The city-owned library needs repairs that exceed $200,000.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Supporters of the Tingley Memorial Library received some hopeful news during the April 16 city commission meeting.
The hopeful news came in the form of potential financial assistance from Manatee County to help cover the cost of the necessary library repairs.
During the April 16 city commission meeting, Manatee County Board of County Commissioners Chairperson Tal Siddique said he planned to present a proposal to the county commission on May 5, asking for the county to provide funding for the library.
“My general suggestion would be to bring this to my board to take on the capital expenditures for the library repairs,” Siddique said.
Augello named permanent city attorney
Erica Augello was named interim city attorney in October following Ricinda Perry’s immediate retirement in September.
BY LESLIE LAKE
SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – City commissioners approved a contract to retain City Attorney Erica Augello on a permanent basis.
In October, the city commission approved a short-term contract with the Trask Daigneault firm in which Augello is a partner. That initial contract secured Augello’s services as interim city attorney for up to six months in the wake of then-city attorney Ricinda Perry’s immediate retirement.
Attorney Robert Lincoln represented the city during the gap
between Perry’s Sept. 18 retirement and Augello being named interim city attorney in October.
During the April 16 city commission meeting, Augello said, “We are on our six months and it’s about time to decide if you’d like for me to continue services as an interim and put it out to bid for another city attorney or would
Commission considering changes to public comments and procedures
The commissioners remain divided on the amount of time allowed for public comment.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – City commissioners are considering reducing the time allotted for public comment given during public hearings from five minutes to three minutes.
This is one of several potential procedural changes being considered.
The commissioners remain divided on the length of time that should be given for public comment, but they reached preliminary consensus on several other possible procedural changes aimed at making city meetings more efficient and more responsive to the public.
During the Tuesday, April 14, city commission work session, City Attorney Randy Mora, Mayor Judy Titsworth and the five commissioners spent nearly two hours discussing the city commission’s rules of procedure and how public comment
SEE COMMISSION, PAGE 17
JOE HENDRICKS
Erica Augello previously served as the Holmes Beach city attorney.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN City Attorney Randy Mora helped guide the commission through its work session discussion.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Former Bradenton Beach Mayor Katie Pierola expressed her support for the Tingley Memorial Library
Commission discusses potential Salt Bar & Table violations
The city is working with the property owners to obtain code compliance.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Potential code violations at the Salt Bar & Table restaurant are being investigated by the Bradenton Beach Code Enforcement Department.
“They are working with the property owner to garner compliance,” City Attorney Erica Augello said during the April 16 city commission meeting.
Located at 2519 Gulf Drive North, Salt Bar & Table restaurant is owned by 2519 Gulf LLC, a limited liability corporation that lists Shawn Kaleta as its manager.
“It’s in my area and I’m up to here with it,” Commissioner Deborah Scaccianoce said.
She asked Augello to clarify what the specific code enforcement or compliance issues are.
“During the investigation, there were certain things that were elicited that might have been code violations.
One was concrete that was installed without a permit. One was a fence that was installed, I believe, without a permit,” Augello said. “There was a question about outdoor dining and the parking issue.”
Salt Bar & Table does not have a dedicated parking lot and Scaccianoce said she's received many complaints from residents about the valet parking at the restaurant.
“The valet is using 26th Street as a staging area for the cars. When people are coming to Salt, the valet is putting the cars in the active driving lane facing east. If the person is leaving the restaurant, they’re bringing the car around in the active lane on 26th Street facing west,” Scaccianoce said.
“Every day I go home, there are cars facing in opposite directions waiting either for people to get out of their cars to go into the restaurant or coming out of the restaurant to their car, and you cannot drive down 26th Street.”
She also said the valet employees are rude to residents.
“They cuss at people. They wave us off and tell us to drive away and use a different street. That is unacceptable,”
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Salt Bar & Table’s outdoor patio was among the unpermitted work and business activities discussed during the April 16 city commission meeting.
Scaccianoce said.
Scaccianoce owns the Double Deez Chicago Style Restaurant in Holmes Beach and she noted she must adhere to the city's licensing stipulations for parking.
“My seat license is 40 and I had to have a parking space for every four people,” she said. “If I wasn’t sharing a parking lot with the Anchor Inn bar, I would not have gotten permission to open my restaurant, because I only have three spaces,” she said.
“I don’t know how Salt is getting away with what they’re doing. Their seat license is either indoor or outdoor
and they’re using both all the time,” Scaccianoce said. “Salt is out of control, and it goes way beyond pouring concrete and putting up a fence.”
Augello said in addition to the patio and fence, the city is investigating the outdoor dining and parking issues.
“Those things are all being discussed with the property owner. Permits are being applied for, I believe,” Augello said. “Applications are being put together. Right now, there’s no active code enforcement case on the property. There’s been no notice of violations issued.”
Bradenton Beach permit technician Jodie Fiske told The Sun on April 17 that permit applications were under review.
“Whether or not a notice gets issued because compliance is not being had, that might happen. We have to go through the proper channels to make sure code enforcement is being done correctly,” Augello said.
“I want to make sure the valet service is part of this,” Scaccianoce said. Police Chief and Public Works Director John Cosby said everything is being looked at. Cosby supervises the city’s code enforcement division.
ISLAND NEWS
IN BRIEF
ISLAND PLAYERS |
SUBMITTED
‘The Outsider’ will close the Island Players’ season
Written by Paul Slade Smith and directed by James Thaggard, “The Outsider” is The Island Players community theater group’s fifth and final production of the 2025-26 theater season. “The Outsider” will be performed Thursday, May 7, through Sunday, May 17. According to the Island Players website, “Ned Newley is terrified of public speaking and his poll numbers are terrible. But consultant Arthur Vance sees things differently: Ned might be the worst candidate to ever run for office. Unless the public is looking for the worst candidate to ever run for office.”
Tickets are $20-$30 and are available online at TheIslandPlayers.org. Tickets can also be purchased at the Island Players box office in advance or an hour before showtime. For more ticketing information, call 941-778-5755. The Island Players Theatre is located at 10009 Gulf Drive in Anna Maria.
Anna Maria market ending for the season
The season finale for the Anna Maria Community Farmers Market will take place Tuesday, April 28, on the grounds of the Roser Memorial Community Church at 512 Pine Avenue in Anna Maria from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Market manager and coordinator Devinne Whittaker said the market will return to the church grounds in the fall after a successful first year in its new location.
SUBMITTED
Museum hosting baseball-related book signing
Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.
Driver who killed Sara Danielle Holmes sentenced to 25 years
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON –
Cesar Navarrete, the impaired driver who killed Swordfish Grill bartender Sara Danielle Holmes in a DUI-related crash in 2024, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison.
On Thursday, April 16, the Bradenton Police Department issued a press release that said, “This afternoon, Cesar Navarrete, arrested in November 2024 on multiple charges, including vehicular homicide and DUI manslaughter, was sentenced to 25 years in prison.
“The night of Saturday, November 2, 2024, Navarrete was driving at 115 mph on Cortez Road, approaching 43rd Street West, when he crashed into 37-year-old Sara Danielle Holmes’ Chevrolet Equinox, splitting the vehicle in
half. Holmes, a mother of two small children, was in the passenger seat of the Equinox and died as a result of the collision. Her boyfriend, who was driving the SUV, survived the crash,” the press release says.
“Navarrete and his passenger sustained serious injuries and were transported to a hospital for treatment. Navarrete displayed signs of impairment and the subsequent DUI investigation revealed a blood alcohol concentration of .165. Navarrete, 27, was previously convicted of DUI and was driving with a suspended
license at the time of the crash,” the press release says.
Traffic homicide investigators arrested Navarrete on the following charges: vehicular homicide, DUI manslaughter, driving under the influence (with property damage and/or personal injury) and driving while license cancelled, suspended or revoked and causing serious bodily injury or death.
“Navarrete pleaded guilty to all charges. He was sentenced to 25 years in the Department of
ScootCoupe driver arrested after accident
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com
SUBMITTED
Pasquale A. Carlucci, the author of “Baseball in Paradise: A Century of Spring Training in Bradenton, Florida,” will participate in a free book signing event at the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum at 402 Pine Avenue in Anna Maria on Thursday, April 30, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This event will not feature a book talk, but Carlucci will be on hand to discuss his book during the three-hour event.
ANNA MARIA – At approximately 5 p.m. on Monday, April 13, 35-yearold Minnesota resident Randi Bestel was arrested after she crashed the three-wheeled ScootCoupe she was driving near the Gulf Drive/Palmetto Avenue intersection in Anna Maria. In recent years, three-wheeled ScootCoupes have become a common sight on Anna Maria Island roadways, many of which are rented to visitors. According to Sgt. Brett Getman, from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Anna Maria Unit, the ScootCoupe driver suffered minor injuries and was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.
According to the arrest report filed by Deputy Sean Weaver, Bestel was arrested on suspicion of “DUI damage to property or person.”
GREG MONTALTO | SUBMITTED
The ScootCoupe accident occurred at the Gulf Drive/Palmetto Avenue intersection where the vehicle came to rest between two traffic signs.
In his arrest report, Weaver stated, “While talking with the defendant/driver, I observed her to have glassy eyes, droopy eyelids and the odor of an alcoholic bever-
age on her breath. I then asked the defendant if she had anything to drink and she replied, ‘Yes, around noon I had a margarita.’ She explained to me that she was trying to re-park the three-wheel vehicle and she lost control of it.”
After performing field sobriety tests at the accident scene, Bestel was placed under arrest at 5:35 p.m. and transported to the Holmes Beach Police Department, where she provided a breath sample of 0.179, which was more than twice the legal limit of .08. She was then transported to the Manatee County Jail. Bestel also received a citation for careless driving.
In response to the DUI allegation, Assistant Public Defender Peyton Little, on April 15, filed with the 12th Judicial Circuit Court a plea of not guilty and a demand for a jury trial.
Navarrete
BRADENTON POLICE DEPARTMENT | SUBMITTED
This crash scene photo was displayed during the trial.
Native greenery will beautify Bridge Street roundabout
The Anna Maria Island Garden Club, Keep Manatee Beautiful and the Scenic WAVES Partnership will revitalize the roundabout at Bridge Street.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – In a partnership between the Anna Maria Island Garden Club, the Scenic W.A.V.E.S. Committee and Keep Manatee Beautiful, the Bridge Street/ Gulf Drive roundabout will be beautified with the planting of native greenery.
“In response to damage and landscape decline caused by recent hurricanes, flooding and storm events, the project will introduce more than 200 native, salt-tolerant and drought-resistant plants specifically selected for the challenging coastal conditions,” according to a press
release issued by the three organizations Installation of the plants will take place on Tuesday, April 28, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held on Friday, May 1 at 10 a.m.
The planting project is being funded by the AMI Garden Club and Keep Manatee Beautiful.
The improvements include planting ground cover and installing a “Wildlife of Anna Maria Island” educational sign at the Bridge Street beach access.
“This project represents an important investment in one of the most visible and highly traveled areas of our city,” Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie said. “We are grateful to the Anna Maria Island Garden Club and Keep Manatee Beautiful for their leadership and commitment to enhancing the beauty and environmental resilience of our community.”
“The garden club is one of Manatee County’s strongest advocates for the environment and protection of our local resources, so naturally we love partnering with them,” Keep Manatee Beautiful Executive Director Jennifer Hoffman said. Now in its 75th year, the Anna Maria Island Garden Club is committed to the beautification and preserva-
tion of Anna Maria Island. The organization promotes gardening education, supports the protection of native plants and wildlife and provides charitable and civic contributions to the community, according to the press release.
Keep Manatee Beautiful is a nonprofit organization that inspires community involvement through its commitment to making Manatee County a
cleaner and more beautiful environment. Established in the spring of 1991 as an affiliate of Keep America Beautiful and Keep Florida Beautiful, Keep Manatee Beautiful has developed networks of volunteers who help provide grassroots solutions to littering, recycling, illegal dumping, beautification and solid waste disposal, according to the press release.
According to the city website, the Scenic W.A.V.E.S. Partnership Committee is a city-affiliated citizen advisory committee that advises the city commission on matters pertaining to the Bradenton Beach Scenic Highway (SR 789/Gulf Drive) and the Waterfronts Florida Partnership Program. The committee also promotes awareness of the city’s tree canopy and advises the city commission on beautification and landscaping projects.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
The Bridge Street/Gulf Drive roundabout will be beautified with native plantings.
Holmes Beach is taking initiatives towards efficiency in hopes of streamlining the sometimeslengthy city commission meetings. One suggestion being considered would decrease the allotted time for public comment given during public hearings. And a timer and an alarm might be used to indicate when a speaker’s time is up.
Residents can sit through many, many hours of meetings. Obviously, it is generally not public comment that prolongs meetings. Residents are typically allowed three minutes to speak. Of particular concern is that the city's code of ordinances provide a five-minute limit for public comments made during public hearings – unless additional time is granted by the commission.
During the recent commission work session, there was nonbinding consensus from three of the five commissioners in favor of cutting the public hearing time allotment to three minutes. Some may say, “Two minutes difference, so what?” When topics are thoroughly researched, as many residents do, even five minutes can be constraining –and during the work session, a
commissioner expressed seeing “frustration” from those giving public comment. And although alarms are used in other municipalities, it may exacerbate the frustration.
These are some of the other times when voices have been diminished, only to reference a few:
In 2018 the smaller Gloria Dei Lutheran Church parcels were available for the city to purchase for $1 million. Financing was arranged. Architectural services were offered gratis. Residents spoke in support. An opportunity for a “foot in the door” was dismissed.
During the 2022 Ugly Grouper site plan hearing, despite our pleas, speakers were cut off at two minutes. The city reserves their prerogative if there is an abundance of speakers. There were only two speakers.
During the 2021 former Regions Bank property rezoning hearing for the Publix liquor store, residents strongly voiced legitimate reasons in opposition. It passed anyway.
In 2021 the Parks and Beautification Committee created a green-space proposal to purchase for two former Wells Fargo parcels available for $2.4 mil. In 2023 they sold for almost double, $4.75 million. During the
subsequent 2024 Island Bazaar site plan hearing, the turnout of public speakers was extraordinary. All who provided public comment expressed opposition except for Mr. Sato, who, as the future restaurant tenant, has a lucrative vested interest in the business. It passed unanimously. Regarding the 2023 charter review board elections, the city said not enough people were interested in running. The truth is that all five of the residents needed were organizing to run. At the last minute these residents reviewed prior committee work when they had devoted multiple hours in conscientious efforts, only to have their recommendations dismissed. So, they decided this would be futile as well.
The city’s Citizen of the Year is not selected by residents. Public speakers and residents want their concerns valued and not marginalized with dismissive “thank-you’s.” We do not want the potential reduction in public comment time to be analogous to the reduction of home rule rights by the state. We are grateful that the city plans to continue to look at the true contributors to lengthy meetings. Perhaps this is a measure towards improving public trust.
Dick and Margie Motzer Holmes Beach
Parking study on Thursday’s agenda, cabana rental registration ordinance delayed
The Anna Maria City Commission will meet Thursday, April 23, at 10 a.m.
The consent agenda seeks commission authorization to execute a work order with WSP for a citywide parking study at a total cost not to exceed $122,600, with $100,000 already included in the current fiscal year budget.
paid parking, permit-only areas and no-parking zones that balance public access, residential quality of life and support for local businesses.”
According to the meeting packet, “The city of Anna Maria seeks professional planning and transportation consulting services to conduct a citywide parking study and prepare an implementation plan to establish paid parking, no parking and parking by permit only zones in a manner that maximizes public benefit, supports local businesses and preserves residential quality of life. The intent of this study is to evaluate existing parking conditions and develop a strategic, implementable plan that will consider
The consent agenda also seeks commission authorization for the mayor to enter into a service agreement with Bubble Binz to continue the trash bin cleaning services provided for 19 city trash bins at a cost of $558 for each four-week period.
The anticipated second reading of a new ordinance that would establish a registration system for the commercial rental of beach equipment (cabanas, tents, umbrellas) will not occur during the April 23 meeting. The second reading is listed as an action item on the April 23 agenda but is accompanied by a note that says, “No Action: Item was advertised inadvertently and will be addressed at a future meeting.” The registration ordinance, was presented on first reading during the March 26 meeting.
To access the meeting by phone, dial 1-929-205-6099 and enter the meeting ID: 85392000280.
ON THE AGENDA
ANNA MARIA 10005 GULF DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130
Visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information. Tuesday, April 21, 9 a.m., Special Magistrate hearing Thursday, April 23, 10 a.m., City Commission meeting
BRADENTON BEACH
107 GULF DRIVE N. FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005
Visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information. No meetings scheduled
HOLMES BEACH 5801 MARINA DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800
Visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information.
Tuesday, April 28, 2 p.m., City Commission meeting CANCELLED
Sailboat strikes Longboat Pass Bridge
BY JOE HENDRICKS
SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com
LONGBOAT KEY – A sailboat struck the Longboat Pass Bridge on Friday, April 17. The two people on the sailboat were not injured and the bridge did not sustain any structural damage.
When contacted by via email Friday afternoon, Longboat Key Fire Administration and Communications Manager and Public Information Officer Tina Adams provided the following response:
“We did respond to a vessel incident at the Longboat Pass Bridge earlier today. Our units were dispatched at 9:24 a.m. after a sailboat struck the bridge. The southbound lane was temporarily closed to vehicle traffic for a little over an hour while Longboat Key Police managed traffic using the northbound lane. Both lanes have since reopened and traffic is flowing normally again.
“Fortunately, there were no injuries reported from the incident. There were in fact two people aboard the vessel.”
According to the incident report Adams later provided, “FB9 arrived on scene and assisted with crowd/boater control. An approximately 30-foot-long, single-mast
sailboat (Hula Girl) was pinned sideways in the current against the bridge pilings. Several boats in the area had to be kept back while USCG (the Coast Guard) attempted to tow the vessel away from the bridge. While attempting to pull the vessel, the current pulled the boat further under the bridge, which caused the mast to snap and fall back onto the sailboat. The sailboat then wedged between two pilings. No injuries were reported. Longboat Key Police Department then removed the two civilians who were still on the sailboat. USCG then determined the best course was to await commercial salvage/towing.”
Sea Turtle patrols start on Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring started patrols of Anna Maria Island for their 43rd sea turtle nesting season on April 15.
Although the official start of nesting season is May 1, in recent years, the first nests have been found on Anna Maria Island in April.
In 2025, there were 544 nests and 827 false crawls, mostly made by loggerheads, but including 16 green sea turtle nests and 30 green turtle false crawls. This was the third highest year for the number of nests laid in one season. AMI Turtle Watch documented 424 nests hatched and 30,899 hatchlings were produced – over 10,000 more than in 2024.
Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton decimated the vegetation and dune system on Anna Maria Island in 2024. Dunes and vegetation block artificial light from being seen from the beach and create a barrier for sea turtles. Last year, lights that had not been an issue in years past, were visible from the beach causing at least 181 disorientation events (where sea turtles traveled landward towards artificial
lighting instead of seaward towards the water) involving 4,000- 10,000 baby sea turtles. On many occasions sea turtles were found in the road or swimming pools.
Thankfully, people called the AMI Turtle Watch 24-hour hotline and the nighttime hatchling response team responded and saved many of these wayward hatchlings.
AMI Turtle Watch wants the community to be proactive and prevent sea turtles from wandering into the roads towards artificial light. They urge residents and visitors to check their properties for lights that can be seen from the beach. If you can see the lights from the beach, they have potential to disorient sea turtles. AMI Turtle Watch recommends using red or amber LED lights with shields, blocking the lights with vegetation or shutting the lights off at night to keep sea turtles safe. If you see a sea turtle in distress on Anna Maria Island, please call Turtle Watch at 941-301-8434 or FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-4043922. For more information, please visit www.islandturtlewatch.com.
TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY | SUBMITTED
A sailboat struck the Longboat Pass Bridge on Friday, April 17
Commission seeks an in-house building official
The city currently contracts with Tew & Taylor for Rob Perry’s building official services.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – The city of Bradenton Beach hopes to hire a full-time in-house building official.
On April 16, the city commission reached consensus to advertise the full-time city employee position.
Since in-house official Bill Palmer resigned on Jan. 21, the city has utilized the contracted building official and building department services provided by Rob Perry and the Tew & Taylor firm that employs him.
“Right now, we have consultants,” Mayor John Chappie said during the April 16 meeting. “I’ve talked to Rob about it. In talking with staff, we think it’s best to just go ahead and advertise for a building official who would be an employee of the city; and by being an employee of the city, would also be the department head.”
As department head, the building official would oversee the building department staff, including the code enforcement officer and the permit clerks. The in-house building official would also be responsible for the building department’s annual budget.
“We have a smart guy here. Why are you trying to get rid of him?”
Commissioner Robert Talham said.
“You’re misconstruing what I’m saying,” Chappie replied.
Police Chief and Public Works Director John Cosby expressed his concerns about continuing to contract the building official’s duties, and with Perry’s revenue sharing proposal.
“Let’s say we get to the end of the contract and he pulls out, or we pull out. Then there’s nobody in that department,” Cosby said. “We need to have our own staff so we can maintain the quality work that’s being done and make sure the citizens and the businesses get the service they need. And the only way you’re going to do that is if you control it.
“The first option I see is go ahead and put it out and advertise for someone,” Perry told the commission.
“I’ll be here when that building official goes on vacation. I can bring inspectors here. I can help with plan review and assist the city. I want the best for the city,” Perry said.
Perry said Tew & Taylor would, or could, remain under contract to provide the city with additional building department-related services.
Perry said the second option would be Tew & Taylor taking over the city’s building department on a fee-sharing basis. Perry said Tew & Taylor would staff the building
department and retain 85% of the permit fees paid to the city. The remaining 15% would go to the city.
“The city would have no expenditures. We’re paying for our own insurance. The city doesn’t have to worry about a thing,” Perry said.
“You’re doing a great job, but just looking at your invoices from January 1 until March 30, we’ve spent $71,000. That’s one quarter (of the year),”
Commissioner Scott Bear said. “Not that we didn’t get good work, but I think we have to explore looking for a building official. We will still need some of your resources for plans review, but we can’t sustain $280,000 for the building department.”
“The other problem is at some point the city’s going to be built out,” Cosby said. “There may not be enough building fees coming in to support the full staff that Rob’s talking about. We may see that the building department has to be reduced in size in order to meet the fact that the major developments are no longer with us.”
Commissioner Ralph Cole said he favored the city attempting to hire an in-house building official.
“The consensus is we want to throw the line out and see what we can catch as far as a building official who would be an employee of the city,” Chappie said.
If an in-house building official isn’t found, it’s expected that Perry would continue serving as a contracted building official employed by Tew & Taylor. The city also recently issued a request for proposals seeking the services of an in-house city planner who would replace former city planner Luis Serna.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Rob Perry proposed that his employer manage the city’s building department on a fee-sharing basis. Commissioner Robert Talham questioned why the city would forsake Perry’s services.
DUI: driver sentenced to 25 years
Corrections, followed by 10 years of supervised release. Additionally, Navarrete’s driver’s license was revoked permanently and he must pay a combined $40,000 in fines and restitution,” the police department press release says.
The day after the fatal crash, this message was posted at the Swordfish Grill Facebook page: “It is with a heavy heart that we share the devastating news that
our beloved bartender, Sara, tragically lost her life after being struck by a drunk driver. Sara was so much more than a coworker – she was family. Her warm smile and kind spirit lit up our restaurant, bringing joy not only to our customers but to every member of our team.”
After the fatal crash, the “Help Sara’s Family Through This Tragic Time” GoFundMe online fundraiser received $56,179 in donations to assist Sara’s children and family.
• 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria
TINGLEY: Manatee County might fund Tingley Library repairs
During the March 18 Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) meeting, Police Chief and Public Works Director John Cosby said the library building needs repairs in the $230,000 to $250,000 range. The needed repairs include the replacement of the stairs, the entrance ramp and the air conditioning system.
The library is located at 111 Second Street North and is located in the CRA district. The library building and the land it occupies are owned by the city.
“After speaking to the librarian and the community, my suggestion would be this remain a city property,” Siddique said. He suggested the county would take over building maintenance in perpetuity, including capital expenditures. Siddique said the county library system could enter into an interlocal agreement with the city of Bradenton Beach and the county could augment the library programming and provide staff and support operations.
“The foundation can transition to a Friends of the Library-type foundation so you’re funding book collection purchases and other small things,” Siddique said.
City commissioners have discussed various options that include the city selling the library to the CRA, which would then allow the separate CRA funds to be used to make repairs. There has also been
discussion about raising the library building and installing a paid parking lot underneath it.
Built in 1994, the Tingley Memorial Library was funded by a bequest of more than $500,000 made by benefactor Beulah Tingley, whom the library is named after. The bequeath funds the library operations conducted by one paid staff member and several volunteers. In March, City Treasurer Shayne Thompson said the remaining bequeath fund balance was $130,000.
COMMISSION DISCUSSION
Before Siddique announced he would pursue county funding, City Commissioner Deborah Scaccianoce said, “The library is the heart of our community. Our library is used, loved and a necessary part of our community. We function on a wing and a prayer because our bequeath from Beulah Tingley is starting to run out and we are in desperate need of help. We’ve put out letters for donations. Our discussion today is about saving our library.”
“I think we need to do everything we can to try to save the library,” Mayor John Chappie added.
City Commissioner Robert Talham asked what the population of Bradenton Beach is. Chappie said the most recent U.S. Census listed a population of 903 people.
“There are 10,000 towns in America with under 1,000 people in their population – 9%
“This place has an amazing collection of spirits.” Josh
of those towns have their own library funded by the people that use it,” Talham said. “I don’t think it should be funded by the CRA. It should be put on the ballot and voted on by the residents – if they want their taxes raised to fund the library.” In response, Scaccianoce said, “Regardless of how many permanent residents we have, we have a population that multiplies tenfold during season, and those people use our library. That library is part of this community. I have been in communication with Manatee County. Commissioner Siddique is part of those conversations and is working out what kind of help they can provide us.”
Commissioner Scott Bear said he is in favor of transferring ownership of the library building from the city to the CRA.
“We’ve talked about it enough times and we ought to decide whether or not we want to have a library in this community. Judging by the attendance here, we do,” Bear said. “To me, the CRA is the way to do it. We have to label it a library and a community center and we can fund it.”
City Attorney Erica Augello said, “What you need to decide as a commission is what the future looks like for the library and how ongoing funding is going to work irrespective of the capital improvements the county is looking to help out with.”
Scaccianoce said, “I think Tal has made a good faith offer. I think where we’re at right now is to see how much it’s going to cost and get that information to the county. Tal, as chairman
of the board, will bring that forward to the BOCC (the county commission) and they will have a conversation about it. Then we’ll find out where we are.”
Cosby said, “The priority is to get these repairs done before the a/c goes out. If that happens, the library is closed. If somebody gets hurt on those stairs, we’re getting sued. It’s as simple as that. If the commissioner (Siddique) can move this along as quickly as he’s saying, that sounds like a plan to me.”
During public comment, former Bradenton Beach Mayor Katie Pierola spoke in favor of saving the library. Pierola served as mayor for six years before her final mayoral term ended in 1995. The city commission chambers are named in her honor.
“Isn’t anything sacred anymore?” she said. “Putting it on the ballot is wrong, because now you’re making it a political thing. I urge you, John Chappie, to make a motion to get the library into the CRA. That’s the only way. That library belongs on the Island forever.”
“We can’t take any action right now,” Chappie said. “Commissioner Siddique has given us a time line on when he’s going to be presenting the items and when he can get back to us. We will have this on the agenda at our next city commission meeting.”
The city commission meets next on Thursday, May 7, at 6 p.m.
“Spent the week in Anna Maria Island and out of all the liquor stores on the island, this is by far the best one, with the best prices and the most selection. The staff was very friendly...” Heather
“The guys here was very helpful and knowledgeable. They had some great choices on bourbon.
“These guys had the best selection , decent prices, and were overall just good people.”
Matthew
“Great assortment of spirits and competitive prices.” Nyor
“Amazing selection knowledgeable staff and best service on t he island” Vicky
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
The city-owned library building needs repairs in the $230,000 to $250,000 cost range.
AUGELLO: named permanent city attorney
FROM PAGE 1
you like to secure my firm’s services as city attorney, or something in the middle of that?”
“No middle of the road for me,” Mayor John Chappie responded. “I want to sign you up.”
Commissioner Scott Bear asked if the city has the right to terminate the contract with Trask Daigneault if an attorney other than Augello provides the city’s legal services.
“The contract is not with me, it’s with my firm,” Augello said. “I can add a provision in there that lists me as the principal on the contract, and if there’s a change it needs to be approved by the commission.”
Bear said he would like Augello named in the contract as the city’s principal legal representative.
The commissioners unanimously approved the contract with Trask Daigneault, with the stated changes.
In October, Augello was approved to serve as the Bradenton Beach city
attorney on an interim basis for up to six months, or until a permanent replacement for Perry was selected.
Augello was already serving as the Holmes Beach city attorney when she was named Bradenton Beach’s interim city attorney, but plans were already being formulated for her to vacate the Holmes Beach position to accommodate the law firm’s overall scheduling needs.
Perry’s 21-year tenure as city attorney came to an end on Sept. 18, when she announced her immediate retirement during that day’s city commission meeting.
Perry’s retirement announcement came after city commissions met on Sept. 16 to evaluate her job performance following allegations that she had incorrectly named a Bridge Street business owner as the source of an FDEP complaint allegedly filed against a neighboring business.
FDEP later confirmed that no complaint had been filed, which triggered the Sept. 16 job performance review meeting.
10th Street beach groin closed for tripping hazard
The beach groin is frequently used for fishing.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – The pier-like beach groin near the 10th Street South beach access point is temporarily closed.
But despite the barriers, the orange cones and the signs put in place by Manatee County that say “Keep Out,” some undeterred groin users continue to access the temporarily closed structure.
When contacted by The Sun, Manatee County Director of Natural Resources Charlie Hunsicker explained the reason for the temporary groin closure.
“About 10 or 12 years ago, a sealant was placed between the slabs and over the years that sealant has eroded, leaving small gaps which are to be expected,” Hunsicker said on April 16.
He said there is nothing structurally wrong with the beach groins, but the gaps between the slabs could present a tripping hazard.
LET’S TALK ABOUT HUMIDITY CO NTROLS
Are you going away and closing your home, even for a short while? A dehumidistat will help prevent mildew forma on when your home is vacant. Installed on your current A/C system, the dehumidistat works in conjunc on with your thermostat to turn your system on only when the two mildew forming condi ons, heat and humidity, are met. For only $307.00 you can buy “peace of mind”. Let us install one for you. Our price includes installa on and sales tax.
OUR CUSTOMER’S ARE #1 WITH US!
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
The beach groin near the 10th Street South beach access is temporarily closed.
SEE GROIN, PAGE 18
OUTDOORS
For the birds
Reel Time
aitfish are once again invading coastal waters, so it’s time to remind anglers about the importance and protection of
Knowledgeable anglers know how valuable seabirds are, and all anglers should learn how to keep them safe.
Besides being an integral part of the marine ecosystem and beautiful to watch, seabirds help anglers locate fish. An observant angler notices where birds congregate on a low tide. They know the birds are feeding on marine organisms that fish will seek out when the flat is covered on a rising tide. They point us to schooling fish, often indicating action much farther away than we could see otherwise.
Anglers who fish coastal Florida will invariably come into contact with the seabirds that inhabit local waters. The encounter can
be deadly to seabirds if anglers don’t know the basics of caring for them.
Many anglers choose to chum with, and use, live shiners or shrimp for bait. Spring and early summer are one of the most exciting times to fish the coast and a lot of effort will be put into fishing with live bait and top water plugs and flies for breaking fish on the beaches.
The encounter can become deadly if a bird becomes entangled in fishing line and takes some of it back to their roost.
The birds are also put in harm’s way when they come into contact with fishing line that careless anglers leave in the water, or in the mangroves from an errant cast.
One day, a couple of years ago, I was drifting the west side of Jewfish Key when I noticed braided fishing line trailing behind me.
After about 30 minutes, I managed to retrieve almost 100-plus yards of bright blue 100-plus-pound line. It was chilling to imagine how many birds and other wildlife that might have impacted.
If a bird is hooked while fishing, it’s important to bring them to the boat with a properly set drag to prevent the line from
breaking. Eventually even fly anglers will hook a bird, even while being diligent to avoid them. When it does happen, work them to the boat carefully, as you would a big fish, then throw a towel over their head to calm them before removing the hook. Care should be taken with all birds, especially ones that have sharp beaks and they don’t know you’re trying to help them. They should also be handled carefully as they have very light, hollow bones. Cautiously remove the line from their body, wings and feet and check them thoroughly before releasing them.
If you see a hooked or tangled bird in an active rookery during nesting season, it’s important not to approach them, as their young may be startled and fall from the nest.
You can reduce the chance of hooking birds by following a few simple rules. First, never feed birds, as this will teach them to look for a handout.
Secondly, while you’re fishing, keep an eye out for birds that might be hovering and getting ready to dive on your live bait or top water lure or fly. Moving the lure or bait slightly as they plummet will be enough to make them miss their target.
Taking care of the wildlife that inhabits our coastal estuaries is everyone’s responsibility.
If you see a bird in distress and can’t help it, call Save Our Seabirds at 941-388-3010 or Audubon Florida Coastal Island Sanctuaries at 813-623-6826.
RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN
Seabirds follow schools of feeding fish, helping anglers find their prey.
RUSTY CHINNIS
FDEP concludes beach rocks investigation
FDEP views the incident as a dispute between two private property owners.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Building
Official Rob Perry told city commissioners the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) has completed its investigation pertaining to large beach rocks recently being relocated from one beachfront property to another.
During the April 16 city commission meeting, Perry discussed an April 8 site visit from a FDEP field inspector. The genesis of the FDEP site visit pertained to a March 31 incident involving a backhoe operator who was seen piling the rocks on the west side of Gayle Luper’s beachfront property, thus blocking access from the cottage to the beach.
The cottage and property where the rocks were placed are part of the Bungalow Beach Resort property owned by Luper. Luper’s beachfront property is located south of the Seaside at Anna Maria Island Inn property, which is located at 2200 Gulf Drive N. According to the Manatee County
Property Appraiser’s Office, the Seaside at Anna Maria Island Inn property is owned by Tristar Properties Acquisition Prime LLC. The Florida Division of Corporations currently lists Shawn Kaleta as the limited liability corporation’s manager.
The relocated rocks appeared to have been moved from the southern perimeter of the Seaside property to Luper’s beachfront property. The city then facilitated some of the relocated rocks being moved again to provide beach access to and from Luper’s beachfront cottage.
The beach area in question is located seaward of the Coastal Construction Control Line (CCCL), which falls under the jurisdiction of FDEP. After the city received a complaint about the rocks being moved, Perry reached out to FDEP Field Inspector Erin Luaces, who then conducted an April 8 site visit and met with the two property owners.
“She said you need field permits from FDEP to do certain work on the beach,” Perry told the commission. “FDEP allowed us to push it back to the city level, where we could do enforcement. Basically, she let the two property owners know that any more activity on the beach, especially during turtle season, they need a field permit from FDEP, or a permit on the local level, prior
to any movement on the beach. Case closed on that one. It was educational and they put it to bed.”
Mayor John Chappie asked for a time line on an FDEP report.
“There’s not going to be a report,” Perry said. “FDEP said don’t move them again and that was it.”
Code Enforcement Officer Evan Harbus said FDEP stated the rock relocation was a civil matter between the two property owners.
Commissioner Deborah Scaccianoce asked about the rocks’ role in beach erosion prevention.
“The rocks are on private property. They have the right to move them. They did this right after the hurricane and I got a complaint,” Police Chief and Public Works Director John Cosby said. “I called Charlie Hunsicker (Manatee County Director of Natural Resources) to look at it and he made the determination that they were on private property.”
Cosby said this boils down to an issue between the two property owners.
“That’s all civil and we’re not getting involved with it,” Cosby said. “We made that very clear to everybody.”
“There was no violation other than they needed a field permit. DEP basically slapped them on the hand and said don’t do it again; and if you’re going to do it again, even though it’s your property, you need a field permit,” Cosby said.
In her April 17 email to The Sun, Luper wrote, “From my perspective, there are still outstanding questions about property boundaries, rock placement and longstanding beach access. I’m aware of the comments made at the meeting, but I have not received any formal written determination from FDEP confirming that the matter is fully closed or resolved.”
SUBMITTED
A neighbor photographed the relocated beach rocks blocking access to Gayle Luper’s beachfront property on March 31.
REAL ESTATE
End of season, end of sales?
April is almost over, Easter was over two weeks ago, and your house or condo is still waiting for a viable offer. I wish I could give you an answer why our typical selling season came and went leaving properties still unsold, but I can’t; and I challenge anyone involved in real estate sales to come up with why.
If you watch the local news, real estate predictions and editorials, both in print and online, the answer is pretty much the same: interest rates. It’s easy to blame it on the interest rates, but since rates are lower than a year ago, when they were averaging 6.65%, that alone doesn’t compute. Yes, we did have a dip in rates in February when they fell below 6%, but for the past four weeks rates rose, reaching 6.38%. It happened fast, which could have spooked buyers who were still nervous. Now, bankers are blaming the war for home purchase applications being down 5% in one week, which is not that much of a crazy idea.
Castles in the Sand
The White House, in its effort to do something to get the real estate ball rolling again, is considering an idea floated by the Mortgage Bankers Association to underwrite mortgages based on a single credit report and not the typical three credit reports which has been the practice for years. This policy would only apply to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac federal taxpayer-backed loans – please tell me I didn’t hear subprime.
The Case-Shiller National Home Price Index reported its 12-month analysis that indicated growth for the year was down nationally by 0.9%. For the 20 cities tracked, New York City reported the highest annual gain at 4.9%, while Tampa
posted the lowest return, falling 2.5%. In addition, for the eighth consecutive month, inflation outpaced national home price appreciation.
Let’s see what’s going on in Manatee County, using sales statistics reported by the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee for the month of March: Single-family homes closed 21.9% more properties compared to last year. The median sale price was $494,205, down 2.4%. The time to contract was 51 days, up 10.9%. The month’s supply of available properties was 4.7 months, down 9.6%.
Condos closed 12% more properties compared to last year. The median sale price was $300,000, down 11.3%. The month’s supply of available properties was 7.1 months, down 13.4%.
To me, these numbers translate to a slightly better market with fewer properties, more sales and a stabilization of pricing. There are also more cash sales, typically from second home and relocation buyers, which is also a
good sign. The press release from The Association of Realtors relating to both Sarasota and Manatee Counties says the market is “shifting to a more balanced and strategic market.”
Finally, there’s something afoot in Florida’s education system. It started with COVID, when families who could work remotely moved to Florida because they were anxious to get their kids back in school.
Apparently, in the last five years, Florida has improved their education system by offering school choice and improved special needs programs, as well as dividing academic time between at-home learning and taking classes at the local school.
Florida is now marketing itself as not only having great beaches and low taxes, but as also having great education opportunities. Frankly, I’m happy to hear it, but I’m also a little surprised. This can only be a benefit to the real estate market, which may finally be waking up.
LOUISE BOLGER
COMMISSION:considering changes to public comment and other meeting procedures
can be amended during a single publicly noticed meeting.
is received and responded to. Several other possible procedural changes were also discussed, but no formal action was taken on these items that will be discussed again at a future meeting.
Mora said the city commission’s current rules of procedure were established by a city ordinance adopted in 2003. He noted the 23-year-old ordinance is somewhat outdated and it does not provide the ability for a commissioner to participate in a meeting remotely using Zoom teleconferencing software or other means of remote participation.
“Your rules of procedure are embedded in your code of ordinances,” Mora told the commission.
He said if they make no other procedural changes, the meeting procedures should be set forth in a new city resolution rather than a new city ordinance. He said revising a city ordinance requires legal notices, two public hearings and takes about two months to complete; whereas a resolution
PUBLIC COMMENT
Much of the work session discussion pertained to public comment.
Adopted in 2003, Section 2-185 of the city code ordinances says, “At each regular city commission meeting, the agenda will include time for public comments and questions. A maximum of three minutes per person will be allowed unless a greater amount of time is approved by motion of the commission. No action is required to be taken on comments from the public; however, matters which require commission attention may be placed on a future agenda. In appropriate situations, staff will be directed to provide a response to a citizen's question within a reasonable amount of time.
Regarding public comment during public hearings, the code of ordinances says, “Presentations by the public, whether in favor or in opposition, shall be limited to five minutes; provided,
however, the commission may grant additional time for good cause shown.”
Mora said the idea of the chair or the commission granting additional public comment time was a “hard no” to him because those discretionary time limits could be viewed as unconstitutional and construed as being favorable to some speakers and unfavorable to others.
The commission was in general agreement in regard to allowing public comment on non-agenda items at the beginning of each city commission meeting and then allowing public comment on specific agenda items as that
item is discussed – a practice that currently only occurs during public hearings.
Public hearings are required for the adoption of new or amended city ordinances. Public hearings are required for site plan permit approvals, rezoning requests and certain other development and land use matters. Public hearings are also required for the adoption of the city’s annual budget.
Mora and the commission discussed increasing the regular public comment time limit from three minutes to five minutes to be consistent with the time allowed for public hearing comments.
“Three minutes is way too short. I’d love to have that extended,” Whitmore said. She said the current threeminute maximum speaking time is “totally archaic.”
In contrast, Commissioner Dan Diggins said five minutes is a long time to speak.
It was also noted that someone representing a group of people is given additional speaking time; and Mora noted the public can also reach out to the mayor and commissioners via emails and phone calls.
Toward the end of the work session, Mora asked for a show of hands seeking non-binding commission consensus for a consistent public comment time of either three minutes or five minutes, regardless of whether the comments are made during a public hearing or not.
Diggins and commissioners Jessica Patel and Terry Schaefer rose their hands in favor of a three-minute limit per speaker for all public comment. Whitmore
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
City officials spent nearly two hours discussing city commission meeting rules of procedure.
COMMISSION: considering changes to public comment and other meeting procedures
and Commissioner Steve Oelfke raised their hands in favor of a five-minute public comment limit.
Oelfke said people often run out of time in three minutes and that often leaves them feeling frustrated.
“I think the consensus direction for now seems to be three,” Mora said, noting that no final decision had been made and additional discussion will occur before any final decisions are made.
COMMISSION RESPONSES
Oelfke said members of the public often provide their passionate views and opinions to the commissioners during public comment, but those views and opinions often result in no response or guidance received from the commission.
Oelfke said he wanted to discuss how the commission responds to public comments received.
“We continually had reminders that it’s not a back and forth during
public comment, yet we still do it all the time. We don’t have to give a response, but I think we all felt like we wanted to be as open and friendly to the public as possible. I want to get some clarity so we could be on the same page.
Schaefer said, “I always believe if we had an answer, and it wasn’t subjective, we should give that answer. We can, and should, respond so the person who’s taken his or her time to come forward to address an issue walks out with at least the satisfaction that we’ve listened.”
Schaefer said there are many instances when that person who offered the public comment can be told the city is already aware of their concern or issue and is working on a solution.
Titsworth and Whitmore agreed that commission responses to public comment should occur only after public comment has been closed, so there’s not an endless back and forth between the speaker and the commission. The rest of the commission felt the same way.
Mora said his concern is the commissioner who responds to the public comment may not have the correct info available at that moment and it would behoove the city to take the time needed to research the matter before giving a response.
CONSENT AGENDAS
The work session was scheduled in part because Diggins wanted to discuss ways to make the Holmes Beach meetings more efficient, and more time-efficient.
Diggins said the Anna Maria Commission utilizes a multi-item consent agenda that contains contracts, work agreements and other items that the commission can approve in a single vote, while still having the ability to pull any consent agenda for additional discussion and stand-alone approval or denial. The Bradenton Beach Commission and the Manatee County Commission also use multi-item consent agendas.
SEE COMMISSION, PAGE 23
GROIN: 10th Street beach groin closed for tripping hazard
FROM PAGE 13
“The gaps are intentional to allow for slight movement,” Hunsicker said. “Out of an abundance of caution, we’ve had them closed temporarily.”
He said a sealant material has been ordered and he expects it to be applied to all the beach groins around the beginning of May.
“I’ve asked the lifeguards to remind people to stay off,” Hunsicker said.
The Bradenton Beach Police Department has enforcement jurisdiction over that area and Police Chief John Cosby said his department is enforcing the county’s temporary groin closure.
CENTER SCOREBOARD
ALL GIRLS (WEEK 2)
Bubble Binz 3 (1-1-0)
RAK's Wings 'N Things 2 (0-1-1)
AMI Rental Cars 2 (1-0-1)
Beach Bums 2 (0-0-2)
8–10-YEAR-OLDS
AMI Outfitters 1 (0-0-1)
Isola Bella Italian Eatery 1 (0-0-2)
Key Royale Club golf scores
MONDAY, APRIL 13 - MODIFIED STABLEFORD & SKINS GAME
First place: Bill Shuman, +5
Second place: Roger Rottschafer, +4
Third place: John Cassese, Rob Ellis, Brian Hogan, +3
Skins: Eric Lawson, hole 5, Brian Hogan, hole 6
Anna Maria Rental Cars 2 (1-0-1)
G.I. Binz 0 (0-2-0)
West Coast Surf Shop 4 (2-0-0)
Flip Flop Shop & Candy Stop 2 (1-1-0)
11–13-YEAR-OLDS
Print Wizards 6 (2-0-0) Le Creperie 0 (0-2-0)
Solid Rock Construction 4 (2-0-0) Moss Builders 2 (0-2-0)
Solid Rock Construction 4 (2-0-2) Print Wizards 0 (1-2-1)
Kesten Concrete Co. 2 (1-1-2) Print Wizards 1
Kesten Concrete Co. 2 Solid Rock Construction 2
TUESDAY, APRIL 14LOW NET SCORE
Flight A
First place: Judy Christensen, 27
Second place:
Terry Taylor, Lori Waggoner, 30
Third place: Monica Lawson, 31 Flight B
First place: Jan Turner, 25
Second place: Marty Clark, Cate Foy, Beth Lindeman, Carol Patterson, 30
ADULT SOCCER (WEEK 2)
Sato Real Estate 6 (3-0-0)
Ross Built 4 (0-3-0)
Bubble Binz 3 (1-1-1)
Solid Rock Construction 3(0-2-1)
Impact Florida Windows 4 (0-0-2)
AMI Real Estate Corporation 4 (0-1-1)
Pool America 5 (3-0-0)
Swordfish Grill 1 (2-1-0)
Pizza Social 5 (1-1-1)
Duncan Real Estate 4 (1-2-0)
FLAG FOOTBALL (35+ ADULT)
Slim's Place 23 (1-0)
Solid Rock Construction 20 (0-2)
Moss Builders 45 (2-0) gRub 13 (0-2)
Third place: Laurie Hicks, Tamra Hogan, Judy Menchek, 31
Low Putts: Marcia Friesen 13, Phyllis Roe 14
THURSDAY, APRIL 16 - SCRAMBLE
First place: Leigh Brattain, Nicholas Cibel, Nub Turner, Tom Young tied with Dave DuVernay, Marty Hicks, Kent Newbold and Larry Solberg, and tied with Mike Clements, Rob Ellis, Warren Stevens, 29. (-3)
Lee and Shank claim victory in the pits
On Wednesday, April 15, Bob Lee teamed up with Adin Shank (shown in photo) to win the day’s competition at Anna Maria Horseshoes after they were the only team to go 3-0 during pool play. Two teams met in the final match on Saturday, April 18, after going 3-0 in pool play. Tom Farrington and Tom Betty edged out Tim Sofran and Neal Hennessy 23-17 on a gameending double ringer by Farrington to earn the day’s bragging rights.
FUN IN THE SUN
CLASSIFIEDS
BOATS
BOATS ARE SELLING
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COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE
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CLEANING SERVICE
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EMPLOYMENT
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PAINTING & WALLCOVERING
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RETIRED LIFETIME PAINTER. "Have saved many customers many dollars". $27 per hour. Insured 502-817-6786
PEST CONTROL
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POOL SERVICES
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ANNA MARIA ISLAND
CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $900 to $1200 per week redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525
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
REASONABLY PRICED
SEASONAL FURNISHED 2BR/2BA, water view, 3 minute walk to beach. 941-226-4008 jamesk95@ netzero.com
NEWLY RENOVATED
2BR/2BA CONDO close to Mantee Beach & shopping. First floor unit, all utilities, cable TV, internet, washer/dryer, parking, community swimming pool & pickle ball courts. No pets/no smoking. $3500/mo. 1-to-6-month lease. First & security deposit. Available immediately. Call 716-982-5168.
3BD/2BA HOME ON WATER $2,500 in Holmes Beach. On the water. Parking + all utilities, internet etc. included. Strictly non-smoking. Available April 30 -Jun 8th $2,500. Message 617-518-1240.
TRANSPORTATION
ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $85. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-7795095
TRAVEL SERVICES
DESTINATIONS BY DeMERS For your travel needs like cruises and land tours, contact Ann at 585-200-3740.
BUSINESS & SERVICE
COMMISSION: considering changes to public comment and other meeting procedures
FROM PAGE 18
Schaefer said the Holmes Beach Commission discussed implementing a consent agenda a couple of years ago, but that conversation never led to any action. He said a consent agenda could help make the meetings run more efficiently.
Mayor Titsworth said the inclusion of a consent agenda was on her to-do list at one point, but she never pursued it because it seems to her that at least one commissioner wants to review and question every contract and work order presented.
“I would love a consent agenda,” Titsworth said.
CHARTER REVIEW COMMITTEE
Whitmore asked why the city hasn’t recently conducted a charter review, as required by the city charter every five years.
Titsworth said that’s because, according to the charter, charter review committee members are elected in Holmes Beach, rather than being appointed by the mayor and/or the commission. She said committee candidates have to run an election campaign to serve a position that only lasts for six weeks and there weren’t enough candidates during the
most recent attempt to form a review committee.
Whitmore said, “It’s hell trying to get people to be on the charter review” because you need five citizens who are willing to run a campaign, comply with all of the campaign requirements and endure the expenses associated with running a campaign.
Patel suggested amending the city charter to allow the charter review committee members to be appointed rather than elected. This would require a charter amendment question being placed on the ballot and then being supported by more than 50% of the city’s registered voters. Patel mentioned trying to place that charter amendment question on the general election ballot in November.
Mora said Holmes Beach is “an anomaly” in Florida in terms of electing, rather than appointing, charter review committee members.
WORK SESSIONS
The commission is also considering doing away with stand-alone city commission work sessions and instead adding “items for discussion” (when needed) to the regular commission meeting agendas, with the understanding that no official action will be taken that day on an item presented for discussion only.
