Lee, SRIA to crack down on Pensacola Beach crime
Special funds will 'Take Back the Beach' from troublemakers

Lee

It's war, according to Santa Rosa Island Authority Executive Director Buck Lee, who is planning to use country music and other weapons in his arsenal to deter crime on Pensacola Beach.

"It's going to be zero tolernance out here," Lee said. "We've got special funds and we're ready to 'Take Back the Beach.'"

The first effort is to use music to soothe the savage beasts, a tactic he first used successfully at Blues on the Beach, since renamed Bands on the Beach.

H e switched the music to oldies, Beatles and country, and the undesirable crowd came two more weeks and then left for good.

"They can't stand that kind of music," Lee said.

Now, the parking lots are full every Tuesday night of sedate crowds who listen to the family style entertainment, enjoy the atmosphere and keep their emotions under control.

The boardwalk is switching to 80s music such as Bag of Donuts and the Molly Ringwalds and Capt'n Fun is even implementing a dress code.

The Dock, a popular night spot, is changing its focus to attract more family crowds, with the exception of Wednesday night when it runs its "Drinkin' with Lincoln" promotion.

Lee is hoping the SRIA board will designate an alcohol free zone for those who wish to visit the beach far away from rowdy crowds.

Additionally, he plans to fund 10 deputies to patrol from midnight to 4 a.m., looking for those driving under the influence.

"We hope to do to rowdiness what Gulf Breeze has done to speeders," Lee said.