved construction aggregate for the construction industry and projects that support the county's economic development.

"The ruling affirms the prior decision of the County Commission, which will sustain hundreds of local jobs and secure millions of tax dollars for local schools in Hernando County over the next 20 years. CEMEX strives to be a good neighbor in the communities where we live and operate. We look forward to continuing our long-standing relationship with the people of Hernando County."

Jon Jouben, deputy county attorney, said last week that the county did not wish to comment on the ruling.

Contact Barbara Behrendt at bbehrendt@tampabay.com or (352) 848-1434.

What benefits do you see for patients throughout Florida within this space?

The benefits of medical cannabis continue to be proven. While we still must say “anecdotally,” the truth is that everyday lives are changed because of the healing properties of Cannabis. Patients can explore a healthier, natural way to improve their health and wellness. Most importantly though, patients have a say in their own health care. When partnered with the right physician and clinical team, they have a partner in their healthcare. They then can make an informed decision as to what is best for their bodies. All of this leads to a freedom to live a healthier lifestyle, naturally. Thus, eliminating so many unwanted side effects that come with using traditional medicine. Patients report having regained their quality of life, and this is very gratifying. Florida ranks second in the U.S. for opioid overdose deaths. I have witnessed so many patients being able to gain freedom from opioid dependence. Patients with PTSD can finally find peace. The list goes on with many other debilitating conditions that keep people from leading a joyful life. Pain, stress and insomnia also are common debilitating conditions that we see on a daily basis. Personally, I suffer from chronic pain which leads to the inability to get quality sleep. Lack of quality sleep leads to a lack of quality of life. The joy of sleeping all night escaped me for years. But no more.

What motivates you to be a part of the cannabis industry?

I enjoy providing the education patients need to begin the process of obtaining their MMJ card and understanding whole plant medicine. Being able to see the relief and quality of life breathed back into them is very motivational. I want to continue to bridge the gap and to rid the stigma that still surrounds this amazing plant medicine. Education is key and it cannot end. Florida was slow to implement what was passed by 71.6% of voters. So, the last 5 years has been a journey. We are getting there, but we need to put the patient first in all that we do.

What field are you in within the cannabis space?

I am the Founder of MMCare of Florida (Medical Marijuana Care of Florida), in Brooksville, FL. I incorporated in 2017 and have not stopped evolving. MMCare is more than just a Cannabis Clinic. I also serve as a Physician Consultant to assist physicians who want to get into the Cannabis Space. We offer internships with our physician and start-up consulting.

How can people in Florida benefit from the company you represent?

Floridians can feel comfortable that MMCare of Florida puts patients above profits. We offer in-depth education and are always available for assistance. We care about patient results and, if necessary, will do a plan reset. We are not a ‘one and done’ clinic. Our current Physician is a retired General Surgeon whose passion for educating and ensuring patients understand how to begin is unparalleled in the industry. He gets to know his patients and they walk away with a new understanding of their bodies and why Cannabis works. We are comfortable evaluating pediatrics as well. Children deserve access to natural medicine and parents deserve the right to afford natural health care. Veterans are a priority as well. They can benefit with discounts given to them through our clinic.

How did you get started within the cannabis industry?

Interestingly I received a call from a friend, a retired DEA agent, in 2016. He said, “If amendment 2 is passed in Florida I have an opportunity for you if you are interested. I know you are a great business professional, and it would be great to have you onboard.” And so, it began. While this opportunity did not work out, I had a vision and it taught me enough to go at it on my own. I had to educate myself to believe in what I would be doing. I spent hours, nights and weekends doing so. I was a General Manager in retail and worked a very demanding schedule. I was literally working 7 days a week, setting up my life to ensure that I could leave my ‘day job.’ I was able to do so in 2019 and have never looked back. My quality of life has improved tremendously. I have built strong relationships with the industry pioneers and others getting started just like me. I obviously had some great help along the way that has led to the success of MMCare, and I remain grateful.

Are you personally a MJ card holder? Yes. When I left my corporate job, I obtained my card.

Do you see Florida moving forward with recreational Marijuana/cannabis and how will that affect your business?

I believe that Florida will move forward with recreational, and I absolutely support and believe it is the best for our patients. Patients will still need the education to get started and continued guidance if it is for relief of medical conditions. Having a medical card also means the patient will not be required to pay taxes that all recreational states impose on our medicine. Children will always need a recommending physician so there will still be a need for Medical Cannabis. Again, patient first and all else will fall into place. Being deemed essential during the COVID-19 pandemic only furthered our cause. The science is there. The movement is strong.

BROOKSVILLE — Dog agility and sports contests being conducted on 16 acres south of Brooksville have riled neighbors, who have told county officials they do not want the character of their bucolic neighborhood to change.

Barbara Mahony bought the land at the northwest corner of Saturn and Rackley roads last year and began to invite fellow canine sports enthusiasts to the site, permitting them to park their recreational vehicles and installing a swimming pool so dogs could compete in long-jump contests. The contests are through a local chapter of a national organization known as UpDog Challenge.

Neighbors complained to the county that visitors to the property were clogging their rural streets, making noise, shining lights and harming the peaceful residential atmosphere.

After finding a couple of permit omissions and determining that the events required formal county review and approval, county officials steered Mahony into the process of obtaining a conditional use permit. The county's Planning and Zoning Commission is set to conduct a public hearing on the permit at 9 a.m. Monday.

Nearby neighbor Dave Nelson plans to be there. And he is not alone. "The people in the neighborhood are mad, really mad," Nelson said. "This is a business."

He said the events that Mahony has run without a permit have created atrocious traffic problems and caused light pollution from stadium lighting.

"Historically, this land has been a residential area, and I hope it remains that way," neighbor Cindy Chwalik wrote in a comment to the county. "Ms. Mahony has had vanloads of people, dogs, cars and crowds of people over for dog shows that are loud, had started fires at night, and loud music well into the night … and changed our neighborhood into more of a RV park and business zone."

Jim and Kathy Stanislawski also wrote to the county, voicing concern that the recreational vehicles and increased traffic would damage the recently milled roadway in addition to destroying the neighborhood peace.

Neighbor Joseph Puglia has written numerous emails to the county expressing his opposition.

"The traffic here this weekend is absurd with the Sheriff's Office being called on Saturday. They are deceitful in their intentions at this property. She told the people at her community meeting on January 18, 2016, that these events were for friends and family. That was obviously not true," Puglia wrote. "These events need to be held at Florida Classic Park on Lockhart Road."

Mahony said she has been frustrated with the opposition because Puglia "has stirred this all up with lies." She said that her events involve just a couple of dozen middle-age women who enjoy putting their dogs through their paces on the agility course and that the neighborhood will not be damaged by that.

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She said she doesn't want huge crowds at her events.

"I live here. This is my home," she said.

As for the allegation that she is running a business from the location, Mahony said, "I don't make any money at all. … This is what I love to do."

County planners have recommended approval of the permit, but with conditions. Mahony would be limited to 12 events per year, fewer than she wanted. Hours would be from 8 a.m. until dusk, though three evening events would be permitted, running from 4 to 10 p.m. Also, the staff recommends only four electrical hookups for recreational vehicles.

Contact Barbara Behrendt at bbehrendt@tampabay.com or (352) 848-1434.