Meeting with City Councilman Kevin Schmidt: A Vision for Destin's Future

Recently, I had the pleasure of meeting with City Councilman Kevin Schmidt in his office. Our conversation was both inspiring and enlightening, covering a range of issues crucial to the future of Destin. One of the main topics we discussed was the pressing need for more resources dedicated to education and youth programs. Kevin passionately emphasized, "We can't run away from our nation's youth and education. It's the foundation of our community's future."

Kevin Schmidt: A Pillar of the Destin Community

Kevin Schmidt lives in Destin with his wife, Natalie, and their three children, Harper, Harrison, and Hattie. A lifelong resident of Destin for over 30 years, Kevin's deep roots in the community are evident. His children attend local schools, underscoring his personal investment in the quality of education in the area.

Kevin is not only a dedicated public servant but also a successful entrepreneur. He owns multiple small businesses that focus on hospitality, tourism, and business consulting. His professional background gives him a unique perspective on the economic and social needs of Destin. "As an entrepreneur, I understand the importance of creating opportunities and fostering a thriving community. It's about more than just business; it's about building a better future for our children," he shared.

A Vision for Public Parks and Recreation

Kevin's dedication to public service and community improvement is evident in his work on the Public Parks and Recreation Committee. He shared with me his vision for creating new public parks for Destin's children and families. "Public parks are more than just recreational spaces; they are essential for building a strong, healthy, and connected community," he said. I couldn't agree more. These parks will provide safe spaces for children to play, families to gather, and communities to thrive.

Shared Commitment to Education and Family Values

One of the highlights of our conversation was discovering our shared passion for education. Kevin's appreciation for diverse educational options mirrors the values of his brother, David Schmidt. This close connection between the Schmidt brothers echoes the bond I share with my own brothers. Throughout our conversation, Kevin's love for his brother was evident and deeply resonated with me, especially as my own brother recently suffered a serious bout of pericarditis. He remains in my thoughts and prayers.

The Importance of Family in Destin

Destin is built on families working together, a quality I haven't seen in many other communities despite having lived in numerous cities and towns across the area. This sibling and family love and support are fundamental to the strength and resilience of our community. The Schmidt brothers exemplify this commitment to family and community.

 Community Involvement and Leadership

Kevin's community involvement is extensive. He serves on several local and regional committees, including the Northwest Florida Regional Transportation Planning Organization as an alternate appointee. His educational background is impressive, with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of West Florida, a Master of Business Administration from Troy University, and a Master of Educational Leadership from the University of West Florida.

Kevin's commitment to community service is demonstrated through his membership in the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce, his active participation in Shoreline Church in Destin, and his role as President of the Destin Little League, where he also volunteers as a coach. Additionally, Kevin coaches city basketball, further showcasing his dedication to youth development and community engagement. He has also served as Vice-Chairman of the Public Works & Safety Committee and on the Local Planning Agency.

A Unified Vision for Destin's Growth

As a local entrepreneur, my concerns and aspirations echo those of Councilman Kevin Schmidt. Like Kevin, I am deeply invested in the well-being and development of our community. I personally own four businesses and a nonprofit, all dedicated to fostering growth, innovation, and support for Destin's residents.

During our discussion, it became clear that our visions for Destin align closely. Kevin's dedication to enhancing public amenities, particularly through the Public Parks and Recreation Committee, resonates with my own commitment to community improvement. I am eager to collaborate with Kevin on these initiatives, contributing my resources and expertise to help create and enhance public parks and recreation programs in the future.

 The Barrett School: A Resource for Destin Families

At The Barrett School, we share a profound belief in the potential of Destin. Our mission is to provide resources and opportunities for Destin families that may not be readily available in the public school system. We strive to fill the gaps, offering educational options that cater to the diverse needs of our community. Kevin's appreciation for varied educational opportunities aligns perfectly with our approach, and I look forward to exploring ways we can work together to support and enhance education in Destin.

 Endorsement and Future Collaboration

The Schmidt brothers are both up for elections—David in August and Kevin in November. The Barrett School gives its full endorsement to both brothers and looks forward to helping in any way it can. In conclusion, my meeting with Councilman Kevin Schmidt was a reaffirmation of the incredible potential that lies within our community leaders. Kevin's dedication to improving education, enhancing public amenities, and fostering a balanced community in Destin is truly inspiring. Together, with our combined efforts and resources, we can build a brighter future for Destin's youth and families. I look forward to seeing his vision come to life and am grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with such a passionate and committed individual.

The Barrett School is excited to help create future recreational spaces that will benefit all Destin families.