BREAKING: Key West Commission Approves Higgs Beach Transfer Despite Cost Concerns

5–2 vote shifts control, long-term obligations and financial risk to the city amid public opposition.

KEY WEST, Fla. — The Key West City Commission voted 5–2 on Wednesday to approve the transfer of Higgs Beach from Monroe County to the city, capping years of discussion with a divided debate over cost, control and long-term financial risk tied to the 16.8-acre waterfront park.

Mayor Danise Henriquez and Commissioners Greg Veliz, Monica Haskell, Lissette Carey and Aaron Castillo voted in favor of the conveyance, while Vice Mayor Donie Lee and Commissioner and mayoral candidate Sam Kaufman opposed the measure.

The approved interlocal agreement conveys the property at 1040 Atlantic Blvd. to the city, shifting full responsibility for operations, maintenance and capital improvements to Key West.

A city-backed cost-benefit analysis projected approximately $5.34 million in revenue over five years against about $5.11 million in recurring costs, yielding a net benefit of roughly $223,971 — less than $45,000 annually.

Projected operating costs are expected to rise from about $936,810 in 2027 to more than $1.11 million by 2031, driven by staffing, beach cleaning, insurance, utilities and maintenance.

The analysis also identified nearly $2.9 million in non-recurring capital needs, including $927,884 for Reynolds Street Pier repairs, $704,000 in West Martello Tower improvements and $400,000 for seawall stabilization. The figures come as the city is also navigating planned dock renovations at Mallory Square.

Public comment at the meeting was overwhelmingly opposed to the transfer, with several speakers urging commissioners to delay the decision and conduct further analysis.

Commission candidates Chris Massicotte and Bobi Lore both called on the dais to slow the process and allow for additional public input, while former Commissioner Margaret Romero delivered a blunt message: “Just say no.”

Commissioner and mayoral candidate Sam Kaufman warned the city could be repeating past financial miscalculations.

“I agree with Commissioner Lee. I compare this to the Diesel Plant — it was a free gift from the county, we were told it wouldn’t take a lot of money to improve it, and here we are nine years later trying to figure out how to pay for it,” said Kaufman.

“Another gem is the waterfront park, and it doesn’t pay for itself. Potential seawall replacement is millions. The writing is on the wall,” said Kaufman. “We are going to remember this two or three years from now — why are we in this position struggling to pay for Higgs Beach? We will all remember this as April 1, 2026 — on Aaron Castillo’s birthday.”

Vice Mayor Donie Lee also raised concerns about timing and uncertainty as the city heads into budget season.

“We are embarking on our budget preparations,” said Lee. “I am sure that our city manager has gone out and asked his directors for their wants not needs.I can’t go out in support of want as opposed to need. You are making this sound like we are going to lose Higgs Beach. It isn’t going anywhere. Higgs Beach is great. I just think there is too much uncertainty.”

Commissioners supporting the measure emphasized long-term opportunity and local control.

“If you found a piece of land at 16.8 acres, would you take it? Absolutely. It is a gem,” said Veliz. “There are untapped income sources.”

Carey noted the issue has been under discussion for years and pointed to future economic potential.

“We have had this conversation since 2023,” said Carey. “It is an amazing opportunity. There is a lot of economic opportunity there.”

Castillo highlighted the financial components tied to the transfer.

“It comes with $9 million,” said Castillo. “When you’re getting anything for free, you should take it.”

Mayor Henriquez said the city should move forward with taking control of the park.

“I am supporting Higgs Beach. I agree this is the right time,” said Henriquez. “We should be in control. We have to move forward.”

Commissioner Monica Haskell acknowledged public feedback but supported the measure.

“For those that asked me to vote no, thank you, but I am voting for it.

With the vote, the city assumes full responsibility for ongoing operations, capital improvements, insurance and compliance with existing grant requirements tied to the property. based on a timeline set out by the county.

The decision marks a significant shift in governance of Higgs Beach, placing both control and financial risk with the City of Key West as officials move forward with long-term planning for the site.