SRIA votes to keep Bullock agency

With new board member Ed Guernsey filling the spot previously held by Kelly Robertson, who was dismissed by Escambia County Commissioner Mike Valentino, Santa Rosa Island Authority members heard presentations from two agencies who wanted to handle advertising for Pensacola Beach.

Although the $105,000 budget is substantially reduced from pre-Ivan times, both the Ellis Bullock agency and Birdwell Photography and Marketing submitted their plans to effectively use the funds to bring visitors to Pensacola Beach.

Bullock showed how his agency's blend of advertising and public relations to targeted states was building beach occupancy back after Hurricane Ivan.

Birdwell proposed an internet-based campaign to lure international travelers from London to Pensacola Beach.

The board decided to keep the Bullock agency.

In other news, the board heard good news about many of the post-hurricane projects on the island. Most of the projects are complete, with Cowley Park due to be completed in early August, Fort Pickents gate shelters due in October and Sidwalks by July 20.

Preparations are underway for the project to flush Little Sabine Bay and improve water quality.

Roadway improvements to Via De Luna are due to be completed in fall.