Feedback by Rik Poloski

Date: 2007-12-03
Email: the_twist@hotmail.com
Subject: We Want Our CMP!

Hon. Sam Hall, Member, Pensacola City Council,

While I am not a resident of Pensacola or Escambia County, I spend a great deal of my time and money there. In fact, I frequently drive through the future CMP home on my way to visit my parents near Pensacola NAS.

I feel the park would bring to this area a new growth boost that would spur development across several miles. The added entertainment venue, the conference center, and the shopping outlets will bring visitors from other cities to our community. These out-of-town dollars are what Pensacola needs to become a beautiful waterfront city.

While I lived in Houston, TX, the Astros moved into a new ballpark (at that time named Enron Park). This ballpark was built in the middle of what was then a run-down, crime-infested corner of downtown. There were many who questioned the location and public opposition was very vocal. When the park opened to the public, however, it transformed the neighborhood. New restaurants opened over the blocks surrounding the park. Nearby buildings that had been allowed by their owners to deteriorate for years, were given a fresh face and turned into shopping and dining opportunities or unique hotels. The area continues to develop as the years go by.

I was truly excited when I first reviewed the plans for the CMP. My wife and I have even discussed the possibility of moving our ice cream business to the area. Please do not allow anything to stop this great opportunity. If financing needs to be found, please do anything you can to facilitate that process.

Thank you,
Rik Poloski
The Twist Custom Ice Cream
1816 Prado St.
Navarre, FL 32566
(850) 936-1137