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Tag: Anna Maria Island

Bunny & Pirates Bazaar to close soon

Bunny & Pirates Bazaar to close soon

Written by Leslie Lake on . Posted in Business, Retail.

CORTEZ – The closing of Bunny & Pirates Bazaar is imminent, but not by the choice of owners Elizabeth Shore and Jeffrey O’Connell.

The news of the closing was announced by the two business owners on Facebook on March 16, two days after a notice to vacate was posted on the outer door of the bar and music venue.

“Dearest Friends – It is with heavy yet hopeful hearts we announce that Bunny & Pirates is closing. We decided last year it was time to move on and also to find someone with a passion for music and community to pick up where we left off,” the post read. “Unfortunately, we were not given the opportunity to sell our soulful creation and beloved brand – instead we have been aggressively and cruelly pushed out on short notice without options in the middle of season.”

The building at 12404 Cortez Road W. is owned by Jewfish Landings LLC with developer Shawn Kaleta as manager.

Shore told The Sun by telephone on March 17 that they had been considering selling the business and had spoken to the owner of the property about it but communications suddenly stopped during lease negotiations.

“I feel so naïve because I thought we would be able to work this out,” Shore said.

“We worked so hard to build something special and I’m heartbroken,” Shore told The Sun. “The outpouring of love on social media is a testament to what we’ve built here in the last seven years.”

“We know this comes as much as a surprise to you as it does to us,” the Facebook post continued. “We never imagined not being given the opportunity to find a path forward in Cortez where our magical musical creative space would live on.”

Shore said the venue will continue to be open for a short time and did not have a specific date for its final closing.

“We still have a few shows planned, so there’s a little time,” she said. “We will be having a going away party, but I don’t have a date yet.”

More than 180 comments were posted on Facebook in support of Shore and O’Connell and the uniqueness of the space which consisted of a pub and wine bar, a deli and market and live music in the beer garden out back.

Gord Hunter wrote: “Very sorry to hear this. Our band Northern Exposure has a ton of fond memories playing there. And the open mic helped us build to where we are today. Heartfelt thanks to you both and best wishes.”

“Breaks our hearts as y’all truly represent the Cortezian spirit,” wrote Mick Green.

“You guys were our hidden gem! Bringing unique music to the area that was so different from everywhere else around here! The beer garden was secluded, quaint and personable,” Sharon Chandler wrote.

“We’re losing a lot of old Florida,” Shore said. “The comfortable atmosphere here is what people loved.”

An email request for comment to Bradenton-based Attorney George Najmy, the registered agent for Jewfish Landings LLC, was not responded to by press time.

Anna Maria responds to county consolidation option

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

ANNA MARIA – The city of Anna Maria has responded to a March 5 request for information from OPPAGA regarding the potential consolidation and annexation of the city into Manatee County.

The cities of Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach received similar requests from the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability that conducts research for the Florida Legislature.

Last year, OPPAGA initiated a consolidation study at the request of Sen. Jim Boyd (R-Bradenton), State Rep. Will Robinson Jr. (R-Bradenton) and the other state legislators who are members of the Manatee County Legislative Delegation.

OPPAGA’s Island consolidation study originally included three possible options: Consolidating the three Island cities into one new city, consolidating and annexing all three cities into the city of Braden­ton or not consolidating the cities but consolidating similar services provided by each Island city.

In November, the three cities submitted separate written re­sponses to OPPAGA that addressed the benefits and challenges of each consolidation scenario.

On March 15, the city of Anna Maria submitted a written response to OPPAGA that addresses the additional option of consolidating Anna Maria into Manatee County and placing it under the control of the county and the Manatee County Commission.

BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES

Regarding the benefits of the county consolidation option, the city response notes the city prop­erty taxes currently levied at a 2.05 millage rate would be eliminated. County consolidation would also eliminate the need for city-funded public works departments, building departments and law enforcement agencies.

Regarding the challenges posed by county consolidation, the Anna Maria response notes there would be an increased financial and administrative placed burden on the county, which last year only provided the city with $15,000 as part of the city’s $11.4 million annual budget.

County consolidation would result in the county assuming own­ership and responsibility for the roads, the stormwater and drainage system and other infrastructure elements currently funded by the city and its taxpayers. The county would assume ownership and maintenance responsibilities associated with the city-owned City Pier and the city-owned property that provides rent-free space for The Center of Anna Maria Island.

The Anna Maria response claims county consolidation would result in the loss of existing environmen­tal safeguards and the loss of the diversity and atmosphere the three distinctly different Island cities currently provide.

“This is what makes Anna Maria Island unique from any other bar­rier island in the state of Florida,” the response notes.

The response also notes the county consolidation option would result in the elimination of each of the three cities’ city charters and comprehensive plans – docu­ments that currently limit building heights to three stories Island-wide.

“Loss of these plans has the potential to create a huge negative impact on the entire Island com­munity,” the response notes.

The city response also notes consolidation would result in job losses for those currently employed by the city.

The response states many Anna Maria property owners, an­nual visitors, tourists and elected officials oppose consolidation and forced consolidation would be likely be met with strong and costly legal opposition.

Jewelry Sale offers great deals for a great cause

Jewelry Sale offers great deals for a great cause

Written by Jason Schaffer on . Posted in Community News, Holmes Beach.

HOLMES BEACH – For the second year in a row, the Anna Maria Island community has shown incredible support for the Island Branch Library. The Friends of the Island Library (FIL), a group of volunteers dedicated to fundraising and support for the library, held their second annual jewelry sale. More than 22 volunteers began taking jewelry donations and sorting them in November 2023 and have been working towards the event, which was held on March 15 and 16. Hundreds of people came out to shop for bargains on high-quality items, which were priced as low as $1.

FIL member, Julie Perry said they were blown away by the number of items donated. Thousands of items were donated and priced from $1 to $50 or more. There were also high-end items from brands like Louis Vuitton, Tiffany and plenty of gold and silver. Many of the high-end items were sold through a silent auction to maximize the fundraising efforts.

“This community is just unbelievable; they’re so generous,” Perry said. “I have no words for the amount of donations we have received, it’s just crazy.”

Perry said this year, due to the incredible amount of donations, they expanded the floor space used for the sale and added more space for non-jewelry items such as handbags, scarfs, wallets, vintage items and other various accessories. Perry also wished to thank Jess Jewelers, who helped appraise some of the more valuable items, making it much easier for the volunteers to correctly price the items and amplify their potential.

FIL says the reason they do this work is their love of the Island Branch Library and the need for the funds. Perry likens it to school teachers, although schools are publicly funded, just about everyone has heard of teachers buying supplies with their own money due to lack of funding. Public libraries are in a very similar situation; while publicly funded, those funds are not enough to do everything the library is capable of providing to the community. FIL uses funds from this annual sale to support projects such as new furniture, supplies, lectures and programming. Funds from this year’s sale will go to replacing the conference room flooring that is in disrepair.

FIL is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and can be reached at www.friendsoftheislandlibrary.org for anyone interested in learning more about its mission. As of the time this story went to print, the Sun was not able to get a total amount raised from this year’s Jewelry Sale. Last year they raised $7,500, and Perry says they hoped to top $10,000 this year. The Island Branch Library is located at 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

Coaches vote league’s best

Written by Monica Simpson on . Posted in Football, Sports.

ANNA MARIA – The winter flag football playoffs started and the youth league award winners were announced last week. With the coaches’ votes in, 10 well-deserved players heard their names announced on The Center’s field.

Playing in last week’s opening game, AMI Coconuts’ Camden Rudacille, the league’s winner of the sportsmanship award, proved he is not only one of the best-spirited players in the league but also a skilled baller.

With one touchdown catch and a two-point conversion on offense, Rudacille also had a strong defensive game against the Moss Builders team, including six flag pulls and an interception.

Teammate Adelaide McGraw and Cheesecake Cutie’s Gunner Maize earned the offensive most valuable player honors for the 8- to 10-year-old league.

Despite the team’s loss against top-ranked Moss Builders, McGraw had a strong game with one reception and a big defensive stop.

In the third game of the night, MVP Maize’s team dominated the Beach House Waterfront Restaurant team, winning 33-0. The Cheesecake Cutie standout once again showed why he is deserving of the title, with 21 points, including a touchdown reception, a rushing score and a pick-six.

On the other side of the football, Beach House’s Aiden Guess, winner of the defensive MVP votes, had three flag pulls against the Cuties offense.

Team Adrian Griffin Interiors advanced to the semifinals with a win against Chick-fil-A. The league’s most improved player, Silas DeWitt, playing for the victors, finished the game with five catches, including one for six points and three big defensive stops.

Sato Real Estate won the second game of the night against Solid Rock Construction by 20 points in the defensive battle.

In the older youth league, Solid Rock Electrical’s Estella Long lit up the gridiron as the MVP against team HSH Design. Long had four catches and scored six points. On the other side of the football, Long stopped the HSH offense with seven flag pulls.

The league’s most improved player, Van Harvell, playing for Solid Rock Air Conditioning, helped his team to their narrow victory against Progressive Cabinetry. In the two-point game, Harvell scored a touchdown and made five big flag pulls in the night’s second match-up.

Team Wings N Things could not advance to the next round of the playoffs, despite having two of the honored players in the league. The Shady Lady Horticultural Services team was just too strong, holding Ryk Kesten, the defensive most valuable player, to one TD and five flag pulls.

Sportsmanship award recipient Charlee Maize caught two passes, pulled eight flags to stop forward progress and sacked the Shady Lady QB.

Closing out last week’s youth flag football play, team Moss Builders solidly won against team Freckled Fin. With the final score 52-8, Mason Moss put up numbers that echoed his season accomplishments which earned him the coaches’ votes for MVP.

Scoring two rushing touchdowns and catching for another six, Moss also had two interceptions, including taking one down the field to score.

Moss clearly showed his dominance both on offense and defense, finishing the game with a flag pull and one-point conversion to end last week’s youth play.

This week’s youth flag football action started on Monday with team Sato Real Estate facing the Cheesecake Cutie team, as well as the 8- to 10-year-old Moss Builders team taking on Adrian Griffin Interiors.

On Tuesday, the older Moss Builders team played Solid Rock Electric while Solid Rock Air Conditioning opposed the Shady Lady Horticultural Services squad in semifinal action.

 

 

SUN SCOREBOARD

 

 

MARCH 4 – YOUTH FLAG FOOTBALL

8- TO 10-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE

QUARTER-FINAL PLAYOFFS

 

 

#1 Moss Builders 35

#8 AMI Coconuts 8

 

 

#3 Sato Real Estate 26

#6 Solid Rock Construction 6

 

 

#2 Cheesecake Cuties 33

#7 Beach House Waterfront Restaurant 0

 

 

#4 Adrian Griffin Interiors 26

#5 Chick-fil-A 13

 

 

MARCH 5 – YOUTH FLAG FOOTBALL

11- TO 14-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE

QUARTER-FINAL PLAYOFFS

 

 

#4 Solid Rock Electrical 39

#5 HSH Design 18

 

 

#3 Solid Rock Air Conditioning 43

#6 Progressive Cabinetry 41

 

 

#2 Shady Lady Horticultural Services 26

#7 Wings N Things 6

 

 

#1 Moss Builders 52

#8 Freckled Fin 8

 

 

MARCH 7 – ADULT CO-ED INDOOR SOCCER, WEEK 5

 

 

Mi-Box (1-3-1) 13

Slim’s Place (0-4-1) 12

 

 

Pool America (3-1-1) 14

Servis 1st Bank (2-3-0) 5

 

 

Bucky Construction (5-0-0) 7

Sato Real Estate (2-2-1) 6

 

 

ADULT CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL

QUARTER-FINAL PLAYOFFS

 

 

#5 Solid Rock Construction 29

#4 Salty Printing 13

 

 

#3 Sandbar Seafood & Spirits 46

#6 Slim’s Place 39

 

 

#2 Moss Builders 27

#7 Gulf Drive Café 6

 

 

#1 Floridian Mortgage 42

#8 Edible Cookie Dough Café 27

 

 

UPCOMING GAMES

MARCH 17

Floridian Mortgage vs. Solid Rock Construction, 7 p.m.

Sandbar Seafood & Spirits vs. Moss Builders, 8 p.m.

Declutter, depersonalize, clean

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

After perusing what I like to consider my very organized database of columns, I realized it’s been some time since I wrote about getting your house ready for sale. Since we are dead in the middle of the busy selling season, it may be time for a tune-up.

According to the National Association of Realtors, more than 40% of buyers look at listings online as their first step. Because of this, you need to have excellent and clear pictures of your home done by a professional photographer experienced in real estate listings.

Before the pictures are taken you need to declutter, depersonalize and clean your home within an inch of its life. Out of the three of these, cleaning is by far the most important and the most obvious to buyers when they walk in the front door. Even if you are a good housekeeper or your regular housekeeper does in your opinion a good job, you should consider hiring a company that specializes in deep cleaning. Dust building up in corners and on baseboards, fans – especially high ones – and bits of mold are frequently overlooked when you’re living in a home day to day.

Next is decluttering and packing away excess furniture and things you don’t need for everyday living, including any items overstuffing your closets. Not only will this make your home appear cleaner and more spacious, it will also give you a head start on packing for your move.

Not everyone views clutter through the same eyes. Kitchen countertops cluttered with toasters, air fryers, two kitchen types of coffeemakers, countertop ovens, panini presses and every other type of small appliance we’ve all been guilty of buying and infrequently using should be put away. All of this also applies to bathrooms – hairdryers, electric razors, 10 different types of shampoo and crème rinse is something buyers don’t need to know about.

We all have collectibles and souvenirs from vacations and gifts from family members displayed around our home. Well now is the time to decide that the plastic hula girl statue your son insisted on bringing back from Maui has to go and pack away everything else that you aren’t attached to.

The part of the decluttering process that is the most painful is the pictures. Family photos are wonderful reminders of weddings, vacations and those big special moments in our lives, however, don’t forget this is your life, not a potential buyer’s. Family photos also can become a distraction for buyers touring your home. Everyone is a little curious by nature and they love to stop and look at your daughter’s wedding and your children’s first day of school down through the years.

All of this declutter advice also is important on the outside of your home. Whatever you can do to perk up the curb appeal with flowers, trimmed lawns, fresh paint and pressure washing will be helpful.

It should go without saying that all appliances and systems be in working order along with any booklets about them and the year they were installed.

After you have done everything above, the final cleaning job is to clean the windows. Again, a professional window cleaner will do wonders at least until it rains again. Plan on having him or her on retainer while your home is on the market, especially if you live on the beach.

I think I’m done, at least for the big stuff. The object is to set a stage that will make the buyers feel they can make your home their home where they aren’t distracted by personal items and want to stay awhile. Hopefully, it will be a busy season and you all have successful transactions; good luck.

Suncoast Waterkeeper’s vision expands

Reel Time: Suncoast Waterkeeper’s vision expands

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

Suncoast Waterkeeper (SCWK) has seen phenomenal growth over the last several years. In that time, they have hired an accomplished wetlands scientist as executive director, hired a marketing and communication specialist, acquired a Waterkeeper boat, and launched their Mangrove Rangers and Eyes on The Suncoast initiatives, which encourage and provide resources for citizens to report illegal mangrove trimming, pollution, fish kills and algae blooms. The organization is being funded by various local charities and foundations.

Dr. Abbey Tyrna, an experienced educator and scientist, joined Suncoast Waterkeeper in 2022. She grew up in Cape Coral and focused her education on learning about wetlands and protecting Florida waters. Tyrna has a doctorate in geography from Pennsylvania State University, where her research focused on measuring the effects of development on wetlands. Before joining SCWK, she worked with the Sarasota County government and the University of Florida to help bring scientific knowledge and expertise to the public as the water resources agent for UF/IFAS Extension and Sustainability. Before receiving her doctorate in 2015, Tyrna earned a master’s in environmental science from LSU in 2008, concentrating on wetland science and management, and a bachelor’s in environmental studies from Florida State University in 2001. SCWK has tackled many significant pollution problems, which have curtailed over 1 trillion gallons of polluted water from entering our bays and driven hundreds of millions of dollars in infrastructure investments. Not resting on her laurels, Tyrna, working with Communications Specialist Samantha Wassmer, is seeking to expand investments in SCWK operations to take on the water quality threats prevalent across our bays and waterways.

To do this, SCWK will launch a new campaign, Love Your Bays Consciously, to recruit, manage and train volunteers in Manatee and Sarasota counties with the goal of proactively and reactively tackling the ever-growing threats to clean water. Through the campaign, SCWK will seek partnerships with bayfront communities, marinas, boat storage facilities, Realtors and local businesses. There are three actions necessary for joining Love Your Bays Consciously – protect aquatic habitats, reduce pollution and help your community.

From this effort, they expect:

• Increased adoption of clean water behaviors – success would entail a noticeable increase in the number of waterfront homes, boaters and marinas actively posting information about clean water behaviors and implementing these best practices. This could be documented through surveys, interviews or direct observation of adopted behaviors;

• Growth in engagement – the success of the Love Your Bay Consciously campaign would be evident through an increase in the number of volunteers actively engaging with residents and visitors to promote clean water behaviors. This could be measured by tracking volunteer participation rates, the number of individuals reached through outreach efforts and feedback collected from those engaged;

• Effective pollution monitoring and reporting – the project’s success would also be reflected in the effectiveness of the special team of ambassadors trained to spot, monitor and report pollution incidents. This could be documented through the number of pollution events reported, the timeliness of reporting and the responsiveness of relevant agencies to address reported incidents; and

• Progress towards environmental goals – ultimately, the success of the project would contribute to progress towards the overarching goal of achieving fishable, swimmable and drinkable waters for all. This could be assessed by monitoring water quality indicators over time, tracking improvements in the health of aquatic ecosystems and gathering feedback from community members on their perceptions of water quality.

To be a part of these exciting programs, consider donating during this year’s 2024 Giving Challenge taking place April 9-10. Matched donations will allow SCWK to expand its outreach efforts and increase the number of community members adopting best practices. This increased funding will also enable the organization to tackle complex challenges with greater resources and effectiveness, ultimately leading to a healthier and more sustainable environment for generations to come. Consider joining Suncoast Waterkeeper at www.suncoastwaterkeeper.org/membership.

Vacation rental legislation awaits DeSantis’ decision

Vacation rental legislation awaits DeSantis’ decision

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

TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Ron DeSantis will decide the fate of proposed vacation rental legislation that seeks to preempt vacation rental regulation to the state.

Supported by the Florida Senate and House of Representatives, the legislation proposed in the matching House and Senate bills and now known collectively as CS/SB 280 would preempt vacation rental regulation, including vacation rental advertising, to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). DeSantis can sign the legislation into state law, allow it to become state law unsigned or veto it.

If DeSantis supports the state preemption, local and county governments, including those on Anna Maria Island, will lose some local vacation rental regulation authority and enforcement powers. If adopted as state law, local governments could still conduct annual health and safety regulation inspections, require an annual vacation rental registry and continue levying “reasonable” registration and inspection fees. The enrolled bill does not define “reasonable.”

Vacation rental legislation awaits DeSantis’ decision
Sen. Nick DiCeglie sponsored SB 280. – FlSenate.gov | Submitted

Sponsored by Sen. Nick DiCeglie (R-Indian Rocks Beach), the Senate, on Feb. 1, voted 27-13 in favor of adopting SB 280 as it was written at that time.

Vacation rental legislation awaits DeSantis’ decision
State Rep. Philip Griffitts Jr. sponsored HB 1537. – MyFloridaHouse.gov | Submitted

On Wednesday, March 6, the House members voted 60-51 in favor of the amended committee substitute version of SB 280 after adopting a lengthy amendment presented by Rep. Philp Griffitts Jr. (R-Panama City Beach), the sponsor of the original House bill, HB 1537. Rep. Will Robinson Jr. (R-Bradenton) voted in favor of the bill which was then sent to the Senate seeking Senate concurrence with the House-amended committee substitute version of CS/SB 280.

Vacation rental legislation awaits DeSantis’ decision
State Rep. Will Robinson Jr. supports the state preemption of vacation rental regulation. – MyFloridaHouse.gov | Submitted

While debating the House-amended bill on March 7, Sen. Bobby Powell (D-West Palm Beach) proposed a Senate amendment to the House amendment that would have grandfathered in any local vacation rental regulations adopted before July 1, 2024. After a spirited debate between supporting and opposing senators, 16 members supported Powell’s amendment and 24 rejected it.

Vacation rental legislation awaits DeSantis’ decision
Sen. Jim Boyd voted in favor of the vacation rental legislation. – FlSenate.gov | Submitted

After further debate, the Senate members voted 23-16 in favor of adopting the House-amended version of CS/SB 280, thus creating identical matching bills to send to DeSantis. Sen. Jim Boyd (R-Bradenton) and Sen. Joe Gruters (R-Sarasota) opposed Powell’s amendment and supported the final adoption of the bill. The 2024 legislative session ended on March 8.

Bill language

On Feb. 23, Griffitts told The Sun his primary goals were to create a statewide vacation rental registry database and to better ensure short-term vacation rentals are properly registered and all applicable taxes and fees are paid. Griffitts said it was unlikely that House members would adopt the Senate bill that then differed significantly from the House bill. However, on March 6, Griffitts presented the House members with a lengthy proposed amendment to the Senate bill, which the House adopted by a slim nine-vote margin.

Vacation rental legislation awaits DeSantis’ decision
The proposed state law would establish vacation rental occupancy limits set forth by the state. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

If enacted as state law, CS/SB 280 would require vacation rental owners, managers and operators to comply with a maximum overnight occupancy that doesn’t exceed two persons per bedroom, plus an additional two persons in one common area; or more than two persons per bedroom if there is at least 50 square feet per person, plus an additional two persons in one common area, whichever’s greater.

Adopted in 2015, Anna Maria’s vacation rental ordinance limits total occupancy to eight persons for any vacation rental home or unit built after that city ordinance took effect. In response to more than 100 Bert Harris claims filed within one year of the city vacation rental ordinance adoption, the city commission granted legitimate Bert Harris claimants additional two-plus-two occupancy exemptions that exceed eight occupants.

Vacation rental legislation awaits DeSantis’ decision
Florida cities could still enact local vacation rental registration programs if the new law is enacted. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

Similar to local vacation rental ordinances, CS/SB 280 would require the vacation rental owner/operator/manager to designate a representative who can respond to complaints or emergencies by phone, or in person, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. That designated individual would also receive any violation notices issued by a local municipality or DBPR.

During the March 7 Senate debate, DiCeglie acknowledged only nine DBPR staff members would be assigned to oversee the state’s vacation rental regulation, but local governments would still be expected to assist with those efforts.

The proposed law would require local governments to issue written notices of violations of local laws, ordinances or regulations that don’t apply solely to vacation rentals but occur at a vacation rental property, including noise violations.

The proposed law would allow local governments to suspend a local rental registration for up to 30 days for one or more violations on five separate days during a 60-day period, up to 60 days for one or more violations on five separate days during a 30-day period and up to 90 days for one or more violations after two prior suspensions.

The proposed law would allow local governments to revoke or refuse renewal of a vacation rental registration if a vacation rental registration has been suspended three times.

The legislation states that as of Jan. 1, 2026, local governments must use the state’s vacation rental information system to notify DBPR of any local suspensions. DiCeglie acknowledged the state’s registration database would not be fully operational until 2026.

Mayor’s concerns

On March 8, Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said he hopes to travel to Tallahassee to meet with DeSantis in person.

“I want to tell him what the implications of that bill would be for the city of Anna Maria,” Murphy said, noting he doesn’t know if DeSantis supports the legislation.

In 2020, DeSantis told a group of reporters he was not sure the state should be micromanaging vacation rentals, as reported by FloridaPolitics.com and others.

In past years, Murphy’s made several trips to Tallahassee to lobby state legislators and he’s disappointed that due to unforeseen circumstances he wasn’t able to get to Tallahassee while the legislature was still in session.

“I don’t think we did an adequate job of getting to the senators and explaining to them the implications. This bill shouldn’t have happened. Of all the vacation rental bills that have come across in recent years, this is probably the worst. The biggest impact is we’re going to have party houses and go back to the days of 25 people in a house. I’m exceptionally disappointed with the state legislature. I find it hard to believe that they couldn’t be more sensitive to the needs of their constituents,” Murphy said.

Murphy said the proposed square footage-related occupancy provision would be virtually impossible to enforce and enforcement of vacation rental advertising, including occupancy limits, would be preempted by the state.

When asked what the city could still do in terms of enforcement, Murphy said, “I’m still sorting that out.”

While awaiting DeSantis’ decision, the city will utilize its HomeRuleFlorida.com website to engage in an email-based opposition campaign directed at DeSantis.

Reel Time: Harbinger of spring

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

I just heard my first whippoorwill last night, a harbinger of spring. While we might still be a few cold fronts away from spring, now is a great time to prepare for the upcoming season, getting tackle in order and keeping an eye on the sky for diving birds and breaking fish.

Under those birds, you might find Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, cobia, little tunny, jack crevalle and any number of other predators that come together to feast on schools of baitfish that migrate to nearshore waters this time of the year. Every one of these predators will ambush live bait, lures or flies and can be caught on spinning, bait casting or fly tackle. Except for king mackerel and cobia, most can be landed with light (8- to 10-pound test) tackle, adding to the excitement.

Depending on the species you’re targeting, you’ll want to rig accordingly. Since it’s possible to encounter such a diversity of fish in a single outing, multiple outfits are a good idea. After a long winter, tackle can fall into disrepair and need to be replaced. However you fish, take care to avoid the number one way fish are lost – improperly tied knots. To assure you’ll never lose a good fish to inferior knots, moisten and tighten all knots. Properly sharpened hooks and outfits with the appropriate bite tippet and leader are also key. Options include wire, monofilament, long-shanked hooks or a combination of these. It’s possible to catch a kingfish without wire but your odds aren’t good. The same applies with certain exceptions to Spanish mackerel. Mackerel can sometimes shy from wire. That’s the time to switch to a long shank hook and/or a heavy (60-pound) monofilament leader. Even then, it’s possible to get cut off, but you’ll be guaranteed more action if the fish are feeding.

When using wire or heavier mono for a bite tippet, an 8- to-12-inch trace can be tied to monofilament using an Albright Special knot (best) or a swivel. If you use a swivel, use a black one as opposed to silver to prevent fish from mistaking it for forage. American Fishing Wire makes a product called Surflon Micro Supreme that is extremely flexible and kink-resistant. This wire can be knotted to your lure, hook or fly like monofilament. It also provides greater flexibility and less stretch than monofilament. Umpqua makes a product that’s ideal for fly anglers. Their Re-Twistable Haywire Twist wire is reusable and will allow you to change flies in a snap. This is the quickest and most painless system to rig wire for toothy fish. A wire is less likely to deter a bite under low light conditions like early morning, overcast days and late in the day.

Reel Time: Harbinger of spring
False albacore are one of the fastest fish you’ll find harassing bait fish off Anna Maria Island beaches in the spring. – Rusty Chinnis | Sun

One of the most effective ways to find schooling fish in the spring is to look for surface action and diving birds in the inshore Gulf waters. Predators can also be present without revealing themselves around structures, reefs and wrecks, so a few exploratory casts around these areas are advisable. When you find baitfish schools and feeding fish you can approach them by trolling, drifting or with the use of a trolling motor. Whatever method you employ, never let your boat pass through or get too close to the action. With more and more boats and anglers pursuing feeding fish, they are likely to sound and move away. The best bet is to stay outside the action but within casting distance. If trolling, make wide turns so only your lures pass through the action. On species like little tunny that surface, feed and then sound suddenly, only to resurface yards away, learn to watch hovering birds. The birds track the finicky fish as they move from between baitfish schools.

Live bait anglers target schooling fish in several ways. By anchoring up current from a likely area, they may deploy a chum bag and then toss wounded live baits to draw fish into casting range. This can be an extremely effective method. Those who prefer artificial lures find spoons particularly effective as well as jigs like the DOA CAL or the Berkley Gulp. One of the most exciting and effective types of lures are top water models like the MirroLure Top Dog, the Heddon Zara Spook or the Rapala Saltwater Skitter Pop. Not only is the strike visual and often explosive, but the surface action can attract target species.

Fly fishing is also an effective and exciting way to target spring species from cobia to triple tail, Spanish mackerel and even kingfish. The same rigging applies and top water flies like the Crease fly or Garthside Gurgler can produce some memorable strikes. Clouser Deep Minnows are also a great choice for Spanish mackerel and little tunny. This would be a good time of the year to have a 10- or 11-weight rod rigged with a big black fly should a cobia make an appearance.

Whatever your fishing style, take advantage of the great action you’ll find in area waters in the next couple of months. If you’re new to the game, consider hiring a guide. This is a great way to learn the ropes and a great value when shared with a friend. Tight lines!

Adrian Griffin Interiors bests Moss Builders

Written by Monica Simpson on . Posted in Football, Sports.

ANNA MARIA – With no adult indoor soccer play last week, the sports focus on Anna Maria Island was flag football. Ending February with youth gridiron action and starting the month of March with adult flag football play, the Island’s community center moves into round one of the playoffs this week.

In the 8- to 10-year-old league, team Sato Real Estate had a smooth game against AMI Coconuts, winning 34-6. Brandon Sato made his mark with two throwing touchdowns and running himself for two.

Teammate Grayson Cohen scored 14 points, catching for two TDs from Sato and successfully finding the end zone for a one- and a two-point conversion against the AMI Coconuts defense.

Bodhi Silenzi put his mark on the game with a big point after, adding to the Sato Real Estate scoring.

For AMI Coconuts, Paul ten Haaf threw for a touchdown to Camden Rudacille. Ten Haaf finished the game with three flag pulls and an interception. Rudacille added to his game stats with two defensive stops.

In a surprising loss to Adrian Griffin Interiors, the younger Moss Builders team had their first loss of the season by a single touchdown. Jordan Steele hit Silas deWitt for the single team score for six points. Steele and DeWitt had three big interceptions to stop the Moss offense.

Moss’ offense just could not click and did not find the endzone in the regular season closer.

In the third game of the week, the Cheesecake Cuties team defeated the Beach House Waterfront Restaurant squad by a touchdown. QB Jermaine Goode threw two touchdowns for Beach House, with the ball finding Leo Tyler and Asher Patel. Defensively, Aiden Guess and Tyler each read the play of the Cheesecake Cuties QB for interceptions.

Patel put five flag pulls into the record books for Beach House, helping to keep the game close despite the loss.

Team Chick-fil-A eked out the three-point win against Solid Rock Construction. Quarterback Prince Izear threw for two touchdowns, both to Ruby Kesten.

Parker Svoboda and Kesten each added one point to the scoreboard with a point after the team’s TD.

Nolan Anderson scored on the ground for Chick-fil-A finding the endzone.

Rushing the football for 18 points, Matthew Darak and Carson Long ran for three touchdowns, two by Darak. Jedi Smith had a one-point conversion, contributing to the Solid Rock scoring.

Defensively, the Solid Rock crew held their own and kept the team solidly in the game with a total of 20 flag pulls. Stops by Eligh Roadman, Darak, Long and Smith helped make it a three-point win for the Chick-fil-A team.

The middle schoolers in the 11- to 14-year-old league had four high-scoring games with plenty of action to close the regular season. With the final score of 38-37, HSH Design beat Progressive Cabinetry.

Tanner Miller threw for six touchdowns, splitting the catches between Landyn Dowell and Kaleb Romagnino. Dowell and Romagnino each had a point after conversion for a total of two points.

On defense, in addition to the team’s 17 stops, Daniel Lukens sacked Kellan Hunt, Progressive Cabinetry QB. Teammate Sterling Holiday broke up the opponent’s offensive drive with a beautiful interception.

On the other side of the football, the Progressive Cabinetry team played hard and held their own. Hunt finished the game with five touchdown passes, splitting them between Braxton Anderson, Jackson Goodhue and Jack McCarthy.

Scoring one point for his team after a critical touchdown, Theo Aupelle was Hunt’s successful target. McCarthy and Hunt each had two interceptions against the HSH offense, along with one for six points by McCarthy.

Turner Worth was the offensive option for Moss Builders, throwing for one TD, mixing up the plays along with QB Mason Moss. Moss added an interception to his game status. Also working on defense, Solid Rock Electrical’s Estella Long had an amazing game. Long finished with four catches and three defensive stops. In addition, Long had her own pick six of an interception of a Moss Builders’ throw.

The Solid Rock scoring included a touchdown from Charlie Serra to Dominik Zupa, as well as an additional one-point conversion by Elijah Casciani.

With solid flag football action in the three leagues, the semifinal games next week should continue to entertain players, friends and families at The Center.

 

 

SUN SCOREBOARD

 

FEB. 26

 

YOUTH FLAG FOOTBALL

8- TO 10-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE – WEEK 7

 

 

#3 Sato Real Estate (5-2) 34

#8 AMI Coconuts (1-6) 6

 

 

#4 Adrian Griffin Interiors (5-2) 6

#1 Moss Builders (6-1) 0

 

 

#2 Cheesecake Cuties (6-1) 18

#7 Beach House Waterfront Restaurant (1-6) 12

 

 

#5 Chick-fil-A (2-5) 22

#6 Solid Rock Construction (2-5) 19

 

 

FEB. 27

YOUTH FLAG FOOTBALL

11- TO 14-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE – WEEK 7

 

 

#5 HSH Design (3-4) 38

#6 Progressive Cabinetry (2-5) 37

 

 

#1 Moss Builders (7-0) 35

#4 Solid Rock Electrical (4-3) 14

 

 

#3 Solid Rock Air Conditioning (5-2) 24

#7 Wings N Things (2-5) 22

 

 

#2 Shady Lady Horticultural Services (5-2) 52

#8 Freckled Fin (0-7) 6

 

 

FEB. 29

ADULT CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL – WEEK 7

 

 

#7 Gulf Drive Café (2-5) 27

#3 Sandbar Seafood & Spirits (4-3) 14

 

 

#2 Moss Builders (5-2) 34

#5 Solid Rock Construction (4-3) 29

 

 

#1 Floridian Mortgage (6-1) 32

#4 Salty Printing (4-3) 13

 

 

#6 Slim’s Place (3-4) 57

#8 Edible Cookie Dough Café (0-7) 33

Winter of the big freeze

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

You should have warmed up from the unusually cold Florida winter. Now the question is, has the housing market unfrozen? The entire country has been gripped in an exceptionally cold and stormy winter, including sections of the south like Texas, Tennessee, Georgia and, of course, Florida. In January, more than 93 million people across the country were under windchill advisories as low temperatures stretched both north and south.

We don’t know yet what effect the cold Florida weather has had on the tourist season; it could work both ways. However, make no mistake about it, weather during the winter in the northern states has a profound effect not only on our tourist market but also on our real estate market.

The success of the Florida real estate market depends to a good degree on the northern markets and their ability to sell their homes. True, falling mortgage rates have encouraged home shopping activity in January, bringing buyers back in the market, but first they must get here, and many of our buyers are frozen in place.

Since last year was the worst year for existing home sales since 1995, anything will look good. It’s predicted that home purchases won’t return to normal levels unless mortgage rates fall further. A rate below 6% is a key level to attract more buyers and, despite the recent increase in activity, we are far from a healthy housing market. A lower mortgage rate will also likely attract current homeowners who want to move up or down but feel frozen, that word again, at their ultra-low mortgage rates.

On Anna Maria Island, the number of available listings compared to those pending are as follows as of this writing:

Anna Maria has 112 properties available and six pending. Listing prices range from a low of $895,000 to a high of $12,000,000.

The combined cities of Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach have 217 properties available and 40 pending. Listing prices range from $100,000 to $31,750,000.

Cortez has 19 properties available and seven pending. The listing prices range from $595,000 to $1,900,000.

Keep in mind available and pending properties are just a snapshot in time. The figures can change daily and frequently do, nevertheless, it’s still interesting to see the movement of the real estate market.

The above numbers represent properties ranging from building lots, boat slips, mobile homes, condos, single-family homes and duplexes. And it clearly explains what a diverse area we’re living in with a wide range of price points and the choice of lifestyles available.

Listings are up and we’ve been waiting for that to happen so that’s the good news. Let’s hope when the thaw comes, so will the buyers. I’ll leave it to you to interpret these numbers however you like. Typically, the busy selling months are March, April and May before the real buyers go back north, so let’s assume our market is only experiencing a temporary pause.

The country is thawing out and we certainly are too. In our typically strong selling season, the time when lookers turn into buyers is still ahead. After the thaw, the statistics will tell the real story about the effects of the winter of 2024.

Garden Club named Distinguished Citizens of the Year

Garden Club named Distinguished Citizens of the Year

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

ANNA MARIA – The Anna Maria Island Garden Club is the winner of the city’s Distinguished Citizens of the Year award.

The club will receive its award during the March 14 city commission meeting that begins at 2 p.m.

The annual award selection process is guided by a 2010 city resolution that states, “The purpose of this committee is to recognize citizens of the city of Anna Maria who have made outstanding contributions to the community of Anna Maria.”

Each year, the mayor and commission appoint a Citizens Recognition Committee that considers the nominations and declares a winner.

On Feb. 29, the two-member committee consisting of Duncan Real Estate owner Darcie Duncan and former Anna Maria Commissioner Doug Copeland met for the first and only time, joined by Mayor Dan Murphy, Deputy Clerk Fran Berrios and semi-retired city employee Debbie Haynes.

The nominees also included To Inform Families First (TIFF) founder Christine Olson and a joint nomination of the Island’s two weekly newspapers, The Anna Maria Island Sun and The Islander.

City Commission Chair Mark Short nominated the Garden Club, where his wife, Pat, is an active member. The nomination form notes the AMI Garden Club has 120 members, focuses on beautification and education projects throughout the Island, and has improved City Pier Park in Anna Maria by co-funding the installation of two wind sculptures. The club recently initiated a similar wind sculpture installation in Holmes Beach and has another planned for Bradenton Beach.

Garden Club named Distinguished Citizens of the Year
The AMI Garden Club recently assisted with a wind sculpture installation in Holmes Beach. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

Bradenton resident Amy Hill nominated Olson, who in 2005 lost her 22-year-old daughter, Tiffany, in a motorcycle accident. The accident occurred 15 minutes from Olson’s home, but it took law enforcement more than six hours to notify her of the fatal accident. This inspired her to create the To Inform Families First (TIFF) emergency contact system that utilizes emergency contacts associated with a person’s driver’s license or state identification card. First implemented in Florida, the TIFF program is now in place in more than a dozen states. Olson also spent many years working at the Rod & Reel Pier while living in Anna Maria.

Garden Club named Distinguished Citizens of the Year
To Inform Families First founder Christine Olson was among the nominees. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

“Christine used the personal tragedy of the death of her daughter to create TIFF. Christine worked hard to create a solution that allows families to receive more timely notification in an emergency,” the nomination form says.

In their nomination of the two Island newspapers, John Kolojeski and Suzanne Seiter stated, “In this era when over 2,500 weekly publications have gone out of business around the U.S. over the last 20 years, our little community here on Anna Maria Island has not one, but two, thriving weekly publications filling all the needs of the community. Both papers have excellent journalists who should be working at major publications. We get opinions on the important political issues affecting the Island, as well as current events, sports, entertainment and environmental updates. People tend to take a newspaper for granted until it’s gone someday.”

SELECTION PROCESS

Before reviewing the nominations and selecting this year’s winner, Copeland and Duncan questioned the inclusion of organizations and businesses as nominees.

“On first reading, I said none of these people qualify. I think the resolution should be changed if we’re going to include businesses and organizations,” Copeland said.

“That’s exactly what I thought,” Duncan said.

Copeland said he was okay selecting a winner that day, but he and Duncan agreed the city commission should amend the resolution and clarify the eligibility requirements before appointing next year’s selection committee.

“That’s a good point and we can clear it up and rewrite the resolution,” Murphy said of the 2010 document that dates back to Mike Selby’s time as mayor.

Murphy noted the resolution doesn’t define what a citizen is and he said Roser Church and The Anna Maria Island Sun are among the five organizations or non-residents that previously won the award.

“Recognizing them for the work they’ve done for this city is what this is all about,” Murphy said.

Murphy noted the Garden Club is based in the city and many Anna Maria residents are members, including club president Kathleen Morgan, who also serves as a city commissioner.

Regarding the newspaper nominations, Copeland said, “I would lean more towards a club than a business, especially since both are located in the city of Holmes Beach – even though they do a good job for the citizens of Anna Maria.”

After noting Olson no longer lives on the Island or works at the Rod & Reel Pier, Copeland said, “That leaves the Garden Club. That would be my choice.”

Garden Club named Distinguished Citizens of the Year
Darcie Duncan, Mayor Dan Murphy, Doug Copeland and Debbie Haynes discussed the Distinguished Citizens of the Year selection process. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

Duncan praised all the nominees and agreed the club best meets the criteria outlined in the resolution. After noting that the Garden Club hosted its annual fundraising fashion show at The Center the previous day, Duncan said a lot of people don’t realize how much the Garden Club does for the city. Copeland said the club’s members made landscaping improvements to City Pier Park and Murphy said the club has advised the city about landscape maintenance, pruning and native vegetation.

After declaring the Garden Club as this year’s winner, Copeland said, “Personally, I’d like to see more citizens receive it. We’ve got so few citizens. It would be nice to recognize them.”

Editorial: Strange changes

Written by Sun staff on . Posted in Editorial, Opinion.

Anna Maria Island beachgoers lost their beloved fishing pier at Manatee Beach in 2009. There were some good reasons; principally, it was a safety hazard due to its deteriorating condition, lifeguards said. But for those who remember learning to surf there, it was like a death.

Within the next three months, the Island is about to lose the beloved treehouse at Angelino’s Sea Lodge. There are some good reasons for that too – for one, the owners never got a permit from the city of Holmes Beach before building it. But fans who come back year after year always ask the same thing: “Is the treehouse still here?”

Last week, we lost the beloved red train caboose at Anna Maria Elementary School, which for nearly 40 years was the school’s unofficial mascot (the official mascot is the dolphin). There was again a good reason; it was deteriorating due to the salt air.

Old Australian pines were recently removed on Coquina Beach, leaving pedestrians in the sun instead of the shade, but the good reason was that their roots were buckling the sidewalk.

Pines Trailer Park residents in Bradenton Beach – and many islanders – fear losing the old-Florida-style park now that new, development-minded owners have purchased it. Progress may be a good reason to some, but not so good to others.

Losing the Gregg Allman-era vibe on Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach with the recent demolition of the historic Magnolia Inn and several other buildings soon to be replaced with a bigger, better hotel – ditto.

When they got rid of the automobile ferry to Anna Maria Island after the first bridge to the island was built – which happened within the lifetime of some elders who are still with us – those folks shook their heads, but they faced the strange changes.

Y’all, listen up.

The only constant in life is change.

Sometimes, it’s for a good reason. Sometimes, a bad one. Sometimes, it’s for an anguished but necessary reason, like using the nuclear bomb to end WWII. Sometimes, it’s for a selfish reason. Sometimes, a greedy reason. Sometimes, for no apparent reason at all.

Back in the day, Anna Maria Island used to be pronounced Anna “Mar-eye-ah” Island. That changed too.

Love AMI now, because – like everything else in life – we will eventually lose what we thought it was to the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune. And again and again, we will have to let it go.

Ferry service now includes Thursdays

Ferry service now includes Thursdays

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

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – The Gulf Islands Ferry service that features stops in Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and downtown Bradenton now operates on Thursdays too, as of Thursday, Feb. 29. The ferries now run Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., weather permitting.

“As we press forward with the Gulf Islands Ferry service, it’s imperative we increase the availability to accommodate our residents and visitors during peak season,” Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Elliott Falcione said in a county-issued press release.

“Adding Thursdays allows those in the Bradenton area to have four days per week to enjoy our stops in downtown Bradenton, the Anna Maria City Pier and the historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach,” Falcione said.

Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge said, “This is part of our continued commitment to boost multi-modal transportation in our community, helping families spend less time in traffic and more time together.”

For information on times, tickets and scheduling, call 941-357-2587, text 727-200-6487 or visit the Gulf Islands Ferry website.

Jewfish seeks fewer restrictions

Jewfish seeks fewer restrictions

Written by Leslie Lake on . Posted in Anna Maria Island, Community News, Longboat Key.

JEWFISH KEY – The proposed de-annexation from the Town of Longboat Key of homes on Jewfish Key could potentially open the door there for the less restrictive short-term rental policies of unincorporated Manatee County.

Jewfish Key is currently zoned for residential use.

“In general, unless a property is zoned for tourism uses, minimum stays are required to be for a month or more,” Allen Parsons, director of the Longboat Key Planning, Zoning and Building Department wrote in an email to The Sun.

Manatee County has no short-term residential or vacation rental ordinances.

Parsons said that 22 properties would be impacted by de-annexation.

The town is conducting a feasibility study, which Parsons defined: “Per the Florida Statutes, a “feasibility study” means an analysis conducted by qualified staff or consultants of the economic, market, technical, financial and management feasibility of the proposed de-annexation.”

The Jewfish Key Preservation Collective (JKPC) presented the de-annexation petition to the town on Dec. 19, 2023 with the goal of disengaging from the town’s boundaries.

Attorney Aaron Thomas, of the Bradenton-based Najmy Thompson law firm, is representing the applicants. An email request from The Sun for comment was answered with the response that Thomas had no comment. JKPC President Michael Mincberg is listed as a principal in Sight Development, a Tampa-based multi-family development company. Mincberg did not respond to The Sun’s email request for comment.

City settles Kaleta lawsuits

City settles Kaleta lawsuits

Written by SUN contributor on . Posted in Community News, Holmes Beach.

HOLMES BEACH – City leaders may not be completely happy with the terms, but a settlement agreement has been reached between them and developer Shawn Kaleta concerning the Bali Hai Beach Resort, Islands West and the developer’s properties at the Coconuts Beach Resort.

Commissioners voted unanimously on Feb. 27 to approve the agreement reached during a recent shade (private) meeting, bringing to an end several different lawsuits. As a part of the agreement, each party is responsible for their own legal fees.

“Our position as a city is compliance,” Mayor Judy Titsworth said. “We felt really strongly on our side that regardless of where this took us, we didn’t have a site plan on Bali Hai. That’s why it was so important to me number one, to move on, but also to address all the different properties and have closure and compliance and something to move forward with.”

“It’s a fresh start and I think it’s good for both of us,” Commissioner Terry Schaefer said.

BALI HAI

In resolving the code compliance and permitting issues with the Bali Hai, the settlement agreement states that city leaders will cancel any outstanding fines and refund any fines already paid. In return, Kaleta agreed to submit a site plan for the property at 6900 Gulf Drive to the city’s building department within seven days to be processed as a minor site plan review.

City leaders also agree to review and sign off on any liquor license request for the hotel.

The hotel’s ownership also agrees to obtain any necessary after-the-fact permits needed for construction on the property.

Titsworth said that she was happy that the city will finally have a full site plan on file for the hotel.

COCONUTS BEACH RESORT

Regarding three units at the Coconuts Beach Resort, both parties agree to disagree on length of stay, however they agree that the units are allowed to be legally rented on a nightly basis. In return for Kaleta dismissing related lawsuits, city leaders agree to refund all code enforcement fines and administrative costs paid due to code compliance special magistrate hearings.

ISLANDS WEST

The Islands West property at 3605 Gulf Drive received legally nonconforming status as a result of the settlement, allowing the eight units on the property to be rented on a nightly basis. City leaders agreed to refund all fines and waive any unpaid fines incurred for renting the units on a nightly basis.

Kaleta and city leaders also agreed to issue a joint statement to be printed in both Anna Maria Island newspapers at the city’s expense. The statement, bearing both Kaleta’s and Titsworth’s names, states, “The city of Holmes Beach and Mr. Shawn T. Kaleta wish to publicly express their shared regret concerning any real or perceived animosity or ill-will between them. Although the current mayor and commissioners do not believe they have personally acted in this regard, no favor is gained by any city employee or official treating Mr. Kaleta or his partners and related entities differently than anyone else or unequally and targeting Mr. Kaleta and his properties will not be permitted as may have happened in the past. No benefit is gained by violating the city’s ordinances or performing work without appropriate permits. Compliance with all applicable statues, ordinances and regulations is expected of every citizen, property owner, business, visitor and the city. The city and Mr. Kaleta are committed to moving forward to working together to balance and advance the interests of all the city’s residents, visitors, tourists, businesses, property owners and stakeholders.”

Attorney Jay Diagnault, representing the city, said his office would monitor the actionable items in the agreement to make sure all of the terms of the settlement are properly executed.