Karen Woodson, who identified herself as a Fort Myers Beach resident, told the Bay Oaks Recreation Campus advisory board that she was elected president of a newly reconstituted Friends of Bay Oaks and read a draft mission statement emphasizing community support for Bay Oaks programs and events.

"Friends of Bay Oaks is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment where children, families, and neighbors can connect, grow, and thrive together, building a healthier, happier, more resilient Fort Myers Beach community," Woodson said during public comment. She said the group already has an acting board, several volunteers and plans to recruit more members and donors.

Woodson described a holiday welcome event scheduled for Dec. 3 at a private residence at 5921 Estero Boulevard, offered by a local homeowner as a venue. She asked staff how the group should coordinate with the town on permitting and event logistics; staff representatives said they would work with Friends of Bay Oaks on permit requirements and special-event rules, and noted that liquor or other regulated activities would still require the appropriate licenses.

Board members suggested Friends of Bay Oaks identify tangible projects for fundraising (for example, a concession renovation or a memorial bench) and help staff with staffing for events. Jeff Haughey, the town’s Community Services director, said staff will meet with the friends group to clarify permitting and operational details.

The advisory board encouraged volunteer recruitment and said the Friends organization could use donations to speed park reconstruction projects that the town cannot currently fund. The board agreed to add follow-ups on donor policies and special-event procedures to future agendas once the town provides formal guidance.

Next steps: staff will coordinate with Friends of Bay Oaks on event permitting and logistics; the group will circulate its mission and proposed logo to board members for feedback.