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Month: January 2025

Island mayors receive OPPAGA consolidation report

Island mayors receive OPPAGA consolidation report

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Anna Maria Island, Community News, Featured.

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – The consolidation of the three Anna Maria Island cities appears unlikely according to a consolidation study-related letter sent to the three Island mayors last week from State Rep. Will Robinson Jr. and Sen. Jim Boyd.

“The OPPAGA study confirms what we have discussed over the past year,” the letter says. “Merging or eliminating cities could negatively impact the unique and special character of the Island and could have a detrimental impact on issues like building height. The lower height of buildings on the Island must be valued and maintained at all costs. Anna Maria Island must never become a high-rise community and anything that would cause that to happen would be a nonstarter to us.”

Dated Jan. 9, the letter accompanied the completed OPPAGA (Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability) consolidation study report emailed to Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth, Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short and Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie on Jan. 8. The mayors then shared the report and the letter with their respective city commissioners.

OPPAGA is a research arm of the Florida Legislature.

The issuance of Boyd and Robinson’s letter and the sharing of the completed 25-page OPPAGA study coincided with the Manatee County Legislative Delegation meeting held in Bradenton on Jan. 9. Robinson, Boyd and the other state legislators who comprise the Manatee County Legislative Delegation announced their desire for a consolidation study in 2023.

The consolidation study was requested at a time when Robinson, Boyd and former Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge were at odds with Holmes Beach officials regarding public parking for beachgoers and the county’s desire to construct a parking garage at the county-owned Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach.

In 2023, Robinson filed legislation that resulted in the Florida Legislature and Gov. Ron DeSantis authorizing the county to construct a three-story parking garage at Manatee Beach despite the city’s existing prohibition on multi-level parking garages and substantial public opposition. In August, the county commission reversed course and terminated the parking garage design process.

While pursuing the consolidation study, Robinson and Boyd repeatedly expressed their desire for the three Island cities to reduce operating costs and lower property taxes by consolidating some of the similar services provided by all three cities.

The study

The 25-page OPPAGA report begins with an executive summary that says the Legislature directed OPPAGA to analyze the potential benefits of consolidating the services provided by the three Island cities and present options for the potential restructuring of the Island’s governance.

Island mayors receive OPPAGA consolidation report
The OPPAGA Anna Maria Island consolidation study report has been made public. – OPPAGA | Submitted

The study notes the Island’s permanent resident population declined 42% between 2007 and 2023, from 8,449 residents to 4,915. It also notes that 66% of the new vacation rental properties developed in Manatee County between 2000 to 2023 were developed on Anna Maria Island.

“There are some municipal services on the Island that could be streamlined through interlocal agreements, contracts or government reorganization. This streamlining of services could result in savings for Island residents,” the report says.

The report notes all three cities provide administrative, building and planning, public works, code enforcement and emergency management services; and Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach have their own police departments. Anna Maria contracts with the Manatee County Sherrif’s Office for law enforcement services. Using data provided by the cities, the report summarizes each city’s revenues, expenditures, outstanding debt and reserve funds.

The report references four government restructuring options:

  • Leaving the Anna Maria Island governmental structure as is;
  • Combining the three Island cities into one new city;
  • Including the three cities as part of unincorporated Manatee County; and
  • Including the three cities as part of the city of Bradenton.

The analytical report does not include a recommendation of any of the consolidation options, but provides considerations and potential impacts for each consolidation option.

In regard to maintaining the status quo, the report states the duplicated services and the financial impacts created by those duplications would continue and each city’s property tax rates would remain the same. Maintaining the status quo would also avoid the expense, time, effort and disruption of city governance, and Island residents would not have to change their addresses.

Regarding the one city, county and Bradenton consolidation options, the report notes each of those options may produce economies of scale and cost savings but would also result in the elimination of each city’s charter, code ordinances, land development codes and comprehensive plan. Consolidation would also eliminate the current city commissions and advisory boards and require the restructuring of existing municipal contracts.

Robinson and Boyd’s letter notes that Manatee County government and the school district have also been encouraged to become more efficient and lower their taxes and millage rates.
“We know that cutting taxes and finding efficiencies is challenging, but we believe it is possible to accomplish this with hard work and now with this OPPAGA study as a roadmap,” the letter says.

“As we head into the 2025 Legislative Session, we would like to hear from you prior to Feb. 13 on ways you all believe services can be streamlined and better coordinated,” the letter concludes.

Mayors respond

In her Jan. 9 email to The Sun, Mayor Titsworth wrote, “I appreciate the time and effort that the team put into this study. I also look forward to working with the Island mayors, the new county board members and our state leaders in identifying efficiencies to decrease taxes for our citizens. I am pleased that the threats of consolidation and or elimination of our cities has passed and I appreciate the respect our Legislature has for home rule.”

During the Jan. 10 city commission meeting, Mayor Short read aloud some key points contained in Robinson and Boyd’s letter.

“I have reviewed the report,” he said. “I don’t necessarily agree with some of the data that’s in there, but it’s there. I need to digest this some more. I’d like the commission to do the same.”

Short said the report contains some inaccuracies, including some inaccurate financial figures, and he intends to issue a formal response to the report.

Commission Chair Charlie Salem thanked Short, city staff and former mayor Dan Murphy for ensuring the OPPAGA team received the data and information they requested. He also credited the citizens who sent emails and letters of opposition to the state legislators opposing consolidation and reinforcing the importance for the Island cities to maintain their home rule rights.

In conclusion, Short said, “This was an Island-wide effort. This wasn’t just us. It was all three cities, as well as support from others off-Island. I take comfort in this letter, but I’m not 100% convinced that it’s completely done.”

When contacted on Jan. 10, Mayor Chappie said he was glad the state legislators shared the report with the Island mayors, which is not a legal requirement.

Chappie also questions some of the figures and facts stated in the study, but he feels the study reinforces the unique characteristics of the three Island cites and the need to maintain local governance.

Chappie feels the three cities can use the OPPAGA report to help address Boyd and Robinson’s ongoing cost-cutting and tax reduction concerns.

“This is going to be a tool to help us look at ourselves as a community and how we can better our community,” he said.

Seafood Shack parcel sale closes

Seafood Shack parcel sale closes

Written by Leslie Lake on . Posted in Business, Featured, Real estate | Development.

CORTEZ – Manatee County purchased the Seafood Shack and Marina on Dec. 31 after delays caused in part by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

Manatee County Property Acquisition Division Manager Charles Meador made the announcement at a Jan. 8 Manatee County Commission meeting.

“We had this agenda item on here just to provide an update, but fortunately over the past week we were able to close on the property, so that is the update, so now we left it on here so we could announce to the public that we own the property,” Manatee County Deputy County Administrator Bryan Parnell said. “It was a long journey.”

The property, which consists of seven upland parcels of approximately 5.9 acres and two submerged land leases of 2.9 acres, was appraised at $12.55 million. That appraisal assumed that two expired submerged land leases will be renewed

Commissioners unanimously approved the $13 million purchase from Vandyk Properties at a Sept. 5 land use meeting with anticipated use of the property as a public boating access facility with a boat ramp, dry storage facility and marina.

“There’s so much storm damage, the property’s unsafe; all of the facilities are condemned and we’ll have to rebuild with our new design,” Parnell said. “Most of the slips and docks and piers are destroyed as well. There’s 10 to 15 boats that are still capsized and unable to be removed. We’ll have to work through with our natural resources folks to make sure those boats are removed, and the property is made safe, so we’re going to put up a fence and make sure to cordon off the property.”

Commissioners discussed the next steps for the project, plans and possible amenities and potential leases for existing businesses on the parcel.

Commissioners Tal Siddique and George Kruse both spoke in favor of keeping Annie’s Bait and Tackle in place.

“What are we going to do about the existing leases? There’s been a lot of great places here, like Annie’s and other places, that have been longtime staples of that property,” Siddique said. “I’m fully on board with the board discussing options to discuss what the future might look like for places that currently have agreements with the prior property owner and at least having public input on that.”

Seafood Shack parcel sale closes
On the recently sold Seafood Shack property, Annie’s Bait and Tackle was damaged in two 2024 hurricanes. Co-owner Bruce Shearer said he will repair the building if he receives a five-year lease from Manatee County. – Leslie Lake | Sun

“Annie’s has been there for a long time, I don’t care if we call it a marina, I don’t care if we call it a boat ramp, I don’t care if we call it a fishing pier, people need bait. It’s a part of Cortez, and Bruce (Annie’s co-owner Bruce Shearer) is willing to put money in to get that back up and running but he can’t do that without some assurance that he’s going to have a viable business,” Kruse said. “He’s not going to put money into it just to have it knocked down.”

He asked project planners to reach out to Shearer.

“Start that conversation to see if that’s a viable option,” Kruse said. “I’d love for that to be a viable option. I think the community in Cortez would love that. It will give them some sense of normalcy in that area if we make changes to the Seafood Shack footprint. That’s my request to you.”

Annie’s has been in its current location since the 1950s and has been co-owned by Bruce Shearer and Kim Shepherd since Jan. 1, 1995. The shop sells bait and tackle, gas, beer and ice along with food served from a waterfront patio.

Annie’s building and docks sustained damage during Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

Shearer spoke to The Sun following the Jan. 8 commission meeting.

“I would be willing to put the money into it to get it back together if I could get a five-year lease from the county,” he said. “I could be back in business in a short time.”

He said it would be up to the landowner, the county, to repair the docks and he would be responsible for repairing the building.

In addressing possible traffic issues, Siddique said he would like to see ferry service run from the new facility to the Bradenton Beach Pier.

“This can allow us to reduce the number of cars on the road and give residents who are not boaters an ability to leverage this boat ramp,” Siddique said. “It would be a good idea to be good stewards of traffic, our neighbors and residents of the county who don’t want to sit in traffic going to the Island, Bridge Street, in particular, and just enjoy it. The design absolutely needs to include ferry storage and a ferry transit option to Bridge Street.”

He also noted that with the planned replacement of the Cortez Bridge in 2026 and the Manatee Bridge replacement planned after that, two fishing locations will be lost.

“With the new heights of the bridges, we will be losing two informal fishing locations. I do want staff to solicit public input and consider what we can do to allow residents to enjoy the boat ramp and have some place to cast a line and fish,” Siddique said. “At least have the design and option to fish in that spot. It’s just a great pastime and it’s a historic fishing village for a reason.”

He asked for the final marina design to consider noise abatement and pedestrian safety.

“The one thing I’m concerned about is Manatee County running a marina effectively competing with private businesses,” Siddique said. “I think we’re straying out of our core competency on that one. I’m open to be convinced otherwise, but I’ll tell you, there will be pushback you’ll see from residents and some of the business owners there.”

“The primary requirement for meeting here is we’re just putting in a boat ramp right now,” Parnell said. “If there’s additional scope through working groups that the board wants us to incorporate in there, then we’ll have those discussions.”

“I know it’s been a long haul with that seller, now let’s do something great with it,” Kruse said.

Mortgage interest rate future ‘uncertain’

Written by Louise Bolger on . Posted in Business, Castles in the Sand.

Happy New Year, although this year may not be so happy for homeowners and worse for potential homeowners. Both groups are getting hit with increasing costs they never assumed would come. More next week about the growing expense of owning a home.

On Dec. 18, the Federal Reserve enacted a quarter point reduction in interest rates. Sometimes financial markets and mortgage rates react favorably to rate reductions and sometimes they don’t. This time, both the stock market and the mortgage markets didn’t like it. The stock market took a dive, losing more than 1,100 points for the Dow and the mortgage rates for the following two weeks went up.

The reason for this is the Federal Reserve signaled earlier that inflation was under control and they anticipated further rate reductions going forward. Well, we all know that we probably won’t see 3% mortgage interest rates again, but buyers and investors were anticipating at least a little relief on rates. The Federal Reserve backed off their “inflation is under control” narrative and didn’t leave much hope for future rate adjustments.

Mortgage rates for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage went up to about 6.7% from around 6.4% or 6.5%. It doesn’t seem like a lot, but every increase results in lowering the amount of home purchasers can afford.

The projection for 2025 isn’t much better, either, in spite of the fact that in January 2023 some analysts thought rates would be around 4.5% by the end of 2024, obviously a major overstatement. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell says: “Forecasts are highly uncertain, forecasting is very difficult.” This is where my head started to explode.

Nevertheless, the big brains of finance who admit to the difficulty in forecasting are still forecasting for the new year. So, here’s what some of them are saying.

Fannie Mae’s chief economist says, “Long-run interest rates have moved upward over the past couple of months following a string of continued strong economic data and disappointing inflation readings.” They are putting the average 30-year fixed rate at 6.5% in the beginning of 2025, declining to 6.1% in 2026.

The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) in its 2025 finance forecast indicates that mortgage rates will gradually slide from 6.6% at the beginning of 2025 to 6.3% through 2026.

The National Association of Home Builders is forecasting 6.12% in 2025 and 5.71% in 2026. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) is predicting 5.9% in 2025 and 6.1% in 2026. And, finally, realtor.com is saying only that in 2025 the range will be between 6.2% and 6.3%. It is interesting that the organizations involved in actually selling homes are more optimistic than the financial institutions.

Getting back to Fannie Mae, they are saying the 30-year fixed rate mortgage rate is now expected to stay elevated between 6% and 6.5% for the next two years. But since “forecasting is difficult,” who really knows?

My advice to potential homeowners who require a mortgage is act now, since you really won’t know what the rates will be going into 2025. If you find a home you like that you can afford, putting it off waiting for a better mortgage rate is a bad decision. You’ll never catch up with the market just waiting for a ½ point decline or even a full point decline. Live your life now, buy your home and get a crystal ball.

Winter sight fishing

Winter sight fishing

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Fishing, Outdoors, Reel Time.

Sight fishing is my favorite way to target fish since I like to see the whites of their eyes. Last week I was reminded of how rewarding this method can be. While fishing Sarasota Bay with my friend, Capt. Rick Grassett, we landed three flounder, sheepshead, a redfish and had numerous shots at trout in very shallow water. All of these except the flounder were sight fished.

Most anglers spend a large portion of their time on the water throwing live bait, flies and artificial lures at likely-looking spots. That might be a grass edge, a pothole, a disturbance on the surface, or bird activity. Sight fishing, as the name implies, involves visually locating a fish, a shadow, a shape, or a push (a fish moving just under the surface) before making a cast. Being able to actually see the fish requires sun, clear water, or visual cues. Winter is a time of the year when we have low tides, clear water and often all of these cues.

Three methods of sight fishing are generally employed locally – wading, standing on the bow of a boat while someone poles you along, or using a trolling motor to work across a flat. Of the three, wading allows you to get closest to fish, but the downside is that the low angle makes them harder to spot. Fishing from a boat either on the bow or a raised platform improves the visibility but requires staying further away and making a longer cast to avoid spooking the target. When using trolling motors, the same applies, because fish are much warier in shallow water and the sound of the motor can alert fish to your presence. Use the trolling motor to position yourself for a drift when fish are spooky. Whatever method is employed, a pair of polarized glasses, a hat with a dark underbill and an accurate cast are key. Sight fishing is effective and rewarding when using fly tackle, artificial lures or live bait.

Fish are normally located by moving slowly across a flat. If they’re particularly spooky, it can be effective to station yourself within range of a pothole or other visible edge and wait for them to cross the sand where they can easily be spotted. This requires patience but can pay dividends. To increase your chances, station the boat or stand off to the side in the grass so that you don’t cast a shadow. When you see signs of a fish, make as long a cast as possible. When fly fishing, make sure that the fly lands lightly and never too close. Anglers using artificial lures and live bait can cast well past the target, bringing it back to a position the fish can see. In both cases make sure your presentation never moves towards your target, tripletail excepted.

If you’re wading, make sure you have proper footwear and shuffle your feet as you move across the bottom. Many anglers abandon wading in the winter, but this can be one of the best times of the year. The chances of the water being clear are greater and you’re likely to have less competition. Fish can be extremely wary when the sun is high and the water clear. Wading helps lower your profile, allowing a stealthier approach.

Note: Never wet wade if you have an open wound.

Whatever your fishing style, give sight fishing a try. Not only is it effective, but it’s exciting when you enter the fish’s domain. Remember, always release any fish you won’t be eating fresh and handle them with care, keeping them in the water if possible.

Shamrock Shiver moves from beach to bar

Shamrock Shiver moves from beach to bar

Written by Leslie Lake on . Posted in Business, Restaurants | Bars.

CORTEZ – The annual Clancy’s New Year’s Day Shamrock Shiver charity event looked a little different from prior years, but the goal was still the same – to raise money for local charities.

In previous years, members of the community have plunged into the chilly Gulf waters to raise donations for charitable organizations.

Following the hurricanes, Clancy’s decided to replace the Shamrock Shiver plunge with an ice bucket challenge. Community members raised donation pledges for local charities Healthy Teens, Take Stock in Children and Mothers Helping Mothers.

After getting doused with a bucket of ice water, Tom Overmier said he has participated in the event for the past 16 years.

“This is for helping kids,” Overmier said. “That’s why I do it.”

Healthy Teens is dedicated to empowering youth to make positive, healthy decisions for their success and wellbeing.

“We provide them with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed choices about their physical, mental and emotional health,” according to the organization’s mission statement.

Take Stock in Children Inc. is a nonprofit mentoring, college success and college scholarship organization dedicated to transforming Florida one student at a time, according to its mission statement.

Mothers Helping Mothers provides basic necessities for families and children, including baby items, free to families in Manatee and Sarasota counties.

The ice bucket challenge was followed by music by the Dr. Dave Band, along with door prizes, raffles and a silent auction.

More than $438,000 has been raised for local charities since the annual fundraiser began in 2009. The target goal for 2025 was $40,000.

Center proposes weekly farmers market

Center proposes weekly farmers market

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Anna Maria, Center of Anna Maria Island, Community News.

ANNA MARIA – Pending city commission approval, the hurricane-displaced, city-hosted farmers market at City Pier Park will be temporarily replaced by an expanded farmers market at The Center of Anna Maria Island.

A promotional flyer provided last week by The Center’s volunteer market coordinator, Devinne “Dev” Whittaker, lists a Tuesday, Jan. 14 start date for the Anna Maria Community Farmers Market scheduled on The Center soccer fields from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The proposed weekly market requires a city commission-approved special event permit and The Center’s permit application is included on the agenda for the commission’s Thursday, Jan. 9 meeting. If approved by city commissioners, The Center will host the Anna Maria Community Farmers Market every Tuesday through May 27.

Located at 407 Magnolia Ave., The Center operates on city-owned property. When contacted by The Sun, Mayor Mark Short said the city is not involved with The Center-hosted market other than considering The Center’s special event permit application.

MARKET DISPLACED

After debuting with four vendors on a stormy day in March 2018, the city-hosted farmers market at City Pier Park became an annual seasonal tradition that began in October every Tuesday, weather permitting, until early to mid-May; and the vendor roster grew to a dozen or more vendors, most of whom returned each year.

Hurricanes Helene and Milton prevented the city-hosted farmers market from resuming in October. After Hurricane Helene struck in late September, City Pier Park was used as a staging area for utility crews and other recovery personnel.

In late October, the U.S. Post Office established a temporary post office under the City Pier Park shade sail structure, where postal workers provided basic mail services out of parked mail trucks. In late November, the temporary post office moved into a large, mobile home-like trailer that remains parked next to the shade sail structure, where it will remain until the hurricane-damaged post office building across the street is repaired and reopened, preventing the market from staging in its former space.

MARKET REIMAGINED

Whittaker and former Chiles Group head baker Ted Louloudes co-own the DBTB Juice Bar & Bakery they operate inside The Center. Whittaker recently proposed relocating the city-hosted farmers market to The Center rather than cancel it for the season. She also offered to help organize and coordinate The Center-hosted farmers market.

Whittaker sold protein shakes and other natural and nutritional beverages at her Dev’s Bevs vending tent during the city market’s 2023-24 season; and Louloudes and his co-workers sold freshly baked bread and other baked goods at Chiles Hospitality group’s Anna Maria Bake House city market vending tent.

In recent years, Deputy City Clerk Fran Berrios coordinated the city-hosted farmers market originally coordinated and managed by previous Deputy City Clerk Debbie Haynes. With some initial assistance from Berrios, Whittaker reached out to the vendors who participated in last year’s city-hosted market. She also reached out to other vendors she knows from other markets she’s participated in. Whittaker said the city is limiting The Center’s market to 30 vendors and all 30 vendor slots have already been filled.

Featuring a dozen or more vendors, the city-hosted market focused primarily on fresh produce, other natural and organic food and beverage items, flowers, plants, herbs and things of that ilk. In an effort to not compete with the local restaurants and retail businesses along Pine Avenue, the city-hosted markets have not featured prepared meals and have not been open to arts and craft vendors or retail vendors whose offerings more resemble those sold at a flea market.

If approved, the Center-hosted Anna Maria Community Farmers Market will offer a wider array of vendors and vendor offerings. According to the promotional flyer, the market offerings will include art, produce, coffee, juice, baked goods, meat, poultry, massages, clothing, pickles, micro-greens, beverages and more.

“We have opened this market up to all vendors, not just food and beverage,” Whittaker said.

According to Whittaker, The Center vendors are not being asked to pay a weekly or annual participation fee, but they are required to have liability insurance that protects The Center and the city-owned property.

Cortez fire destroys business

Cortez fire destroys business

Written by Leslie Lake on . Posted in Community News, Cortez.

CORTEZ – Multiple fire crews quickly knocked down an early morning fire on Dec. 29 at a boat repair business at 4412 123rd St. W., preventing damage to adjacent homes. The fire, however, destroyed a Cortez workshop on the property owned by Matthew Minnis and Jenny Krohn.

The two have been living in an RV in their driveway following flooding and damage from Hurricanes Helene and Milton to their home next to the workshop.

Krohn set up a GoFundMe page, “Rebuild our home and businesses in historic Cortez Village,” and wrote that they had been trying to get their home and businesses back to livable and workable conditions when the fire broke out in the workshop.

“Helene and Milton flooded our home and both businesses with 4 feet of water. We were able to get our businesses back to being somewhat workable, but the house requires more work,” she wrote. “This morning, a fire erupted on the boat repair side and destroyed the building as well as the contents.”

She stated their insurance company canceled their homeowners insurance two years ago due to the location and they’ve been unable to acquire insurance, adding, “FEMA has been of no help.”

“We are asking for donations to help demo the building and rebuild the shop, and replace the thousands of dollars of tools,” she wrote. “We still have the house to re-sheetrock and replace the electrical. We were trying to rebuild after the hurricanes on our own, but this fire is just too much.”

According to West Manatee Fire Rescue incident reports, multiple units responded to the fire call and found a fully involved open warehouse-type building used for boat maintenance and repairs.

The owner was trying to pull equipment and trailers away from the fire. All of the contents inside the building were on fire, including a pick-up truck that began leaking gasoline. Some of the fire crews focused on protecting adjacent residences.

No injuries were reported.

City Field debris removal wrapping up

City Field debris removal wrapping up

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Community News, Holmes Beach.

HOLMES BEACH – The remaining hurricane-related vegetative yard debris stored at City Field is expected to be fully removed by Saturday, Jan. 11.

On Dec. 27, City Commissioner Carol Whitmore emailed Mayor Judy Titsworth and Public Works Superintendent Sage Kamiya inquiring when the accumulated vegetative yard debris would be removed from the city-owned City Field area. In her email, Whitmore noted several people asked her about the remaining debris.

In the email response she sent to Whitmore that day, Titsworth wrote, “The debris field is being chipped and moved. They have been working on it for over a week now.”

Titsworth’s email noted that Holmes Beach is not the only city with debris removal efforts still taking place.

On Dec. 30, Kamiya sent Titsworth and Whitmore an email that said, “We are estimating that grinding will be fully complete this week. Haul out starts on January 2nd and the contractor is expecting this be done by 1/11.”

On Jan. 2, Kamiya provided The Sun with some additional information about the vegetative yard debris collected from Holmes Beach residences and stockpiled at City Field to be ground down to a more manageable and transportable size.

“This step has now been completed. The next step is to haul it off the field to an approved location for final disposition. The city’s portion is complete once it is hauled off-Island. This is expected to start soon with an expected completion of 1/11,” Kamiya stated in his email.

On Jan. 3, Kamiya provided photos of the City Field debris area, taken that day by Digital and Media Strategist Matt McDonough.

BlueWave Restorations mourns loss of Jason Edwards

BlueWave Restorations mourns loss of Jason Edwards

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Anna Maria Island, Community News.

HOLMES BEACH – On New Year’s Eve, BlueWave Restorations co-owner Jason Edwards, 51, was fatally electrocuted in Anna Maria while assisting a friend.

After Edward’s passing, the Holmes Beach-based company formed in early September issued a press release that says, “On New Year’s Eve, Jason tragically passed away at a private residence on Los Cedros Drive in Anna Maria while helping a friend connect electric to an RV. It was ruled an accidental incident and that Jason died instantly.”

The press release notes the property owner where the accident occurred was a former BlueWave Restorations client but was no longer an active company job site.

“Jason had connected his friend with the property owner as a personal favor – a testament to his selfless and giving nature,” the press release says.

“Jason Edwards was more than a leader at BlueWave Restorations; he was the heart of the company. Known for his joyful spirit, unwavering kindness and ability to lift everyone around him, Jason embodied the company’s commitment to serving the community with compassion and care. Jason’s light touched not only his co-workers and clients but also the broader Anna Maria Island community,” the press release says.

In the press release, BlueWave Restorations co-owner Pete Dospel said, “We are heartbroken by the loss of Jason. He wasn’t just my business partner; he had become one of my closest friends. Jason’s dedication to his work, his community and the people in his life was unmatched. His generosity, integrity and infectious positivity will be deeply missed but never forgotten.”

In the press release, Edwards’ longtime colleague and friend, Gabe Lugo, said “Jason wasn’t just my coworker; he was my brother. He had this incredible way of making everyone feel valued and seen. Whether it was a tough day at work or a personal struggle, Jason was always there with a smile, a kind word, and a helping hand. His absence leaves a hole that can never be filled, but his memory will live on in the way he touched our lives.’”

The press released noted BlueWave Restorations suspended its operations for the remainder of the week and any impacted clients would be contacted this week regarding their ongoing projects.

The press release says Edwards “built a life defined by generosity, warmth and service to others” and “Jason’s legacy will live on through the company’s dedication to the values he so deeply embodied – kindness, generosity and excellence.”

MEMORIAL SERVICE

According to the press release, Edwards was born in Newport News, Va. on Feb. 20, 1973. He moved to Winter Springs as a young child, attended Oviedo High School, in the greater Orlando area, moved to Bradenton with his family in 1991.

According to the updated press release, Edwards is survived by his mother, Diane Edwards, his father, David Edwards, his brothers Aaron and Andrew Edwards, his sister Megan Edwards, his nieces Alexis, Freya and Audrianna and his nephews Tyler, Andrew Marley and Braelyn.

Edwards’ funeral services will be held Saturday, Jan. 11, from 2-4 p.m., at Roland Toale and Sons Funeral Home at Manasota Memorial Park. The Funeral home is located at 1212 53rd Ave E. in Bradenton.

Jason’s mom, Diane, organized the “Honoring Jason Edwards: Memorial Fund” GoFundMe fundraising page that contains the following message: “On behalf of the entire Edwards family, it is with a heavy heart that I share the untimely death of my son, Jason Edwards. Jason was an avid animal lover, collector of crystals and rocks, enjoyed restoring and repurposing furniture and gadgets, grilling in the yard, playing rock-n-roll, especially Stevie Nicks, and never left without giving his famous ‘tootles’ goodbye. He was a beloved son, brother, uncle, great-uncle, nephew and cousin. He loved hanging at the beach, always lending a helping hand to friends and family, near and far, and never asked for anything in return. The funds we collect will go towards his memorial service and any other related expenses.”

COMMUNITY MOURNS

News of Edwards’ passing spread quickly on Facebook and many who knew him expressed their condolences and their sense of grief and loss.

Eva Medcroft handles marketing and publicity for BlueWave Restorations and she wrote, “I and everyone here at BlueWave (and probably just about everyone you ever met) will miss you deeply. You were such a kind and gentle soul that lifted the spirits of everyone around you. I feel blessed to have known you.”

Nancy Ileana Granados wrote, “Friend, you served your purpose on earth to your very last breath. You were an Angel walking among us. You helped and blessed many. Your beautiful soul and bright light will definitely be missed. Rest in peace.”

Lora Donley wrote, “The world lost a good one on the last night of ‘24. May we all realize how quickly life can change and adjust our ‘25 priorities.”

Nick Sciortino wrote, “One of the best guys around. A loss that has been felt by many people. He would do anything for anyone without asking for anything in return. Such a tragic loss for his family and friends.”

Doug Goerlitz wrote, “As his clients, we warmed up to him at our first meeting and it only grew from there as we started working together. Such a heartbreaking loss. RIP Jason.”

Jason’s brother, Aaron Edwards, wrote, “Thank you for the kind words about my brother. He was definitely one of a kind and will be truly missed by everyone.”

Seymour withdraws city commission application

Seymour withdraws city commission application

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Anna Maria, Community News.

ANNA MARIA – Former city commissioner and mayoral candidate Brian Seymour has withdrawn his application seeking appointment to the Anna Maria City Commission.

Seymour’s withdrawal leaves John Lynch as the lone remaining commission applicant seeking appointment to the city commission on Jan. 9.

Dated Jan. 4 and addressed to Mayor Mark Short, Seymour’s withdrawal letter says, “I am writing to inform you that I would like to remove myself from consideration for the open city commission seat. After much thought over the last few weeks, I have concluded that I can better serve the community as I have been for the past several years, as a regular attendee of city commission meetings and participating when public comment warrants.”

Seymour and Lynch submitted applications seeking appointment to serve the remaining year of former Commissioner Jon Crane’s two-year term. Citing hurricane damage to his Anna Maria home and a desire to live off-Island, Crane resigned in November, creating the commission vacancy.

As a precursor to the commission appointment expected to be made on Thursday, Jan. 9, Lynch and Seymour were slated to participate in a candidate forum at city hall on Tuesday, Jan. 7 at 6 p.m.

After receiving Seymour’s withdrawal letter, Short said Tuesday’s forum would still take place, with Lynch still being given the opportunity to answer written questions previously submitted by the public.

According to his commission application, Lynch is a retired consultant and supply chain executive who also served for 10 years as a high school football coach. His application states he resides in Anna Maria 10 months a year and is a registered Anna Maria voter. He’s involved with the Habitat for Humanity organization and serves as president and secretary of the Michael Lynch Memorial Foundation.

During Thursday’s meeting, the four sitting commissioners – Chris Arendt, Kathleen Morgan-Johnson, Gary McMullen and Charlie Salem – could either appoint Lynch to fill the vacant commission seat or delay the appointment and seek additional applicants.

WITHDRAWAL LETTER

In his withdrawal letter, Seymour stated his decision to withdraw was prompted primarily by his desire to avoid situations where he would have to recuse himself from discussing and voting on matters pertaining to the city’s top two project priorities: rebuilding the hurricane-damaged City Pier and completing the Reimagining Pine Avenue sidewalk installation and safety improvement project.

Seymour owns and operates two businesses along Pine Avenue: the Anna Maria General Store and Pine Avenue Bait and Tackle. He and his business partners also operate the City Pier Grill in pier space leased from the city. The City Pier Grill remains closed until the portion of the walkway obliterated by Hurricane Milton is replaced and any additional hurricane-related pier repairs are complete.

Salem owns commercial property along Pine Avenue and Seymour’s letter notes Salem, the new commission chair, recuses himself from Reimagining Pine Avenue discussions and votes.

“The city already has one commissioner who recuses him on Pine Avenue votes and I fear having two commissioners recusing themselves will not serve in the city’s best interests,” Seymour wrote.

“In addition, as one of two tenants on the City Pier, I would probably have to recuse myself from any votes on that project as well. I think all five commissioners should have a vote on the various stages of the pier rebuild. I believe my input and help from a citizen/tenant standpoint would be more valuable to the city than being on the dais and not being able to vote. I appreciate your understanding and hope that the other candidate is successful in their bid to join the city commission,” Seymour wrote.

Seymour’s letter concludes with well wishes for Short in his new role as Anna Maria mayor: “I look forward to seeing your growth and future achievements as mayor and the growth of our wonderful city I know we both love so much. I stand by and am available any time you may need assistance.”

City issues substantial damage assessment letters

City issues substantial damage assessment letters

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Anna Maria, Community News, Featured.

ANNA MARIA – The city recently sent substantial damage assessment letters to Anna Maria property owners whose structures appear to have sustained hurricane damage.

City Planner Ashley Austin signed the recently delivered standardized letter that says, “The city of Anna Maria is a participant in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The NFIP ensures flood insurance and additional forms of disaster assistance are available within participating communities in exchange for the community’s adoption and administration of floodplain management regulations within Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). It’s important to know that the entirety of the city of Anna Maria is located in a SFHA.

“Your home may have suffered damage as a result of damage from Hurricane Helene on September 26th and/or Hurricane Milton on October 9th. As an NFIP participant, city of Anna Maria officials are tasked with assessing whether the work necessary to restore a damaged building to its pre-damage condition constitutes the NFIP’s definition of ‘substantial damage.’ If the estimated cost to repair your damaged building to its pre-damage condition equals or exceeds 50% of its estimated market value, it is determined to be ‘substantially damaged’ and must be brought into compliance with current floodplain management regulations of the Florida Building Code and the city of Anna Maria code of ordinances. The city’s local floodplain management regulations can be found in Chapter 82 of the city of Anna Maria code of ordinances,” the letter says.

“As you may be aware, the city deployed teams contracted by the State Department of Emergency Management to help aid in the substantial damage assessments. Teams were either granted access into your home or performed an assessment from the road. Based on a field assessment, it appears that your property may have been damaged. A permit is required for any repair and/or restoration work. Upon review of a permit application package, a substantial damage determination will be made. In order to make a substantial damage determination, applications must include descriptions of proposed work, a detailed breakdown of the cost of work and the pre-damage market value of your home, excluding the value of the land. Substantial damage determinations will then be mailed to the property owner according to the information on file with the Manatee County Property Appraiser’s Office.

“We regret your loss and the damage you have experienced. We will try to make the permitting process as easy and as seamless as possible. Thank you in advance for your cooperation and assistance at this difficult time,” the letter says.

Property owners with questions or in need of assistance or consultation are advised to call the building department at 941-778-6130, ext. 127.

AMI Christmas Bird Count reveals some surprises

AMI Christmas Bird Count reveals some surprises

Written by Leslie Lake on . Posted in Birds, Featured, Outdoors.

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – The 125th Annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count on Anna Maria Island was completed on Dec. 29 and counters found a few surprises.

“We were interested in what impact the hurricanes would have on this year’s numbers, but we actually logged more species than last year,” counter Bill Pelletier wrote in an email to The Sun.

Counters viewed 54 species of birds on the north end of the Island, including a new addition – a wild turkey.

“We had an unexpected addition of a wild turkey on the island,” Pelletier wrote. “Kitty (counter Kitty O’Neil) found it back in April and it is still around. This is the only one ever reported out here, in the wild.”

Pelletier wrote that one of a pair of nesting bald eagles didn’t make it through the storms.

“The other eagle is still around and advertising for a mate,” he wrote.

Counters recorded sighting 655 individual birds. The highest count of any species was 71 brown pelicans. Fourteen osprey were counted at the north end of the Island.

The count occurred in the Ft. DeSoto circle, a 15-mile diameter circle encompassing the north end of Anna Maria Island and Passage Key. In 1905, President Theodore Roosevelt established Passage Key National Wildlife Refuge to preserve nesting colonies of native seabirds and wading birds.

While the final numbers haven’t been tallied for the region, William Kaempfer said about half of the count’s total was found on Anna Maria Island.

“That included three species not seen across the channel in the Ft. DeSoto peninsula – brown-headed cowbird, gray catbird and tufted titmouse,” Kaempfer wrote.

The Audubon Christmas Bird Count has a long history. On Christmas Day 1900, ornithologist Frank M. Chapman, an officer in the newly-created Audubon Society, proposed a “Christmas Bird Census” that would count birds during the holidays rather than hunt them. The bird count is now held in locations throughout North America.

“The data collected by observers over the past century allow Audubon researchers, conservation biologists, wildlife agencies and other interested individuals to study the long-term health and status of bird populations across North America. When combined with other surveys such as the Breeding Bird Survey, it provides a picture of how the continent’s bird populations have changed in time and space over the past hundred years,” according to Audubon.org. “The long term perspective is vital for conservationists. It informs strategies to protect birds and their habitat, and helps identify environmental issues with implications for people as well.”

In addition to Pelletier, O’Neil and Kaempfer, Tom Bisko participated in the bird count.

Owner closes Pines Trailer Park

Written by Leslie Lake on . Posted in Business, Featured, Real estate | Development.

BRADENTON BEACH –  Pines Trailer Park residents who recently received city approval to repair their hurricane-damaged mobile homes received a letter on Jan. 4 from Pines Park Investors LLC stating that the park will be closed.

The letter from Pines Park Investors LLC, whose manager is Shawn Kaleta, was received by Pines homeowners on Jan. 4 and reads in part:

“Over the past months, we have conducted extensive financial modeling and assessments to determine the viability of maintaining the park,” according to the letter. “Unfortunately, we have come to the difficult conclusion that Pines Park is no longer sustainable as a trailer park and must be closed.”

The letter does not make it clear what the plans are for the park but states that one option being considered, pending city of Bradenton Beach approval, is allowing continued month-to-month tenancy for some residents, possibly extending up to a couple of years, depending on the overall timeline for vacating the property.

Several Pines residents contacted by The Sun on Jan. 4 chose to reserve comment on the letter.

The letter goes on to state that formal notices will be distributed in the coming weeks in accordance with state law.

“These notices will include all necessary legal information and details to guide you through this process,” the letter continues. “Along with these notices, we will provide agreements designed to assist you in transitioning out of the park, as well as information about resources available to support you during this time.”

How it happened

On Sept. 26, storm surge from Hurricane Helene caused water intrusion into the 86 Pines Trailer Park mobile homes, some of which are directly on the Intracoastal Waterway.

On Oct. 17, city building officials said that FEMA guidelines related to hurricane-related water intrusion classified the properties as having “major” damage. Pines residents were told that regulations state that if the cost to repair a mobile home to its pre-storm state is 50% or more of the structure’s value, then the entire structure must be brought into current floodplain compliance. The city’s floodplain ordinance requires the mobile homes to be elevated to a height of 12 feet. Many residents objected that they were unable financially or practically to comply.

On Oct. 29, fire code and setback regulations were outlined by West Manatee Fire Rescue District Fire Marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski, who stated that all new mobile home installations must follow setback guidelines between structures.

At a Nov. 7 city commission meeting, Kaleta said, “The units obviously took on water. There are fire separation issues, there’s mold, there’s structural stability, there’s elevation of the buildings, there’s all these questions. I’ve made a commitment to the residents from our side to keep the park there whatever it can be inside the code. I think that’s a vital part of the community, having residents and having everybody in that community as it exists. I think it’s an important piece of the community to achieve that.”

On Dec. 9, Pines residents received good news from City Building Official Darin Cushing when he notified 83 of the 86 Pines Trailer Park owners that they could repair their hurricane-damaged mobile homes with the proper permits without elevating them.

“We previously provided you with a notice that your property may have been affected by flooding due to hurricanes Helene and Milton, and that a second, more thorough inspection would be performed to gather data critical to making a formal determination as to whether the cost of repairs necessary to restore your building to its pre-damage condition might rise to an amount constituting ‘substantial damage’ as defined in the City’s Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance 21-538,” Cushing’s letter stated.

Following the second inspection, and with a review of the data and of the property values, the city notified residents that repairs could be made with the applicable permits.

“The data suggests that costs to perform repairs and restoration will not constitute a substantial damage repair,” Cushing’s letter stated.

However, some residents remained hesitant to move forward with repairs, saying that questions about the ownership’s intent for the park were still unanswered.

In early December, the parking lot for Pines Trailer Park residents at 201 First St. N. was converted into a public paid parking lot, with a pay-by-plate system in place. Pines residents who required parking had paid $750 per year to park in the lot. A representative for Pines Park Investors told The Sun that residents could continue to park in the lot until Dec. 31 and said a letter would be going out to the residents about its conversion.

Why it happened

The Pines Trailer Park property is currently zoned M-1 (mobile home park).

The Jan. 4 letter gives the following four reasons for the decision to close the park:

“Financial challenges: The park is operating at an unsustainable income level, with high delinquency rates (approximately 75%). While some residents have expressed concerns about amenities needing restoration, such projects – such as waterfront docks – would take years to complete and require significant investment. Combined with delinquency issues, it is not financially viable to operate under these conditions.

Restoration and Compliance: The required renovations for many units to meet the 50% rule for updates would involve considerable investment, which we are aware many residents are unwilling or unable to make, if permits were to even be issued. Additionally, the park’s compliance with fire codes presents a complex and costly challenge, as addressing one unit’s compliance issues often triggers a chain reaction requiring others to come into compliance.

Resident Concerns and Safety: We have received numerous requests from residents wishing to relinquish their deeds, but as a property management team, we are not in the business of owning trailers. Furthermore, the park has faced yearly flooding and other storm-related damages that create unsafe conditions for residents and untenable liabilities for management. This, coupled with instances of harassment toward our team and city officials, has exacerbated the challenges of maintaining operations.

Long-Term Viability: The cumulative impact of delinquency, loss of units, and the need for significant investments makes it clear that the park’s current model is no longer feasible. Additionally, management cannot continue to bear the risk of another storm coming and once again losing almost all income, all of which is essential to remain afloat.”

The letter ends with: “We want to express our heartfelt apologies for the inconvenience and stress this decision may cause. Please know that we are committed to supporting you through this transition and will provide all available resources to ease the process.”

Commission receives Seafood Shack purchase update

Commission receives Seafood Shack purchase update

Written by Leslie Lake on . Posted in Business, Featured, Real estate | Development.

CORTEZ – The Manatee County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) will receive an update at its Jan. 8 meeting on the stalled Seafood Shack and Marina acquisition.

Property Acquisition Division Manager Charles Meador and Senior Real Property Specialist Tim Cristello are scheduled to update the commission at the regular meeting.

TIMELINE

On Sept. 5, 2024, the then-members of the BCC executed a contract for the purchase of the property for $13 million with seller Vandyk 1st Gulf Coast-Marina, LLC.

The anticipated use of the property is as a public boating access facility with a boat ramp, dry storage and marina.

The property consists of seven upland parcels of approximately 5.9 acres and two submerged land leases of 2.9 acres. It was appraised at $12.55 million, assuming the two expired submerged land leases will be renewed.

According to the sales contract, the closing of this transaction was to occur on or before Oct. 7, 2024.

“Property Acquisition and American Government Services, the county’s closing agent, worked on closing this transaction per terms and conditions of the contract,” according to the Jan. 8 BCC meeting agenda. “Property Acquisition completed a site visit on Sept. 10, 2024, to walk the property and talk with seller’s representatives in charge of all operations as part of the due diligence of the contract.”

At the time of the site visit the Seafood Shack property was occupied with businesses and boat slip tenants. On behalf of the seller, a Notice of Termination of Tenancy letters were sent to the tenants ordering the premises to be vacated by Sept. 30.

Hurricane Helene struck on Sept. 26 and on Sept. 30, representatives from county administration, construction services, property management, property acquisition, and sports and leisure departments, conducted a walk-thru and confirmed the Seafood Shack had sustained major hurricane damage.

“Administration directed property acquisition to move forward and close this transaction on or before Oct. 7 per the contract,” the agenda states. “On Oct. 9, Hurricane Milton made landfall and caused more damage to the Seafood Shack property.”

A closing was then rescheduled for Dec. 23, but also did not take place. According to the BCC agenda, the seller and lender were unable to close due to a financial/internal dispute.

“The seller and lender cannot mutually agree on a settlement statement amount owed to close this real estate transaction. As is, the county is not able to obtain clear title,” the BCC agenda states.

The BCC meeting begins at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 8 at the Manatee County Administration Building, 1112 Manatee Avenue W., Bradenton.

The meeting can be viewed live on www.mymanatee.org/mga and on Manatee Government Access (MGA) Spectrum Channel 644, Frontier Channel 30 and Comcast Channel 20 (within Manatee County).

All real estate is local

Written by Louise Bolger on . Posted in Business, Castles in the Sand.

If you want to know the value of your property, just go around the corner and see what recently sold. This was one of the first tenets of determining real estate value I learned more years ago than I care to say, but it was true then and is truer today.

As we look around at the real estate landscape this first day of a new year, all Manatee County and Sarasota County coastal property owners are wondering the same thing, how much impact have the storms had on property values. The answer to this question will take a while longer to answer, but I can report the key trends and the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee’s comments.

Essentially, there has been a decrease in sales in both counties in November for single family and condo properties with the exception of single-family homes in Manatee.

The median sale price is declining in all segments, single family and condos, for both counties.

The median time to sell is taking longer, and the inventory is growing.

The optimistic spin on this from the Realtor Association is seeing a return to a more balanced condition where buyers and sellers have equal opportunities in the market. They go on to say that this will result in a healthier and more stable housing market in the long run.

Yes, in a normal market, more inventory is healthy but going back to the all real estate is local theory, Anna Maria Island and Manatee County’s coastal communities are far away from anything resembling “normal.” Looking at the properties for sale, a large portion of them have greatly reduced listing prices and the pictures show severe damage.

Many owners are cashing out what they can, working with FEMA and moving off the Island. This will significantly change the makeup of Anna Maria Island, however, in my opinion it likely will not change values once the dust has settled and new owners have moved on to the Island.

Manatee County has also put in place a property tax abatement for eligible homeowners whose homes were uninhabitable for at least 30 days due to the catastrophic events. The claims can be filed Jan. 1, and there are more details on the Manatee County website under Catastrophic Event Information.

Nationally, according to The National Association of Realtors, home sales rose in November, resulting in the biggest year-over-year gain in more than three years. However, for the year, home buying activity remains slow for the second straight year and sales of previously owned homes in 2024 are on track to hit their lowest level since 1995.

Home prices continue to stay near recorded highs with the inventory of homes for sale extremely low. The national median existing home price in November was $406,100 compared to Manatee County’s median single-family November sale price of $430,000. Again, national statistics don’t tell the story for our area but it’s still interesting to throw into the real estate value pot.

No matter how the Realtor Association spins the statistics, it will be a challenging first half of the new year and maybe longer. Most of us survived the worst of it; now we have to settle into a new order of business. Wishing you and your families a safe and happy new year moving forward.