Anna Maria Island Sun June 17, 2026

Cortez Bridge construction expected to begin in September

The new Cortez Bridge is expected to take more than three years to build.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com

CORTEZ – The long-awaited construction of the new Cortez Bridge is anticipated to start near the beginning of September, according to Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) spokesperson Ethan Purvis.

“The current work activities near the bridge are related to Manatee County Utilities’ underground water main crossing, which is to be completed prior to bridge construction,” Purvis wrote in a June 10 email to The Sun. In that Manatee County project, sewer and water pipes are being moved to the south side of the bridge.

LESLIE LAKE | SUN

The current Cortez Bridge will be replaced by a 65-foot-high, multi-lane, fixed-span bridge. The construction of the new bridge is scheduled to begin in September.

Purvis stated some of the elements for the new bridge – the precast concrete piles for the foundations and, later, the precast concrete beams – are being constructed offsite.

Construction of the 0.9-mile-long bridge will take place north of the current bridge. During construction,

SEE CORTEZ BRIDGE, PAGE 9

City Pier lease awarded to GSM Partners

GSM Partners will pay the city $12,000 a month and cover the maintenance costs.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – GSM Partners LLC and the city of Anna Maria are entering into a new fiveyear lease that will allow business partners Brian Seymour, Ben Sato and Jason Sato to operate a new open-air establishment called PIERadise.

The new pier-based business is expected to open when, or soon after, the City Pier reopens, which is expected in November.

On Thursday, June 11, city commissioners unanimously approved the new pier lease Mayor Mark Short negotiated with Seymour and the Sato brothers. The meeting packet includes preliminary conceptual renderings of the proposed PIERadise space. Short said all of the T-end seating, with the exception of the PIERadise bar seats, will be

SEE CITY PIER, PAGE 21

Second Avenue debate continues

The Second Avenue discus sion and debate will continue on June 23.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – The potential redirection or restriction of Second Avenue traffic was discussed again during the June 9 Holmes Beach City Commission meeting.

No decisions were made during the June 9 meeting. The Second Avenue discussion is slated to continue on Tuesday, June 23, but a final decision is not expected that day.

Comments made by the commissioners during the June 9 discussion indicated the commission’s support for the proposed traffic adjustments is dwindling.

The Second Avenue discussion and debate began during the May 26 commission meeting, when Public

Works Director Herb Raybourn and Police Chief Bill Tokajer presented five potential traffic adjustment options. Preferences were stated and no decisions were made, but if any action were to be taken the most favorable potential traffic adjustment entailed installing temporary barricades (and later, permanent landscaping walls) at the intersections of 52nd Street

SEE SECOND AVENUE, PAGE 8

Waste Pro agreement approved

Side-door service will be mandatory for vacation rental homes.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Effective July 1, Waste Pro will replace Waste Management as the city of Anna Maria’s collector of trash, recycling and yard waste.

On June 11, city commissioners unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance that establishes Waste Pro as the city’s new solid waste, recycling and yard waste hauler and grants Waste Pro those exclusive franchise rights. The franchise agreement ordinance will be finalized on second and final reading on June 25.

Waste Pro will provide trash collection on Mondays and trash, recycling and yard waste collection on Thursdays. Citing the agreement, Mayor Mark Short said Waste Pro will provide larger 96-gallon trash containers and similar-sized 64-gallon recycling containers.

Short noted the Waste Pro agreement provides residents with

the option to bring their trash and recycling receptacles to and from the street themselves or utilize side-door service at an extra charge. Vacation rental homes will be required to utilize side-door service at an extra charge.

Free side-door service will be provided for the physically impaired. Pursuant to proper medical documentation, those property owners may request and receive side-door service for all normal weekly services without charge.

During the June 11 meeting, commissioners were provided with a rate sheet that illustrated some of the various fees for Waste Pro services. According to the rate sheet, a residential customer will pay $22.41 per month for basic curbside service. The residential side-door service rate begins at $48.57 per month and increases if additional receptacles are required.

Short noted the Waste Management fees would have increased by 3% for the coming service year had Waste Management been retained as the city’s solid waste hauler. He said residential customers will pay

HENDRICKS | SUN

The Waste Management receptacles will soon be replaced with Waste Pro receptacles.

approximately the same monthly rate they would have paid for Waste Management services. The Waste Pro agreement also caps annual rate increases to no more than 3%.

The rate sheet didn’t include the exact rate for the side-door service required at vacation rental homes.

The number of receptacles required for a vacation rental home will be based on the number of occupants allowed in accordance with the city’s vacation rental registration program.

According to the agreement, the property owner of a resort housing unit with seven to 11 approved occupants is required to have one

additional 96-gallon cart for solid waste and one additional 64-gallon cart for single-stream recycling, for a total of two carts for solid waste and two for recyclables.

The property owner of a resort housing unit with 12 or more approved occupants is required to have two additional 96-gallon carts for solid waste and two additional 64-gallon carts for recycling.

The Waste Pro agreement includes service to the city’s beach access areas and additional collection services for those areas during holidays and peak tourist periods.

According to the franchise agreement, the city will receive 12% of Waste Pro’s monthly gross revenue, minus the tipping fees charged at the county landfill.

The 10-year franchise agreement provides for two additional fiveyear renewals.

Waste Pro also has franchise agreements with the cities of Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach.

ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Sun claims four Florida Press Association awards

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Code enforcement manager placed on paid leave

Congratulations to Sun reporter Leslie Lake, Sun cartoonist Steve Borggren and Sun columnist Rusty Chinnis for winning Florida Press Association Weekly Newspaper Contest awards. The annual contest results were announced on Friday, June 5. The award-winning contest entries were for journalistic work done during the 2025 calendar year. Leslie took first place in the In-Depth Reporting (Non-Investigative) category (Division B) for the series of articles she wrote about the Pines Trailer Park.

In the Original Local Editorial Cartoon category (Division AB), Steve took first place for his June 11 cartoon and second place for his Sept. 17 cartoon. In the Outdoor & Recreation category (Division B), Rusty took third place for his “Who Will Protect Our Children's Future” column in the July 9, 2025, issue. See the award-winning contest entries at amisun.com.

Former Anna Maria commissioner passes

Former Anna Maria City Commissioner John Quam passed away on May 31 at the age of 87. John served six terms on the Anna Maria Commission and he was commission chairman from 2001 to 2013. “John served during a very difficult time; it was the beginning of an unprecedented growth period for the city of Anna Maria,” former Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said. “He faced a series of unique challenges, trying to balance growth versus ‘old Florida’ appeal. He left the city in a better position than it was when he was first elected to office.”

Brew & Blue held at Fifty Three Fifty

The city of Anna Maria has placed two code enforcement managers on administrative leave this year.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Code Enforcement Manager Tom Collins was recently placed on paid administrative leave and an investigation was initiated regarding his alleged “workplace conduct toward female city staff members.”

Collins was named code enforcement manager after then-Code Enforcement Manager Dave DeZutter resigned on Feb. 23. DeZutter resigned after he was placed on “administrative leave pending investigation” on Feb. 2 for allegations pertaining to his workplace conduct and his interactions with various city staff members and members of the public.

On May 28, Mayor Mark Short sent Collins a memorandum that said, “This memorandum is to inform you that the city has received allegations concerning your workplace conduct toward female city staff members. The city is initiating an investigation into these allegations. This memorandum is your notice of that investigation.

“You must remain available during normal business hours while on paid administrative leave. Attorney Garrett Olsen will contact you to schedule a remote interview as part of the investigation. You are expected to cooperate fully and truthfully in the investigation.

“You are also directed not to delete, destroy, alter or remove any city records, documents, emails, text messages, notes, files or other materials that may relate in any way to the allegations, your workplace conduct or city busi ness. The city expects this matter to be treated as confidential to the extent possible. You should not discuss the investigation with any city employee or potential witness,” the memo says.

“I will contact you when the investigation is complete or if there are any changes to your leave status. Until then, the directives in this memorandum remain in effect,” the memo says, in closing.

The copy of the memo provided to The Sun included Short’s signature and Collins’ May 28 signature acknowledging he received the memo.

While visiting her grandparents, Holmes Beach residents Michael and Karen Smith, 7-yearold Miami resident Ella Smith attended the Monday, June 8, Brew & Blue event held at the Fifty Three Fifty The Pourhouse coffee shop and restaurant in Holmes Beach. The event was promoted on the Holmes Beach Police Department Facebook page as “Community conversations with the Holmes Beach Police Department.” When contacted later in the week, Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said, “It was a chance for people in the community to come out and meet the day shift officers who were working that day.”

“Effective immediately, you are being placed on paid administrative leave pending completion of the investigation. This action is not a disciplinary determination. Rather, it is intended to allow the city to conduct a prompt and appropriate investigation while maintaining the orderly operation of the workplace,” the memo says.

“While you are on paid administrative leave, you are not to report to city hall or any other city workplace unless I specifically authorize you to do so in writing. You are also not to communicate, directly or indirectly, with any city employee, city staff member, complainant, witness or other person involved in the investigation regarding this matter or any city business, unless specifically authorized in writing,” the memo says.

On June 2, 9 and 10, The Sun emailed Mayor Short seeking additional information about Collins being placed on administrative leave, the investigation into Collins’ alleged conduct and an update as to who was currently managing the code enforcement department. As of June 15, The Sun had not received a response from the mayor. In general, the mayor and the city do not comment on legal matters and active investigations.

On June 9 and June 11, The Sun submitted public records requests seeking copies of any complaints filed against Collins or incident logs pertaining to Collins’ workplace behavior. The Sun received email responses from the city clerk’s office that each said, “There are no records responsive to the request.”

The Sun also reached out to Collins for comment, but he did not respond.

On June 11, The Sun requested copies of any additional letters, emails or other documents sent or received between May 25 and June 11 that reference Collins, his workplace conduct and/or the investigation being conducted by attorney Olsen. The Sun received an email response that day that said, “The request has been completed. There are no records responsive to this request.”

As of June 15, Collins’ status as a city employee and the status of the investigation of his conduct had not been publicly addressed by the mayor or the city.

In April, the attorney representing former City Treasurer LeAnne Endres (Addy) filed a wrongful termination lawsuit that names the city of Anna Maria as the defendant and seeks at least $100,000 in compensation from the city. Endres was terminated in December. Soon after she was terminated, the city sought from her additional information regarding several expenditures made using the city credit card. As of June 15, the results of that investigation had not been made public and the city’s legal team had not yet filed a response to the lawsuit.

Pine Avenue impacted by water line break

On Tuesday, June 9, a subcontracted crew doing work for Frontier broke a waterline while working along Pine Avenue in Anna Maria. The waterline break caused significant flooding, caused damage to the Duncan Real Estate office, impacted other nearby Pine Avenue businesses and forced the temporary closure of Pine Avenue. Anna Maria Public Works Manager Dean Jones spoke about the incident during the Thursday, June 11, city commission meeting. He said the water was shooting over the Duncan Real Estate building after the waterline broke. He said a Frontier subcontractor was working using a Ditch Witch to bore a path and struck and ruptured an 8-inch water line. “I’ve only seen a break like this one other time in my career. Every time they put a person in the water, the water pressure blew them back out,” Jones said. He said once the county work crew located the shut-off valve,

they were able to place a sleeve around the break to stop the flow of water. “We probably saw about 150,000 gallons of water go out into the street,” Jones said. “The subcontractor is going to nice big bill from us and from the county about all this,” Jones said, noting the county workers did a great job of repairing the break.

Trolley shelter bid rejected

On Tuesday, June 9, Holmes Beach city commissioners unanimously rejected a $65,000 bid received from C-Squared to construct a new shelter structure over the currently exposed trolley stop along the west side of East Bay Drive, near the Publix supermarket. The commission will seek additional bids from additional contractors in hopes of getting a lower bid. The previous trolley shelter was damaged during the 2024 hurricanes and later removed.

OPINION

The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff

Publishers

Bob Alexander

John Reitz

Editor

Joe Hendricks

Reporters | Photographers

Joe Hendricks

Leslie Lake

Columnists

Louise Bolger

Rusty Chinnis

Contributors

Steve Borggren

Capt. Rick Grassett

Layout

Ricardo Fonseca

Advertising Director

Shona Otto

Classified Ads

Bob Alexander

Graphics

Elaine Stroili

Ricardo Fonseca

Distribution

Bob Alexander

Tony McNulty

Brian Smith

Accounting

Leslie Ketchum

John Reitz

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Grady Smith will be missed and remembered

It is with a heavy heart, but also with a smile, that I write about the passing of our dear friend, Grady Smith. Grady had that rare good ol’ boy charm and wit that could put anyone at ease.

He was the kind of man who could brighten a room with a grin, tell a story that made you laugh and leave you feeling better just for having seen him.

Working with Grady for more than a decade at Island Discount Tackle, it was obvious that Grady was a truly honest man. In our family, when we talk about someone who is genuine, kind and trustworthy, we often say, “like Grady.” There is no higher compliment we could give. His name became our shorthand for decency, because that is exactly how he lived his life.

Grady will be deeply missed, but he will also be fondly remembered – with affection, gratitude, and yes, with a smile. Our Island community was better for having him in it, and all of us who knew him are better for having known him.

Bill Lowman and family

Improving efficiency at Holmes Beach meetings

*This letter was originally sent to Holmes Beach City Commission Chair Carol Whitmore.

Some residents feel citizen attendance at city meetings could

be improved if the meetings were made more efficient using these suggestions.

Survey residents to find out which meeting times they would most likely attend. Some time ago, there was consensus that moving meetings to 2 p.m. would increase attendance. It has been suggested that this has not had the desired effect and it may be worthwhile to gather current feedback from residents. One option could be to alternate the times of every other meeting, which the other two Island cities do.

Move the mayor and commissioner reports to the end of the meeting and impose a time limit on the reports and the discussion they generate.

The agenda items are the “meat” of the meetings and the earlier you can address them, the better. This would help keep the meetings focused on official business and prevent lengthy discussions from delaying agenda items.

Psychologists have found that attention spans have generally diminished over the years. When engaged in deep, sustained work or reading, healthy adults can typically focus on a single task for about 20 to 60 minutes before becoming distracted.

Create a “parking lot list” where the chairperson could immediately redirect crosstalk or unlisted topics to that list to ensure the agenda items stay on track.

Following each meeting, have the commissioners quickly score each meeting's efficiency from 1 to 10 to

highlight operational bottlenecks. For agenda items, it may be more effective to allow public comment before the commission’s discussion and deliberation rather than afterward. Hearing the residents’ perspectives before the commission discussion could lead to a more informed decisionmaking process.

After public comment, discussion should remain focused on the issue and avoid repetitive remarks that unnecessarily extend the meeting. Discussions that drift into unrelated past experiences, tangential topics or circular discussions lengthen meetings without contributing to the decisions at hand.

The recently allowed fourminute public comment period for non-agenda items has been a significant improvement and it allows residents a better opportunity to express their concerns. We are aware that this is a liberal amount of time compared to other cities and we want the commissioners to know it is greatly appreciated. We hope the five minutes or more currently allowed for public comment during public hearings is retained, since these are more complex and sometimes quasi-judicial items. I hope these suggestions are taken in the spirit of the government and the residents working cooperatively toward good governance.

Bradenton Beach Commission meets Thursday

The Bradenton Beach City Commission will meet on Thursday, June 18, at noon. The multi-item consent agenda includes commission approval of a $5,964 quote to repair a broken pier sewer line and a $3,662 estimate to replace three faulty backflow preventers at the pier; a request to spend $44,123 to purchase a Kubota tractor; and a $25,080 invoice from Tew & Taylor for contracted building department services.

Under new business, the commission will be asked to approve three separate but similar hurricane debris removal contracts. The commission will be asked to approve the Coquina Beach Seafood and Music Festival scheduled for Jan. 22-24; approve a

special event application for the Run Manatee 5K Series at Coquina Beach on July 12; approve a $7,688 storm barrier for the police department building; and approve an $8,225 expenditure to replace the clock tower clock mechanisms and the automatic controller.

Under attorney business, the commission will be presented with the first reading of an administrative platting ordinance, the first reading of an ordinance pertaining to certified recovery residences; and the execution of a planning services contract with HR Green.

Thursday’s meeting will be held in the Katie Pierola Commission Chambers, 107 Gulf Drive N.

ON THE AGENDA

ANNA MARIA

10005 GULF DRIVE

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130

Visit www.cityofannamaria.com

Friday, June 19, City offices closed in observance of Juneteenth

Monday, June 22, 1 p.m., City Commission workshop Thursday, June 25, 9 a.m., City Commission workshop Thursday, June 25, 10 a.m., City Commission meeting

BRADENTON BEACH

107 GULF DRIVE N.

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005

Visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com

Tuesday, June 16, 9:30 a.m., Special Master variance hearing

Thursday, June 18, 9:30 a.m., Community Redevelopment Agency meeting

Thursday, June 18, noon, City Commission meeting

HOLMES BEACH

5801 MARINA DRIVE

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800

Visit www.holmesbeachfl.org

Thursday, June 18, 10 a.m., Code

Compliance Special Magistrate hearings

Friday, June 19, City offices closed in observance of Juneteenth Tuesday, June 23, 2 p.m., City Commission meeting

Parks and Beautification Committee members sought

The city of Holmes Beach seeks to fill two open positions for alternate members of the city’s Parks and Beautification Committee. Member responsibilities include recommending beautification projects, reviewing proposed dog park improvements, securing sponsors for Adopt-A-Spot locations and monitoring the community garden located in the city’s Veterans Park. Alternate members can participate in all committee meetings and are asked to vote when a regular member or members are absent. Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of each month, October through May, at 10 a.m. Pick up an application at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive, request one via email at cityclerk@holmesbeachfl. org or call 941-708-5800 ext. 226. Please submit applications no later than July 6.

SECOND AVENUE: debate continues

and Second Avenue and 52nd Street and Fifth Avenue to prevent southbound vehicles from entering those residential streets and using Second Avenue as a means to avoid some of the traffic on nearby Gulf Drive.

Second Avenue resident and current city commission candidate Mark Hebden was among the residents seeking the Second Avenue traffic restrictions. During the May 26 meeting, Mayor Judy Titsworth said she asked Raybourn and Tokajer to propose some potential corrective actions.

Public reaction to the proposed traffic adjustments was strong and impassioned on both sides and city commissioners received many emails on that topic between the May 26 and June 9 meetings.

In one recent email response, Commissioner Jessica Patel wrote, “I agree we can’t just look at closing one road when the traffic issue is Island-wide. It’s a bigger problem that must be

looked at holistically in order to find the best solutions, but starting with some enforcement would be good.”

In another email response, Commissioner Carol Whitmore wrote, “I took a tour with the chief and it made me more than ever stand strong against supporting this. Their suggestion is not traffic calming, it’s traffic congestion changes happening with a few people wanting things changed.”

Due to some Second Avenue residents not being available to attend the June 9 meeting, and due to Whitmore’s pending July vacation plans, the June 9 meeting agenda simply called for the commission to vote on setting a date for when the Second Avenue decisions would be made.

Even though no decision making was expected that day, many residents and potentially impacted motorists showed up to give public comment.

Before public comment was given, the commissioners shared some of their thoughts on the Second Avenue debate.

Several residents waited in line to share their thoughts on Second Avenue.

HENDRICKS | SUN

Titsworth did not attend the June 9 meeting.

COMMISSION COMMENTS

The June 9 discussion began with Whitmore reiterating that no Second Avenue related decisions would be made that day, other than setting a future date for the commission to vote on what, if any, traffic adjustments will be made to Second Avenue.

“I don’t support it,” Whitmore

said when stating her desire to be present when the vote occurs.

Commissioner Terry Schaefer said it was not incumbent upon the commission to make a decision that day, or even in the near future. He later said a traffic study might be warranted before any traffic-altering decisions are made.

Commissioner Patel suggested pushing back the decisionmaking to the fall, when more

seasonal residents are here.

Commissioner Steve Oelfke said when staff presented the potential options on May 26, he was leaning toward the option that would restrict southbound motorists’ access to Second Avenue. He said based on the feedback he read and received since that meeting, and his own further evaluation of the situation, he does not support restricting access to Second Avenue.

“I want to make it clear that I don’t support that proposal. As much as I want to help the residents on Second Avenue, there’s other residents in that same neighborhood who are going to be forced to have to go on Gulf Drive and add more cars to Gulf just to get to their homes,” Oelfke said.

He said restricting traffic on Second Avenue would likely result in more motorists using Holmes Boulevard, 54th through 62nd streets and other roadways as alternatives.

CORTEZ BRIDGE: construction expected to begin in September

FROM PAGE 1

which is expected to take more than three years to complete, the current bridge will remain open to vehicles.

The current two-lane drawbridge was built in 1956 and links the mainland on SR 684/Cortez Road to Bradenton Beach.

The new fixed-span bridge will be 65 feet high and allow larger boats to pass underneath it without the traffic disruptions caused when the current drawbridge is raised so a boat, or boats, can pass through.

According to the public information presentation FDOT provided in 2023, the new Cortez Bridge will have two 12-foot-wide travel lanes, two 10-footwide shoulders and two 10-foot-wide sidewalks – with concrete barricades between the sidewalks and the shoulders.

Construction costs are estimated to be more than $130 million. The design cost alone for the bridge was $5.89 million, according to Purvis.

On Thursday, June 11, Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie said he had just been informed of the anticipated September bridge construction start date.

“I think the bridge will make a tremendous difference in traffic flow – more so for people coming off the Island,” Chappie said. “There are still challenges to get to the bridge, but I believe it will make a big difference.”

Chappie noted the residential development already occurring and the planned future development – both in the general vicinity of the bridge and countywide – will increase the use of the bridge.

“All of the new development that’s happening throughout Manatee County – and in particular, at the corner of 75th and Cortez Road – a lot of those people are going to want to come to the Island,” Chappie said. “So, you take with one hand and give with the other. I think it’s going to be a lot safer for travelers. Safety-wise, it’s going to be a tremendous improvement.”

According to the public information presentation FDOT provided in 2023, the new Cortez Bridge will have two 12-foot-wide travel lanes, two 10-foot-wide shoulders and two 10-foot-wide sidewalks. Left, this 2023 rendering shows the anticipated configuration of the new bridge’s vehicular travel lanes, the shoulders and the sidewalks.

New home being built next to the FISH Preserve

On May 1, the Manatee County Building and Development Services Department issued a permit for the single-family home now being built on the lot adjacent to the east side of the 98-acre Florida Institute of Saltwater Heritage (FISH) Preserve in Cortez. The new home at 4404 110th Street Court West is being built with metal framing and is located on the half-acre property owned by Dominic Simonetti. The lot was purchased in April 2024 for $650,000, according to the Manatee County Property Appraiser website.

According to the permit, the approved setbacks are 25 feet for the front of the property, 15 feet for the rear of the property and 10 feet for the two sides of the property. The total square footage of the structure is 7,170 square feet under the roof.

The property is located in an AE flood zone with a flood protection elevation of 9. FEMA defines flood zone AE as a high-risk area with a 1% or greater chance of flooding annually. New builds are required to be at or above base flood elevation.

The new home is not affiliated with the FISH organization or the FISH Preserve.

Diggins and Zaccagnino seek Holmes Beach mayor’s seat

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – The three Island cities’ candidate qualifying periods closed at noon on Friday, June 12. The only contested races on Anna Maria Island will take place in Holmes Beach, where two qualified candidates seek the mayor’s seat and three qualified candidates seek the two city commission seats to be filled by the election cycle that concludes on Tuesday, Nov. 3. There are no contested races this year in Anna Maria or Bradenton Beach this year.

HOLMES BEACH

Incumbent City Com missioner

Dan Diggins and former city commis sioner David Zaccagnino will square off in the mayor’s race, seeking to fill the mayor’s seat being to be vacated by four-term mayor Judy Titsworth after the November election.

Incumbent city commissioner Carol Whitmore seeks reelection to another two-year term in and she’s being challenged by first-time candidates John Azzata and Mark Hebden. The top two vote-getters in the city commission race will claim the two commission seats.

ANNA MARIA

In Anna Maria, incumbent Mayor Mark Short and incumbent commissioners Chris Arendt and Gary McMullen will run unopposed and be awarded additional two-year terms in office.

BRADENTON BEACH

In Bradenton Beach, incumbent Ward 2 commissioner Scott Bear will run unopposed and serve another two-year term. No one qualified to run for the Ward 3 seat to be vacated by longtime commissioner Ralph Cole. After the November elections, the city commission will seek applicants and appoint someone to serve as the new Ward 3 commissioner.

9:00 a.m. TO 10:00 p.m. DAILY 5344 Gulf Drive Holmes Beac h (941) 779-BEER hurricaneliquors.com

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SHOP

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The reunion every firefighter hopes for

There are many layers of protection that can help pro tect children from drowning.

BY RODNEY KWIATKOWSKI SPECIAL TO THE SUN

BRADENTON – Five days after fighting for his life following a near-drowning incident at a northwest Bradenton vacation rental home, 7-year-old Lucas Parks sat smiling behind the desk of West Manatee Fire Rescue’s battalion chief.

Wearing a firefighter helmet and a smile from ear to ear, Lucas looked every bit at home. For WMFR firefighters, it was a sight we will never forget.

On June 7, WMFR and Manatee County EMS responded to a reported near-drowning involving 7-year-old Lucas in northwest Bradenton, while he and his family were visiting from Pennsylvania. Thanks to the quick actions of family members and first responders, Lucas was transported to Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, where

he received further care and treatment. Two days later, Lucas walked out of the hospital.

On Friday morning, June 12, Lucas and his family visited West Manatee Fire Rescue Station 1 in Bradenton to personally thank firefighters who dedicate their lives to serving our community. For the members of West Manatee Fire Rescue, it was a reminder of why we do what we do. Emergency responders are often invited into people’s lives during

their most difficult moments. We respond when families are experiencing fear, uncertainty and crisis. While first responders train extensively for those moments, we rarely have the opportunity to see the final chapter of the story. This week, we did.

Seeing Lucas healthy, smiling and full of energy was a gift to everyone who met him. His visit transformed a near-drowning incident report into a success story and provided a powerful reminder that behind every emergency

call is a person, a family and a future worth fighting for.

As we celebrate Lucas’ recovery, his story also serves as an important reminder about water safety. Drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental death for children. Constant adult supervision, appointing designated “Water Watchers,” placing barriers around pools and providing children with swimming lessons remain critical layers of protection that can help prevent similar incidents from occurring.

For Lucas’ family, this week was an opportunity to express their gratitude. For West Manatee Fire Rescue, it was an opportunity to witness the outcome we pray for every time the alarm tones go off. A week ago, our crews met Lucas on the worst day of his young life. This week, we met him again on one of the best. And for everyone at West Manatee Fire Rescue, it was a reunion we will never forget.

Serious injury sustained in causeway crash

According to Fire Marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski, West Manatee Fire Rescue (WMFR) responded to a serious two-vehicle crash Friday evening, June 12, on Manatee Avenue along the Palma Sola Causeway.

“Crews arrived to find two heavily damaged vehicles and one patient trapped in a vehicle and immediately initiated extrication operations while Manatee County EMS assessed and treated the injured. After being removed from the wreckage, the patient was transported as a trauma alert to a local trauma center. Additional occupants were evaluated and treated at the scene,” Kwiatkowski told The Sun Friday evening at approximately 6:40 p.m.

Kwiatkowski said the crash temporarily impacted the Manatee Avenue travel lanes while emergency personnel worked to stabilize the vehicles, provide patient care and clear the roadway. "The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Bradenton Police Department,” Kwiatkowski said.

In the days that followed, some family members and friends of those involved in the accident posted comments on Facebook. On Saturday, June 13, Amber Henry wrote, “That was my 17-year-old son that was the passenger injured. He’s in the trauma unit.”

WHERE‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE?

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com

Sea turtle release scheduled for June 29

BRADENTON BEACH – The Sea Turtle Conservancy, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Hurricane Hanks have scheduled the annual release of a nesting sea turtle on Monday, June 29, at 8 a.m. near Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach.

A nesting sea turtle is expected to be located on one of the Anna Maria Island beaches the night before the release. The sea turtle will be given a name and be tagged with a satellite monitor for participation in the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s annual Tour de Turtles race. The race typically features 10 to 12 sea turtles that have been released throughout Florida and Costa Rica.

to get an up-close look at the turtle and to ask the turtle release

“Sea turtles continue to nest steadily on Anna Maria Island, with nest numbers on par with those from 2023. However, we have yet to reach the peak of nesting so we expect to see many more nests in the coming weeks,” AMI Turtle Watch Executive Director

SHOREBIRD NESTING NEWS

AS OF FRIDAY, JUNE 12:

Black skimmers: 27 birds on 8 nests

Least terns: 23 birds on 12 nests

Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring

KATHY DODDRIDGE | SUBMITTED A newly hatched least tern stays close to its parent, while one adult remains on a second egg awaiting its hatch.

The satellite monitors attached to the turtles’ shells allow the Sea Turtle Conservancy to follow the marathon migration of the turtles from their nesting beaches to their foraging grounds.

The exact location of the release

will be announced at the “Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch & Shorebird Monitoring, AMITW” Facebook page. If an appropriate turtle is not located, the release might be held on Tuesday, June 30, instead.

Past turtle release events have drawn more than 500 spectators. The event is free, open to the public and there is no need to formally RSVP. Turtle release teams will begin setting up on the beach around 7 a.m. Attendees are welcome to stop by before the release to purchase a $25 T-shirt,

Kristen Mazzarella stated in her June 12 nesting update email.

AS OF FRIDAY, JUNE 12:

Total loggerhead turtle nests: 181 Nests this week (6/6 to 6/12): 53

Total false crawls: 180 False crawls this week: 50

Total nests hatched: 0

Total hatchlings produced: 0

Total hatchling nest disorientations: 0

Total adult turtle disorientations: 10

Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring

According to Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring volunteer Shorebird Coordinator

Kathy Doddridge,

“Despite predation issues, the black skimmer and least tern colonies continue to persevere.

DODDRIDGE | SUBMITTED These signs are being placed near shorebird nests.

Three least tern chicks hatched between June 10-12.

“Chicks will stay in the scrape for the first few days as the parents bring in fish to entice the chick to exercise their legs and wings.

“Beachgoers should use caution as they walk near the colony and heed the new ‘Watch For Flightless Chick’ signs that have been posted this week.”

AMI South End to celebrate America’s 250 years

The patriotic celebration is part of the new AMI South End initiative.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The Bradenton Beach Merchants Association recently introduced AMI South End, a new initiative designed to celebrate the businesses, people and the unique character of Anna Maria Island’s south end through a series of community events throughout the year. The first AMI South End event, Sundown Get Down, will celebrate 250 years of America on Saturday, June 27. The event will take place on and along Bridge Street from 2 to 8 p.m.

“Join us on Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with an evening full of family fun, live entertainment, local shopping, great food and patriotic spirit,” the event’s Facebook page says.

The event will feature live entertainment, local vendors, food and beverage offerings, merchant specials and family-friendly activities. Attendees can enjoy a Kids Zone sponsored by Fun 4 Manasota Kids, live music, local vendors and merchants, shopping, food and beverages, face painting, photos with “Beach Santa” and Mrs. Claus.

The interactive entertainment provided by Imagine Circus will include a USAthemed stilt walker, a hula hoop artist and a roving juggler. There will also be a Wizard

Castle bounce and slide combo, games, activities and crafts – and Bridge Street merchants are planning special offers, outdoor activations and food and beverage features throughout the day.

Vacation bible school held at Roser Church

Rainforest Falls Vacation Bible School 2026 was held June 1-5 at Roser Memorial Community Church in Anna Maria. The bible school was for children pre-K through fifth grade and the youngsters participated in Bible-learning activities, sang songs, played teamwork-building games, made treats, experienced

one-of-a-kind Bible adventures, collected Bible Memory Buddies and conducted fun science experiments. This year, there were 67 campers, 17 teen volunteers, 15 adult volunteers and 20 kitchen helpers, totaling more than 100 people each night on the church campus.

Dinner was served each night

in the Fellowship Hall, and Roser Church expressed its gratitude to the community for all the food donations, including those provided by Pizza Social. The church also expressed its appreciation for monetary donations provided by the Chamber of Commerce, the trolley grant program and the Roser Guild.

Event sponsors include the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Anna Maria Island Sun, BayFirst, Cox Chevrolet and the city of Bradenton Beach.

“Whether you’re a local or visiting Anna Maria Island, this special community celebration is the perfect way to kick off the holiday weekend. Stroll Bridge Street, support local businesses, enjoy incredible entertainment and celebrate 250 years of American independence with friends, family and neighbors,” the event’s Facebook page says.

Future Sundown Get Down events will include the Endless Summer Afterglow on Sept. 12 and a family-friendly Halloween celebration on Oct. 31.

Courtesy: It’s only common sense

t’s that time of the year again when schools of tarpon conduct their annual migration and mating ritual off Anna Maria Island beaches. It’s also an annual ritual for anglers who pursue the “silver king,” arguably one of angling’s most exciting and challenging targets.

In high season, around the new and full moons of June, as schools of fish mass in the local waters, it’s not uncommon to find huge clusters of the fish and the anglers who fish along the beaches and passes. Groups of boats can be seen along the beaches and off local passes as they jockey

for a presentation to schools of rolling and daisy-chaining fish.

During this time, in the excitement of the hunt, tempers can flare as anglers, caught in the passion of the moment, forget to respect their fellow anglers. There are also those new to the sport who don’t understand the process of pursuing schools of tarpon in a manner that gives everyone a fair shot at success. It’s a formula intended to keep the experience safe and enjoyable, while ensuring the tarpon fishery remains healthy for everyone who shares it. Good manners on the water make for a better fishery.

The first rule is simple: pay attention and never motor up to a school of fish that other anglers may be in line to make a presentation to. If you watch closely, experienced anglers will position themselves well ahead of a moving school, often making fine adjustments with an electric

trolling motor. After a school passes, they will wait before starting engines and then make a wide loop to repeat the process. Cutting through another’s boat line or drift and motoring up to fish will spook them, cause them to sound and ruin the chances for everyone. If you are new to the sport, it pays to watch quietly for a few minutes before joining in. That small pause can tell you everything about speed, spacing and the path fish are taking. While fishing, pay special attention to fly anglers who anchor or pole the bars and local passes. These seasoned anglers pay attention to the movement of tarpon in shallow water, often positioning themselves on an edge that tarpon move along. Cutting across that line or motoring in shallow water can ruin everyone’s chances.

Courtesy in tarpon season is not only about other anglers, but also

about respecting the fish. It’s good to remember that tarpon are here to reproduce and not for the sport of the angler. Florida law states that tarpon is a catch-and-releaseonly fishery and that tarpon over 40 inches must remain in the water unless an angler is pursuing a record with a required tag. Keeping tarpon in the water and minimizing handling time is critical. Anglers should also use tackle that’s stout enough to shorten the fight, leaving them the reserves to

survive the sharks that frequent the waters during the season and are their main predator. The best advice is to spend a few minutes watching the behavior and movement of the fish and anglers before attempting to approach a school of fish. That will give everyone a better chance at success and an enjoyable day on the water. It’s only common sense, although in the heat of the moment common sense often isn’t so common!

SECOND AVENUE: debate continues

Commissioner Dan Diggins said, “We have a lot of traffic here. We have a finite amount of room on roads. It seemed like a good idea a couple months ago when the chief and I talked about it, but it doesn’t seem like a good idea now to close off one of those roads.”

PUBLIC COMMENT

As the first to give public comment on the matter that day, Holmes Beach resident Bruce Meyer said traffic is like water, and like water, it’s going to seek the easiest path to take.

“The reality is we need to improve the flow of traffic throughout the entire Island,” he said regarding the need to take a more encompassing look at the Islandwide traffic and congestion concerns.

Holmes Beach resident Jim Denny was more direct: “I think I speak for many of us: this is probably the stupidest idea that’s ever been proposed,” he said.

Denny said he’s baffled as to who would suggest and support restricting traffic on Second Avenue.

“If the taxpayers build a city road and maintain a city road the city road should be used as a city road. It shouldn’t be blocked off and made into a cul-de-sac.

City roads are made for moving traffic from one point to another. It’s not to be made into a private drive for somebody that might live in the area,” Denny said.

Holmes Beach resident Joe Warbington said, “I rode by bike here. The traffic sucks and we know it.”

He said he has a child that attends Anna Maria Elementary (on Gulf Drive) and the proposed traffic adjustments would impact the routes parents use to get to and from the school.

“I can’t imagine not being able to drive on one of our city roads,” he said.

Holmes Beach resident Jeff Dentz lives in the Key Royale community and he said, “We do have a problem. A 40-minute trip from Key Royale to get to mass on Saturday at 4 (p.m.) is common. An hour to make it to Publix.”

Dentz agreed with Schaefer’s suggestion to get a traffic study done before spending money on potential traffic solutions.

Holmes Beach resident Nancy Deal lives on 56th Street, which is another street frequently used as a shortcut or a cut-through.

“Many of us live on streets that are used as cut-throughs. Sometimes vehicles are backed up on 56th Street, from Marina, past Holmes, all the way to Gulf. This Island is stuck with traffic congestion

with no relief in sight. Limiting access to Second Avenue with barricades is an unnecessary and expensive punishment for those who know it as one of the Island routes that allows traffic to spread out and move a bit more smoothly,” Deal said.

“If speeding and running stop signs on Second is a problem, write a few citations. Word will get out on social media and the coconut traffic that you better obey traffic laws,” she said.

Holmes Beach resident Fran Derr said she has lived here since 1983 and the traffic has gotten worse since she arrived. She said a traffic study would be a waste of money.

Regarding Second Avenue, she said, “Because I live here and I know a few secrets streets to drive on. Don’t punish me because I’m using that alternative street.”

Alan Williams lives on the 4000 block of Second Avenue and he said, “The problem exists all over the Island and something needs to be done. I think we brought it to the forefront that something needs to be done. It’s not just Second Avenue,” he said.

He said the additional stop signs along Second Avenue have helped, but some people speed through them and don’t stop at all.

Williams said its often difficult for him to back out of his driveway. He also mentioned the cars blasting loud music as

they travel down Second Avenue.

Williams said the Second Avenue congestion could potentially reduce property values in that area.

“It’s definitely a cut-through. The road was not intended to be a cut-through,” he said, noting that Second Avenue is not the only city road being used as a short-cut.

Bryan Faria lives on 48th Street and he said, “I cross Second Avenue or use Second Avenue daily. Regarding the safety of Second Avenue: we walk our dog there. We ride our bikes to the beach through there. If people stop at all the stop signs and obey the speed limit, it would simply be a congestion issue. But it is really a safety issue,” he said.

Faria said he doesn’t know what the solution is, but he urged the commissioners to consider the safety issues.

Alison Coury also lives in the Key Royale community and she said, “None of these things that have been raised about Second Avenue are unique. We all deal with it. Traffic is an issue on this Island. It’s a safety issue for everybody. Safety is an illusion. I’m not sure we can ever get there. It requires individuals being vigilant, following traffic laws.”

Whitmore said the Second Avenue discussion will continue during the Tuesday, June 23, meeting that begins at 2 p.m. She and the other commissioners agreed that a final decision is not expected that day.

REAL ESTATE

If you hate talking about insurance as much as I do, you’ll be tempted to turn the page and look at the real estate ads, but don’t. This is the year that you really need to read your policy, since the insurance companies are still crying over the disastrous 2024 hurricane season and they’re in a bad mood.

We’re in hurricane season - better read your insurance policy Castles in the Sand

According to a lengthy piece in The Wall Street Journal, the five biggest home insurers as a group didn’t pay out on more than 44% of the claims closed last year. This left anyone with homeowners insurance policies to pay fully or partially for repairs to their property.

There are several reasons for this, but it all has to do with money. Companies are getting tougher on claims by using a narrow definition of acceptable claims. In addition, they’re raising deductibles, especially on specific risks like hurricanes, and establishing tighter criteria for claims on expensive repairs like roofs.

LOUISE BOLGER

Homeowners themselves are also choosing to increase their deductibles in light of increasing premiums. Florida, of course, is in the danger zone, driven by climate change and coastal development. We had the highest rate of non-payouts in 2024, affecting more than two in five homeowner claims that year. This was significantly higher than the previous 34% five-year average. Insurance companies claim that because there were more flood events that year, there were more claims declined that weren’t covered by normal homeowner’s policies.

If you feel your claim has been unfairly denied by the insurance

company, there are options: ask for a letter outlining the reasons for the denial with documentation; compile additional evidence; file an appeal; if the appeal is denied, file a complaint with the state insurance regulator; or, as a last resort, hire an attorney or public adjuster and be prepared to wait.

If you are a condo owner, there is another important item to understand – one that many condo owners don’t know about until there is a natural disaster. I’m talking about something called loss assessment. In Florida, under Florida Statute 627.714, all residential condominium unit owner policies are legally required to include at least $2,000 in property loss assessment.

This coverage helps pay your share if the condo association levies a special assessment for a covered property loss. The condo association will prepare a letter to be submitted to the homeowner’s insurance company stating the amount of the special

assessment, the date and the named storm it’s related to. Homeowners can purchase optional endorsements to increase limits well above the $2,000 statutory minimum. Like any insurance you purchase, you have to weigh the benefits against the cost. I lived in a waterfront condominium for 20 years before I received compensation for a loss assessment.

I’ve declined to state the five biggest insurers that did not pay out claims. However, if you want to know if your insurance company is one of the top five, this information can be easily found in The Wall Street Journal’s archives for June of this year.

No one can change the mood of national insurance companies, which will likely go on for some time. But being proactive on your own behalf by reading your insurance policy, talking to your insurance agent or broker and crunching numbers to reduce your premium could help. Do I dare say it – it’s hurricane season again.

CITY PIER: lease awarded to GSM Partners

available to PIERadise customers and non-customers alike –including the Gulf Island Ferry passengers who visit the pier when ferry service returns to the City Pier in 2027 or 2028.

“All the seating out there, except for those seats at the bar, are for anybody. There is no obligation. If you want to sit at a table, you can. You don’t have to buy anything,” Short said.

GSM Partners will pay the city $12,000 per month and cover all of the ongoing maintenance costs for the space they lease at the T-end of the pier. The monthly lease payments will be subject to an annual increase that is based on the Consumer Price Index and is not to exceed 3% per year.

PAST MEETS PRESENT

In 2020, Seymour and his original GSM partners, Vic Mattay and Nick Graham, secured the lease for the smaller city-owned pier building from which they operated the City Pier Grill &

Bait Shop until the back-to-back hurricanes in 2024 destroyed the City Pier walkway and rendered the still-standing T-end pier buildings temporarily unusable.

Before entering into the new lease, Seymour and GSM Partners held the remaining 15 months of the hurricanesuspended lease of the smaller pier building. In March, Seymour informed the mayor and commissioners that Mattay and Graham were leaving GSM Partners and Ben and Jason Sato were joining GSM Partners.

Seymour is the owner/operator of the Anna Maria General Store, which is located on Pine Avenue, within walking distance of the pier. Seymour has long expressed interest in leasing the larger pier building too.

Jason Sato co-owns Sato Real Estate, which is located on Pine Avenue, near the pier. Ben Sato owns and operates gRub Tropical BBQ, also located on Pine Avenue. Ben also expects to open his new Mingo’s restaurant in Holmes Beach in 2027 in the

former Wells Fargo bank space being developed by Jake Spooner.

COMMISSION DISCUSSION

During the June 11 meeting, Short noted he was tasked with trying to negotiate a lease agreement with GSM Partners that was fair to all parties involved, including the residents of the city.

“I believe we have negotiated a very fair lease,” he said.

He said the lease is 60 months and provides for an additional 60-month extension. He noted

GSM Partners was paying the city approximately $6,500 per month before the 2024 hurricanes struck.

Commissioner John Lynch asked if GSM Partners would resume responsibility for closing the pier each night at the close of business. Short said they would. The lease states the common areas of the pier must be open to the general public seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and the allowed hours for the PIERadise business hours are the same.

Commissioner Chris Arendt said, “I think it’s a great thing for Anna Maria to be partnering with a local group like GSM. I look forward to them getting up and running out there and having the City Pier open again.”

Regarding the PIERadise renderings included in the meeting packet, Commissioner Charlie Salem said, “The renderings look great. It’s going to be a huge improvement. Thank you to GSM for the vision and the mayor and his team for executing negotiations.”

Lynch asked Public Works Manager Dean Jones if the pier is still on track to reopen in November. In response, Jones said, “I left my crystal ball in my other pants, but if everything holds and the weather’s good, I think November is a timeline we can hit.”

With Commissioner Kathy Morgan Johnson participating by phone, the commissioners voted 5-0 in favor of executing the lease agreement with GSM Partners.

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Clock tower clocks to be repaired

BY LESLIE LAKE

SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The four clocks at the clock tower at the foot of the Bradenton Beach Pier have been removed and will be repaired using upgraded technology.

“What we have in there now is a diode system,” Police Chief and Public Works Director John Cosby said. “It keeps getting corroded and we’ve had to keep fixing it.”

The clocks had stopped working due to the impacts of the 2024 hurricanes. The clocks were repaired earlier this year and worked properly for a while, but now require additional repairs and upgrades.

Cosby said the city hired a different clock company this time around.

“They’re recommending a mechanism system that’s enclosed so the salt air can’t get to it,” Cosby said. “Everything will be sealed.”

He said he doesn’t yet know the timeline for the return of the clocks.

“The gentleman has a very technical shop,” Cosby said.

“It’s in Ohio, so everything had to go there.”

In March, the city commission approved a $98,061 proposal from Duncan Seawall to replace the clock tower roof and re-roof the fishing pier pergolas and pavilion.

Built in 1996, the clock tower is a recognizable city landmark at the east end of Bridge Street. It is featured prominently on the city website and is often photographed by visitors.

Joe Manzella retires from Anthony’s

Anthony’s Cooling, Heating & Electrical announced the retirement of highly respected electrician Joe Manzella as of Friday, June 5. “After years of dedicated service, Joe leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, integrity and craftsmanship that has earned him the admiration of coworkers, customers and industry partners alike,” the Anthony’s press release said. “Throughout his career at Anthony’s, Joe became known not only for his technical expertise but also for his commitment to excellence and his willingness to mentor others. Joe has been an important part of our team and our success. His knowledge, work ethic and positive attitude have made a lasting impact on our company and the countless customers he served. While we will certainly miss having him on our team each day, we are grateful for his contributions and wish him nothing but happiness and success in retirement,” the press release said.

“Customers frequently praised Joe for his attention to detail, reliability and friendly demeanor. His dedication helped strengthen Anthony’s reputation for delivering quality electrical services throughout the community. As Joe begins this new chapter, everyone at Anthony’s Cooling, Heating & Electrical extends their sincere gratitude for his years of service and wishes him many years of health, relaxation and enjoyment with family and friends,” the press release said.

Pickleball guidelines posted at city courts

In response to residents’ requests, the city of Bradenton Beach has installed pickleball guideline signs at the city courts at Herb Dolan Park and Lou Barolo Park. Bradenton Beach resident Ed Dodge and other pickleball players attended several city commission meetings earlier this year and asked for the court rules to be posted – specifically to avoid players monopolizing the courts when others are waiting.

In March, the city commission directed staff to post signs that include some of the same guidelines used at the Manatee County courts. The new city signs say, “Proper attire and footwear required;” “If people are waiting on the sidelines to play, let others have a turn and rotate courts;” and “If no one is waiting, you may continue to play.”

The city eliminated the county rules that prohibit pets, playing music,

LESLIE LAKE | SUN

The city’s pickleball guideline signs are now posted on signs.

profanity or foul language and smoking or vaping in the park.

“We adjusted the county rules a little bit,” Mayor John Chappie said. “It’s always been laid back at Dolan and Barolo – on the honor system. One might say it’s more of a suggestion that people follow these guidelines.”

ISLAND SPORTS

CENTER SCOREBOARD ADULT BASKETBALL (QUARTERFINALS)

Paddy Wagon’s 22, 22, 23 MI-Box 18, 16, 15

Bradenton Home Inspections 22, 22, W USA Fence 14, 14, FF

Luxury Services 18, 21, 21 Gator-Man Pools 20, 15, 17

Q Law Injury Attorneys 21, 16, W

Salty Printing 12, 9, FF

KEY ROYALE CLUB GOLF SCORES

Monday, June 8Modified Stableford and skins game

First place: Ron Huibers and Kurt Snouffer, +4

Second place: Tom Nelson and Ron Vandeman, +2 Skins: Tom Nelson, hole 4

TUESDAY, JUNE 9 - LOW NET SCORE

First place: Helen Pollock

and Sue Wheeler, 32

Second place: Sue Christenson and Jana Samuels, 33 Helen Pollock chipped in, hole 4

THURSDAY, JUNE 11 - SCRAMBLE

First place team: Leo Burke, Jerry Martinek, Earl Ritchie, Steve Vasbinder, 28

Second place team: Kevin Breheny, Ken Kari, Kurt Snouffer, Warren Stevens tied Ron Buck, Tom Nelson, Jana Samuels, Bill Shuman, 31

Fernandes wins Saturday’s competition

On Wednesday, June 10, Tom Farrington and Gary Howcroft teamed up to win the day's competition after posting the only 3-0 record during pool play at Anna Maria Horseshoes. On Saturday, June 13, Gersey Fernandes, pictured, was the outright winner after going 3-0 to earn the day's bragging rights.

CITY PIER: lease awarded to GSM Partners

WALLS AND DOORS

Earlier this year, the mayor and commission discussed possibly removing at least two of the larger pier building’s walls and replacing them with sliding glass doors or bay doors that would drop down from above.

The intent was to create an open-air space that is more flexible in terms of how that space is utilized. The open-air concept was desired in part to accommodate the ferry service that is expected to include the Manatee County’s new and larger Manatee Belle ferry boat that currently operates between downtown Bradenton and the Bradenton Beach Pier.

During press comments and questions at the end of the June 11 meeting, it was noted the PIERadise preliminary conceptual renderings show large, garage door-like openings in three of the larger building’s walls.

Short was asked if the commission must still make a formal decision regarding the wall removals and door installations.

“Based on the proposals we got back, we have concluded that it is financially feasible and within the realm of funding that we have available, so we

are anticipating that those walls are going to be gone,”

Short said.

The mayor said a request for proposals will be issued seeking bids from contractors interested in making the city-funded wall removal and door enhancements before that space is occupied by GSM Partners. The exact style and appearance of the new doors and windows will be detailed in the RFP and/or the bid proposals received.

POST-MEETING COMMENTS

When speaking to the Sun immediately after the meeting, Ben Sato addressed the new lease and said, “I think it’s fair for the city, it’s fair for us and I think it’s a great win for the city of Anna Maria. I’ve been working on this for months. Now I can start buying equipment, furniture and the other things we’ll

need. I wouldn’t have done this without Brian. Brian’s a good business owner and a hard worker and I couldn’t ask for anyone better.”

Seymour said, “I’m very excited. I think we have a good plan to move forward and it’s a win-win – not only for our group, but for the city of Anna Maria. I’m looking forward to getting this project up and running and seeing the pier open again.”

When asked if the PIERadise menu will be different than the City Pier Grill menu, Seymour said, “Yes, there will be some changes, but it’s still going to be family-friendly and as economical as possible.”

Seymour said he and Ben are currently in the process of developing the PIERadise breakfast, lunch and dinner menus that will also include beer and wine.

Seymour has long been

a proponent of a single tenant occupying both pier buildings, as was the case when longtime tenant Mario Schoenfelder leased both pier buildings before Hurricane Irma struck in 2017. The damage the pier sustained during Hurricane Irma necessitated a three-year pier closure and reconstruction process that included the construction of the current pier buildings that survived the 2024 hurricanes and the pier walkway that did not.

“It’s almost impossible to run two businesses out there with the limited amount of storage space, the functionality of the T-end of the pier and the restrictions to leave some of that space as open space for the public. With Mote not coming back, it’s a good opportunity for our

CODE ENFORCEMENT: manager placed on paid leave

DEZUTTER COMPLAINTS

While serving as a code enforcement officer under DeZutter's supervision, Collins filed two complaints about DeZutter, his supervisor at the time.

On Jan. 9, according to the city's consolidated incident log, Collins filed a complaint about a comment DeZutter allegedly made regarding the sexual orientation of a subordinate employee’s dog. On Jan. 13, Collins filed a complaint about DeZutter's alleged confrontation with a motorist during a “traffic obstruction incident.”

On Jan. 30, three other city employees provided their accounts of a “reported profane outburst”

DeZutter had regarding his intent to confront Collins.

On Jan. 16, Public Works Manager Dean Jones filed a complaint about DeZutter's workplace conduct and use of “profanity” and a “threatening tone” when discussing a parking dispute with another city employee.

In late January, two city employees were interviewed regarding DeZutter's alleged workplace interaction with one of those employees. On Jan. 30, the city received a secondhand report about DeZutter's alleged off-duty interaction with one of his neighbors. An external complaint the city received on Dec. 16 pertained to a code enforcement citation issued.

organization, the city, the residents and the visitors,” Seymour said.

Regarding the anticipated, county-funded installation of a ferry landing alongside the pier in 2027 or 2028, Seymour said, “There’s still ongoing conversation between the city and the county about the ferry service and we try not to get involved in that part of it. But whatever’s decided between the city and the county will directly impact our operations.”

Regarding the new partnership, Seymour said, “I’m very excited to work with Ben and Jason. They’re both proven business people in Anna Maria and between us we have a lot of knowledge, expertise and ideas on how to keep it local and family friendly.”

FUN IN THE SUN

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PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident. Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Minor repairs & carpentry. Free estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315

PEST CONTROL

ANNA MARIA PEST CONTROL Call 941-7781630

POOL SERVICES

FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 18 + 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.

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

RENTALS: ANNUAL

IN HOLMES BEACH 2BR/2BA Annual Rental. Off street parking. First & Security deposit. $2300/ mo Please call 941-5658407

ANNUAL PERICO ISLAND

2BR/2BA $1900/mo, unfurnished, ground floor, 1200sqft, utilities included, pool/tennis/gym, parking/storage, pets ok, no smoking, application required, call 941-7132328

AMI ANNUALS 2BR/2BA + Bonus room $2800/mo. 1BR/1BA + Bonus room $2200/mo. Walk to beach, shops and restaurants. Call 203-223-1119.

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION

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 941201-2190

TRANSPORTATION

ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $90. Sarasota $45. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-7795095