Anna Maria Island Sun June 24, 2026

Least terns nesting on AMI

This least tern chick stuck close to its parent. See nesting statistics on Page 9.

Seafood Shack property to be used as bridge construction staging area

When the county purchased the Seafood Shack property, public boat ramps were among the possible uses discussed.

BY LESLIE LAKE

SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com

CORTEZ – The construction company contracted by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to build the new Cortez Bridge wants to use the former Seafood Shack property as a construction staging area. On June 16, with Commissioner Jason Bearden absent, Manatee County commissioners unanimously approved a short-term right of entry agreement with SEMA Construction Inc. The commission also requested the preparation of a subsequent long-term agreement to be discussed at a future meeting.

LESLIE LAKE | SUN A portion of the waterfront Seafood Shack property will be used as a staging area for the construction of the new Cortez Bridge.

SEMA proposes using the countyowned waterfront property in Cortez as a bridge construction staging area and field office for four years. In exchange for those rights of entry, SEMA will perform approximately $300,000 worth of work on the county-owned property.

SEE BRIDGE, PAGE 19

County Commission approves $6.18 million for beach renourishment

The next beach renourishment is scheduled to begin in November.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – The Manatee County Commission approved the allocation of $6.18 million in tourist development tax revenues to help advance a major beach renourishment and recovery project on Anna Maria Island.

The renourishment project will help offset the significant stormrelated erosion caused by Hurricane Idalia in 2023 and Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton in 2024.

The tourist tax revenues are generated by the 6% county tax levied on resort, hotel-motel and vacation rental stays of six months or less.

According to the county press release issued June 17, the funding approved on June 16 allows Manatee County to initiate construction activities in coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the state of Florida while awaiting

SEE RENOURISHMENT, PAGE 23

Beach Patrol logs 136 water rescues in three days

None of the rescued beachgoers required additional medical assistance.

BY ERNIE VANDERWALT SPECIAL TO THE SUN

ANNA MARIA ISLAND –Manatee County Beach Patrol rescued 136 beachgoers from dangerous rip currents over a three-day period from Wednesday, June 17, through Friday, June 19. None of the rescued swimmers required additional medical assistance.

Capt. Marshall Greene oversees the Manatee County Beach Patrol operations at Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach and at Coquina Beach and Cortez Beach in Bradenton Beach.

“We've rescued over 130 individuals since Wednesday,” Greene said on Friday.

When contacted again the following day, Greene said 39 people were rescued on Wednesday, 48 were rescued Thursday and 49 were rescued on Friday. On Friday, the Manatee County

Public Safety Department posted a Facebook message that said, “On Wednesday alone, our Beach Patrol team responded to 18 rescues involving more than 30 beachgoers. We’re grateful for the quick actions and dedication of our lifeguards, who safely assisted swimmers throughout the day.

Several of these rescues were related to rip currents – strong and fast-moving channels of water that can quickly pull swimmers away from shore.”

If you find yourself caught in a rip current, Beach Patrol advises taking the following actions:

• Stay calm. Don't panic.

• Don’t try to swim directly against the current.

• Float, breathe and conserve your energy. Swim parallel to the shore until you're out of the current, then make your way back to shore.

• Always swim near a staffed lifeguard tower.

Greene said the conditions behind the three-day surge in water rescues were a combination of wave action, wind and heavy

This lifeguard tower at Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach is one of the 11 on the Island.

beach traffic. He said many of the rescues involved “flash rip currents,” which are channels that form suddenly in water that was calm minutes earlier – even in areas where swimmers believed they could safely stand.

What stood out to Greene wasn’t the volume of rescues, but the outcome: none of the rescued swimmers required hospitalization or calls for EMS assistance.

“Our staff got to them and pulled them out of the water and

rescued them before it got so critical that they either inhaled water or had any other medical incident,” Greene said. Greene credited the Beach Patrol lifeguards’ training and vigilance for noticing the swimmers were in distress before their conditions became life-threatening. He said the lifeguards worked “preemptively and preventatively” throughout the week. He noted Beach Patrol staff are also certified EMTs, but

that level of care wasn't needed during these rescues.

Greene said many rescues involved multiple swimmers at once, occasionally stretching staff across simultaneous incidents.

Greene noted Beach Patrol covers less than two miles of Anna Maria Island's seven-mile shoreline and he urges swimmers to stay near the staffed lifeguard towers.

“If you swim at a guarded beach, we're there to help you,” he said. “Swim at an unguarded beach, it's going to take us time to get there because somebody has to call 911 first.”

According to Lt. Joey Santos, there were less than 10 rescues on Saturday.

Beach Patrol advises beachgoers to check the current beach conditions before swimming. The beach conditions can be found online at mymanatee.org/departments/public-safety-department/ beach-patrol-division.

At the beaches, swimming conditions are indicated by the green, yellow, red or double red flags on the lifeguard towers.

NOW SERVING BOARS HEAD SUB S& SANDWICHES

ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Long-term rentals will pay Waste Pro’s residential rate

In response to a question from a Sun reader, Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short was asked what monthly rate Waste Pro will charge the owner of a rental home that is not used as a short-term vacation rental. The mayor said, “A home that is not a registered vacation rental – a home they rent for more than six months – will be treated as a non-vacation rental property and can use curbside service for $22.41 per month, or has the option to sign up for side-door service, which is $48.57 per month. These are the year-one rates for residential properties that are not short-term rentals.” Waste Pro will become the city of Anna Maria’s exclusive trash, recycling and yard waste hauler on July 1.

City Pier fishing

Regarding a story in last week’s Sun, a reader asked if the City Pier bait shop will return, and if fishing will still be allowed at the T-end of the pier when it reopens later this year with the new PIERadise establishment to be operated by the pier tenant, GSM Partners. When contacted, GSM Partners’ Brian Seymour said, “Yes, we will have bait and tackle options like we did before, and the footprint where people can fish all around the pier will remain the same.”

Waste Pro agreement to be finalized

The Anna Maria City Commission will meet Thursday, June 25, at 10 a.m., or immediately after the conclusion of the city commission workshop that starts at 9 a.m. After general public comment on non-agenda items, the commission will be asked to adopt the multi-item consent agenda that includes a special event permit for a wedding, an agreement with the Tangerine Group for demolition and remediation work at the T-end of the City Pier and a $36,300 amended work order with Graef for additional bid review and project management services associated with the work to be done at the T-end of the pier. Under action items, the commission will be presented with the second and final reading of an ordinance that makes minor revisions to the city’s existing special event permitting ordinance. The commission will also be presented with the second and final reading of an ordinance that finalizes the city’s agreement with Waste Pro for trash, recycling and yard waste removal services.

Commission meeting cancelled

Due to the proximity to the July 4 holiday, Bradenton Beach city commissioners voted to cancel their Thursday, July 2, commission meeting. The next commission meeting will be held on Thursday, July 16, at noon.

Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

Anna Maria code enforcement manager reinstated

Tom Collins was placed on paid administrative leave on May 28.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Code Enforcement Manager Tom Collins has returned to work after Mayor Mark Short recently placed him on paid administrative leave while his workplace conduct was investigated.

On May 28, Short sent Collins a memorandum that said, in part, “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. Effective immediately, you are being placed on paid administrative leave pending completion of the investigation.”

On Wednesday, June 17, Short provided Collins with a copy of a document titled “RE: Investigation Findings; Notice of Written Warning and Corrective Action Plan.”

The June 17 memo says, “This memorandum is to inform you that the city has completed its review of allegations concerning your workplace conduct toward city staff members. This memorandum also serves as your official notice of written warning and corrective action plan to allow for you to continue your employment with the city.

“The city completed its investigation on June 12. The city’s investigation resulted in the following material findings: Instances where you made unwanted physical contact with a female staff member while at work; instances of comments made which were interpreted as unprofessional, offensive or uncomplimentary by female city staff members; four separate instances where you practiced chiropractic medicine without an active license while at work; instances where you would engage in discussions with other

members of city staff that were not related to your job duties or related to the performance of individuals under your supervision,” the memo says.

“Accordingly, while the above findings are serious and unbecoming of a supervisor, the city has determined that the most appropriate next step is for you to continue your employment while abiding by a corrective action plan designed to help you improve your conduct in a positive manner. You are hereby required to take the following actions within the timeframes hereinafter specified in order to return to work,” the memo says.

“You must refrain from making unwanted physical contact with members of city staff. Within 60 days of receipt of this notice, you must demonstrate the successful completion of a course on harassment in the workplace. The course must be approved by the city.

“You must refrain from making unprofessional, offensive and uncomplimentary jokes/ comments which are based upon or directed toward city staff members or could be interpreted by staff members as offensive or unprofessional.

“You must cease practicing chiropractic medicine while at work. This includes, but is not limited to, performing adjustments, consultations, sessions or any other action whereby you physically manipulate the body of another individual. Moreover, you are prohibited from storing personal items that are designed to assist you in performing chiropractic medicine on city property.

You must refrain from making

unwanted physical contact with members of city staff.”

Mayor Mark Short

“You must refrain from engaging in conversations that are outside of the performance of your duties with members of city staff. Specifically, you must refrain from engaging in unprofessional or unwelcomed conversations regarding the performance of other members of city staff, personnel matters or any other matters which do not directly relate to the performance of your duties. This requirement is not intended to prohibit you from engaging in normal social interactions while at work,” the June 17 memo says.

“You may return to work upon acceptance of this corrective action plan. Please be advised that the city prohibits retaliation. All personnel are responsible for maintaining a workplace that is free of discrimination, harassment and retaliation. You are expected to conduct yourself in a professional manner moving forward. A copy of this notice will be kept in your personnel file,” the memo says.

The memo contains the following statement acknowledged by Collins on June 18: “By my signature below, I understand that I must take the steps described in this notice in order for me to keep my job. I understand the steps described above. I further understand that the consequences of continuing not to meet the city’s expectations going forward includes further disciplinary action, including termination of my employment.”

Judge issues final order in 51st Street beach access dispute

The property owners in the Gutierrez Subdivision can continue using the disputed beach access path.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – 12th Circuit Court Judge Charles Sniffen has issued his final written order regarding a legal dispute over a long-utilized beach access path in Holmes Beach.

The disputed street-end beach access path is located near the intersection of 51st Street and Fifth Avenue.

Filed on Nov. 14, 2023, the civil lawsuit complaint alleged that after more than 30 years of co-existence, the Davises began to obstruct the easement path to prevent residents of the Gutierrez Subdivision from using the easement path that provides them access to the beach and the Gulf.

The lawsuit named Juan Fabrega Sr., Gail Fabrega, Juan Fabrega Jr., Susan Gutierrez and several other Holmes Beach property owners in the Gutierrez Subdivision as plaintiffs. The lawsuit named Larry Davis, Linda Davis, 5102 5th Street LLC, the city of Holmes Beach and several others as the defendants.

On March 20, a jury ruled in favor of the plaintiffs involved in the civil lawsuit pertaining to the decades-long use of a beach access path located on an easement associated with the residential property at 103 51st Street owned by Larry and Linda Davis.

Judge Sniffen presided over the jury trial and issued his final written order on June 4.

FINAL ORDER

Sniffen’s final order says, “All parties in this case are homeowners within the area generally referred to during trial as the Gutierrez Subdivision.

“Unless otherwise stated, the court’s findings are made upon the greater weight of the evidence. The plaintiffs’ amended complaint seeks declaratory and injunctive relief. The Davis defendants' counterclaim, filed March 25, 2024, sought money damages and injunctive relief for abuse of the easement and trespass. The Davis defendants’ amended counterclaim, filed October 31, 2025, sought declaratory relief, together with money damages and injunctive relief for abuse of the easement and trespass,” the final order says.

SUN

The beach access path at the 51st Street/Fifth Avenue intersection will continue to serve that public purpose.

“As to Count I of the amended complaint, declaratory judgment is hereby entered in favor of the plaintiff, establishing the existence and scope of the easement that is the subject of this action. The court finds that the defendants (the Davises) failed to establish any of their affirmative defenses by the greater weight of the evidence.

“It is hereby declared that an easement exists for the beneficial use and enjoyment of the plaintiffs and property owners within the Gutierrez Subdivision that is defined by a five-foot-wide strip encompassing 2.5 feet on either side of the property line

between Lots 3 and 4 that runs from west Fifth Avenue to the east to the mean high water line to the west. The property line shall be defined by the survey completed by MSB Surveying Inc.,” Sniffen’s final order says.

“The plaintiffs’ use of the easement shall be limited to ingress and egress for the purpose of beach access. The plaintiffs are not permitted to linger in the easement for recreational or other purposes. The court finds from the evidence that the entire five-foot width of the easement was intended to be used, and has historically been used, for pedestrian access to the beach. The court finds that the right of ingress and egress is coterminous with the full area of the easement,” Sniffen stated in his final order.

“The plaintiffs are permitted to prepare, improve, maintain or repair the easement to facilitate its use. The easement may be used not only by the plaintiffs themselves, but also by those who lawfully occupy a plaintiff’s property,” Sniffen’s final order says. As of June 22, it was not known if the Davises intend to appeal the jury’s decision and Sniffen’s final order.

City will pay former city attorney’s disputed invoices

The city questioned the accuracy of former city attorney Ricinda Perry’s billing invoices.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN REPORTER| llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The city commission voted to pay former city attorney Ricinda Perry’s 2025 invoices for $167,674. The payment amount includes nearly $31,000 in disputed invoiced charges to be paid to avoid the possibility of protracted and expensive legal action.

Perry retired as city attorney on Sept. 18, 2025, and later submitted her invoices for the billing period from January through September.

In February, City Attorney Erica Augello was authorized to send a letter to Perry regarding the invoices in question. The letter stated that the audit of Perry’s invoices conducted by City Treasurer Shayne Thompson revealed “false or incorrect billing entries.”

In January, Augello sent Mayor John Chappie and the city commissioners a memo that said,

“The audit revealed that entries were made for services that could not have possibly occurred on the dates as indicated; that time entries for several days exceeded the number of hours in a day; that entries were not billed at the appropriate rate as agreed upon; and that some entries were for unapproved non-legal services.

“There are a multitude of entries for discussions with staff members on weekends or other days when the staff member was not working, entries that exceed the number of hours in a day, entries that were billed for unapproved non-legal work related to permit reviews, plans reviews, etc., entries for storm-related work that were billed at higher than

the negotiated $150 per hour rate, entries for conversations with outside counsel that were not captured on outside counsel’s invoices, entries for completing assignments where no work product was received or otherwise not completed as billed, as well as other similar type entries,” Augello’s memo said.

During the June 16 city commission meeting, Augello reported the receipt of correspondence from Perry’s attorney, Chuck Johnson, from the Blalock Walters Law Firm.

“I received a formal letter from his office in response to our letter to her and his letter basically says under the Prompt Payment Act, they are demanding a speedy resolution in regard to her fees,” Augello told the commission.

In his letter, Johnson gave the city 15 days to make the payment. The letter stated that if the payment wasn’t made in a timely manner, he would demand that the dispute resolution process be followed pursuant to the Prompt Payment Act.

15

The

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

Fonseca

Otto Classified

Stroili

Ricardo Fonseca

Distribution

Bob Alexander

Tony McNulty

Brian Smith

Ketchum - John Reitz

Volunteers needs for Trash Trifecta cleanup events

ANNA MARIA ISLAND

– Suncoast Aqua Ventures needs volunteers for the Trash Trifecta cleanup event taking place at two locations on Saturday, June 27, from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The cleanup efforts will take place near the Leffis Key Preserve in Bradenton Beach and in the Sunny Shores community in Cortez.

Shoreline walkers, small shallow-draft boats, kayakers and paddleboarders are needed at both cleanup locations. To register as a volunteer, visit suncoastaquaventures.com. If you have a boat, kayak or other equipment that will assist the cleanup efforts, email Suncoast Aqua Ventures founder Cheryl Huntsinger at cheryle1026@gmail.com so she can coordinate those resources.

One cleanup effort will target the Leffis Key Preserve area across the street from the

Volunteers are needed for two simultaneous cleanup events on Saturday, June 27.

Coquina Beach parking lot in Bradenton Beach. Volunteers are asked to meet just south of the south boat ramp. Keep Manatee Beautiful will assist at this location and the Keep Manatee Beautiful truck will be there.

The Leffis Key Preserve and walking trails remain closed but trash and debris will be collected from the water; and a few additional volunteers are needed to walk the beach

SUNCOAST AQUA VENTURES | SUBMITTED

area north of the Beach Patrol headquarters. Event organizers hope to finish cleaning the Leffis Key area by noon so those volunteers can join the Sunny Shores volunteers for lunch.

The other cleanup effort will take place in the Sunny Shores area north of Cortez Road. Volunteers are asked to meet at 11704 36th Ave. W. in Cortez. Volunteers will clean the creeks, the roadside and the drainage ditches in the Sunny Shores community, with kayakers and boaters working the shoreline. A boat will bring volunteers to Gilligan’s Island to remove materials left behind by those who frequently visit the island.

The cleanup organizers will provide cleanup supplies, pickers, bags, buckets and gloves. Snacks and hydrating drinks will be available. Please bring a reusable water bottle to fill at the filling stations. Volunteers are encouraged to bring sun protection and wear shoes that can get wet. At 12:30 p.m., lunch will be served at the Sunny Shores location.

SHOREBIRD NESTING NEWS

AS OF FRIDAY, JUNE 19:

Black skimmers: 12 adults on two nests, zero chicks Least terns: 26 adults on 13 nests, three chicks.

Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring

“Despite continued predation of least tern nests, the colony is still producing chicks,” according to a June 19 email from Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring volunteer and Shorebird Coordinator Kathy Doddridge. “Volunteers have named the chicks Persi, Vera and Nancy in recognition of their ‘perseverance.’”

Doddridge wrote that the young birds can be seen running throughout the colony as they strengthen their legs and accept fish from their parents.

“Beachgoers should use caution when walking near the enclosure. You may see them using one of the white structures or chick huts to get out of the sun. The black skimmer colony now has only a dozen birds with two pairs trying to renest,” she wrote.

TURTLE NESTING NEWS

AS OF FRIDAY, JUNE 19:

Total loggerhead turtle nests: 246

Nests this week (6/13 to 6/19): 65

Total false crawls: 284

False crawls this week: 104

Total nests hatched: 0

Total hatchlings produced: 0

Turtle hatchling nest disorientations: 0

Total adult turtle disorientations: 13

“We have had several sightings of turtles finishing up nesting or just coming in to nest at sunrise, as well as turtles seen coming up to nest at night. Several turtles have been spooked

back into the water as crowds gather around them to get a closer look or take photos,” Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring Executive Director Kristen Mazzarella wrote in a June 19 email to The Sun. She urged people to stay off the beach at night so the turtles are not disturbed.

“If you do see a sea turtle coming out of the water, give her space and stay at least 20 feet away to give her room to come up and nest,” Mazzarella wrote.

“Do not approach a turtle that is moving up the beach or digging in the sand. Keep quiet, turn any lights off and stay behind the turtle and out of their path to the water. Remember to keep the beach clean, dark and flat so sea turtles have a safe place to lay their eggs.”

John M. Campora, ChFC®, CRPC™ Financial Advisor

6400 Manatee Avenue West, Suite B Bradenton, FL 34209 941-779-2499

Flower gardening book donated in Manion’s honor

On June 10, the Anna Maria Island Garden Club donated a copy of “The Old Farmer’s Almanac Flower Gardener’s Handbook” to the Island Branch Library in Holmes Beach in honor of the late Mary Manion. Manion was a longtime garden club member and at various times served as the club’s secretary, hospitality coordinator, publicity chair and president. She passed away on May 6 at the age of 91.

Manion

OBITUARIES

Grady Harold Smith

Grady Smith, 71, passed away at home in Cropwell, Alabama, on Thursday, June 4, 2026. Grady was a longtime resident of Holmes Beach, Florida, and

he enjoyed hunting and fishing. He worked construction, as an electrician, and worked for many years at Island Discount Tackle in Holmes Beach. He is preceded in death by his father, Walter Ralph Smith, in 1955; his mother and stepfather, Nina Pearl and Marvin Rayborn; sister Nina Graves; brother, Carley Cleat Smith; and sister-in-law Kathleen Smith. He is survived by his brother, Kenneth; by Tommy Joe Rayborn and by a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

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

“ This place has an amazing collection of spirits.” Josh

“Spent t he week in Anna Maria Island and out of all the liquor stores on t he island, t his is by far t he best one, wit h t he best prices and t he most selection. The staf f was very friendly ” Heat her

“ The guys here was very helpful and knowledgeable. They had some great choices on bourbon.

“ These guys had t he best selection , decent prices, and were overall just good people.” Matt hew

“Great assor tment of spirits and competitive prices.” Nyor

“Amazing selection knowledgeable staf f and best ser vice on t he island” Vicky

OUTDOORS

Stormwater management benefits local fisheries

Reel Time

noticed some of the clearest and bluest water the area has seen in decades.

very angler who fishes the waters surrounding Anna Maria Island, including Tampa Bay, Sarasota Bay and the Gulf, depends on clean, healthy water to support the

The same is true for every Floridian who enjoys the seafood these waters produce, including fish, shellfish, blue crabs and stone crabs.

Stormwater runoff is perhaps the most insidious threat to these natural resources, especially considering the massive development in coastal areas. In late spring, you might have

Much of that is the result of the recent drought that has prevented the stormwater and the plethora of pollutants the stormwater carries from entering local waters.

Fortunately, much of the rain that falls on these developed areas will be captured by one of Florida’s 76,000-plus ponds designed and built for managing stormwater.

How well these ponds treat the water they capture depends on how they are managed. This is why every property owner whose water reaches a pond has a role in protecting the quality of the water that enters our coastal waters.

Stormwater ponds are constructed to collect rainwater and hold the stormwater long enough to help remove

Besides managing stormwater, a healthy pond can be beautiful and support wildlife.

the many pollutants from the water before it’s released into the creeks, canals and rivers connected to our bays. The ponds not directly connected to surface waters allow water to be naturally filtered to groundwater that eventually flows underground to our creeks and bays.

Fortunately, Sarasota County and Manatee County have an organization that helps local homeowners associations and residential developments manage stormwater effectively.

The Healthy Pond Collaborative (HPC) is a unique partnership funded by the

Charles and Margery Barancik Foundation to help local communities enhance their ailing stormwater retention ponds. The partnership is administered by START and includes Sarasota County’s NEST Program, Manatee County’s Department of Natural Resources, the University of Florida IFAS Extension Program, Suncoast Waterkeeper and the Science and Environment Council of Southwest Florida.

In next week’s column, we’ll explore the anatomy of a healthy pond and what you can do to be part of the solution. Get a preview by reviewing the Healthy Ponds Guide at the sarasota.wateratlas. usf.edu website and spread the word to fellow anglers, friends and associates.

The following hotels and motels accept pets. Some have limitations on species, number, size and breed, some require pets to be caged before housekeeping services are rendered, some require deposits or extra charges, and some have special pet amenities, such as grassy areas for walking. Call ahead to find accommodations that match your needs, and make a list of several hotels in different parts of the state to be prepared for storms from any direction.

ANNA MARIA ISLAND

Anna Maria Dream Inn 2502 Gulf Dr. N. Bradenton Beach 941-209-1420

Anna Maria Island

Courtyard Bradenton

Sarasota/Riverfront 100 Riverfront Dr. W. 941-747-3727

Days Inn

Microtel Inn 6298 Nature Coast Blvd 352-796-9025

Quality Inn 30307 Cortez Blvd 352-796-9481

Resorts

Tortuga Beach Resort 1325 Gulf Dr. Bradenton Beach 941-778-6611

Anna Maria Motel

808 N. Bay Blvd. Anna Maria 941-778-1269

Queen’s Gate 1101 Gulf Dr. N. Bradenton Beach 941-778-7153

3506 1st St. W. 941-746-1141

Days Inn

Bradenton – I75

644 67th St Circle E 941-746-2505

Fairfield Inn & Suites

Lakewood Ranch 6105 Exchange Way 941-552-4000

Hampton Inn & Suites

309 10th St W 941-746-9400

CAPE CORAL

Holiday Inn Express 1538 Cape Coral Pkwy E 239-542-2121

Hampton Inn & Suites 619 SE 47th Terrace 239-540-1050

DAYTONA BEACH

ARCADIA

Knights Inn

504 S. Brevard Ave. 863-494-4884

Holiday Inn Express 2709 Southeast Hwy. 70 863-494-5900

BRADENTON

Hyatt Place Sarasota/ Lakewood Ranch 6021 Exchange Way 941-748-3100

Motel 6

660 67th St. Circle E. 941-747-6005

Spring Hill Suites

Homewood Suites By Hilton 165 Bill France Blvd 386-258-2828

Residence Inn Daytona Beach Speedway/Airport 1725 Richard Petty Blvd 386-252-3949

DELAND

Best Western Plus 2215 Cortez Rd W 941-238-0800

Compass Hotel

Anna Maria Sound

12324 Manatee Ave W. 941-741-9700

Bradenton Downtown Riverfront 102 12th St. W. 941-226-2200

BROOKSVILLE

Days Inn

6320 Windmere Rd 352-796-9486

Comfort Inn 400 E International Speedway 386-736-3100

ELLENTON

Hampton Inn 5810 20th Ct. E. 941-721-4000

Red Roof Inn 4915 17th St. E. 941-729-0600

ELLENTON

Super 8

5218 17th St. E. 941-729-8505

FORT MYERS

Baymont Inn & Suites 9401 Marketplace Rd

239-454-0040

Hyatt Place 2600 Champion Ring Rd

239-418-1844

La Quinta Inn 9521 Market Place Rd

239-466-0012

Residence Inn

20371 Summerlin Rd

239-415-4150

Travel Lodge

13661 Indian Paint Ln

239-561-1117

GAINESVILLE

Best Western

4200 N.W. 97th Blvd.

352-331-3336

Home Hotel & Suites

3905 S.W. 43rd St.

352-376-0004

Motel 6

4000 S.W. 40th Blvd.

352-373-1604

Residence Inn by Marriott

I-75

3275 SW 40 Blvd

352-264-0000

KISSIMMEE

Ramada Gateway 7470 HWY 192

407-966-4410

Motel 6

5731 W. Irlo Bronson Hwy.

407-396-6333

LAKELAND

Hilton Garden Inn

3839 Don Emerson Drive

863-647-0066

Motel 6

3120 U.S. Hwy. 98 N. 863-682-0643

Residence Inn 3701 Harden Blvd. 863-680-2323

LAKE BUENA VISTA

Marriott Residence Inn 11450 Marbella Palm Court 407-465-0075

LAKE CITY

Baymont Inn & Suites 3598 US 90 W 386-752-3801

Days Inn

3430 N US Hwy 441 386-758-4224

LAKE MARY

Extended Stay America 1040 Greenwood Blvd 407-829-2332

Hyatt Place 1255 S International Pkwy 407-995-5555

La Quinta Inn 1060 Greenwood Blvd. 407-805-9901

Residence Inn 825 Heathrow Park Lane 407-995-3400

LEESBURG

Best Western Plus

1321 N. 14th Street 352-460-0118

Hampton Inn 9630 Us Hwy 441 352-315-1053

OCALA

Comfort Inn 1212 S Pine Ave 352-629-7300

Hampton Inn & Suites 3601 SW 38th Ave

352-867-0300

La Quinta Inn & Suites

3530 S.W. 36th Ave.

352-861-1137

Microtel Inn & Suites 1770 Southwest 134th St

352-307-1166

Equus Inn 3434 SW College Rd

352-854-3200

Residence Inn 3601 S.W. 38th Ave. 352-547-1600

Sleep Inn and Suites 13600 S.W. 17th Court

352-347-8383

ORLANDO

Hard Rock Hotel 5800 Universal Blvd. 407-503-2000

Holiday Inn Lake Buena Vista 13351 State Road 535 407-239-4500

La Quinta Inn - Universal Studios 5621 Major Blvd 407-313-3100

Motel 6 - Winter Park 5300 Adanson Street 407-647-1444

Motel 6 International 5909 American Way 407-351-6500

Residence Inn Seaworld 11000 Westwood Blvd. 407-313-3600

Staybridge Suites 7450 Augusta National Dr 407-438-2121

Townplace Suites 11801 High Tech Ave. 407-243-6100

PLANT CITY

Comfort Inn 2003 S Frontage Rd 813-707-6000

Knights Inn

301 S Frontage Rd 813-752-0570

PORT CHARLOTTE

Comfort Inn

812 Kings Hwy 941-421-7548

Days Inn 1941 Tamiami Trail 941-623-9404

Knights Inn 4100 Tamiami Trail 941-743-2442

Sleep Inn & Suites 806 Kings Highway 941-613-6300

PUNTA GORDA

Four Points by Sheraton 33 Tamiami Trail 941-637-6770

RUSKIN

Holiday Inn & Suites

226 Teco Rd. 813-922-4561

Ruskin Inn 3113 College Ave 813-641-3437

SANFORD

Best Western Plus 3401 S Orlando Dr 407-320-0845

SARASOTA

Comfort Suites 5690 Honore Ave 941-554-4475

Comfort Inn & Suites 5931 Commercial Way 941-342-8778

Courtyard Sarasota Bradenton 850 University Pkwy 941-355-3337

Embassy Suites by Hilton 202 N. Tamiami Trail 941-256-0190

Even Hotel – Lakewood Ranch 6231 Lake Osprey Dr 941-782-4400

Hampton Inn & Suites 8565 Cooper Creek Blvd 941-355-8619

Hibiscus Suites 1735 Stickney Point Road 941-921-5797

Hyatt Place Lakewood Ranch 6021 Exchange Way 941-946-2357

Hyatt Place Sarasota 950 University Pkwy 941-554-5800

La Quinta Inn & Suites 1803 N. Tamiami Trail 941-366-5128

Residence Inn 1040 University Pkwy. 941-358-1468

Days Inn 5000 N. Tamiami Trail 941-351-7734

Sleep Inn 900 University Pkwy. 941-359-8558

SEBRING

La Quinta Inn 4115 US 27 South 863-386-1000

Magnunson Grand 6525 US 27 North 863-385-4500

Residence Inn 3221 Tubbs Road 863-314-9100

Severn Sebring Hotel 150 Midway Dr 863-655-7200

SPRING HILL

Motel 6 6172 Commercial Way 352-596-2007

TALLAHASSEE

Best Western Pride Inn 2016 Apalachee Parkway 850-656-6312

La Quinta Inn North 2905 N. Monroe St. 850-385-7172

Motel 6 Downtown 1027 Apalachee Parkway 850-877-6171

Motel 6 West 2738 N. Monroe St. 850-386-7878

Quality Inn 3090 N. Monroe St. 850-562-2378

Red Roof Inn

2930 Hospitality Street 850-385-7884

Red Roof Inn 6737 Mahan Drive 850-656-2938

Residence Inn 1880 Raymond Diehl Road 850-422-0093

Residence Inn Universities 600 W. Gaines St. 850-329-9080

Sleep Inn 1695 Capital Circle N.W. 850-575-5885

Staybridge Suites 1600 Summit Lake Drive 850-219-7000

Suburban Extended Stay Hotel 522 Silver Slipper Lane 850-386-2121

TAMPA

Quality Inn-Busch Gardens 2701 E. Fowler Ave. 813-971-4710

Holiday Inn Express 8610 Elm Fair Blvd 813-490-1000

Holiday Inn Express 8310 Galbraith 813-910-7171

Homewood Suites by Hilton Tampa/Brandon 10240 Palm River Road 813-685-7099

Hyatt Place Tampa Airport 4811 W. Main St. 813-282-1037

Residence Inn 4312 W. Boy Scout Blvd. 813-877-7988

Sheraton Tampa East Hotel 10221 Princess Palm Ave 813-623-6363

TEMPLE TERRACE

Residence Inn 13420 N Telcom Parkway 813-972-4400

Towne Place Suites by Marriott 6800 Woodstork Rd 813-975-9777

WINTER HAVEN

Howard Johnson Inn 1300 3rd St SW 863-294-7321

Lake Roy Beach Inn 1825 Cypress Garden Blvd 863-324-6320

Roadway Inn & Suites 1911 Cypress Gardens Blvd. 863-324-5994

PERRY: City will pay former city attorney’s disputed invoices

“The city is supposed to have a dispute resolution policy,” Augello said. “I don’t see one. If the city doesn’t have one, we’re going to need one. We’re potentially in violation of the statute and there’s no way to get Mr. Johnson what he needs.”

Augello said Johnson did not address her letter’s statements about improper billing practices.

“I have no problems with Miss Perry getting paid for the work that she did,” Augello said. “I do think the dispute resolution process is the right way to go.”

Commissioner Ralph Cole said, “If you take the chance to fight it and end up spending $100,000 of taxpayer money, why wouldn’t you just settle it and get it over with?”

Commissioner Robert Talham said, “Pay her and erase it. We’re not only paying her, but we’re paying our lawyer too.”

Commissioner Scott Bear said, “I have a problem with telling her we agree that she worked 25 hours in a 24-hour period, but the bigger issue is

we’re setting a precedent that anyone else could come in and say you’ve done this before. We’re saying we’re always going to fold and make it go away, and that’s a bad position to be in.”

Commissioner Debbie Scaccianoce suggested making an offer for the audited amount of $136,904.

“I think it’s a little unreasonable to demand that we go into this dispute resolution process in four days, considering the fact it was months and months before we got invoices,”

Mayor Chappie said.

During the meeting, Thompson confirmed the city does not have a dispute resolution policy in place.

During Perry’s 21-year tenure as city attorney, a statutorily required dispute resolution process was never put in place.

“We need to get that done,” Chappie said.

After further discussion, commissioners voted unanimously to pay Perry the full $167,674 included in her invoices, to be paid out of the city’s general fund.

Landscape buffering variance request heard

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – A special master hearing was held on June 16 to hear a variance request for a one-foot reduction of the five-foot landscape buffer areas at 2509 Gulf Drive North.

Serving as the city’s special master, attorney Marisa Powers presided over the hearing.

Contracted City Planner Zane Hussein represented the city at the hearing and recommended approval of the variance. Powers said she would prepare her written decision.

The 5,000-square-foot property is owned by Robinhood Holdings, Inc. According to the variance request prepared by the property owner’s representative, Monica Simpson, the property owner seeks to reduce the required five-foot-wide landscaped area to 4 feet, 1 ¾ inches wide along the north property line and reduce it to 4 feet along the south property line – only in the parking areas, in order to maintain the required 24-foot-wide two-way ingress/egress width off Gulf Drive North and the 24-foot-wide two-way drive aisle width.

In a proposed project overview dated April 10, Simpson wrote: “The property lo-

cated at 2509 Gulf Drive North is planned to be developed with ‘beach-related’ retail as the primary land use, along with an accessory land use of rental of beach-related items, excluding the rental of boat or watercraft rentals. Both the principal and accessory use proposed are permitted land uses in the C-2 commercial zoning district. The beach-related retail includes, but may not be limited to, the sale of products catered to the average needs of beachgoers.”

The Sun asked Mayor John Chappie why a special master hearing was held for a variance request. He declined comment but said the city will be looking at the policy for special master hearings.

REAL ESTATE

Prior to the 1930s, homes were purchased with 50% down payments and short-term five-year loans that ended with large balloon payments.

Modern long-term fixed-rate mortgages became common following the Great Depression, when the U.S. government established the Federal Housing Admin istration in 1934. In 1936, the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) created 15- to 30-year amortized loans.

That’s a quick background on the way we do business today, but just because we have a thriving mortgage system doesn’t mean cash transactions aren’t popular.

According to Redfin, in March roughly three in 10 homebuyers (28.8%) paid for residential properties using all cash. That share was down from 29.8% a year earlier. The all-cash purchasing method peaked at nearly 35% in 2023 when mortgage rates hit a two-decade high of almost 8%.

Redfin feels cash buyers have re-

Cash is always king Castles in the Sand

have many advantages. Zero financing usually means zero risk compared to buyers who are waiting to qualify for financing.

cently withdrawn some from the all-cash position. This could be a reflection of the economy leaving buyers with the feeling that dropping a huge chunk of money into a home could be risky and leaving more cash on hand would be preferable.

The markets where all-cash transactions are the most prevalent are Cleveland and West Palm Beach, where more than half of all March home purchases were made in cash in both locations. West Palm Beach attracts a lot of affluent retirees and second homebuyers, while Cleveland has a large number of relatively lower priced homes for sale.

Nevertheless, all-cash transactions still

The all-cash approach usually speeds up the purchasing process because there aren’t any lenders waiting for an appraisal; and it’s not uncommon for cash buyers to waive inspections and repairs in return for offering sellers a quick closing. Cash offers will typically appeal to sellers, particularly in a seller’s market where cash offers stand out. Cash offers are always considered the gold standard of real estate offers.

Published by the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee, the Manatee County sales statistics for May include cash offers. Single-family homes closed 0.5% fewer properties in May this year compared to last year. The median sale price was $460,000, down 3.8%, and the average sale price was $667,503, up 4.5%. Median time to contract was 47 days,

compared to 52 days last year. Pending inventory was up 21.9%. Cash sales were down 0.5%.

Condo sales closed 8.7% more properties this May compared to last May. The median sale price was $297,000, 5.1% less than last year. The average sale price was $341,985, down 1%. Median time to contract was 61 days, compared to 60 days last year. Pending inventory was up 0.6%. Cash sales were up 8.1%.

In addition, inventory was down 15.4% for single-family homes and 20.3% for condos. Declining inventory and an increase in pending inventory are pointing to a lot of buyer activity.

We have a fair and solid mortgage system in this country and we should all be grateful for it. Because of what the government instituted in the 1930s, we’re largely a country of homeowners. However, don’t forget that cash is still king and the envy of all.

ISLAND SPORTS

CENTER SCOREBOARD

ADULT BASKETBALL (SEMIFINALS)

Paddy Wagon’s 14, 21, 22

Q Law Injury Attorneys 21, 17, 5

Luxury Services 22, 21, W

Bradenton Home Inspections 20, 20, L

ADULT BASKETBALL (CHAMPIONSHIP)

Paddy Wagon’s 16, 22, 22

Luxury Services 22, 17, 17

YOUTH INDOOR SOCCER 8-10 (WEEK 1)

USA Fence 6 (1-0-0)

Diamond Turf 4 (0-1-0)

G.I. Bins 12 (1-0-0)

Leading Edge Investments 8 (0-1-0)

YOUTH INDOOR SOCCER 11-14 (WEEK 1)

Solid Rock Construction 5 (1-0-0)

RAK’S Wings N’ Things 3 (0-1-0)

GML Coatings 6 (1-0-0)

82 West Home Inspections 5 (0-1-0)

KEY ROYALE CLUB GOLF SCORES

MONDAY, JUNE 15 - MODIFIED STABLEFORD PLUS SKINS GAME

First place: Mike Cusato, +7

Second place: Tom Nelson +3

Third place: Jerry Martinek, Bill Shuman, +2

Skins: Mike Cusato, hole 5, Tom Nelson hole 2

Tuesday, June 16 - Low Net Score

First place: Helen Pollock, 29

Second place: Jana Samuels, 34 Third place: Sue Wheeler, 35

Thursday, June 18 – Scramble/ Rambler

First place: Ken Nagengast, Jana Samuels, Mike Cusato, Bruce Christenson. +8.

Livedoti, Howcroft win Saturday’s competition

The action was short and sweet on Wednesday, June 17, as Steve Kriebel and Gersey Fernandes 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 20, Dom Livedoti and Gary Howcroft, pictured, teamed up to beat the heat and their competition after they won the final match 22-16 over Steve Doyle and Fernandes.

BEACH BEAT

HOLMES BEACH

June 15, 3:50 p.m., Manatee Beach. Trespass warning. A Holmes Beach police officer was dispatched to Manatee Beach, at 4000 Gulf Drive, in reference to a suspicious person causing issues and recording females on the beach. A Manatee

Beach Patrol lieutenant told the officer he received complaints from a few female beach patrons who stated the man was recording them and making them feel uncomfortable. Beach Patrol asked the man, a 51-year-old Pennsylvania resident, to leave voluntarily and told him he would be permitted to return the next day. The man felt his rights were being violated and he refused to leave. Beach Patrol requested that he be formally trespassed from the beach. He was issued a trespass warning and he left the area.

3

BRIDGE: Seafood Shack property to be used as construction staging area

FROM PAGE 1

Manatee County Commission Chair Tal Siddique said, “The two actions we’re requesting today is to authorize staff to negotiate with SEMA Construction, Inc. regarding the terms and conditions of a transaction whereupon SEMA Construction would be permitted to enter upon the county-owned property in Cortez and perform certain work and services and then to prepare such agreement to return the matter to the board for potential approval at a future meeting.”

County Attorney Pamela D’Agostino said, “The right of entry that’s before the board right now would end on Aug. 17, 2026, so it’s only meant to be a short-term instrument. If the board wanted a longer-term agreement that would come back before the board at another time.”

Manatee County purchased the Seafood Shack and marina property for $13 million on Dec. 31, 2024, with the stated intention of turning the parcel into a public boat launch and marina. Two longtime businesses, Annie’s Bait & Tackle and the Seafood Shack restaurant, were demolished after the county purchased the property. Later, when it was determined that funding for a marina and boat ramps was not available, county commissioners discussed creating a park there. They have also discussed

the property being used as a landing site for the county’s Gulf Islands Ferry service.

SEMA REQUEST

FDOT recently stated the construction of the new Cortez Bridge is expected to start in early September and take approximately four years to complete.

On June 16, SEMA requested the county commission execute a right-of-entry agreement with an initial 60-day term to allow county staff and the county attorney’s office time to draft the appropriate documents needed for a long-term agreement to be presented for commission approval after the commission’s upcoming summer recess.

In exchange, SEMA proposed, at its cost, to construct an area to park, store and fuel the county’s Gulf Islands Ferry boats; to remove within 120 days the vacant house at 4327 127th Street W. and the utilities and improvements attached to the house; to restore the sheet pile wall areas damaged by Hurricane Milton; to construct a bypass road from 127th Street W. to 126th Street W.; and to construct a paved area for use by the county.

Much of the discussion during the June 16 meeting centered around how much of the 5.9-acre county-owned parcel would be used for bridgerelated construction activities and whether it should be used at all for those purposes.

At issue was whether SEMA access should be limited to using zones one, three and four at the south end of the property to stage construction vehicles and materials, or to also include zones two and five for construction employee parking and a construction trailer at the north end of the parcel, which would effectively utilize most of the Seafood Shack property.

“This (bridge) project has challenges with access. DOT does have right of way to the south of the existing structure,” SEMA representative Justin Oakes said.

“There’s room for offloading of materials there, but there’s not enough room for equipment and the delivery truck so the truck would have to sit in a lane closure to offload that truck to a barge directly over the waterway.”

The FDOT right of way Oakes referenced currently encompasses most of the parking area for the Tide Tables restaurant on the south side of Cortez Road.

“The right of way is about 10 feet from the front of Tide Tables,” Manatee County Director of Public Works Chad Butzow said.

“I believe that’s how the DOT contemplated access,” Oakes said, adding there are no restrictions in the SEMA contract with DOT regarding lane closure times or durations.

Siddique said he has been in contact with surrounding businesses, particularly Tide Tables.

“With a project of this scale, it’s impossible not to have an impact on the area, so the reality is we have a property that can make construction easier and faster because you’re not dealing with road crossings,” Siddique said. “It seems like we’re getting a good deal out of it. I’m in favor of the arrangement.” Oakes said SEMA hopes to use parcel five for employee parking to avoid taking parking spaces away

BRIDGE: Seafood Shack property to be used as construction staging area

from the local businesses that currently use the FDOT rights of way for parking.

“The Tide Tables restaurant would have little or no parking in that area, so we were trying to solve those problems as well as lane closures for deliveries on a consistent basis,” Oakes said.

Commissioner George Kruse questioned the reason behind using the entire Seafood Shack property.

“You can’t make what you want to make work with just parcels one and three and four? You’re taking all of it?” Kruse said. “We spent over $13 million on that and to say we’re getting a good deal? This is a terrible deal. $300,000 worth of work for four years of leasing our property works out to about a 0.5% return. That’s about $75,000 a year to lease multiple acres of waterfront property, while we carry $13 million of cost.”

Kruse asked about alternative options.

“When this bridge was being contemplated, Seafood Shack was a privately owned restaurant before we bought it. You had no idea you even had the opportunity to use this. DOT had no idea that this was going to be available, so clearly there was an alternative option,” Kruse said.

“The tradeoff is there’s going to be a temporary road built while there’s heavy construction starting early in the morning. There’s residences surrounding this place that thought they were getting a boat ramp. They hoped they were getting a green space. I understand the inconvenience of building a bridge, but this isn’t an inconvenience, this is a big ask,” Kruse said.

Kruse said he was not in favor of the proposal, but he later joined the other commissioners in supporting the initial three-parcel proposal.

“I’m not a fan and I don’t think we’re being appropriately compensated for what we’re going to put people out for the loss of a park, as well as a loss of quality of life,” he said.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

During public comment, Cody Lee said, “The citizens bought that land with our property taxes. Do the citizens get to decide what goes in there or is this just turned over to a private company and they get to decide?”

Cove Pointe Condominium Association President Mark Silagyi said, “It’s been six months since planners were to create two conceptual plans for this area, as well to develop a proposal to develop some green space area for Manatee County citizens to use until it was permanently decided what was going to happen. What is the status of that? You’re proposing to use 4.6 acres

SUBMITTED | MANATEE COUNTY

A sketch of the proposed bypass roadway from 127th Street to 126th Street was submitted by SEMA.

of the 5.9 acres of this and yet when we’ve done research on similar bridge projects it’s suggesting you’d need one to three acres for staging.”

Silagyi said the priority should be the bypass roads and the sidewalks for the 300 residents on the north side of Cortez Road.

“We’re going to be living with this for four years and we’ve already lost this property value for two years,” he added.

Mariners Cove Homeowners Association President Mike Albert said, “We have homeowners trying to sell with diminished property values. We’ve made our home here. Our dreams are coming true here, but we don’t want this to be another six years of hell for us. We want to have a sunset on this lease agreement.”

District 4 county commission candidate Glen Gibellina said, “Don’t make your problem my problem – and that’s exactly what you’re doing to those residents out there.”

COMMISSIONER COMMENTS

“I think we have philosophical differences over the tangible and intangible benefits,” Siddique said. “There’s a perception we’re not getting the value out of it, but I choose to take a different approach that there’s a mutual benefit and not everything requires you go dollar-for-dollar. I would like to see something that also contemplates a case in which the construction takes five years or six years and we have some contemplation for our own project whether we do a boat ramp or a marina. Right now, there’s no money for it.”

“The concept of this conversation was the long term,” Kruse said. “I think we need more money for it and I think it should be less space. I do not agree that it should be more than parcels one and three. I think this is a mistake. I think three years from now, when there’s still pilings there and we’re looking at another two- to three-year minimum to build this bridge, it’s going to take six-plus years. That’s how government works. All those people around there are going to be miserable and people on this board are going to be answering questions about

what we did with the $13 million of the money we put in a pile and set on fire to give DOT free space to store materials.”

Siddique said in terms of voting to formalize the right of entry agreement, the board could focus on properties one, three and four and bring the discussion about the additional parcels back to the board in the future.

“We need a defined end time,” Kruse said. “Once they get started, they’re not stopping. It could take 10 years and if it does there’s not a thing we can do because the entire incentive we’re

being provided with is built upon a scare tactic of the worst possible case scenario. Our incentive is not to watch the world burn on the south side of Cortez if we don’t give our land to somebody effectively for free.”

“I prefer nothing, but I can be convinced to having a right of entry on (parcels) one and three and then saying go find parking,” Kruse said. “It keeps everything away from the houses and creates a passive park so we can do something with our $13 million and not just collect 0.5% return on it.”

FUN IN THE SUN

BOAT TOURS

DISCOVER THE BEST

ANNA MARIA ISLAND

DOLPHIN TOUR—see wild dolphins, crystal-clear waters, and stunning coastal views. Family-friendly, guided boat tours with local experts. Book your unforgettable dolphin tour in Anna Maria Island today with Manatee River Boat Rentals and Watersports! 941-932-3700

COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE

HAVE YOU BEEN thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! Duplexes, multi family, small resorts? Call BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216

CLEANING SERVICE

TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING: Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570 or 941-565-3931

EMPLOYMENT

ACCOUNTANT/BOOK-

KEEPER NEEDED part time for a small HVAC company in Bradenton. Please send resume/inquiry to Sales@ ckphvac.com or Rae@ ckphvac.com

NOW HIRING: The White Egret & The Egret's Nest

We are seeking creative individuals to fill both part time and full time positions at our boutiques! Flexible days but some weekend availability required. Please inquire in person, drop off a resume or call 941-778-3782 for an interview appointment.

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

RENOVATION SPECALIST

ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-725-0073.

KERN & GILDER CONSTRUCTION, INC New Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CBC 1261150. Call the Office. 941-778-1115. OFFICE ADDRESS: 1878 59th Street W Bradenton, FL 34209

GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 20+ years. Call Neil. Cell 941-9621194

JSAN CORPORATION

Renovations Construction & Handyman Services 941-243-0995 Lic# CRC1332505 jsancorporation@gmail. com Flooring, Drywall, Painting, Repairs, Kitchen and Bathrooms, Trim & Doors. Free Estimates. Credit Cards Accepted.

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

LOCAL ISLAND RESIDENT 30+ years of experience. Licensed & insured. Professional Services. Carpentry, Painting, Drywall and More. Reliable, Honest, Quality work. FREE estimates- Call Brian 941-220-8300

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE

R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941

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

MOVING & STORAGE

MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-8095777.

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING

PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507

“WIZARD OF WALLS”

Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Wallpaper installation/ removal. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455

DONALD PERKINS ABRACADABRA PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941-705-7096

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

PEST CONTROL

ANNA MARIA PEST CONTROL Call 941-7781630

POOL SERVICES

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

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY

RENOURISHMENT: County Commission approves$6.18 million for beach renourishment

FROM PAGE 1

reimbursement from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the state.

According to the press release, the board’s action helps position the county to take advantage of a coordinated construction effort that is expected to generate substantial savings for local, state and federal partners.

The renourishment project will restore critically eroded shorelines within the federally authorized Central Beach Segment, extending from approximately 79th Street North in Holmes Beach to Fifth Street South in Bradenton Beach, as well as the shoreline areas at Cortez Beach and Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach.

The beach renourishment project is currently scheduled to begin in November and be completed in March or April 2027.

“By advancing these funds now, Manatee County can coordinate beach recovery efforts with our state and federal partners – reducing overall construction costs while accelerating restoration of some of our com-

munity’s most valuable coastal assets,” Manatee County Director of Natural Resources Charlie Hunsicker said in the press release.

The press release notes the coordinated project combines multiple restoration efforts into a single construction mobilization, avoiding the need for separate contractor deployments and generating significant cost efficiencies. County officials estimate this collaborative approach will save approximately $4 million in mobilization costs while maximizing

available state and federal funding opportunities.

“The beach renourishment effort is part of Manatee County’s ongoing commitment to protecting coastal infrastructure, supporting tourism, enhancing storm resilience and preserving the beaches that serve as both recreational destinations and natural barriers during coastal storm events,” the press release says.

When contacted later by email, Hunsicker said, “The last renourishment covering the city of Holmes

Beach, beginning at 79th Street North and extending south to Fifth Street South in Bradenton Beach, was completed in 2020. The first renourishment of this area was completed between November 1992 and April 1993. Approximately 6 million cubic yards of sand have been added to the beach system as a result of six successive renourishment episodes. Approximately 1 million cubic yards of sand is scheduled to be added to this total when the November 2026 to April 2027 project is completed.”