Former bank to be new hot spot
The former Wells Fargo bank building is being transformed into a new entertainment complex for families.
Celebrating ‘The Magic of Christmas’
BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH — A new family-friendly complex is coming to the corner of Gulf and Marina Drives now that city leaders have approved the site plan.
Business owner Jake Spooner is planning a second Island Bazaar at the new location with a putt-putt course, a fudge shop, a candy shop, an arcade and a second-floor restaurant with indoor and outdoor dining. The original Island Bazaar is at 3304 E. Bay Drive. Spooner's Bridge Street Bazaar is at 107 Bridge St. in Bradenton Beach. The site covers 1.3 acres and is planned to feature three separate buildings – one where the former Wells Fargo bank building is, a smaller
19
Ginny’s and Jane E’s reopens
Ginny’s and Jane E’s was closed for nearly three months.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Ginny’s and Jane E’s Café reopened on Dec. 18 at 7 a.m. The café and retail business had been closed since the pre-Hurricane Helene evacuations took place in late September.
Paul and Tammy Foster bought Ginny’s and Jane E’s in 2012 and the café’s indoor and outdoor seating areas are popular gathering places for residents, seasonal visitors and vacationers alike.
“It was great to see people come back and we had a lot of familiar faces,” Paul Foster said late Wednesday morning. “Most of the folks in here today are locals, or regulars that come every year.”
The reopening day clientele also
included the Gimlin family, from Missouri, who enjoyed a late breakfast while visiting Ginny’s and Jane E’s for the first time.
Regarding the sense of community that permeates Ginny’s and Jane E’s, Foster said, “Some of these people have been coming to Ginny’s for a long, long time. There’s so many folks that just love to sit in here and see
The planning commission is considering proposing changes to the city code pertaining to leasing the city-owned docks.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – The Holmes Beach Planning Commission met on Dec. 4 for the first time since August, with all five members and both alternate members present.
The planning commission consists of Chairperson Gale Tedhams, Vice-Chair Jim McIntire, Lisa Pierce, Steven Oelfke and Richard Brown, with Joseph Ireland serving as the first alternate and James Harrison serving as the second alternate. Tedhams welcomed the members back and expressed her hope that
everyone successfully weathered hurricanes Helene and Milton. Development Services Director Chad Minor and City Clerk Stacey Johnston also participated in the meeting. Minor and the commission members continued their previous discussion on amending the dock provisions contained in the city’s municipal code.
DOCK PROVISIONS
Minor proposes adding definitions for the terms “boathouse,” “dock,” “finger dock,” “watercraft,” “mooring area” and “mean high water line,” which he said are mentioned but not defined in the current municipal code. Minor does not propose changing the existing setback requirements for docks or the distance a dock can extend into the water.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Ginny’s and Jane E’s owners Tammy and Paul Foster are happy to be open again.
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
Above, the fifth-grade Anna Maria Elementary School cast of "The Magic of Christmas" receives a standing ovation on Dec. 19 at The Center of Anna Maria Island. From left, back row, are Vincent Myers, Mrs. Stephanie Davis, Sam May, Stryder Petitt, Jase Moore, Gunnar Maize, Sawyer Leibfried, Kellan Oelfke, Colten DeBerry and Eastin Walker. From left, front row, are Kellan Reed, Leo Tyler, Jack Palmer, Roman Smith, Fabian Cianciarelli, Grayson Hinckle, Brandon Sato, Aria Thomas and Sofia Hendrickson. Top photo, Aria Thomas and Sofia Hendrickson perform “All I Want for Christmas Is You.”
Ordinance prohibits sleeping in public places
The city ordinance was adopted in response to a new state law enacted earlier this year.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The city has a new ordinance in place that prohibits sleeping and camping in public places.
Adopted by the city commission on Dec. 12, Ordinance 24-937 brings the city into compliance with a state law enacted by the Florida Legislature earlier this year with the adoption of House Bill 1365. The state law prohibits counties and cities from authorizing or allowing public camping or sleeping on public property without certification provided by the Florida Department of Children and Families.
City Attorney Becky Vose told commissioners the state law is intended to prevent public encampments like those that occurred in Seattle and other major cities in recent years and a local ordinance is needed to enforce
When the City Pier reopens, sleeping on the pier and pier benches will be prohibited.
the state-mandated sleeping and camping prohibitions.
According to the adopted city ordinance, “The city of Anna Maria has a significant interest in providing a safe and pleasant environment for its citizens, business owners, visitors and its homeless population by eliminating
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
public camping or sleeping on any public property, public building, or public right-of-way.”
The commission discussed removing the ordinance language that says, “Sleeping on park benches at any time is prohibited” and “Sleeping anywhere at the City Pier at any time is prohibited.”
Although the hurricane-damaged pier is currently closed, City Pier Grill operator Brian Seymour encouraged the commission to leave that language in place because people sleeping on the pier has been problematic at times.
Sgt. Brett Getman, of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Anna Maria Unit, also requested that language be left in the proposed ordinance. Getman said his deputies will use their discretion when discerning the difference between someone who inadvertently falls asleep in a public place and someone who intentionally attempts to sleep in a public place.
Getman said the deputies are trained to assist the homeless by trying to connect them with services rather than issuing tickets or arresting them for one-time minor infractions.
The commission agreed to leave that language in place. The commission also established a $100 fine for each cited violation of the new ordinance and a new citation can be issued every hour if someone continues to violate the sleeping and camping prohibitions.
ISLAND NEWS
IN BRIEF
Lynch, Seymour seek commission seat
John B. Lynch and Brian Seymour seek appointment to the Anna Maria City Commission to serve the final year of the two-year term recently vacated by Jon Crane. Dec. 20 was the deadline to submit an application. According to his application, Lynch lists a North Shore Drive address and is a retired consultant and supply chain executive who resides in Anna Maria 10 months per year. Seymour owns three businesses: The Anna Maria General Store, Pine Avenue Bait and Tackle and the City Pier Grill. He and his business partners operate the City Pier Grill in space leased from the city. The City Pier is currently closed due to damage inflicted by Hurricane Milton. According to his application, Seymour lists a Pine Avenue address and resides in Anna Maria 12 months a year. Lynch and Seymour are invited to participate in a public forum at city hall on Tuesday, Jan. 7 at 6 p.m. During the forum, the two applicants will be given the opportunity to answer questions previously submitted by the public and the media, complied by city staff and submitted to the applicants days in advance. Friday, Jan. 3 is the deadline to submit questions to be sent to amadmin@cityofannamaria.com, amclerk@cityofannamaria.com or submitted to the city clerk’s office in person. The four sitting commissioners will make the commission appointment during the city commission meeting on Thursday, Jan. 9 at 2 p.m.
Ferry service to Anna Maria delayed
Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.
City extends permit fee waiver
The city-wide deadline for hurricane-related repairs is Jan. 31 and the Pines Trailer Park deadline is April 30.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – The waiver of building permit fees has been extended in Bradenton Beach.
“We still have a lot of people who are doing repairs and there’s been a shortage of contractors,” Police Chief and Public Works Director John Cosby said at a Dec. 19 city commission meeting. “So our original goal was to end this Dec. 31, but with the holidays we’re asking for the general population to extend that to Jan. 31 and then extend it for the Pines (Trailer Park) until April 30.”
Following those deadlines, permit fees will be put back in place.
“One of the things to remember is these permits are not normal permits,
it’s not a loss of funding,” Cosby said. “The only reason it did come up was because of the events (hurricanes) and we’re not letting somebody off the hook that was planning on doing modifications. This was strictly due to the two hurricanes.”
Mayor John Chappie said he and Cosby had discussed this several times and have received input from residents asking for extensions of the waiver.
“We pay attention to emails,” Chappie said. “I support this.”
Building Official Darin Cushing said Pines homeowners got their letters before anyone else. He said the rest of the city is just getting their letters in the mail. Those letters stated the required repair permits for each structure.
“Most people knew what their qualifications can be,” Cosby said “We made it clear that tear-outs can move forward and you need to get a permit for electrical and plumbing and base that on how high the water went up on your property.”
Three emails from Pines Trailer
Cosby outlines dock replacement costs
BY LESLIE LAKE
Park residents were read into the record by City Attorney Ricinda Perry, all requesting an extension of the waiver of permit fees.
The city commission unanimously approved a motion to extend the waiver of permit fees.
“If we find that at the end of these timelines the residents are still having some issues, we can also modify if it appears that needs to happen,” Cosby said.
Cushing said after the meeting that numerous Pines Trailer Park residents have already submitted permit applications.
Eighty-three of the 86 Pines Trailer Park owners received a notice from the city last week that they may repair their hurricane-damaged mobile homes with the proper permits.
Required permits include, but are not limited to, structural repairs to foundations or building envelopes, including roof repairs; electrical repairs, plumbing repairs and mechanical repairs.
Cleanup initiatives may include code enforcement citations
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Spud barges were placed near the Lake La Vista Jetty in Anna Maria to serve as a temporary ferry landing.
Gulf Islands Ferry service to the temporary landing near the hurricane-damaged City Pier in Anna Maria did not begin on Dec. 19 as anticipated. When contacted that day by email, Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Elliott Falcione said, “The weather and wind is still limiting the ferry going to the barge (the temporary landing), so it looks like they will not stop there this weekend. If the winds calm down on Monday, then the captain/captains will do some sea trials in that area. This will be mitigated, but not 100% of the time, when the enclosed ferry goes into service around June.” The county-contracted ferry service has resumed regular operations between downtown Bradenton and the Bradenton Beach Pier. For updates and ticketing information, visit www.bradentongulfislands.com/gulf-islands-ferry.
Correction
Tom “T-Bone” Anderson is the operations manager for Lazy Turtle Beach Rentals and Anna Maria Island Tours. He does not own those businesses.
SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – At a Dec. 19 city commission meeting, Police Chief and Public Works Director John Cosby outlined repair and maintenance costs following hurricane damage from Helene and Milton in September and October.
“The two docks that got destroyed on Seventh and 12th Street are insured,” Cosby said. “So, if we can get the adjuster out here, they’ll let us know what the value will be less depreciation. Whatever the insurance doesn’t cover, which will be our deductible, we’ll also claim back to FEMA.”
Cosby said there will be no out of pocket cost to the city. Duncan Seawall will be replacing the docks.
Chappie read the motion to approve the quote in the amount of $41,071 for the replacement of the Seventh Street South dock and to approve the quote in the amount of $39,484 for replacement of the 12th Street South dock. The motion passed unanimously.
The commission also unanimous-
ly approved a payment to Debris Tech in the amount of $5,826.50 for invoice #4117. Passed on the consent agenda was the approval of Debris Tech invoice #4056 in the amount of $18,878.50.
The commission also unanimously approved the purchase in the amount of $7,591.99 from Gravely of Bradenton for a new lawn mower.
“We replaced one of the older ones a few months ago, but it got flooded out from the storm and it’s unrepairable, so we need to purchase another one,” Cosby said. “This will be covered by FEMA.”
City commissioners also approved an invoice in the amount of $5,411 to Big Earth for the purchase of rock and shell.
“We had to purchase a lot of rock and a lot of shell; some of it was to fill the sinkholes so we didn’t have a falling hazard and the roads were deteriorating,” Cosby said. “We had to put in some temporary shell road between the two condos at 27th Street. That is one of the areas that will be on the road repair list.”
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – City cleanup measures, including possible code enforcement citations, were discussed at a Dec. 19 city commission meeting.
Property owners who have debris piled up in their yards may soon be receiving violation letters from the city.
“Ricinda (City Attorney Ricinda Perry) is working on a letter that code enforcement will start sending out right after Christmas to property owners that have not started to clean up,” Public Works Director and Police Chief John Cosby said. “We have been warning people verbally that the enforcement is coming, and it would be in their best interest to get it cleaned up.”
Public works crews are going to start cleaning up city rights-of-way and picking up items by hand that couldn’t be picked up by debris trucks.
Cosby said the stormwater drain clearing has been completed.
“The pipes were actually impacted with sand,” he said. “We did remove more sand than we had anticipated, but they’re done.”
Special event permitting process amended
The new permitting requirements will not impact the arts and crafts show at Roser Church on Dec. 27-28.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The city has again amended its special event permitting requirements.
When doing so on Dec. 12, the mayor and city commission allowed two previously permitted events to proceed at a different location due to the ongoing hurricane recovery efforts. The latest amendment to the special event permitting process requires event organizers to submit their proof of insurance and other required documents at least 30 days before the event is scheduled. If the event organizer fails to do so, the city has the right to cancel the event. The previous ordinance required those documents to be provided at least 48 hours in advance.
The newly-amended ordinance also makes permit fees non-refundable.
City Attorney Becky Vose said the new provisions will better protect the city and help ensure that event planners complete their permitting requirements in a timely manner.
In August, the commission amended the special event permitting process in a manner that now provides for significantly higher permit fees that range from $200 to $5,000. To be determined by the mayor, the permitting fee is to be based on the size of the event, the anticipated attendance and the city services needed before, during and after an event, including law enforcement, street closures and trash removal.
The commission agreed that the special event permit applications included in that day’s consent agenda would not be subject to the new requirements adopted that day.
EVENTS RELOCATED
Earlier this year, the commission approved two special event permits sought by Blue Ribbon Events owner Danielle Lynch. The commission approved Lynch’s request to host a multi-vendor art and craft show at City Pier Park on Friday, Dec. 27 and Saturday, Dec. 28 and her second an-
nual “Feed the Peeps” art and craft show at City Pier Park on Feb. 7-8. Those events were approved with the $200 per event permit fee in place at that time.
During the Dec. 12 meeting, Deputy Clerk Fran Berrios told the commission Lynch had to relocate those previously approved events because the park is not currently available.
The temporary post office is currently operating at the park. Lynch will now host her previously-approved events on the grounds of the nearby Roser Memorial Community church. The commission agreed those two events could be relocated with no additional permit fees or requirements. Lynch said she pays the church a “nice fee” for the use of the property and both upcoming events will also serve as food drives for the Roser Food Pantry. Lynch also addressed the uncertainty created by the $200 to $5,000 permit fee schedule adopted earlier this year. She said the wide-ranging fee schedule now in effect creates uncertainty for event planners. She suggested, and the commission agreed, that the city should develop a more specific fee schedule that provides better clarity regarding special event permitting costs.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Blue Ribbon Events owner Danielle Lynch addressed the Anna Maria Commission on Dec. 12.
The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Sun: Santa Claus lives on
Dear editor,
I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, ‘If you see it in The Sun, it’s so.’ Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?
Virginia O’Hanlon 115 W. 95th St. New York
Virginia,
Your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men’s or children’s, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.
Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias. There would be no childlike faith then, no
poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished. Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that’s no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.
You may tear apart the baby’s rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.
No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever.
A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.
Holmes Beach residents lament development vote
We would like to extend a special thank you to all who spoke during public comment at the public hearing for the extensive site plan application for the former Wells Fargo property in Holmes Beach City Center. What was previously a "sleepy" bank at an already tenuous intersection where there was a recent fatality, there will now be retail, indoor and outdoor dining, miniature golf, an arcade, a tour boat, an ice cream shop and storage facilities. It will have 125 seats, 93 parking spaces, six golf cart spaces, and 36 bicycle spaces. There were multiple knowledgeable speakers addressing obvious issues - traffic, safety, noise, parking, exodus of residents from overdevelopment, etc. We were pleased to even have a speaker from Anna Maria, an articulate one we might add, just like the others. Thanks to all!
Francis Church Editor of The New York Sun Sept. 21, 1897
ON THE AGENDA EVENTS
ANNA MARIA
10005 GULF DRIVE
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130
Please visit www.cityofannamaria. com or contact city hall for more information.
Dec. 25, all day – City offices closed, Christmas Day
Dec. 31, all day – City offices closed, New Year’s Eve
BRADENTON BEACH
107 GULF DRIVE N.
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005
Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information.
Dec. 25, all day – City offices closed, Christmas Day
Dec. 31, all day – City offices closed, New Year’s Eve
HOLMES BEACH
5801 MARINA DRIVE
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800
Please visit www.holmesbeachfl. org or contact city hall for more information.
Dec. 25, all day – City offices closed, Christmas Day
Dec. 31, all day – City offices closed, New Year’s Eve
Jan 8, 9 a.m. – Clean Water Ad-Hoc Committee meeting
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 25
Merry Christmas!
FRIDAY, DEC. 27
Tower Talk, Robinson Preserve tower located in the center of the park, Bradenton, 10 a.m. to noon
Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.
City Pier Park December Art & Craft Show, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
SATURDAY, DEC. 28
Saturday Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic NEST, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
FROM PAGE 6
Regardless, the application passed unanimously. It was reminiscent of the county’s Aqua by the Bay hearings, or the county meeting where
City Pier Park December Art & Craft Show, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
MONDAY, DEC. 30
Just Believe Polar Express Challenge, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, all day
Wonder Walk, Robinson Preserve expansion, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 10 a.m.
TUESDAY, DEC. 31
New Year’s Eve
Seashell shore walk, Coquina Beach south, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 9 a.m. Meet under the Longboat Key Bridge.
Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.
wetland barrier protections were rolled back. We will be forthright in adding that all of this has been on the heels of buzz about the applicant's contributions to the recent mayoral campaign. When is intensity too much intensity? Commercial zoning is not an unlimited license
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 1
New Year’s Day
THURSDAY, JAN. 2
The Ginger Who?, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m.
OneBlood Bloodmobile donations, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.
FRIDAY, JAN. 3
Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.
SATURDAY, JAN. 4
Ask a Master Gardener, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes
for special exceptions for development. One speaker said succinctly, "Is there any weight for the residents? The city needs to please the residents, not the developers, tourists and contractors."
So residents, please hang on. Bridge Street is "coming soon to a theater near you," smack
Beach, 10 a.m.
MONDAY, JAN. 6
The Ginger Who?, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m.
Gentle Yoga with Delphine, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
TUESDAY, JAN. 7
AMI Chamber of Commerce Sunrise Breakfast, Gulf Drive Café, 900 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach, 8 a.m., $15
Family Storytime, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.
dab in the middle of Holmes Beach City Center. You might want to heed a bit of advice from a former city commissioner: "Never underestimate how far a 5-year-old can hit a golf ball!"
Dick and Margie Motzer Holmes Beach
Santa enjoys fun in The Sun
Clockwise
New Year’s Day fundraiser to be held at Clancy’s
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – The annual Clancy’s Irish Sports Pub New Year’s Day Shamrock Shiver Charity Plunge will not take place on the beach this year. Instead, the fundraiser will be held at Clancy’s.
“While our beaches are healing and may not be ready for us to ‘Take the Plunge,’ our local children’s charities still need us,” according to the Clancy’s website.
The fundraiser begins on Jan. 1, 2025 at noon at Clancy’s, 6218 Cortez Road W. and will feature an ice bucket challenge.
“Members of our community who have collected donations to support our local children’s charities will be doused with buckets of ice water,” according to the website.
Music will be provided by the Dr. Dave Band and there will be door prizes, raffles and silent auction items to bid on.
The annual fundraiser has raised $438,206 for local charities since 2009.
The beneficiaries of the charitable event are Healthy Teens, Take Stock in Children and Mothers Helping Mothers.
JOEY STEWART | SUBMITTED
above, giving his reindeer a rest, Santa rides down Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach on a red bicycle; Santa gives his nod of approval to the Bradenton Beach Christmas tree on Bridge Street; Santa took time out of his busy holiday schedule to visit Anna Maria Island on Dec. 20 and read his favorite newspaper, The Anna Maria Island Sun.
SUBMITTED
Frosty, Bradenton Beach style
When you live in a snow-free zone, some things have to be improvised. In Bradenton Beach, sandbags were recycled to make a festive snowman with a beach umbrella to keep him from getting sunburned.
Presents on the tree
SUBMITTED
Santa visits Holmes Beach
Kids line up in Veterans Park at Holmes Beach City Hall to meet Santa and collect a toy of their choice on Dec. 20. Mayor
and Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer handed out the gifts, which were donated by local residents, business owners and workers.
Robert Knudson and friends decorated this tree in Bradenton Beach.
An
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
Judy Titsworth
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Gulf Drive now Santa Claus Lane
oversized inflatable Santa Claus waves to motorists on Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach.
Pine Avenue sidewalk project starting soon
The sidewalk installations were delayed by two hurricanes.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The first phase of sidewalk installations along Pine Avenue is expected to begin on Monday, Jan. 6.
During the city commission’s Dec. 12 meeting, General Manager Dean Jones announced the anticipated starting date for the long-delayed sidewalk installations that were further delayed by hurricanes Helene and Milton. Referred to as Phase 1A, the first phase of the project calls for new sidewalks to be installed where none currently exist between North Shore Drive, where Phase 1A will begin, and the southwest end of Pine Avenue, near the beach access where Phase 1A will end. In some areas, the new sidewalks will replace the currently unpaved pedestrian paths.
Mayor Mark Short said the city will soon issue a request for proposals (RFP) for the Phase 1B sidewalk installations along Pine Avenue from North Shore Drive to Crescent Drive.
Short told commissioners the city still has approximately $180,000 in remaining COVID-19 pandemicrelated American Rescue Plan funds that were originally supposed to be spent by the end of the 2024 calendar year. He said the city was recently given a one-year extension to spend the federal funds.
Short said a previous city commission earmarked the $180,000 to install new streetlights as part of the Reimagining Pine Avenue project.
New commissioner Chris Arendt asked if the remaining $180,000 could be used instead to help fund the repair of the hurricane-damaged City Pier.
City Attorney Becky Vose said she needs to research whether the federal funds can be used for the pier repairs.
Planning board members must be city residents
The Anna Maria Planning and Zoning Board decided not to allow non-residents on the board.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The three sitting members of the Anna Maria Planning and Zoning Board (P&Z) have rejected the idea of allowing non-residents to serve on the city advisory board.
With the recent departures of members Dr. Jose Erbella and Dusty Crane, the board is down to three members: Chairman David Haddox and members Doug Copeland and Jeff Rodencal.
Haddox recently told The Sun that he and his wife, Marsha McAllister, plan to put their Anna Maria home on the market soon and relocate to another state when it sells, creating another planning board vacancy.
The agenda for the planning board’s Dec. 11 meeting included an informal workshop-style discussion about planning board membership. The agenda packet included language found in the city code of ordinances that says, “There is hereby created a planning and zoning board consisting of no less than three and no more than five members who shall be qualified electors (registered voters) and residents of the city.”
During past city commission meetings, it has been stated that approximately 70% of the residential properties in Anna Maria are used as short-term vacation rentals rather than permanent residences.
“The fundamental question is how do we get more participants on P&Z?” Rodencal asked.
He initiated discussion on allowing
non-resident Anna Maria property owners or business owners to serve on the planning board that reviews land use and development matters and makes non-binding recommendations to the city commission.
“I’ve been a member of the Planning and Zoning Board off and on for over 30 years. Other than the first few years I was on this board, we’ve had issues getting members. It’s not a new issue,” Copeland said.
“If we open it up to non-residents, we’re signing away our city. Investors will be allowed to be on this board. They will not represent us, as residents, and we will see the end of our city government,” he said.
After acknowledging Copeland’s concern, Rodencal suggested allowing just one non-resident to serve on a board otherwise comprised of city residents. Rodencal said a business owner might offer a different perspective and he noted the city of Bradenton Beach allows a non-resident business owner (Bridge Tender Inn owner Fred
Bartizal) to serve on its Planning and Zoning Board.
“We can certainly keep going the way we’re going, but it seems like we’re always struggling to get people,” Rodencal said.
“As we have for 20 years,” Copeland replied. “I certainly wouldn’t take Bradenton Beach as an example of how we want to govern.”
Haddox said someone recently suggested inviting the city’s Historic Preservation Board members to also serve as planning board members. The Historic Preservation Board consists of Sharon Wisniewski, Jack Brennan and Tom Wagner. Haddox noted the preservation board members would have to meet the city residency requirements to serve on the planning board.
City Attorney Becky Vose noted the state of Florida has a dual office holding prohibition that would prevent someone from simultaneously serving on the planning board and the historic preservation board, but the
city commission could adopt a “workaround” ordinance that allows that to happen.
“I would certainly support that,” Haddox said.
“I think we should pursue getting joint membership,” Copeland said in agreement.
Haddox said Mayor Mark Short also proposed another possible solution: If more than one person applies to fill a vacant city commission seat, the person, or persons, not appointed could be invited to serve on the planning board.
Copeland said the Planning and Zoning Board has been a “stepping stone” for many Anna Maria commissioners, including himself, Short and Crane.
No formal action was taken on these discussion items but City Planner Ashley Austin said she would draft some proposed language to discuss again at a future meeting.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The Anna Maria Planning and Zoning Board consists of Jeff Rodencal, David Haddox and Doug Copeland.
Wedding gifts reported stolen in Holmes Beach BEACH BEAT
BY LESLIE LAKE
SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – A newlymarried couple spent the first part of their honeymoon at the Holmes Beach Police Department reporting thefts of their wedding gifts.
According to Holmes Beach police reports, on Dec. 11 the couple reported that eight rooms for themselves and guests had been booked at the Bali Hai Beach Resort at 6900 Gulf Drive. They were married at another Island venue on Dec. 7. When they arrived back at their Sarasota home on Dec. 9, they told police they noticed some of their wedding gift cards were torn and
open. Some had no money inside and some had some money inside, they reported. They called their guests and were told there had been money inside of the cards totaling approximately $1,200 in missing cash.
The couple also reported that some of the guests were missing cash and one of them had their credit card illegally used in Anna Maria. They believed they were all taken from the Bali Hai, according to police.
The couple said they were having issues with their room keys and were told by staff to leave their sliding glass doors unlocked in case the staff was not on-site after hours.
HOLMES BEACH
Dec. 14, 4:20 p.m. 70th Street, stolen vessel. The owner of a gray 9-foot 2014 Achilles ridged hulled inflatable (RIB) boat reported the vessel missing from a floating dock behind the home. The vessel owner reported having last seen the vessel on Dec. 7 when doing some work at the property, a secondary residence. The boat has a Honda 9.9 gray outboard motor. The owner estimated the value of the boat and motor at around $10,000. A neighbor told police that they had seen a person on a small boat on the canal looking around a few nights before the theft was reported.
Dec. 15, 9:37 a.m. 69th Street, stolen vessel. The victim told police that sometime overnight a 1965 Starcraft 14-foot boat with a Suzuki 9.9 horsepower engine was stolen. Police
reviewed the victim’s security camera footage and observed a small white skiff with a small outboard motor with two men onboard. One man was wearing a white ball cap and pink shirt and the other a red hoodie with the hood up. Video and images were saved to the case file.
Dec. 16, 4:47 p.m., Emerald Lane, stolen items from boat. A resident told police that he and his son had gone fishing on Dec. 14 and laid out their fishing poles and equipment along the dock to dry. The next morning he found fishing poles, Yeti buckets and a trolling motor missing. The total amount of the stolen items was estimated at $5,698. The trolling motor was attached to a Mako skiff, but was not locked. A neighbor told police that he observed a small dark-colored boat on Dec. 14 traveling down the canal with no lights on, then the occupants of the boat pointed a bright spotlight onto the property from which the items were later stolen.
SEASONS GREETINGS
ANNA MARIA
• AMI Beach and Dog Supply
• AMI Beach Hut
• AMI Coconuts
• AMI Outfitters
• Anna Maria General Store
• Anna Maria Life Real Estate
• Anna Maria Life Vacation Rentals
• Beach Bums
• Beach Hut
• Bortell’s Lounge
• Cool Beans AMI
• DBTB Juice Bar & Bakery
• Dips Ice Cream
• Ginny’s and Jane E’s
• gRub Tropical BBQ
• Gypsy Soul
• Harry’s Grill
• Island Cabana
• Lazy Turtle Beach Rentals
• Mademoiselle Paris
• Nomad Collection
• North Shore Café
• Olive Oil Outpost
• Pine Avenue Bait and Tackle
• Pineapple Marketplace
• Pizza Social
• Poppo’s Taqueria
• Q’s Boutique
• Shiny Fish Emporium
• Slim’s Place
• Sushi Ramen
• The Center of Anna Maria Island
• The Donut Experiment
• The Porch
• Two Scoops Ice Cream
• Two Sides of Nature
• Waterfront Restaurant
• White Egret
Open for business
BRADENTON BEACH
• Anna Maria Oyster Bar
• Back Alley
• Bamboo Island Bar
• BeachHouse Restaurant
• Blooms by the Beach
• Bridge Street Jewelers
• Bridge Tender Inn
• Circle K
• Daiquiri Deck
• Fudge Factory
• Island Donut Company
• Island Time
• Kokonut Hut
• Monetti Apparel
• Pane e Amore Italian Café
• Salt Bar & Table
• Shore Thing Tiki Cruises
• Smoquehouse
• Tommyknockers Saloon
• Wicked Cantina
HOLMES BEACH
• ACE Hardware
• Alvin’s Island
• AMI Coconuts
• Anchor Inn
• Anna Maria Island Beach Café
• Anna Maria Island Coffee Shack
• Anna Maria Island DolphinTours
• Anna Maria Island Sun
• AMI Boat Tours
• Artists Haven
• Baskin Robbins
• Blueberries Café
• Cheesecake Cutie
• China 1
• CrossFit Anna Maria
• Crysten’s AMI Boat Tours
• DCoy Ducks
• Dollar Tree
• Duffy’s Tavern
• Dunkin Donuts
• Edibles & More Country Store
• Fifty-Three Fifty The Pourhouse
• Freckled Fin
• Fun and More Rentals
• Graze Street AMI
• Grooms Auto Repair
• Gypsea Tides
• Hancock Whitney Bank
• Holmes Beach Automotive Service
• Holmes Beach Post Office
• Holy Cow Ice Cream
• Hurricane Hanks
• Hurricane Liquor
• Island Animal Clinic
• Island Bazaar
• Island Mail & More
• Isola Bella Italian Eatery
• Kiwi’s Fish & Chips
• La Creperie
• Los Chiludos
• Paradise Bagels
• Pizzano’s Pizza & Grinders
• Publix
• Reed Physical Therapy
• Salon Salon
• Sand Dollar
• Scott’s Deli
• Skinny’s Place
• Small Town Creamery
• Solo’s Pizza
• The AMI Airport Shuttle Guy
• The Chateau
• The Doctor’s Office
• The Doctor’s Garden
• The Hot Dog Guy Boat
• The Ugly Grouper
• Time Saver
• Topsail Steamer
• Vintage Beach
• Walgreens
• West Coast Surf Shop
• Zen Nails
CORTEZ
• Anna Maria Oyster Bar
• A.P. Bell Fish Co.
• Breezy Bakery
• Clam Factory
• Coastline Dolphin & Snorkeling
• Cortez Café
• Cortez Kitchen
• Foxi Coffee
• Pig Out Food Truck
• Star Fish Co.
• Swordfish Grill and Tiki
• The Beach Shop
• The Fox Mercantile
• Tide Tables
• Tyler’s Ice Cream
New Year’s resolution: Vote water
’ve reported frequently about concerns for our coastal waters in Manatee County and beyond. Loss of seagrass, lyngbya blooms, sewage releases, more frequent and stronger hurricanes and hundred-year rain events, months apart.
These insults to Florida’s environment point to the lack of political will to effect the changes that are necessary to preserve our environment and the economy it supports. Until recently, former Manatee County commissioners even voted to let developers build closer to our wetlands
Now facing an uncertain political future when climate issues are
likely to fall farther down on the national agenda, the recent election of pro-environment Republican Manatee County commissioners is a bright spot that highlights an important point. The health of the environment shouldn’t be a partisan issue. Economic realities aside, we all need clean air and water to survive and prosper.
That’s why you’ll find a Vote Water bumper sticker on the front of my car. I vet candidates not by party but by the actions (votes) they’ve taken on issues that affect the quality of the air that I breathe, the water I drink and the fish I pursue. Unfortunately, unscrupulous politicians separate us from the things we all depend on using wedge issues that may matter but pale in comparison.
If you’re looking for a way to source information on candidates and how they’ve voted, and join
concerned anglers and voters, check out the “Vote Water” Initiative. The efforts dovetail perfectly with issues that groups like Suncoast Waterkeeper, Captains For Clean Waters and
others are seeking to address.
This advocacy is a continuation of Florida Sportsman magazine’s long involvement in protecting Florida’s angler’s interests.
Founder Karl Wickstrom and
the magazine have been in the forefront in lobbying for common sense rules and regulations.
In Wickstrom’s words, “If you had to pick one reason for the lack of success in protecting our state's water from continual degradation, it would have to be lack of political will from our elected officials to get something done.”
"What we have in the state of Florida (and the nation as a whole) is a political problem, not a party issue, but when it comes to fixing the state's water, the political problem requires a political solution. Democracy isn't a spectator sport. If you truly want to have clean air, clean water and public officials that represent the public interest instead of the special interest, the people that vote need to be informed."
That’s the same argument I’ve used on these pages pointing out
CAPT. JUSTIN MOORE | SUBMITTED
Vetting the candidates we vote for to make sure they have and will “Vote Water” will help assure that future generations like Megan Blanchard, left, Bill Blanchard and Madison Blanchard and their families have the same opportunities that we’ve had.
RUSTY CHINNIS
REEL TIME: New Year's resolution
the shared responsibility we as voters have to effect much-needed change.
The VoteWater team highlights politician’s votes but also the amount of money they accepted from special interests. "The Dirty Money part of the Voter Guide is definitely something we want to spend more time on in 2025 and beyond," VoteWater board member Wil Revehl said. "As the adage says, you have to follow the money. It's clearly the case in politics.
"In order for people to be represented, to have a true democracy, we need to help make taking money from a special interest, such as the phosphate industry, toxic," emphasized Revehl.
Once again, those who love Florida’s natural treasures and anglers can thank Florida Sportsman for taking a major role in effecting the change that our elected officials have avoided. I encourage you to learn about and to support the effort by joining the coalition, volunteering, spreading the word, donating to the cause and voting for politicians that have a track record of voting for clean water and healthy fisheries. Don’t be fooled into believing what candidates promise, check their voting record.
What better resolution to adopt this New Year? Vote Water. The future of fishing, Florida’s natural wonders and the economy hang in the balance.
Commission approves project management compensation for Perry
Police Chief and Public Works Director John Cosby said as the emergency management team is being rebuilt, Ricinda Perry has provided muchneeded assistance in stormrelated projects.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Since taking over the role of public works director in May, Police Chief John Cosby has been wearing two hats. With the subsequent storm damage from back-to-back hurricanes, Cosby welcomed the assistance of City Attorney Ricinda Perry to help manage multiple storm-related projects.
“With the absence of Tom Woodard (former city public works director) to assist with, not just the recovery but the actual operation of the event, Ricinda came forward and offered any
FROM THE PREHISTORIC
assistance that she could to help us out,” Cosby said at a Dec. 19 city commission meeting. “I immediately agreed and was able to assign some items that needed to get done.”
Cosby said he did not have time to manage all the projects in Woodard’s absence. Those projects included sand removal, stormwater drain clearing, road repairs and pier damage.
“I was dealing with the debris,” Cosby said. “Under normal
circumstances Tom would help with the debris.”
He said, following Woodard’s resignation, city officials were in the process of rebuilding the city emergency management team when the storms hit.
“That’s going to change in the future,” Cosby said. “Evan (city code enforcement officer Evan Harbus) will be put in that position, and we’ll be sending him for training.”
LESLIE LAKE | SUN Police Chief and Public Works Director John Cosby speaks to city commissioners at a Dec. 19 meeting and requests approval for FEMA-reimbursed hurricane-related project management. mpensation for city attorney Ricinda Perry.
REAL ESTATE
Did FEMA leave a gift under the tree?
It’s Christmas, and I hope you and your loved ones are enjoying some peace of the season after the harrowing few months we all have experienced. Unfortunately, for many, we’re not done with the restoration and/or rebuilding and understanding Manatee County’s procedures and FEMA’S 50% rule is confusing, to say the least.
Manatee County defines “substantial damage” as “damage of any origin sustained by a building or structure where the cost of restoring the building or structure to its before-damaged condition would equal or exceed 50%.”
They go on to say that if a building is substantially damaged or improved it must be brought into compliance with flood damage prevention regulations. This includes elevating the building to Flood Protection Elevation or Design Flood Elevation. Likewise, all electrical and mechanical equipment, bathrooms and laundry rooms must be elevated as well or removed.
Castles in the Sand
LOUISE BOLGER
They also indicate that the county, following the National Flood Insurance Program requirements, has the responsibility to determine “substantial damage” and “substantial Improvement.” If it is determined that the FEMA 50% rule applies, then the county will estimate market value by using the tax assessment value of your structure, excluding land and features.
This is a good time to point out that on the Manatee County Property Appraiser website (ManateePAO.gov) there is a new addition in red that will tell you what the FEMA value for your property is. These values are as of Jan. 1, 2024, so they are
within a year old, but I can’t guarantee that this is the exact number that the county will consider.
I am no expert on FEMA’S 50% rule and a close reading of Manatee’s post-storm guidance can make your eyes glaze over. This is meant to be a guideline and hopefully I hit on some of the major points in an otherwise complex program. Do yourself a favor and don’t read it on Christmas Day.
We do have the November sales statistics available to report on from the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee: Manatee County closed 15.5% more single family homes compared to last November. The median sale price was $430,000, down 11.5% from last year and the average sale price was $559,764, down 9.4%. The median time to contract was 45 days compared to 24 last November. New listings were up 14% and the month’s supply of available properties was 3.9 months, up 14.7%.
Manatee County condos closed 17.7%
fewer properties compared to last November. The median sale price was $309,900, down 11.8% and the average sale price was $345,065, down 12.3%. The median time to contract was 53 days compared to 31 days last year, new listings were up 17.5% and the month’s supply of available properties was 6.6 months, up 50%.
Next week I’ll do a deeper dive into these numbers and what the realtor association’s opinion is. However, as you can see, with the exception of single family homes, all other segments are negatively impacted.
A few weeks ago, I went to the Manatee River holiday boat parade and was so happy and proud that this community has pulled itself together and chose to celebrate rather than dwell on the negative. It was a great turnout and the boat owners should be congratulated for lifting all of our spirits.
As a friend of mine perfectly said, “Let’s not allow the circumstances to steal our joy during this beautiful time of the year.” Have a merry Christmas!
GINNY'S AND JANE E'S: Reopens
FROM PAGE 1
what’s going on and we love that. We have a lot of positive energy here.”
Ginny’s and Jane E’s is located in the old IGA grocery story building owned by the Cagnina family. Hurricane Helene’s floodwaters ruined the old wooden floor that’s now been replaced by a new tile floor. Much of the drywall had to be replaced, as did the kitchen equipment and the coolers.
“We moved the inventory out before the storms came, so we lost no inventory,” Foster noted.
The coffee bar previously located along the north wall is now located along the south end of the inside dining area, near the sunroom entrance that’s currently boarded as that area still awaits repairs.
The sunroom has long served as a regular Tuesday and Thursday morning gathering place for the informal Ginny’s and Jane E’s coffee club members, some of whom returned Thursday morning for their much-missed coffee and conversation.
On Wednesday, the iconic Ginny’s and Jane E’s sign was still stored in the sunroom, but the following night it returned to its familiar perch above the main entrance at the corner of Gulf Drive and Magnolia Avenue.
When discussing the economic impacts of the back-to-back hurricanes, Foster said, “We were a week shy of being closed for three months. There was no revenue for three months, but you still have a lot of the operating costs. I’m just thankful and happy that we’re open. There was a minute or two when I wasn’t sure we were ever going to get here. The place looked like a bomb went off and yesterday we were still putting it back together. But it all came together and we had a lot of our staff helping us.”
Foster said they retained most of their staff but did lose a few employ-
ees during the extended closure.
When asked about his expectations for the Christmas holidays and the peak tourist season to soon follow, Foster said, “There’s still a lot of vacation rentals that aren’t open yet, so occupancy’s going to be less. I don’t know what to expect.”
The Fosters live in the Key Royale community in Holmes Beach and like many Anna Maria Island homeowners are temporarily displaced from their home. They are currently living in their fifth-wheel trailer at the Holiday Cove RV resort in Cortez as their home is being repaired.
BUSINESS NEIGHBORS
The two-story Cagnina-owned commercial building is also occupied on the ground level by Snips Hair Design and upstairs by Body & Sol
Spa and Wellness, with Island Yoga Space sharing some of the Body & Sol space torn apart by Hurricane Milton.
Body & Sol owner Amanda Escobio said she hopes to reopen in March and her Sea-renity Beach Spa and Bou-Tiki in Bradenton Beach reopened in late November. Island Yoga Space owner Cindy Phillips looks forward to her March or April return to the building she’s occupied for more than 17 years.
“The owners of the building have been incredibly proactive in getting the ball rolling with repairs so we can be in business again by springtime,” Phillips said.
As of last week, Snips Hair Design remained closed, with plywood still covering the ground-level entrance.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Ginny’s and Jane E’s features an eclectic array of retail offerings. The retail inventory was removed before Hurricane Helene hit.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Ginny’s and Jane E’s is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
Dee Munn Brings 21 Years of Real Estate Expertise to Michael Saunders & Company
We are thrilled to welcome Dee Munn to Michael Saunders & Company
A full-time Holmes Beach resident and Anna Maria Island proper ty owner for over 12 years, Dee combines her 21 years of real estate expertise with a true passion for the island. Known for her calm demeanor and skill in navigating complex transactions, Dee is passionate about helping clients find their dream homes.
Outside of real estate, Dee is deeply involved in the community, suppor ting local organizations and enjoying the coastal lifestyle.
Welcome, Dee!
Walking the beaches, watching sunsets, kayaking the sparkling waterways and fishing are ways of life here, and there are opportunities for buyers in all price ranges to indulge in the ultimate island lifestyle. From beachfront homes and bayside properties to quaint condos, Michael Saunders & Company will help you find your slice of paradise.
For nearly 50 years, Michael Saunders & Company has been the leader in luxur y home sales on the Gulf Coast. Locally owned and globally connected, we are Anna Maria Island’s most trusted real estate brand. Call us today!
HOT SPOT: Coming to former Wells Fargo
FROM PAGE 1
one where the drive-through lanes were located on the east side of the bank, and a third for storage and the arcade. The smaller building will be home to a candy shop on the bottom floor and a fudge shop on the top.
The restaurant, which Spooner said would be leased to an independent operator, is planned to have 26 outdoor seats and 100 indoor seats.
The putt-putt course is planned for the area previously paved for the drivethrough bank lanes. Mark Smith, who presented the plan for the property to commissioners, said a 6-foot tall fence would be installed to prevent golf balls from going into traffic and being a hazard on the road. The property is also planned to be surrounded by landscaping to reduce noise and potential hazards.
While commissioners and city staff spoke in favor of the project, noting that it ticks all of the boxes to receive a special exception as laid out in the city’s ordinances and land development code, residents weren’t as enthusiastic.
Resident Margie Motzer questioned the amplified music planned as background music for the putt-putt course. She said she felt the project would cause disruption for nearby residents.
I’m just not sure we can accommodate it physically,” Anna Maria resident Perry Parkman said.
Adjacent residential property owner Dan Howl said he felt it was a very intense use for the area and doesn’t want to see parking for the entertainment facility overflowing into adjacent parking lots or onto his street, Sunrise Lane. Howl said he’d like to see the traffic study that was completed for the project.
City Engineer Chad Minor noted in his staff report approving the project that he saw no significant traffic impact to the area as a result of the installment of the planned entertainment facility.
Resident Debbie Danziger said she’s concerned that the project will adversely affect residents and significantly impact traffic flow along Marina and Gulf drives.
“You’re just asking for trouble,” she said.
“I love the idea. I love the presentation.
“All of the people involved in this project are Island residents,” Jason Sato said in defense of the planned complex. “Jake (Spooner) wants to be a good neighbor. Traffic is always going to be bad. It’s a bigger problem than one business.”
“I approve the project,” Commissioner Carol Soustek said during comments. “I think it’s a good one.” She said she has some concerns about the multitude of businesses planned for the site but thinks those issues will resolve themselves once construction gets underway and the project owners see what demand there is in the city for the planned services.
Once the vote was taken, Spooner stood to address commissioners and members of the public assembled for the meeting.
“Thank you very much,” Spooner said. “We’re going to be good neighbors.”
CITY OF HOLMES BEACH | SUBMITTED
This rendering shows what the new Island Bazaar building will look like from Gulf Drive.
CITY OF HOLMES BEACH | SUBMITTED
This aerial rendering shows an overview of all the planned improvements and buildings for the former Wells Fargo bank site in Holmes Beach.
BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN
Ross Built soccer champs
ANNA MARIA – As another sports season came to a close at The Center of Anna Maria Island, the adult co-ed soccer champions earned their stripes last Thursday night against the topranked Solid Rock Construction team.
After the Moss team ended Pool America’s season in the round one playoff game played last week, the Ross Built Custom Home squad had their way with Moss Builders on the Island pitch.
Team Ross Built worked their way to the top after defeating Moss Builders in penalty kicks after regulation play to end the first semifinal game last Wednesday. Team Bubble Binz fell victim to the offense of the Solid Rock team in the second round two playoff game.
After spending the season on top, the Solid Rock Construction team worked hard with Raul Loera in goal. The Ross Built offense kept Loera busy during the two halves of play in the final game of the season.
Loera recorded 12 saves in the game for Solid Rock.
Teammates Erica Nielsen and team captain Keith Mahoney each put a point on the scoreboard. Mahoney made the assist on Nielsen’s goal.
Ross Built kept the Solid Rock defense busy to help clinch the win.
Mack Heitchue and Kevin Roman finished with a goal and assist each, while Zacharieah Anabtawi had a solo goal in the game.
Adult winter sports at The Center starts on Thursday, Jan. 9 with gridiron action and Thursday, Jan. 23 in the gymnasium with indoor soccer.
SUN SCOREBOARD
18
Horseshoers make gift to Meals on Wheels
Before the action started at AMI Horseshoes on Dec. 18, the pitchers donated a $600 check to Amy Towery, of Meals on Wheels Plus of Manatee, carrying on a longstanding tradition by the group. Then Bob Heiger and Adin Shank teamed up to earn the day’s bragging rights after posting the only 3-0 record during pool play. On Dec. 21, Tom Farrington took out Tom Skoloda and Shank 21-6 to take the day’s title.
Golfers enjoy links
Key Royale Club ladies’ golfers played a low net score round on Dec. 17. The winners are:
FLIGHT A
First Place - Helen Pollock, 30
Second Place - Pam Lowry, 31
Third Place - Jana Samuels, 32
FLIGHT B
First Place - Jan Turner, 34
Second Place - Laney Davis, 35 Third Place - Gloria LaDue, 36
Sue Wheeler had a chip-in on hole #1.
PLANNING: Changes discussed for city dock provisions
FROM PAGE 1
“Everyone seems to be following the mooring rules pretty well,” he said.
Minor referenced the individually-platted mooring areas located on individuallyplatted submerged lots in various canals throughout the city. The meeting packet included aerial photographs of the 85th Street Canal, the T-end canal between Baronet and Concord lanes on Key Royale, the Marina Court Canal, the 83rd Street Canal, the 77th Street Canal and the 68th Street and 69th Street canals.
Minor said ownership of these individually-platted mooring areas does not necessarily coincide with the nearest residential structure and the existing city code doesn’t address these areas, most of which already contain docks.
He said the individually-platted mooring areas are generally about 10 feet wide and about 25 feet long.
“Under our current code, which doesn’t address these, it would be impossible for a 10-foot-wide slip to accommodate a 10-foot setback,” he noted.
Minor said a building permit would be required to install a new dock or lift in one of the individually-platted mooring areas and he proposed that no part of the installation, including the watercraft, extend more than 25 feet into the waterway, as measured from the seawall, or extend beyond the lot lines of the adjacent parcels or boat slips.
Minor said the city clerk wanted to make some comments about tweaking the existing code as it pertains to the city-owned boat slips administered by city staff. Johnston said the existing code requires too many steps for evicting a lessee from a city-owned dock space. She also feels the 60-day application period for those on the waiting list results in a city-owned slip sitting vacant for too long.
MONICA SIMPSON
SUN
Ross Built Custom Homes closed out Center sports as adult soccer champions last Thursday night. From left, top row, Andrew Ross, Greg Ross, Mack Heitchue, Jake Ross, Kevin Roman, Sydney Cornell and Zacharieah Anabtawi; bottom row, Jack Gibson and James Noblett.
GOOGLE EARTH | SUBMITTED
The city of Holmes Beach owns several canalside boat slips.
GOOGLE EARTH | SUBMITTED
The city leases out the city-owned boat slips in the Sunrise Boat Basin.
FUN IN THE SUN
CLASSIFIEDS
ANNOUNCEMENTS
THRIVE BEACH YOGA:
All Levels Welcome! 100 Pine Ave on AMI. 8:30am every Saturday & Sunday, Wednesdays (Oct-May). $15 PreRegistration required at ThriveYogaFit.com
BOATS
FIRST, I WISH ALL MY ISLAND FRIENDS WELL. This to shall pass. Yes, boats are selling. Yes, we will buy damaged boats. Yes, we need boats as folks are getting insurance checks.
Dave Struber/Owner 24 Years, Islandboatsales. net-941-288-3489
COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE
HAVE YOU BEEN thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! Duplexes, multi family, small resorts?
Call BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216
CLEANING SERVICE
TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING: Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570 or 941-565-3931
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
RENOVATION SPECALIST
ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-725-0073.
KERN & GILDER CONSTRUCTION, INC New Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CBC 1261150. Call the Office. 941-7781115
GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 20+ years. Call Neil. Cell 941-9621194
JSAN CORPORATION
Renovations Construction & Handyman Services 941-243-0995 Lic# CRC1332505 jsancorporation@gmail. com Flooring, Drywall, Painting, Repairs, Kitchen and Bathrooms, Trim & Doors Free Estimates. Credit Cards Accepted.
GORILLA DRYWALL REPAIR, LLC. 15+ years of experience. Free Estimates. Let’s solve your Drywall problems together. Call 941-286-0607.
BMF INTERIORS Home repairs and more, No job too small. Please call 786318-8585
A.R.E. Renovation’s WHOLESALE KITCHEN CABINETS DIRECT., Remodeling, Bathrooms. Trim Flooring and Decks Tile and more Free quote, references available. Lic. # CRC.1334176 941-4653045.
CCS DRYWALL REPAIRS
We are local. Family owned & operated since 1991. Free Estimates. Licensed/Insured/Bonded. License # SCC131149803 Call 941-713-6531.
HURRICANE DAMAGE?
I’m an Island resident. Pressure washing, tree work, fence repair, mailbox replacement. Also see ads under “Landscaping & painting. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315
LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE
R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941
ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal. Sweeping, blowing, and weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing. Call Bill Witaszek 941307-9315
SHORTDOG TREE & LAWN SERVICE Free Estimates. Remove trees; trim palms, yard work, hauling everything. Call 941-746-3373 or 941-730-2694
SHELL DELIVERED AND spread. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, top soil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941795-7775, "shell phone" 941-720-0770
{SHELL DRIVEWAYS & LANDSCAPE}. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell and Lime rock driveways and scapes. Also River Rock, Sand, Mulch, & Soil. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067
MOVING & STORAGE
MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-8095777.
PAINTING & WALLCOVERING
PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507
DONALD PERKINS ABRACADABRA PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941705-7096
PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident. Quality Workmanship. Interior/ Exterior. Minor repairs & carpentry. Free estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315
PEST CONTROL
ANNA MARIA PEST CONTROL Call 941-7781630
POOL SERVICES
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COMMISSION: Approves project management compensation for Perry
In his presentation to commissioners, Cosby said he had done some research and found that overall, a payment range of $150 per hour is a reasonable rate for Perry’s assistance.
“The only issue is she was working more as a consultant on those tasks and FEMA is not going to be very happy to pay attorney’s fees. They’re not going to do that,” Cosby said.
He said Perry has tracked her time and those hours have been submitted to Integrated Solutions Consulting (ISC) for FEMA reimbursement. ISC is an emergency management consulting firm being used by the city for FEMA reimbursement guidance.
“So, we’ve been tracking the times and monitoring it, so we just need the city to say yes this is what we agreed we’re going to do,” Cosby said to the commission. “As we continue to move forward, we’re trying to get the funding reinstated and we want to capture that time and get reimbursed for it.”
During the public comment section of the meeting, Derek
Williams, president of the Bridge Street Merchant’s Association, spoke in support of Perry’s efforts in post-hurricane projects.
“The Merchant’s Association has stumbled a little bit and really Ricinda did step up and help us tremendously. We’ve had a couple of events to keep our momentum going and we wouldn’t have been able to do it without her,” Williams said. “We appreciate it, and we hope to turn that corner.”
Commissioners unanimously approved a motion to approve project management compensation in the amount of $150 per hour for Ricinda Perry for services during and after Hurricane Helene.
Following the meeting, Cosby told The Sun that Perry helped him with multiple post-hurricane projects including sand removal, road repairs and pier damage repairs since Hurricane Helene on Sept. 26.
He did not have an exact figure of the hours submitted to ISC and said her capacity in that role is winding down.
PLANNING: Course changes possible for city dock provisions
According to the city website, Holmes Beach residents can rent city-owned boat slips in the following locations: Marina Drive T-ends located between 72nd and 77th streets and the Sunrise Boat Basin located at 28th Street and Avenue B. The annual fee is $600 at the Marina Drive T-ends and the fee at the Sunrise Boat Basin is $425.
“Right now, we do not have any open spots for both locations,” the city website notes.
Minor said he would incorporate the changes discussed that evening into the proposed provisions to be reviewed again at the planning commission’s Jan. 15 meeting. Minor also hopes to present the planning commission members with some proposed seawall provisions.
MEETING TIMES
Included in the meeting packet was a memo from Johnston regarding City Commissioner Carol Soustek’s request to start the monthly planning commission meetings at 2 p.m. rather than 5 p.m.
Johnston’s memo noted most city meetings now take place during the day, when city staff is available during normal business hours.
Tedhams noted some planning commission members still hold regular day jobs. Pierce said her work schedule would prevent her from attending 2 p.m. meetings. Oelfke said he leaves work early to attend the 5 p.m. meetings but he could adjust his work schedule to accommodate a 3:30 p.m. start time. The commission agreed to start their Jan. 15 meeting at 3:30 p.m.
FROM PAGE 20
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Gale Tedhams chairs the Holmes Beach Planning Commission.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Development Services Director Chad Minor helps guide the planning commission discussions.
