Anna Maria Island Sun July 19, 2023

County water taxis arrive

City hopes to incentivize permanent residents

Anna Maria City Attorney

Becky Vose is researching possible incentives that could include grants for full-time residents.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – City officials are exploring the possibility of using grants and other incentives to attract and retain full-time residents.

City Commissioner Charlie Salem first proposed the idea during the commission’s June 22 budget meeting and he suggested budgeting $75,000 for a feasibility study to help determine what can be done.

Salem proposed possible tax breaks and possible building code allowances for property owners who formally and voluntarily agree to not use their home as a short-term vacation rental. He also proposed marketing Anna Maria as a place for full-time residents to live.

City Attorney Becky Vose said she’d research what can and can’t be legally done before the commission seeks a feasibility study.

On July 13, Vose provided the commission with an update on her initial and ongoing research. She said property tax reductions and rebates are not allowed in Florida.

SEE INCENTIVES, PAGE 15

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Manatee County’s two newly-built water taxis have arrived and negotiations continue between the county and the city of Anna Maria regarding the City Pier being used as a water taxi stop.

On July 13, Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Elliott Falcione issued a press release regarding the arrival of the two newly-built pontoon catamarans that will serve as the Gulf Island Ferry Service fleet.

“The two 50-foot catamarans, as part of the highly anticipated Gulf Island Ferry Service, have splashed down in Cortez. The water ferry service is set to transport visitors and locals between downtown Bradenton and Anna Maria Island. The service is anticipated to launch later this summer,” according to the press release.

“We anticipate families parking in downtown Bradenton, hopping on the ferry at the downtown port located just off the Riverwalk near Green Bridge and enjoying a beautiful boat ride out to the Island. At the same time, visitors staying on the Island can enjoy a leisure boat ride to downtown Bradenton to enjoy our amazing restaurants and attractions located on the mainland,” Falcione said in the press release.

Group disputes county claim that drinking water remains safe

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

MANATEE COUNTY – A blue-green algae outbreak reported last week at Lake Manatee, the county’s primary drinking water reservoir, has prompted a local water quality watchdog group to question Manatee County’s claim that the water is safe, despite discoloration and an unusual odor.

In a July 19 press release, Suncoast Waterkeeper members noted that the blue-green algae, known as Anabaena or Microcystin-LR, is a cyanotoxin that may be safe from a regulatory standpoint, but not necessarily from a health standpoint.

SEE WATER, PAGE 8

On Aug. 3, the Anna Maria City Commission is expected to make a final decision as to whether the City Pier will serve as a water taxi stop.

MANATEE COUNTY | SUBMITTED

The new water taxis were placed in the water at the N.E. Taylor Boatworks in Cortez. The map illustrates proposed water taxi stops.

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN Water straight from a faucet in Manatee County shows water that county officials say is safe for consumption. Large particles of unknown material came out of the faucet along with the water.

State law impacts local land use regulation

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Due to a new state law passed by the Florida Legislature, the city attorney advises leaders to be cautious about making any changes to the city’s land use regulations.

The new law is the result of the recently adopted state legislation contained in Senate Bill 250, which primarily provides $61 million dollars in state-supervised hurricane recovery loans.

On July 7, City Attorney Becky Vose provided Mayor Dan Murphy and the five city commissioners with her 10-page written analysis of the state law and its potential impacts on the city.

Her analysis cites the following language contained in the law that could temporarily limit the city’s ability to amend existing land use regulations or enact new regulations: “A county or municipality located entirely or partially within 100 miles of where either Hurricane Ian or Hurricane Nicole made

landfall shall not propose or adopt any moratorium on construction, reconstruction, or redevelopment of any property damaged by Hurricane Ian or Hurricane Nicole; propose or adopt more restrictive or burdensome amendments to its comprehensive plan or land development regulations; or propose or adopt more restrictive or burdensome procedures concerning review, approval, or issuance of a site plan, development permit or development order before Oct. 1, 2024, and any such moratorium or restrictive or burdensome comprehensive plan amendment, land development regulation, or procedure shall be null and void ab initio. This subsection applies retroactively to Sept. 28, 2022.”

In her analysis, Vose wrote, “The city is within the 100-mile radius of the landfall of Hurricane Ian, but to my knowledge, the city had little damage due to either Hurricane Ian or Nicole. There are many issues that must be reviewed to determine the correct interpretation of section 14 of SB 250.The interpretation in this memorandum is somewhat speculative at this point since Sec. 14 of SB 250 could be read in different ways with different results. In the future, there will likely be litigation over this law, and if there is, the opinions in this memorandum may change.”

City officials will proceed cautiously when considering any new land use regulations.

In her analysis, Vose included some legally defensible interpretations of the new law that could be argued in court if the city felt the need to challenge the law.

On July 13, Vose shared some additional insight with city commissioners.

“My recommendation is unless something is both extremely important and extremely time sensitive, we probably should not be adopting any land use regulations or moratoriums that are more restrictive or burdensome on the applicant. If we really need to do it, we have a legal argument that we can reply upon going forward and I can defend it in court. The safer way of doing it is if we have something that’s not terribly time

sensitive is to wait until this section of the statute expires on Oct. 1, 2024. My advice might change if there’s litigation – which I think there will be – which comes down with a court ruling as to which interpretation is proper,” Vose said.

“It’s pretty well-known that this was essentially directed at the city of Naples and my firm is the city attorney for Naples. They had adopted what could be called a more burdensome procedure with regard to properties that were damaged by Hurricane Ian. That meant the applicants had to go to two different boards on something that would otherwise be handled administratively,” Vose said.

Commissioner Chair Mark Short noted the new state law does not exempt the city from conducting its periodic state-required review of the city’s comprehensive plan, which is expected to happen before the pertinent section of the new state law expires in 2024.

“This didn’t get us a deferral,” Short said of the comp plan review process. Murphy said the comp plan could always be amended again after the state law expires to include any land userelated comp plan amendments desired by the commission.

The state law created by Senate Bill 250 temporarily limits the city’s ability to enact land use regulations.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

IN BRIEF

Anna Maria to maintain current millage rate

The proposed 2023-24 budget includes $1.74 million for stormwater and drainage improvements.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The Anna Maria City Commission intends to maintain the current 2.05 millage rate for the collection of ad valorem property taxes during the 2023-24 fiscal year.

Longtime Island resident Tom Aposporos served as the master of ceremonies for the centennial celebration on Memorial Day.

Centennial celebration continues

Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy is planning a second centennial celebration to follow the initial celebration held on Memorial Day. The next celebration will take place at City Pier Park on Sunday, Sept. 10 from 3:30-6:30 p.m. “Our target market is local residents, to celebrate our centennial – a continuation of our centennial celebration,” Murphy told the city commission on July 13. Murphy said the celebration will include food trucks, beer and wine sales, live music and booths featuring local not-for-profit organizations. A six-piece jazz combo comprised of musicians from the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus & Orchestra will perform, as they did at the first celebration, and the bluegrass group Sycamore Shade will also perform.

AMOB improvements to be discussed

The Bradenton Beach City Commission will meet on Thursday, July 20 at noon. The commission will conduct a public hearing for a setback variance and fee waiver request pertaining to the construction of a new deck for a mobile home located in the Sandpiper Resort Co-Op. The commission will receive a presentation from utility undergrounding consultant Mark Porter. The consent agenda includes a request from the city clerk’s office to purchase two desktop computers. Under new business, the commission will be asked to approve a $3,925 police department expenditure to purchase a taser and taser certification materials and a $2,000 expenditure to purchase a DART Studio firearm training program. The commission will also be asked to approve the disposal of the old police boat that is being replaced with a new boat. Under attorney business, the commission will discuss a landscaping plan requested by the Anna Maria Oyster Bar, the restaurant’s plans to install a to-go kiosk, secondary bar and some covered outdoor tables and the extension of AMOB’s lease with the city. The commission will also discuss a grant work plan agreement.

During the city commission’s July 13 budget meeting, Mayor Dan Murphy recommended maintaining the 2.05 millage rate that’s been in place for the past 10 years or so and remains the lowest of any city in Manatee County.

The commission reached an informal consensus in support of the mayor’s millage rate recommendation and the proposed millage rate will be adopted by formal commission votes at two future meetings.

Maintaining the 2.05 millage rate means Anna Maria property owners will pay $2.05 in city property taxes for every $1,000 in assessed property value – after homestead exemptions and other exemptions are factored in.

At that rate, the owner of a property with an assessed value of $500,000 would pay $1,025 in city property taxes, in addition to other taxes levied by the county, school district, fire district and

others. The owner of a home with a $1 million assessed value would pay $2,050 in city property taxes. Maintaining the same millage rate will result in Anna Maria property owners paying higher taxes because of the increased value of their property.

Murphy said maintaining the 2.05 millage rate will generate

Bradenton Beach votes against raising millage rate

The millage rate will remain the same as the last several years.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – At a July 11 special City Commission meeting during a discussion on the proposed millage rate, commissioners voted unanimously not to raise the city’s millage rate.

“The proposed budget was built keeping the millage the same,” City Treasurer Shayne Thompson said. “Keeping the millage the same supports the budget, in addition to putting about $100,000 into reserves.”

The rate stands at 2.3329, the same the city has had for a number of years, Thompson said.

The discussion turned to the city’s reserves.

Thompson said the city has replenished much of the reserve amount following a 2019 Sunshine

Law lawsuit.

“Reserves took quite a hit when we went through the Sunshine litigation,” Thompson said.

“That was $3-4 million that we weren’t reimbursed for. So we were fortunate to have reserves so we didn’t have to borrow it from ourselves, but we’ve largely replenished a lot of that… Keep in mind what was good for reserves last year needs to be added to this year, with inflation.”

Reserves are a percentage of annual expenditures, Thompson said.

“Roughly 30-35% is a nice place for a coastal community to be,” she said.

“We are a community that is extremely fiscally responsible,” Mayor John Chappie said. “We are conservative in our spending practices. And our emergency operations is one of the major parts of our budget. We have to take care of ourselves for the first 24-48 hours.”

Chappie read a quote from

Pat Glass, a former Manatee County commissioner.

“One of the things she told me when you’re looking at your budget, you need to remember always the budget is the single most important document that you will be working on,” Chappie said. “It is an outline of our community.”

The reserves are important because as a coastal community, the funds are available in the event of a major storm disaster, Commissioner Ralph Cole said.

“We rely on reserves so should an event happen, we can put life back together,” Thompson said.

In addition to Chappie, Cole and Thompson, the meeting was attended by City Clerk Terri Sanclemente, Commissioners Jake Spooner and Jan Vosburgh.

The next commission meeting is scheduled for Thursday, July 20 from noon to 2 p.m.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The installation of vertical infiltration drainage trenches will be completed during the coming fiscal year.

SEE ANNA MARIA, PAGE 19

Holmes Beach city leaders hope to reduce taxes

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – City leaders are working on the 2023-24 fiscal year budget and are tasking staff members to cut what they can to allow commissioners to reduce the millage rate for the coming year.

Commissioners met with city department heads on July 11 for a budget workshop to discuss what each department needs financially for the new fiscal year beginning on Oct. 1. During the meeting, Mayor Judy Titsworth charged everyone to look at things that could be cut or put off to a later year in the hopes of lowering the millage rate, reducing the financial burden on taxpayers.

City Treasurer Cindy DunhamTozer created the draft budget using a 2.0677 millage rate, which is the rollback rate from the current year. Millage is the rate per $1,000 of

assessed property value that Holmes Beach property owners pay to the city in taxes each year. The rollback rate is the millage rate used to bring in roughly the same amount of revenue in the new fiscal year as the current one, accounting for property value increases. Dunham-Tozer said property values in Holmes Beach increased by about 13%. The millage rate for the 2022-23 fiscal year is 2.25 in Holmes Beach.

To reduce the millage rate, Titsworth said that some planned capital improvements may need to be canceled or moved to a future fiscal year.

The city’s total budget is estimated at just over $13 million with $12,286,795 in carryover and reserves. The proposed budget is about $350,000 more than the previous year. Dunham-Tozer said that a lot of the increase is due to hikes in insurance rates. She said that while she doesn’t have an official renewal offer from the city’s insurance companies, talks with representatives have hinted at an increase of at least 10% for most insurance and 120% increases in property insurance for the coming year.

MAYOR AND COMMISSION

The proposed mayor and commission budget for 2023-24 shows a slight decrease from the current fiscal year, dropping from a total of $260,605 to $259,365. The budget shows an increase of $1,260 in compensation and payroll taxes for elected officials and a $500 increase in computer/IT. The increases are canceled out by a $3,000 drop in mayor and commission travel.

GENERAL GOVERNMENT

The general government budget covers the city clerk, treasurer and human resources offices, as well as the city’s lobbyist and legal services. The largest proposed increases include $110,000 in legal services, bringing that line item to $360,000, and $11,000 in lobbyist fees, upping that total amount to $54,000. The total proposed general government budget is $1,859,001, an increase of $133,144 over the current fiscal year.

POLICE DEPARTMENT

The Holmes Beach Police Department’s budget is proposed to

decrease by $577,456 to $4,527,866 in the coming fiscal year. The largest increases in this area include $53,000 in general office supplies, $35,779 in increased insurance costs and $90,000 in increased employee health insurance costs.

BUILDING DEPARTMENT

Due to a slowing market, the city’s building department is expecting to bring in less in permitting revenue, the city treasurer said. To compensate for the reduction in revenue, the building department’s proposed budget is down $160,163 from the current fiscal year to $1,197,991. Much of the decrease comes from a reduction in staffing and professional services.

PUBLIC WORKS

The public works department also is projecting a decrease in total budget, dropping $405,697 to $3,414,297. Public Works Administrator Sage Kamiya said that a lot of the reduction is due to the completion of the city center project at the intersection

SEE HOLMES BEACH, PAGE 23

Holmes Beach city leaders are looking at ways to cut the 202324 fiscal year budget to reduce the burden on taxpayers.

The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff

Owner/CEO

Mike Field

Editor

Cindy Lane

General Manager

Bob Alexander

Reporters/Photographers

Joe Hendricks

Leslie Lake

Jason Schaffer

Kristin Swain

Columnists

Louise Bolger

Rusty Chinnis

Contributors

Joe Becht

Steve Borggren

Jason Gargiule

Capt. Rick Grassett

Isis Mavenyengwa

Monica Simpson

Tom Vaught

Capt. David White

Anne Yarbrough

Layout

Ricardo Fonseca

Digital Editor

Kristin Swain

Advertising Director

Shona Otto

Advertising Assistant

Pamela Lee

Classifieds

Bob Alexander

Graphics

Elaine Stroili

Ricardo Fonseca

Distribution

Bob Alexander

Connor Field

Tony McNulty

Brian Smith

Accounting

Leslie Ketchum

Co-founding publishers

Mike Field

Maggie McGinley Field

Family-owned since 2000

EDITORIAL

Easy to be hard

How can people be so heartless? How can people be so cruel?

It’s easy to be hard for some beachgoers on Anna Maria Island.

With all the things to be concerned about these days – hurricane season a year after Ian, the threat of a three-story parking garage at the beach, the loss of residents due to the Island’s changing character – the last thing we need to worry about is that some beachgoers find it fun to drive onto the beach, which is illegal, and run over sea turtle nests, which is not only illegal, but unconscionable.

Hundreds of people on and off the Island work hard to preserve these imperiled creatures and are heartbroken that they are intentionally being destroyed by someone drunk or high or sociopathic or just stupid.

It was enough to make the former Turtle Watch director, the late Suzi Fox, cry when it happened in 2015 – and she was one strong woman. In that case, someone had run golf carts over turtle nests, which never hatched, and run over three imperiled black skimmer chicks, killing them - almost as much fun as riding endangered

manatees while they are mating in shallow water, which has also shockingly happened on this Island.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) investigated the 2015 case, but the state attorney’s office declined to prosecute the crime – a violation of the U.S. Endangered Species Act – due to insufficient evidence against the persons of interest in the case. Could it be that the same laughing couple seen on a blurry video way back then has returned to AMI on vacation?

We don’t need tourist taxes that bad. If anyone has a security camera video of the incident, please notify the Holmes Beach Police Department at 941-708-5804.

If you see a nesting turtle or hatchling in distress, call Turtle Watch at 941-301-8434. If you see anyone tampering with wildlife on AMI, contact the FWC. If your information results in an arrest or citation, you may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000. You can report four ways:

• “FWC Wildlife Alert” app (download from Google Play or Apple Store),

• Text 847411 (Tip411) with the keyword “FWC” and information about the violation,

• Call the Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404FWCC (888-404-3922),

• Submit a tip at MyFWC.com/WildlifeAlert. Let’s stop this, now.

ANNA MARIA

10005 GULF DRIVE

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130

Please visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information.

Aug. 3, 1:30 p.m. – City Commission meeting

BRADENTON BEACH

107 GULF DRIVE N.

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005

Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information.

July 19, 1 p.m. – Scenic WAVES meeting

July 20, noon – City Commission meeting

Aug. 2, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting

Aug. 2, 1 p.m. – Planning and Zoning Board meeting

Aug. 3, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting

HOLMES BEACH

5801 MARINA DRIVE

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800

Please visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information.

July 19, 5 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting

July 25, 10 a.m. – Code Compliance Special Magistrate hearing

July 27, 11:30 a.m. – Police pension board meeting

Aug. 2, 5 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting

ISLAND-WIDE

Aug. 1, 4 p.m. – Manatee County Council of Governments meeting, Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto

EVENTS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 19

Bishop Museum Eco Engineers Exhibit lecture, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11 a.m.

THURSDAY, JULY 20

Summer Reading: Oceania Crafts, 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, JULY 21

Forty Carrots, 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.

SATURDAY, JULY 22

Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 7 a.m.

Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon

Teen art club, figure drawing, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

TUESDAY, JULY 25

Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Slicker’s Eatery, 12012 Cortez Road W., Bradenton, 11:30 a.m.

Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.

THURSDAY, JULY 27

Pottery painting, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Seaside Quilters, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, noon.

Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5-8 p.m.

AMI Chamber Business Card Exchange, Your CBD Store, 6676 Cortez Road W., Cortez, 5-7 p.m., $5 for members or $10 for prospective members

FRIDAY, JULY 28

Forty Carrots, 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.

SATURDAY, JULY 29

Robinson Runners, Robinson

Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 7 a.m.

Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon

Family movie: “Lyle, Lyle Crocodile,” Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Tuesday, Aug. 1

Family story time, 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.

First milestone complete in sewer project

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON

BEACH – As contractors continue to work on the South Bradenton Beach Gravity System Relocation Project on Gulf Drive South and adjacent side streets, the installation of the sewer pipe on 11th Street South is now complete.

The street is the first of the adjacent side roads closed during the project. Other roads that will be impacted span from Sixth Street South to 13th Street South.

Work to install and switch services over to the new system will continue through late July or early August, weather permitting, Manatee County Community Outreach Representative

Tina Allen said in a press release. During that time, 11th Street South will continue to be closed to all motorized vehicles.

For residents and renters on 11th Street South, permitted parking remains in place along the west side of Gulf Drive South. A shuttle is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. between the parking areas and residences.

Once service installations and connections have been completed, the road will be reconstructed, with final paving to be done simultaneously with other completed side roads, according to the county.

The sewer project will replace and relocate

WATER: County calls blue-green algae in drinking water ‘safe’

FROM PAGE 1

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, elevated levels of cyanotoxins, including Anabaena, can cause health issues in humans ranging from a rash to liver and kidney damage if ingested. The most common health effects in humans include abdominal pain, headache, sore throat, vomiting, nausea, dry cough, diarrhea, blistering around the mouth and pneumonia. Continually ingesting drinking water contaminated with elevated levels of the bacteria can lead to liver and kidney damage. Anyone experiencing any of the symptoms after coming into contact with the toxin should seek medical treatment immediately and rinse off with clean water.

In the water where the blue-green algae bloom occurs, plant and animal life may also die both during and after the bloom, resulting in fish kills in the county’s primary water supply.

County leaders say they’re treating the water with activated carbon and that anyone who is concerned about the smell or taste of the water should use a carbon filter at home.

To learn more about Anabaena and how it can affect your health, visit www.epa.gov/cyanohabs.

Water quality report

Water quality at area beaches is based on monitoring of enterococcus bacteria levels, which can pose an increased risk of infectious disease.

a portion of the gravity collection system in South Bradenton Beach that now lies on private properties to new locations within the public right of way.

The EPA also warns that pets, livestock and other animals also can be adversely affected by coming into contact with contaminated water. Symptoms of cyanotoxin poisoning in animals include excessive salivating, fatigue, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea and seizures. In some severe cases, exposure can also lead to death.

Bayfront Park North Good Bradenton Beach Good Coquina Beach North Good Coquina Beach South Good Manatee Beach North Good Palma Sola Bay South Good Source: Florida Department of Health

MANATEE COUNTY | SUBMITTED These roads are being impacted by the South Bradenton Beach Gravity System Relocation project.

FWC cites three for alleged poaching

Local charter captains assisted wildlife officers in finding alleged poachers.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

LONGBOAT KEY – The vigilance of three local charter captains has resulted in multiple citations against three men for the alleged poaching of marine life in local waters.

Capt. Joey Sweet, of Sweet Sunset Dolphin Tours, Capt. Katie Scarlett Tupin, of Capt. Katie Scarlett Boat Tours, and Capt. Kathe Fannon, of Capt. Kathe and First-Mate Pup-Pup Charters, had long noticed a depletion of marine life at local sandbars and suspected that poachers were to blame. They reported their suspicions to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), resulting in several citations.

According to FWC incident reports, Linh Ha, 51, of 3401 24th St. W., Bradenton, Loc Nguyen, 55, of 3230 44th Drive E., Bradenton, and Hai Nguyen, 51, of Rockford, Ill., were charged by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) officers on July 1 at Jewfish Key. “The three individuals were identified to FWC officers by a vessel passing by stating they were keeping over the bag limit of shellfish,” according to the FWC report. “Upon performing a resource inspection, we found all three suspects to be over the allowable bag limit for marine life species (20 max per person/day) as well as over the bag limit for each species (2 per species/per person per day.) The subjects were in possession of 25 tulip snail, 24 crown conch, 9 fighting conch, 2 lightning

whelk and 2 horse conch.”

Each man was charged with violation of the Florida Administrative Code Pertaining to Southwest Florida Shells-Harvest of Live Shellfish in Manatee County; Permitted Harvest of Shells which states: “A person may not harvest in Manatee County more than two live shellfish of any single species per day or possess in or on the Florida waters within Manatee County that are seaward of the mean high water line more than two live shellfish of any single species.”

They were also charged with Violation of Florida Administrative Code Pertaining to Marine Life-Recreational Bag Limit which states: “A person may not harvest in Manatee County more than two live shellfish of any single species per day.”

The FWC report states that at approximately 5:30 p.m. on July 1, officers were patrolling the area of Jewfish Key and received a report of three men taking excessive marine life from the north end of the sandbar.

“We observed three subjects matching the complainant’s description near a red and white personal watercraft (PWC) wading along the Jewfish Key sandbar,” according to the report. “The subjects had several hand-nets full of various species of marine life and additional marine life in the footwell of the PWC.”

Hai Nguyen was also found to have no saltwater fishing license and was issued a warning.

Since the other two men were licensed, four of the tulip snails, crown conch and fighting conch were returned to Loc Nguyen and Ha. Two lightning whelk and one horse conch were returned to Loc Nguyen, as they fell within bag limits. The remainder of the organisms were returned to state waters alive, according to the FWC.

The three men are required to appear in Manatee County Court on Wednesday, Aug. 2 at 9 a.m.

According to an FWC press release, officers have received multiple reports since summer began of individuals harvesting

marine organisms near Longboat Pass in the Jewfish Key area of Manatee County.

“Over the course of the Independence Day weekend, FWC officers increased patrols in the area and performed resource inspections on multiple vessels,” the press release states. “The violations included the harvest of more than two live shellfish species per day, harvest of more than 20 individual tropical marine life species per day, the possession of undersized stone crab, the possession of egg-bearing stone crab, the possession of whole-condition stone crab, the possession of stone crab during closed season, and fishing without a valid saltwater fishing license.”

“I feel like we are just scratching the surface,” Sweet said. “We’re still seeing a lot of the same activity. Hopefully, people will take notice. I was told by the FWC that if anyone sees something, they should take down the numbers on the boats and report it.”

Call the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (888-404-3922).

FWC | SUBMITTED

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers photographed what they said were illegal catches of marine life at Jewfish Key on July 1. Right, suspects were questioned by FWC officers at Jewfish Key earlier this month.

CAPT. KATIE SCARLETT | FACEBOOK

Roser Church

“...a beautiful place to explore your faith...”

SUNDAY WORSHIP

8:30 AM in the Chapel

10:00 AM in the Sanctuar y Nurser y • Children’s Church

ONLINE • Watch LI VE or LATER RoserChurch.com

Sign up to receive the eBulletin at RoserChurch.com/contact-us

The CHAPEL is open during o ce hours for prayer and meditation

FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch

Turtle nests run over on AMI beaches

Turtle Watch requests people to report any incidents of turtle nest tampering.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – On a daily patrol last week, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring volunteers were shocked and saddened to find multiple turtle nests that had been trampled on and run over with vehicles.

On its Facebook page, Turtle Watch posted photos of tire tracks and footprints through multiple nests with

marker stakes broken and on the ground.

Vehicles are illegal on the beaches of Anna Maria Island.

“We’d like to remind everyone that tampering with, disturbing or harassing any nest, adult or hatchling sea turtle is a federal offense punishable by a fine and/or jail time,” Turtle Watch Executive Director Kristen Mazzarella said.

Disturbances to nests have the potential to impact their success, she said.

“We don’t know if any of the eggs were broken,” Mazzarella said. “We’ll find that out later in the season.”

Turtle Watch volunteers spent

the morning of July 11 reposting nest stakes and documenting disturbances to at least four nests in undisclosed locations in Anna Maria and Holmes Beach.

This is the second time in a week that Turtle Watch volunteers found damaged nests, although Mazzarella said the prior incidents were likely not malicious and due to carelessness.

Mazzarella said multiple issues with nests following the Fourth of July holiday included people knocking over stakes, tearing marker tape, walking across nests, digging in the sand close to nests and putting up tents in nesting areas.

Turtle nests on local beaches

Volunteers found multiple sea turtle nests vandalized in Anna Maria and Holmes Beach.

are clearly marked with yellow numbered stakes and pink caution tape.

Turtle nesting season runs from May through October.

“I’d like to remind people, if you see something, say something,” Mazzarella said.

Report wildlife violations to the FWC. If your information results in an arrest or citation, you may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000. You can report four ways:

• “FWC Wildlife Alert” app (download from Google Play or Apple Store)

• Text 847411 (Tip411) with keyword “FWC” and information about the violation

• Call the Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (888-4043922)

• Submit a tip at MyFWC.com/ WildlifeAlert

If you see a nesting turtle or hatchling in distress, call Turtle Watch at 941-301-8434.

Sea turtle hatchlings rescued from storm drain

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – After being disoriented by lights, multiple sea turtle hatchlings fell into a storm drain before being rescued by Holmes Beach city staff.

Following the July 6 rescue, the workers were lauded on the Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring Facebook page.

“A shout out to JT (James Thomas, Holmes Beach code compliance supervisor) and Scott Roscoe from Holmes Beach for helping us rescue

some disoriented hatchlings from a storm drain at Cortez Road and Gulf Drive this morning,” Turtle Watch Executive Director Kristen Mazzarella wrote. The intersection is in the city of Bradenton Beach.

“We got a call around 7 a.m. from the Turtle Watch folks,” Thomas said.

“There were some baby turtles that had gotten into the storm drain. Scott removed the drain grate and they were able to get them out.”

The hatchlings were released into the Gulf of Mexico by Turtle Watch volunteers.

“Based on the tracks, it was about 25 hatchlings. We found eight. We didn’t find any others,” Mazzarella said. “There’s a lot of light at that intersection, so they were disoriented.

They went over the dunes and across the street into the drain.”

Mazzarella thanked Rebecca Gill, who first noticed the turtle hatchlings, and the members of the public who

helped search for hatchlings.

“Artificial lights had lured the hatchlings into the road instead of going to the water. If you find a hatchling not on the beach, please call AMITW at 941-301-3484,” Mazzarella wrote on Facebook.

“Lighting near the shore also can cause hatchlings to become disoriented and wander inland, where they often die of dehydration or predation. Hatchlings, scientists believe, have an innate instinct that leads them in the brightest direction, which is normally moonlight reflecting off of the ocean. Excess lighting from the nearshore buildings and streets draws hatchlings toward land, where they may be eaten, run over, or drown in swimming pools, according to the Sea Turtle Conservancy.

TURTLE WATCH | SUBMITTED

Artificial light caused the turtle hatchlings to become disoriented, says Turtle Watch.

TURTLE WATCH | SUBMITTED

Sea turtle hatchlings were rescued from a storm drain by Holmes Beach workers.

WATER TAXI: Arrives in Cortez

FROM PAGE 1

Traveling on the Manatee River and the Intracoastal Waterway, the Clearwater-based Gulf Island Water Taxi company will operate the Gulf Island Ferry Service. The family-owned parent company, Clearwater Ferry, already runs a water taxi service between Clearwater and Dunedin. The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, which is part of Manatee County government, is marketing the water taxi service.

Initially operating on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only, from 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., the county-funded service will include water taxi stops at the city of Bradenton-owned Riverwalk Day Dock near the Green Bridge in downtown Bradenton, the city-owned floating dock next to the Bradenton Beach Pier and the county-owned Coquina South boat ramp in Bradenton Beach, across the street from Coquina Beach.

The county also proposes using the Anna Maria City Pier as a landing spot but the city of Anna Maria and Manatee County have not yet entered into an interlocal agreement approving the destination.

The county is willing to pay for any improvements needed at the various water taxi docking stops to ensure public safety and comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), including safety railings. But the county wants each city to pay for the ongoing maintenance of any county-funded water taxi-related improvements made to their docking facilities.

The Bradenton and Bradenton

Beach city commissions have already approved their city-specific, water taxi-related interlocal agreements with the county and those two city commissions agreed to pay for the ongoing maintenance of any water taxi-related improvements made by the county.

When approving the interlocal agreement earlier this year, the Bradenton Beach Commission noted the county’s water taxis are welcome to use the recently expanded floating dock as a landing area on a first-come, firstserved basis like other users, but the city is not creating a reserved and designated water taxi landing area on the floating dock.

NEGOTIATIONS CONTINUE

As part of the ongoing interlocal agreement negotiations that began last year, Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy and the city commission would like the county to also pay for the ongoing maintenance of any water taxi-related safety improvements made to the City Pier – a provision the county has not agreed to.

During past discussions, Murphy said the City Pier cannot be used as a water taxi stop without a city commission-approved interlocal agreement with the county.

In March, the city sent the county a revised agreement that proposed the county pay for the ongoing maintenance. In June, the city received back from the county a version of the interlocal agreement that contained the following language: “Prior to the commencement of water taxi services to the dock, the county shall ensure that the dock is ADA accessible for water taxi service to the public, including constructing any ADA improvements that may be required. The cost of ADA improvements, permits or required ADA-related improvement studies required for dockage of the water taxi vessel or for related upland property are the responsibility of Manatee County and its contractor. Following installation of ADA improvements and acceptance by the city, subsequent maintenance of the cost thereof for the Pier shall remain the responsibility of the city.”

The proposed agreement discussed in June also says, “The county agrees to provide a detailed plan in advance to the Anna Maria City Commission for approval showing the proposed landing area on the pier and any modifications or improvements required for the dockage and the pier. The city has the right to cancel this agreement if it finds that such modifications or improvements are unsatisfactory to the city.”

I don’t want to be an obstacle. I don’t want bad will, but our interests have to be looked out for.”

Dan Murphy, Anna Maria mayor

SEE WATER TAXI, PAGE 14

FWC offers new turtle, manatee decals

Each donation will provide funding for marine conservation efforts.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

The importance of healthy habitats for marine life is the theme of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) latest conservation fundraising decals.

With a donation of $5 or more at the time of vehicle or vessel registration at Florida’s county tax offices, donors will receive their choice of the “Healthy Sea Turtles and Healthy Habitats” or the “Healthy Manatees and Healthy Habitats” waterproof decals. The decal designs were created by

NESTING NEWS

FWC artist Mike Hunter.

The turtle decal’s conservation message focuses on keeping beaches clean and free of debris that can create obstacles for nesting females and hatchlings. Keeping beaches dark helps ensure that adults and hatchlings aren’t disoriented, leading them away from the water.

The turtle decal will help protect Florida’s endangered marine turtles through the FWC Marine Turtle Program.

“This year’s sea turtle decal is an awareness reminder that sea turtles need healthy habitats to thrive. Florida’s sandy beaches, as well as coastal and offshore waters, provide vital habitat for five species of threatened and endangered sea turtles. From tiny hatchlings to huge adults,

Turtle nests laid: 359 (Record: 544 in 2019)

False crawls: 399 (Record: 831 in 2010)

Nests hatched: 25 (Record: 453 in 2022)

Hatchlings hatched: 1,604 (Record: 35,850 in 2022)

Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring

FWC | SUBMITTED

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is rolling out the newest turtle and manatee conservation fundraising decals.

all sea turtles need clean, undisturbed habitats to survive,” according to the FWC website.

The manatee decals help to raise money for manatee recovery around the state.

“Manatees are herbivores, feeding on a variety of submerged, emergent and floating plants. These aquatic plants not only provide necessary food to Florida’s manatees, but are also vital underwater ecosystems, providing food, habitat and nursery areas for numerous fish and wildlife species,” according to the FWC website. “The FWC implements aquatic habitat restoration projects around the state collaboratively with partners and stakeholders.”

FWC asks boaters to avoid shallow grass beds while boating, and reminds residents to eliminate the use of lawn fertilizers that can leach into waterways.

FWC has a limited supply of some prior years’ decals. For information or to order, visit https://myfwc.com/

Where’s Suzi?

Since her June 27 release after nesting on Coquina Beach, adult female loggerhead sea turtle Suzi has traveled a total of 43 miles, and most recently after venturing offshore, has circled back to the area of Bradenton Beach.

Suzi, now in training, has been outfitted with a satellite monitor and will be participating in the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s Tour de Turtles race beginning on Aug. 1.

Swimming at an average speed of .12 miles per hour, Suzi will be swimming to draw attention to the cause of light pollution and how lighting near shore can negatively impact nesting turtles and their hatchlings.

“Beaches, popular among humans and turtles alike, are now lined with seaside condominiums, houses and hotels. Lights from these developments discourage females from nesting. If a female fails to nest after multiple false crawls, she will resort to less favorable nesting spots or deposit her eggs in the ocean. In either case, the survival outlook for hatchlings is slim,” according to The Sea Turtle Conservancy. Suzi was named in honor of the late Suzi Fox, long-time executive director of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring.

Her participation in the 2023 Tour de Turtles is sponsored by Coastal Wildlife Club, Waterline Marina and Resort and Turtle Watch. Visit The Sun’s Facebook page for weekly updates in “Where’s Suzi?” and visit amisun.com for weekly updates on turtle nesting activity in “Nesting News.” SUBMITTED

WATER TAXI: Coming to AMI

FROM PAGE 12

At that time, the county had not yet provided city officials with the plan referenced in the proposed agreement.

On July 13, Murphy provided the city commission with a status update on the still unresolved agreement negotiations.

Murphy said City Attorney Becky Vose met with county officials after the city commission’s June discussion and earlier in the week he received the county’s latest proposed agreement.

“I’ve gone through that proposal. There’s still some gaps. Late last night, I received a proposed picture of the landing spot, where they would like this to land. I have not received the ADA improvements that are required nor a cost of those ADA improvements, which we would need,” Murphy said.

Vose said she engaged in lengthy discussions with Falcione and one of the assistant county attorneys.

“They, unfortunately, did

not implement my requested changes,” she said.

“In the big picture, we certainly do not want to let small details interfere with this, but I’m putting together a short list of some things that need to be changed in the agreement, particularly having to do with liability issues,” Vose said.

She said the negotiations are more challenging for the city because the Bradenton Beach and Bradenton city commissioners already signed the agreements as proposed by the county.

“They just took what was presented, signed it and sent it back,” Vose said.

Murphy said, “There’s attachments missing and I’m not going to put the city in the position of recommending to you signing a contract with attachments that are blank, or not attached or not filled out. Secondly, I’m not real satisfied with the terms and conditions. I’ll come back with a recommendation one way or the other.

“I’m hoping that we can successfully do this, but if we can’t, we can’t. There’s some things you just need to walk away from and hope that things get better later. The legal issues are going to be escalated to the county attorney himself (Bill Clague) rather than to an assistant attorney. There are legal aspects of this contract that to me seem serious and not something that is in the best interest of the city. Those all have to be ironed out, but I think we need to get this off the table one way or the other in two weeks.”

Commissioner Robert Kingan said, “You would certainly think that the county would have engaged us much earlier in the process and got this sorted out at the beginning.”

“It’s a serious matter. I don’t want to be an obstacle. I don’t want bad will, but our interests have to be looked out for,” Murphy said.

Since the water taxi agreement discussions began in 2022, the mayor and

commission have also continually expressed a desire for discounted water taxi fares for the service industry employees and others who work on Anna Maria Island and commute from the mainland. During Thursday’s meeting, Anna Maria Commission Chair Mark Short noted the county’s proposed agreement makes no reference to discounted fares for Island employees.

Murphy said he’ll present a “last, best and final proposal” during the commission’s Thursday, Aug. 3 meeting. At that point, the commission will approve or reject the proposed agreement.

After Thursday’s meeting,

Murphy said he also received from the county a diagram that illustrates how the county proposes using the existing landing area near the T-end of the pier as a water taxi landing. That diagram was not shared during Thursday’s meeting and as of press time had not yet been provided to the media due to the city’s pending review of the plans that may require some additional pier improvements. The water taxi service is also scheduled for discussion at the Tuesday, Aug. 1 Manatee County Council of Governments meeting at the Bradenton Area Convention Center in Palmetto at 4 p.m.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The county proposes using the existing boat landing near the T-end of the Anna Maria City Pier, with some additional safety improvements potentially needed.

INCENTIVES: Anna Maria officials hope to incentivize permanent residents

FROM PAGE 1

“The state has preempted the issues having to do with ad valorem taxation, exemptions and assessments. That’s a non-starter, but that does not get rid of the possibility of giving grants to full-time residents or property owners who lease to tenants who are full-time residents,” Vose said.

Vose is still investigating the parameters of a grant program that would include participating property owners voluntarily entering into restrictive covenants that would prohibit their properties from being used as shortterm vacation rentals for a specific number of years.

Vose said development and building code incentives might also be possible for the construction or redevelopment of dwellings used for full-time residency.

“It’s still being looked into and I’ll come back with a comprehensive report as soon as it’s ready,” Vose said.

Vose said the city can advertise and market Anna Maria as a destination for permanent residents.

According to Mayor Dan Murphy, approximately 70% of the dwellings in Anna Maria are used as short-term vacation rentals.

Salem thanked Vose for her research and analysis and said, “I’m encouraged by the progress that we’re making, even with some changes as to how we might deliver the relief to permanent residents here. It might not be possible to do it through ad valorem (taxes) but there are other avenues we can pursue. The marketing piece is something we can

do however we choose to pursue it. That’s something I think we could fast track if the commission and mayor are interested.”

Regarding a feasibility study, Salem said, “It’s important to do a study because we are in uncharted territory. If we stay focused on the ultimate goal, which is to increase the number of permanent residents we have here and by extension make our community stronger, I think we’ll have something to be proud of.”

Commissioner Robert Kingan asked Vose if she’s aware of any other Florida city using grants to attract full-time residents. Vose said she’s not aware of any other city doing that, but she is aware of cities that use grants to incentivize desired commercial activity. Vose noted that grants, in general, are given to people in the private sector to accomplish the goals of a municipality.

Kingan asked Vose if the state might perceive a grant program as an attempt to circumvent the state’s ad valorem tax restrictions.

“I would not tie the grant to the tax assessments. I think that would be a mistake. There are numerous sources

of funds the city receives that are not otherwise obligated,” Vose said.

“I think this is an exciting path to explore. I think it’s a great idea. There are places we can get money to fund a program such as this,” Murphy said.

Vose is still researching whether ad valorem property tax revenues could be used to help fund a grant program.

“It can’t come as a rebate on your property taxes,” Salem clarified.

Vose said that was correct and the incentives would not be related to how much a property owner pays in property taxes.

Salem said he’s aware of ski towns in Colorado that are having trouble finding employees because of the high rent in those areas. He believes grants are being used there to help attract employees and he intends to research that.

Vose said she looked at several grant programs in other states but there aren’t a lot of residential grant programs in Florida.

“It’s a very exciting concept and I’m hoping we’ll be able to be on the cutting edge of this in Florida,” she said.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Commissioner Charlie Salem proposes incentives for Anna Maria’s full-time residents.

Sections of Marina Drive closed Road closures remain in effect through the end of this week on Marina Drive near 64th Street in Holmes Beach. The closures, which began on July 17, are due to contractors working to repair stormwater drainage pipes.

Two Island restaurants named ‘best of’

Two Anna Maria Island restaurants are distinguished by Trips to Discover

as part of a list of 15 best beachfront restaurants in the state. The honors went to two Chiles Hospitality restaurants, the Sandbar Seafood & Spirits in Anna Maria and the Beach House Waterfront Restaurant in Bradenton Beach. In a press release, Trips to Discover said that the Beach House is an ideal mixture of casual and stylish, making it a great spot for relaxing and enjoying the sunset. Both restaurants received honors for promoting sustainability.

Public works manager introduced

Roosevelt Jones is now serving as the city of Anna Maria’s new public works department manager. When introduced to the city commission on Thursday, July 13, Jones said, “I’m thankful for the opportunity to be the manager of public works.” Jones began his tenure with the city on July 5 and succeeds former Public Works Manager Ryan Wieland.

AM BUDGET: Maintaing current millage rate

FROM PAGE 4

an additional $627,072 in ad valorem property tax revenues for the city –increasing from $3.57 million in ad valorem tax revenues for the current 2022-23 fiscal year to $4.2 million for the 2023-24 fiscal year that begins Oct. 1.

“It’s the largest I’ve seen since I’ve been in office. That’s a giant increase,” Murphy said.

BUDGET DETAILS

The proposed 2023-24 budget includes $14.6 million in total anticipated revenues received from various funding sources, including property taxes, stormwater fees, state appropriations, state and federal grants and county funds.

The proposed budget lists a $5.5 million increase in total revenues received, compared to the $9 million listed for the current 2022-23 fiscal year.

The city anticipates collecting $1.74 million in stormwater fees during the coming fiscal year – an increase of $317,975 from the $1.42 million collected from Anna Maria property owners during the current fiscal year.

The city anticipates collecting $805,000 in building permit fees and $90,525 in planning fees, with a total increase of $224,273 over the current fiscal year that ends Sept. 30.

The city anticipates collecting $535,000 in vacation rental licensing fees, which is an increase of $63,684 over the $471,316 included in the current fiscal year budget. Murphy said the increased licensing revenues will offset the increased costs of enforcing the city’s vacation rental ordinance.

The capital projects and expenses plan that Murphy presented includes $7.92 million in total capital expenditures. Capital expenditures do not include the daily operations of the city, employee salaries and benefits and the law enforcement services contracted through the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.

The capital plan details how each proposed project would be funded, including the $2.69 million in state appropriations and $283,000 in federal American Rescue Plan funds to be spent on the pending Reimagining Pine Avenue safety improvement project.

The proposed budget includes $1.74

million for stormwater and drainage maintenance and improvements, including the last new vertical infiltration trenches to be installed in the city for the foreseeable future.

“This completes all of the vertical filtration for the city that we know of that can be done,” Murphy told the commission. “Once we complete this we’re out of the phase of doing more new vertical infiltration. We still have to maintain the embedded base, but this puts us over the top 100%.

“The next phase that you’ll see next year is going to be pipes and pumps,

because there’s still areas vertical infiltration won’t work in. Included in this budget is a study to do pipes and pumps. What’s most effective and what are the right locations for that?” Murphy said.

The proposed capital projects list currently includes $156,486 to install shade sails over the children’s playground at City Pier Park, $79,660 to expand the existing City Pier Park shade sail structure, $69,912 to install shade sails at the T-end of the City Pier, $200,000 for city hall consolidation and improvements and $275,000 to study, engineer and permit a permanent alternative to regularly dredging the Lake La Vista inlet. The list also includes $500,000 to construct public restrooms on the city property that already includes a public parking lot, the Island Players theater and the city hall building, $21,200 to redesign that public parking lot, $75,000 to design a stormwater pumping station and $500,000 to extend the multi-use trail along Gulf Drive.

Anna Maria

This completes all of the vertical filtration for the city that we know of that can be done.”

Dan Murphy, Anna Maria mayor

OBITUARIES

Robert Joseph Schindler

Robert Joseph Schindler, 79, of Perico Island, Florida, passed away on July 8, 2023 after a tough battle with myelofibrosis (a rare blood cancer) and heart disease. Robert was born on Dec. 11, 1943 to Herman Joseph and Barbara Claire (née Gould) in Springfield, Massachusetts. Robert grew up in Parma, Ohio, where he shared great times with his sister and numerous cousins.

Robert graduated from St. Ignatius Catholic High School in Cleveland, Ohio and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in business from Kent State University as well as an MBA from the University of Indianapolis.

It was at Robert’s first job as an international banker where he met his beloved wife, Hildegard (née Muehlbach). They married in 1968 and went on to have a son, Matthew,

and a daughter, Meghan. Robert and Hildegard called Indianapolis home for a number of years before moving to Germany, where Robert presided over the 135-branch U.S. Military banking system in (then West) Germany, Holland and Greece during the tumultuous years surrounding the fall of the Berlin Wall. The Schindler family shared many wonderful memories of traveling throughout Europe.

Tired of living in cold climates, Robert decided to relocate to central Florida in 1992, where he transitioned from his 25-year career of banking and entered the world of innovative traffic control products. Robert was the president of a national highway safety company in Lakeland and then Ruskin and he held several patents for safety devices used on roads. It was in 2022 that Robert mostly retired, though he still enjoyed spending a few mornings a week working alongside his son, who took over the family businesses.

One of Robert’s later passions in life was becoming a published author in

2009. He based his action adventure/ historical fiction Montooth book series on a bedtime story written for his daughter in 1991. Robert went on to earn multiple literary awards for his series under the pen name Robert Jay. Robert’s face always lit up when discussing his books with his many fans.

Robert’s other interests included running, through which he won numerous medals, dancing to classic 1950s hits including “Shout” by the Isley Brothers and especially baseball. A skilled ballplayer himself, Robert was a devoted and enthusiastic fan of the Cleveland Indians.

His favorite activity, though, was spending time with family, from traveling with his wife (including trips to all 50 states) to camping and whitewater rafting adventures with his children to entertaining and reveling in his dear grandchildren.

A devout Catholic, Robert was known by family and friends for his kindness, generosity, infectious laugh, and fantastic sense of humor. Robert and his wife

loved living on Anna Maria Island and Perico Island for the past 23 years.

Robert is preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Barbara; sisters, Susie and Ann Marie, as well as another sister and grandchildren who passed away as babies.

Robert is survived by his wife, Hildegard; son, Matthew (Michelle) Schindler; daughter, Meghan (James T.) Christian; and grandchildren, Lauren, James R., Cameron, Joseph, Jordan, Joanna, Juliana and one baby on the way.

A Funeral Mass was celebrated on July 15 at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Holmes Beach, Florida with interment at Skyway Memorial Cemetery. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel is in charge of arrangements. Flowers can be sent or donations can be made to St. Bernard Catholic Church. Condolences may be made to www. brownandsonsfuneral.com.

Suncoast Waterkeeper christens new patrol boat

Reel Time

sland residents have two opportunities to join in on the christening of Suncoast Waterkeeper’s new patrol boat and the launch of Eyes on the Suncoast, an improved citizen pollution and habitat monitoring program.

The 23-foot deck boat was purchased from Anna Maria Island Dolphin Tours. Suncoast Waterkeeper (SCWK) is grateful to the owner, Island entrepreneur Ben Webb, who has been a huge supporter of the group. According to Waterkeeper’s Executive Director Abbey Tyrna, “Webb gave us a great price on the boat, allowed us time to obtain a grant before final payment and donated a $7,000 trailer. It’s because of stakeholders like Webb that we can make a real difference protecting the water

quality and habitat of Sarasota Bay.”

“It’s a win/win for both of us,” Webb said. “If we don’t all pitch in to protect the natural areas that fuel our passion and that are the basis of our economy, everybody loses. It’s only common sense.”

The first event will be held on World Mangrove Day, Wednesday, July 26 at Floridays Woodfire Grill and Bar, 12332 Manatee Ave. W., from 4:30-6:30 p.m. During the event, attendees will be educated about the new program and learn about the importance and function of mangroves. Besides the christening there will also be live music and a raffle. Light appetizers will be served and each attendee will receive a free drink. Once again, Waterkeeper would like to give a shout out to Floridays and partner James Brearley, staunch supporters of SCWK’s work.

The second event is planned for Saturday, July 29 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Sarasota Sailing Squadron on City Island. This is a family-friendly event that will have a host of exciting, water-centered activities including making sun prints, dip netting,

stand up paddleboard lessons, casting les sons, training, live music and a raffle. Food will be available from food trucks including Big Blue Grilled Cheese Company and Chill Mobile. Partners for this event include the Sailing Squadron, Florida Sea Grant, Around the Bend Nature Tours, Big Blue and Chill Mobile.

Come and learn about the efforts of SCWK and local partners to protect the water quality and habitat on the Suncoast and learn how you can be part of the solution. While you’re there, you’ll participate in the christening, meet some of the area’s most committed citizens and share some of the unique activities our waters provide.

RUSTY CHINNIS

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN Suncoast Waterkeeper's new boat will be used to protect local waters and habitats.

Mortgage rates on the move

Residential mortgage rates barely budged in June, leveling off at the 6.5% mark the last week of May. Just when buyers were starting to exhale, thinking this may be as high as we go, the national 30-year average fixed-rate mortgage blew past that mark the first week of July. Talk about fireworks. According to Freddie Mac, rates finished the week ending July 6 at an average of 6.81%. One outlier from the Mortgage News Daily reported a 30-year fixed mortgage hit 7.22%.

If you’re thinking well, that’s not too bad, consider the poor buyer who is looking at a $400,000 mortgage and now faces an increase in monthly carrying charges over $100. This could be the breaking point for some buyers as far as qualifying.

And we’re not done yet. Housing market watchers expect mortgage rates to remain elevated amid ongoing economic uncertainty and the Federal Reserve’s rate hike war on inflation.

Castles in the Sand

LOUISE BOLGER

The expectation is two more rate increases before the end of 2023. If they proceed with quarter-point increases, you do the math.

The Federal Reserve has clearly stated there is a long way to go to bring inflation back to its 2% goal. Since July 26 is their next meeting, we won’t have long to wait for an answer. Housing experts like Lawrence Yun, chief economist at the National Association of Realtors, feel the Fed has been hawkish as it regards rate increases. Yun says, “The rate hikes from earlier months have yet to exert their force at a time when inflation

has already decelerated to 4% and there is no need to consider raising interest rates.” We’ll see if anyone in Washington listens to him.

Further, if you think housing inventory is down now, wait till these higher rates kick in. Sellers with mortgage rates below 3% or 4% are not motivated to sell no matter how much they want that extra bedroom or water view. Homeowners feel locked in and are remaining on the sidelines willing to wait it out. They may have a long wait.

No matter how high the rates go, however, keep in mind the real estate market has survived rates higher than we will probably be looking at by the end of the year and people were still buying houses. Eventually, buyers and sellers will have to blink and start the market rolling again.

Before I end this column, I would like to acknowledge the passing of Pat Copeland, an Island treasure and the edi-

tor of this column for The Sun for many years. She edited with a light touch, never passing judgment, simply suggesting a more concise sentence structure or precise word, and she was always right.

I was away when she passed, but was thankfully home in time to attend her memorial at Roser Church on Pine Avenue. Her family did her proud, from her young grandchildren to her well-poised and talented daughters and sons-in-law and, of course, her husband of 50 years, Doug Copeland, an Island treasure in his own right. It was an uplifting event with big smiles from all who attended, ending with a New Orleans-style second-line processional to celebrate a life well lived by a special lady.

You may not be able to influence how mortgage rates are moving, but you can keep your life moving in the right direction. In the words of Pat Copeland, “Life is a party.” Who cares what the Federal Reserve says?

Mayor seeks millage rate reduction

Mayor Judy Titsworth is hoping to give property owners a break by reducing the millage for the 2023-24 tax year.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Mayor Judy Titsworth has tasked department heads to “sharpen their pencils” to reduce budget requests in order to try to lower the millage rate, giving a break to taxpayers.

During a July 11 budget work session, department heads presented their proposed budgets

to commissioners. City Treasurer Cindy Dunham-Tozer created the proposed city budget for the 2023-24 fiscal year at a 2.0677 millage rate. The millage rate is the amount taxed per $1,000 in assessed property value. At 2.0677 mills, ad valorem taxes in the city are estimated to bring in $6,165,117, an increase of $716,549 over last year’s $5,448,568.

Dunham-Tozer said that property values in the city increased about 13% from the previous year. During the budget discussion, they agreed to set the maximum rate at 2.25 mills, though the

final millage rate adopted in the fall during two public hearings on the budget is not expected to be that high.

The maximum millage rate is the rate that commissioners cannot exceed when setting the final millage rate for the tax year, though they can go lower. And while the city treasurer used the 2.0677 rollback rate to create the budget, Titsworth said she’d like to go even lower if possible.

Commissioners planned to meet to set the maximum millage rate on July 18, after press time for The Sun.

HOLMES BEACH: City leaders hope to reduce taxes

FROM PAGE 5

of Marina and Gulf drives as well as the completion of trolley shelter rebuilds and repairs. The department is planning a couple of large purchases in the coming fiscal year, namely $100,000 for a new algae boat to help remove debris in canals caused by red tide and blue-green algae blooms and $195,000 for a street sweeper to allow staff to clean the streets more often, making bicycle lanes safer for riders. Titsworth encouraged Kamiya to see if any grant funds are available to help offset some of the cost of the planned purchases.

CODE COMPLIANCE

The city’s code compliance department is projecting a modest budget increase of $62,210 to $855,856. The proposed budget includes an increase of $50,000 for legal services related to special magistrate hearings, bringing that line item to $200,000, and a $14,683 increase in insurance.

Two public hearings are planned to be held in September for both the budget and millage rate.

Enjoy Christmas in July

The Anna Maria Island Privateers will host their annual Christmas in July event at the Drift In, 120 Bridge St. in Bradenton Beach on Saturday, July 22 from 6-11 p.m. The event will raise money to support their mission of pirates for kids in the community, including scholarships. There will be a $500 lotto

board raffle, $300 liquor basket, a $10 buffet and a special visit from Santa. For more information, visit www.amiprivateers.org.

Chamber card exchange next week

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce July business card exchange is scheduled for

Thursday, July 27 from 5-7 p.m. at Your CBD Store, 6676 Cortez Road W. in Cortez. The event is an opportunity for current and prospective Chamber members to mingle and network while enjoying beverages and light bites. The cost to attend is $5 for chamber members or $10 for prospective members. Reservations are required at info@amichamber.org or www.amichamber.org.

BEACH BEAT

HOLMES BEACH

7/8, 2:45 a.m., single accident, DUI, Gulf Drive and 37th Street. The officer responded to a single-vehicle accident. The driver was found passed out in the front seat with a head injury. During the crash investigation, the officer noted that the vehicle veered off the road without the driver hitting the brakes and crashed into two street signs and a power pole before stopping after hitting a palm tree. The driver was transported to the hospital for treatment of his injuries where a blood test showed he was over the legal alcohol limit. The driver was placed under arrest

A PARADISE

Quentin Talbert – Listing

Mary Burke - Selling

and transferred to the custody of a Manatee County jail officer.

7/8, 10:47 a.m., grand theft, 65th Street. The officer responded to a call from a vacationer concerning the theft of a gold rope necklace with a diamond cross charm from a rental unit. After discovering the theft, the vacationer said they contacted the rental company who said a worker had been in to replace an air filter. The vacationer said no notice was given and they wanted to prosecute.

7/8, 9 a.m., stolen vehicle, Clark Drive. An officer responded to a stolen low-speed vehicle from a rental unit. The owner of the vehicle said they were picking up rental vehicles and one was missing. The

renter of the vehicle said it was in place with the keys in the attached lockbox when they left earlier in the morning. The vehicle owner said they would like to press charges against the thief. The missing vehicle was recovered that afternoon by the owner from the Rod and Reel Pier in Anna Maria.

7/9, 12:10 a.m., resisting arrest, Manatee Beach. Two officers responded to the public beach in response to a combative man who appeared to be intoxicated. After the man became combative when officers attempted to help him find his way back to his property, they attempted to arrest him. The man resisted arrest but did not become violent. He was arrested and transported to Manatee County Jail.

Top real estate producers for June 2023

FRAN MAXON

Sharon Villars Foraker and Timo -

thy Villars – Listing

Stephanie Bell - Selling

AN ISLAND PLACE REALTY

Tanya Edwards – Listing & Selling

DUNCAN REAL ESTATE

Darcie Duncan – Listing & Selling

EDGEWATER REAL ESTATE

Lynn Zemmer – Listing & Selling

ISLAND REAL ESTATE

Liz Codola – Listing

Liz Codola and Tom NelsonSelling

MICHAEL SAUNDERS

Hannah Hillyard – Listing

Kathy Harman - Selling

MIKE NORMAN REALTY

Chet Coleman - Listing

Marianne Norman-Ellis - Selling

REMAX ALLIANCE GROUP

Dee Munn and

Karen Harllee – Listing

Christine Kourik - Selling

SALTY MERMAID REAL ESTATE

Liz Blandford - Listing

Brenee Solari - Selling

SATO REAL ESTATE

Jason Sato – Listing

Barbara Sato - Selling

WAGNER REAL ESTATE

Miguel Rosa – Listing & Selling

Solid Rock Construction leads youth indoor soccer leagues

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

ANNA MARIA – Escaping the extreme heat of the week, family and friends packed The Center’s gymnasium last week for youth indoor soccer action. After taking a week off for Independence Day, both youth leagues took to the indoor pitch for three actionpacked games.

Both of the Solid Rock Construction teams currently lead their leagues, with the youngest squad remaining undefeated after beating the Progressive Cabinetry team 6-4 last Tuesday night.

Matthew Darak was the high scorer for the Solid Rock team with a hat trick. Teammates Turner Worth and Elijah Roadman each contributed to the scoring with three additional goals. Worth is credited with an assist.

Darak, with an assist of his own, also played in the defensive goalkeeper position, making four saves in the game. Sharing the keeper responsibilities, Isaac Roadman had five critical stops, helping his team earn another W.

With a hat trick, Progressive Cabinetry’s Kason Price helped to keep his team in the game. A solid goal and assist by Rafa Price, along with 14 total saves by Vincent Gollamudi and Price challenged the Solid Rock team every second of the game.

Last Tuesday, team Intentional Resilient Intuitive played hard against the AMI Dolphin Tours team despite the end score of 8-0.

Intentional goalkeepers

Camden Rudacille and Paul ten Haaf, with nine and 14 saves, respectively, stayed focused and determined despite the arsenal of shots taken by the AMI Dolphin Tours offense.

With three goals, Gunnar Maize also played goalie and had three saves in the game. AMI Dolphins Tours teammates Louis Bacon, Kazimir Funtal and Charlee Maize each added a goal to G. Maize’s hat trick.

Bacon and Funtal provided assistance on two of their team’s goals, along with two goals by Parker Svoboda.

AMI Dolphin Tours’ primary goalie, Miles Moss, had five big stops in the team’s first win of the season.

The older league played the night before with a single game due to a forfeit by team Coastline West Team – Wagner Realty. The forfeit put the Solid Rock Construction team in the 11- to 13-year-old league at the top of the ranking.

Team Moss Builders faced the Island Vacation Properties team, winning by three goals after two halves of indoor soccer action.

Despite the 18 total saves by Alonso Valle and Chandler McRae, the goals by Tucker

McRae and Valle just were not enough to defeat the Moss Builders team.

Moss Builders’ Callin Westfall lead his team to victory with three goals and an assist. Big plays and the hot feet of Mason Moss and Jackson Wyatt added two points to the scoreboard for their team. Walker Wyatt made a huge assist leading to a scoring strike.

Goalie Magness Rollins protected his team’s net with 10 saves, contributing to Moss Builders’ second win of the season last Monday night. The Center’s adult flag football league played four games in week five last Thursday night.

Team Luxury Services remains undefeated after beating fourth-ranked Cortez Deep Sea Fishing 47-20.

Moss Builders is a close second with only one loss. Their 45-6 win against The Banks Home Lending Team proves their continued dominance in the league.

Currently ranked third, Sandbar Seafood & Spirits easily beat the Salty Printing squad 45-32. The Salty team is in the fifth slot going into week six play.

Solid Rock’s adult flag football team, ranked sixth, defeated the Gulf Drive Café team 47-24, leaving the Gulf Drive squad in sixth.

Still in playoff contention, The Banks Home Lending Team sits in the eighth-place slot after their loss to Moss Builders. Despite losing 45-6, The Banks team lives to play another week under the gridiron lights at The Center.

Emily Moss Designs’ Maclean Wright strikes the indoor soccer ball last Tuesday night at The Center, with teammates and Diamond Turf opponents ready to get in the action.

FUN IN THE SUN

ANNOUNCEMENTS

THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Kathy Primeau at 989-560-6381.

ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food, PAPER & PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s.

HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS

WANTED to assist at our information desk, especially weekends. Great for teens needing volunteer hours (16yrs+). Other assignments available. Please call the Blake Volunteer Office at 941-798-6151.

BOAT SLIP WANTED

IN SEARCH OF BOAT SLIP for rent or sale (preferably with lift)

Kelly Gitt The Gitt Team KW on the Water 941799-9299

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

EMPLOYMENT

JOB OPENING for Permanent Jewelry Tech and Sales Associate at Island Jewelry Boutique. Will Train. Email us at Lauren. islandcharms@gmail.com

POSITIVE, ENERGETIC RENTAL AGENT for a growing company on Island. Take reservation, interacting with guest, owners & vendors, etc. Knowledge of RNS a plus. $17hr. depending on experience. 941-778-4800.

The award-winning ANNA MARIA ISLAND SUN, a weekly newspaper on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is looking for a freelance reporter/photographer to cover events on this tourism-driven island. The ideal candidate will have reporting and photography experience at a daily or community newspaper and have some experience writing for a news website. Local residents or those with previous local knowledge and willing to relocate here a plus. Resumes and cover letters may be mailed to The Anna Maria Island Sun, P.O Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216, Attention: Cindy Lane, editor.

FISHING CHARTERS

CAPT. MAC GREGORY

Fishing Charters. Full Day, Half Day, Night, Inshore & Near Shore. 941-809-5783

U.S.C.G. Certified/Insured

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship. Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates. Neil 941726-3077

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.

API’S DRYWALL REPAIR 15+ years experience. Free estimates. No job too small. Love to help you. Call 941-524-8067.

ISLE TILE specializing in Custom Bath/Shower & Backsplash installation. Pressure washing available. Call 941-302-8759 isletileservices.com

GORILLA DRYWALL REPAIR, LLC. 15+ years of experience. Free Estimates. Let’s solve your Drywall problems together. Call 941-286-0607.

CABINETS 2 HOME Quality Kitchen 7 Bath Cabinets. Can install within two weeks of contract. Many Island References. Call Paul 859-468-1934

HOME SERVICES

CONCRETE FUSION, CRACK REPAIR sidewalks/ driveways, pool decks, concrete grinding. Why fix 95% of concrete when only 5% bad? Number 1 in concrete repair. Insured. Free estimate. Call Bobby 941-374-7670.

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

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

ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal. Sweeping, blowing, and weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing. Call Bill Witaszek 941307-9315

LOST & FOUND

LOST GOLD RING High School Graduation with PA on Top. Please call 941243-1444

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

“WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Wallpaper installation/ removal. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455

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

POOL SERVICES

FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 10 + Years Experience. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-7375657

COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893

PRESSURE WASHING & WINDOWS

TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING: Residential, Commercial, Construction, Vacation, VRBO Rentals . Also available Pressure Washing, Roof Cleaning, Paver Sealing and Windows. Call 941-5653931.

T & B PRESSURE WASHING Licensed & Insured. Driveways/sidewalks, Roofs, Pool cages, Fences, House (soft wash/ downstream). Call 813638-7636. tandbpressurewashing@yahoo. com Family owned and operated.

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE

Have you been thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! GULF FRONT, CANAL FRONT, BAY FRONT CONDOS or HOMES ASK for BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216

LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker Duncan Real Estate a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 30 years. Proven track record brings you results! 941-725-1589

RUNAWAY BAY ISLAND

CONDO $430,000 Across from Beach. Water views Sold turnkey furnished. Updated Christine Kourik Re/max 314-440-7574 AMI realtor expert

419 CLARK HOLMES BEACH 2990 sqf home with boat slip and caged pool. Weekly rental allowed Christine Kourik Re/Max 314-440-7574

5708 HOLMES BLVDHOLMES BEACH home 4+ bedrooms- Weekly rental allowed, sold Turnkey furnished $2,250,000 Christine Kourik Re/Max 314-440-7574

112 OAK ANNA MARIA 4 bedroom $1,690,000 Sold turnkey furnished with updates Nightly rental allowed. Christine Kourik Re/Max 314-440-7574

BUSINESS & SERVICE

HOME SERVICES

RENTALS: ANNUAL

ANNUAL RENTALS

WANTED! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee. Call today for details. Ask for Paige DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 513-382-1992.

ANNUAL RENTAL – AVAILABLE NOW. 2BR/1BA, furnished. $4,500/month. First, Last, and Security Deposit required Call Sato Real Estate, Inc 941-7787200 or Email megan@ satorealestate.com

ANNUAL, UNFURNISHED RENTAL 3 miles from AMI in Village Green of Bradenton. 2BR/2BA, large great room and yard. Contact Sato Real Estate at 941778-7200 for showings and more information.

ANNUAL LEASE Anna Maria Island. in Bradenton Beach on AVE C 2BR/1BA, very clean ground-level 1,000-sf home/duplex only steps to Gulf beach. Presently unfurnished. $1950month plus 300/ month for electric, heat/ AC, trash and water. Non smoking and no pets property. Owner 508-4968480.

LOVELY, 2ND FLOOR DUPLEX for rent, 3BR/2BA partially furnished, can accommodate your needs. Washer/dryer. 5 minutes to AMI, quiet, safe. Rent includes all utilities except electric. Annual $2,800/mo. Will consider 3-month, 6-month. No smoking, Call Kelly 941301-9938.

PALMA SOLA PARK fully furnished rental Very private guest-house 1BR/1BA is available monthly for $3400 including utilities! washer/dryer included a private patio and parking Call Nancy 407-803-2864

ANNUAL RENTAL BRADRENTON BEACH

2BR/2BA. Deck, Garage. $2200/mo. First, Last and security deposit. Call 716877-6291

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION

TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455

SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates. Contact Barb Grace 941-201-2190

ANNA MARIA ISLAND

CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $900 to $1200 per week redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525

2BR/1BA FULLY FURNISHED newly renovated, 2 blocks to beach, Kayak launch. Great Location. $2000/mo. Call 941-7306349

VACATION RENTAL Anna Maria . 2BR/1BA with Dock. Weekly/Monthly 941-448-3184

TRANSPORTATION

AMI TAXI credit cards, cash, Venmo accepted. Airport: Tampa $105, Sarasota $50, St. Pete/ Clearwater $105, Orlando $220. Call 941-447-8372, www.amitaxi.com GOLF CART RENTALS

ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $80. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-7795095

Sales Associate

Katie Self

Sales Associate

Joey Hutchinson

Sales Associate

Lindsey Leech Strickland Broker Associate Tom Aposporos

Sales Associate

Martha Jones Robel Sales Associate April Green Sales Associate

Michelle Laade Cindy Jones

Darcie Duncan

Sales Associate Diann Roberts

Sales Associate Sales ssociate Sales ssociate Sales Associate

Paige Rogers Sales Associate

Robyn Hawk