City Council Recap: 2026-04-23
Freeport’s city council cleared Walmart construction to begin, discussed e-bike rules, and approved a park vending ordinance at their April 23 meeting. All votes unanimous.
Walmart Clears Technical Review, E-Bike Rules and Park Vending Addressed
Walmart Construction Nears Start Residents eager for the new Walmart got good news: the retail giant has completed its technical review. Deputy Planning Director Samantha Graves told the council that once Walmart pays its fees and holds a pre-construction meeting, the city will issue a development order, clearing the way for construction to begin.
E-Bike Regulations on the Horizon The council had a lengthy discussion about e-bikes in city parks, particularly around the Hammock Bay area. City Attorney Clay Adkinson warned that Florida law prevents the city from treating e-bikes any differently than traditional bicycles, meaning they have a legal right to use roadways. Rather than banning them, the council is exploring a multi-faceted approach that includes designating bike lanes and adjusting speed limits to address safety and congestion concerns. Adkinson is tasked with reviewing an upcoming Walton County e-bike ordinance and bringing recommendations back to the council at its second meeting in May.
New Park Rules and Public Art The council gave initial approval to a new ordinance requiring groups—both for-profit and non-profit—to get a permit and pay applicable fees before using city parks for financial gain or fundraisers. A final vote on the ordinance is pending.
Additionally, the council approved spending $10,400 on a bright blue, climbable “songbird” sculpture for the playground behind City Hall. The durable poly-wood structure will be placed in the white sand area, with an annual $300 maintenance contract to keep it in top shape.
Rezoning for New Office Complex A step was taken to bring a new office complex to the area just south of Freeport Elementary School. The council approved the first reading to rezone a 0.74-acre property at 31 Azalea Drive from medium-density residential to residential commercial, matching the zoning of a similar office complex across the street. A second reading and public hearing will follow.
