FINAL Document 1/23/2013 - Hardee County

RECOMMENDED STRATEGIES
The following recommendations identify potential implementation and development strategies to build upon the prior
successes and establish specific directions for review on a periodic and formal annual review. These strategies reflect the
community input and prioritization developed over the course of facilitated discussions to engage residents, business
owners, property owners and community leadership on desired local redevelopment priorities. Following the list of
Recommended Strategies is a detailed discussion or “break out” of three selected strategies. This discussion includes
additional information, proposed “key” next steps and case studies with the intent of providing the County with a
format and outline for future application. The three strategies presented are: #3 Eco-tourism Master Plan; #4 Airport
Expansion and Feasibility Plan and #23 US Corridor Study.
1. Hardee County along with the municipalities should establish quarterly meetings, including key staff members,
to review the Visioning Plan and its recommendations, key projects of regional significance and to increase
general dialogue amongst the community. Similar to other, adjacent communities with common issues (i.e.,
Manatee County), a “Council of Governments” or similar should be established to facilitate the coordination.
a. The County along with the municipalities should investigate the feasibility, including the potential
components of a Joint Planning Agreement and Interlocal Service Boundary Agreement. These types
of agreements generally include determination of the provision of services, process and procedures for
annexations, land use reviews, as well as capital improvements.
viii. Peace River Explorations
ix. 3PR (People for the Protection of Peace River)
2. Hardee County should commission a market and logistics study to determine the market feasibility for
increased economic and industrial development. This study should further identify targeted industries,
potential locational needs including infrastructure improvements as may be necessary, marketing/branding of
the community and economic development strategies that may be implemented by the community. Currently
(2012), the University of South Florida has been contracted as part of a Phase I analysis to review and provide
an overview similar to this strategy and provide baseline recommendations for future phases and “next steps”.
This strategy is understood to be a multi-part, potentially long-term review and analysis, with implementing
recommendations.
a. Hardee County and the cities of Wauchula, Bowling Green, and Zolfo Springs should continue to work
closely with the Hardee County EDC to complete an Economic Development Strategy/Plan. The Plan
also documents economic development incentives available in support of the effort.
3. Consider solicitation of an eco-tourism master plan including components related to
Trails/Greenways/Blueways (including Peace River as a catalyst for planning efforts). Funding for a plan has
been provided by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) through their Local Agency Program
(LAP). Following the completion of this plan, the community will be in better position to seek additional
b. In addition to the municipal meetings, Community leaders must foster partnerships between various
public sector agencies. The following list of public entities and institutions may have a role in
supporting future development in the community:
i. Hardee County
ii. Cities of Wauchula, Bowling Green and Zolfo Springs
iii. Chamber of Commerce
iv. Economic Development Authority, Economic Development Council (EDC) and Industrial
Development Authority (IDA)
v. Hardee County School District
vi. South Florida Community College /USF-Polytechnic
vii. Ministerial Association
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