Beach improvement projects coming
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
MANATEE COUNTY – Anna Maria Island beach renourishment is scheduled for 2026-27 at federal expense, but Manatee County must pay to stabilize Gulf Drive, install offshore erosion control breakwaters and repair the Longboat Pass jetty, the county’s beach official said.
During a joint meeting of the Manatee County Commission and the Town of Longboat Key on May 7, Manatee County Natural Resources Director Charlie Hunsicker gave a presentation on storm recovery and beach renourishment.
“Our contract with the federal government says if we lose the beach to a hurricane or a single major event, what’s called an emergency condition… the federal government will return to rebuild
Sand dunes were destroyed on AMI's beaches by 2024 hurricanes. The beaches are scheduled for renourishment and several other improvements in coming years, including the installation of offshore breakwaters to provide erosion control.
your project at 100% federal cost including putting in dunes to replace the ones lost,” Hunsicker said. “So we’re in a very fortunate position Island-wide, but that still leaves us with the full burden of cost for these other features at Coquina and Cortez Beach.”
BEACH RENOURISHMENT
The first Anna Maria Island beach renourishment was in 1992.
“Up until 1992, 9 miles of Anna Maria beaches left us only 30%
Several ferry landing options were discussed but no decisions were made.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Manatee County and Anna Maria officials spent an hour or so last week discussing five potential Gulf Islands Ferry landing locations at or near the City Pier.
During the May 8 city commission meeting, the pros and cons of the proposed landing areas were discussed but no decisions were made. A countyfunded ferry landing built alongside or near the City Pier requires city commission approval.
Last October, Hurricane Milton destroyed a large section of the City Pier walkway, taking with it the boat landing that had served as the Anna Maria ferry stop since January 2024. Mayor Mark Short and the city commissioners are unified in their belief that replacing the hurricane-damaged pier walkway and reopening the pier is their top priority and the ferry landing is an important but secondary concern. It was stated during a recent TDC meeting that the county-contracted Gulf Islands Ferry Service is not expected to resume in Anna Maria until August 2027.
The ferry service currently consists of two 49-passenger, open-air pontoon boats traveling on the Manatee River and the Intracoastal Waterway between downtown Bradenton and the Bradenton Beach Pier. The county expects to add a larger and heavier boat to the fleet later this summer. The new boat will seat approximately 76 passengers inside and 22 people outside and handle the Bradenton/Anna Maria river route. The two pontoon boats will serve as ‘Island hoppers’ traveling between Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Coquina Beach, and potentially Holmes Beach.
Holmes Beach Commissioner, ferry proponent and Tourist Development Council (TDC) member Dan Diggins attended the May 8 meeting but didn’t participate in the discussion.
The county was represented by Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Elliott Falcione, Natural Resources Director Charlie Hunsicker and county consultants Thomas Pierro and Morjana Signorin.
Anna Maria Island, Florida The Island’s award-winning weekly
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Beach erosion caused by flooding during Hurricane Helene in September 2024 uncovered rocks like these up and down Anna Maria Island's beaches.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
ISLAND NEWS
IN BRIEF
Planning board member sought
The city of Anna Maria is currently accepting applications to fill a vacant seat on the Planning and Zoning Board. “This volunteer board plays a vital role in guiding the growth and development of our community by reviewing land use proposals, zoning changes and development plans in accordance with local ordinances and the comprehensive plan,” according to the city website. Applicants must be a resident of Anna Maria and the board member appointed by the city commission will serve the remainder of the current term, which expires on May 8, 2026, with the potential for reappointment when the partial term expires. An application can be downloaded or printed at www. cityofannamaria.com/media/4596. An application can also be obtained in person at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive. Completed applications can be emailed to amadmin@ cityofannamaria.com or dropped off at city hall. For more information, contact Executive Assistant Barbara Jeffries at the above email address or call 941-708-6130.
CRA bill withdrawn
The Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) canceled a scheduled May 8 meeting to prioritize projects after a state legislative bill that would have restricted the spending of the agencies was withdrawn. CRA Chair Scott Bear characterized the withdrawal of the bill as a “relief.” Senate Bill 1242 was “indefinitely postponed and withdrawn from consideration,” according to the Florida Senate website. The bill proposed that existing CRAs not initiate any new projects or issue any new debt after Oct. 1, 2025.
City installing new bike racks
Twenty silver, stainless steel bike racks are being placed throughout the city of Anna Maria. On May 8, General Manager Dean Jones told city commissioners that the first bike rack was placed at the end of Spring Avenue near the Sandbar restaurant. Additional bike racks will be placed at City Pier Park, near beach access points and at other locations that generate a lot of foot traffic. Mayor Mark Short said several city bike racks washed away during Hurricanes Helene and Milton and the new bike racks are part of the city’s ongoing efforts to promote alternative forms of transportation. “Ride your bike as opposed to trying to find a parking spot,” the mayor said.
Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.
Bradenton Beach in line for federal hurricane relief
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – City commissioners met with Manatee County Grants Manager Michelle Davis on May 8 to learn more about the county’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Disaster Relief funds for municipalities.
The funds for specific storm-related projects are to be allocated in proportion to their percentage of the population in the county. Of the 441,095 Manatee County residents, Bradenton Beach, with its 916 residents, will be allotted $530,069.
“As you know we had three horrific storms for 2024 and because the president declared a disaster and Congress appropriated funding, because of that, for Manatee County as a whole, we received $252,711,000,” Davis said. “We established Lasting Manatee as a way to be able to do all of this because basically we wanted show that is to
heal the county and strengthen it for future storms.”
The key characteristic of the grant is that 70% of the funding has to go to low- to moderate-income areas because it is funded by the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
National objectives of the program are to benefit low- to moderateincome areas, support the prevention or improvement of deteriorating conditions within neighborhoods and to meet urgent needs.
“There is a minimum of 15% that has to be done as mitigation. We can do as much as 100% for mitigation. The difference is only 15% can be mitigation without a tieback to the storm,” Davis said. “That is something that was damaged from the storm and we either want to repair it or make it stronger.”
Commissioner Ralph Cole asked if funding can be used toward city infrastructure.
“Absolutely,” Davis said. “As long as you can prove that will help to mitigate when you are in a storm situation.”
Categories for funding include housing, restoration of infrastructure, economic revitalization and public services.
“This is both for healing and for strengthening,” Davis said.
Mayor John Chappie said some possible funding for the city to look at would be street repairs, stormwater improvements and undergrounding power lines.
The program timeline is:
• Allocation of unmet need – now
• Manatee County Commission approval of draft action plan - May 20
• Draft action plan published for public comment - May 21
• Public hearings for comments/ feedback - May 21-June 20
• Submission of action plan to HUD - June 20.
Block party to be held at City Pier Park
The city of Anna Maria will host a public block party under the City Pier Park shade sail structure on Saturday, May 24 from 5-8 p.m. The city’s block party is inspired by previous block parties and regular gatherings hosted by city residents and by Mayor Mark Short and Commissioner Charlie Salem’s shared desire to foster and strengthen Anna Maria’s sense of community. The low-key, potluck-style/BYOB event is intended for residents, guests and visitors; attendees are asked to bring their own chairs. At the request of Commissioner Chris Arendt, Commissioner Gary McMullen will lend the city his portable propane griddle so warm dishes can be kept warm and shared with others. The Stockton Brothers will provide live music. When announcing the block party on May
8, Short said he attended a residents’ block party last month and ran into many residents he hadn’t seen since Hurricanes Helene and Milton struck the Island last fall. “Nothing fancy, nothing formal,” he said of the city’s upcoming block party. Arendt
said he also attended a recent block party and he loves the idea of the city hosting similar events on a monthly or quarterly basis. In agreement, Short said, “It’s all about sense of community. I do think it’s something we should be pursuing.”
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
A city-hosted block party will be held under the City Pier Park shade sail structure on May 24.
email:
The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff
Owner | CEO
Mike Field
Editor
Cindy Lane
General Manager
Bob Alexander
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
Connor Field
Tony McNulty
Brian Smith
Accounting
Leslie Ketchum
Co-founding publishers
Mike Field
Maggie McGinley Field
Family-owned since
Longboard
ON THE AGENDA
ANNA MARIA
10005 GULF DRIVE
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130
Visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information.
Tuesday, May 13, 11 a.m., IT Infrastructure and Support Services RFQ 25-001 bid opening Friday, May 16, 11 a.m., City Pier Demolition and Debris Removal RFP 25-001 bid opening
Wednesday, May 21, 9 a.m., Planning and Zoning Board meeting Thursday, May 22, 10 a.m., City Commission meeting
BRADENTON BEACH
107 GULF DRIVE N. FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005
Visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information. Wednesday, May 21, 1 p.m., Scenic WAVES Committee meeting
Drop us a line
Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment? Is there something you need to get off your chest? Send us a letter to the editor and have your say. There are a couple of ways to do it. The easiest and most direct is to email The Sun at news@amisun. com. Remember to put Letter to the Editor in the subject field. Or you can
snail-mail a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun, P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Letters should be kept to 300 words or less and must contain your name and the city in which you reside. Personal attacks and obscene language will not be printed. The Sun reserves the right to edit letters for length or content.
HOLMES BEACH
5801 MARINA DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800
Visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information.
Tuesday, May 13, 2 p.m., City Commission meeting
Wednesday, May 14, 9 a.m., Clean Water Ad Hoc Committee
EVENTS
TUESDAY, MAY 13 – SUNDAY, MAY 18
“Grace & Glorie,” Island Players theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. 7:30 p.m. (2 p.m. on Sundays). For tickets call 941-778-5755 or visit www.theislandplayers.org.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 14
Off Stage Ladies of the Island Players monthly luncheon, The Feast restaurant, 5406 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:45 a.m. with guest speaker “Grace & Glorie” director Jim Thaggard.
Artists’ Guild receives recovery grant
The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island (AGAMI) was awarded a $5,000 grant from the Glazer Family Small Business Fund to help with hurricane recovery needs for the art gallery at 5414 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach. The Glazer family that owns the Tampa Bay Buccaneers created the fund to assist small businesses in the Tampa Bay and West
Central Florida regions impacted by the 2024 hurricane season. “The generosity and support we are receiving from the Glazer Family Small Business Fund program and managed through the Manatee Chamber of Commerce is very much appreciated. This grant award is greatly helping us to cover our recovery costs. This ensures that the AGAMI gallery will continue to serve our community as a vibrant local art business,” AGAMI President Kathy Lee Patterson said in the press release. Learn more about the Artists’ Guild at www.amiartistsguildgallery.com.
Dumpsters placed at beach access points
Three-yard dumpsters have replaced trash cans at four street-end beach access points in Anna Maria. When discussing the switch from trash cans to dumpsters at a recent city commission meeting, General Manager Dean Jones said the switch was inspired by a resident who complained about overflowing trash cans near a beach access. Dumpsters were then placed at the Willow Avenue, Palm Avenue, Magnolia Avenue and Spring Avenue beach access points. Jones said the dumpsters help
eliminate the trash spillage that occurs when trash cans overflow, thus alleviating the need for city personnel to clean
up the spilled trash. The beach access signs that list the city’s beach regulations have also been updated.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
A 3-yard dumpster was recently placed near the beach access at the corner of Palm Avenue and Gulf Boulevard.
Turtle Watch monitoring black skimmer colony
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH
– Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird
Monitoring volunteers
continue to watch the black skimmer colony in and around the area they posted at the end of April.
Volunteers expanded the closure this week to protect the courting birds from pedestrian and vehicular traffic. However, over the past few days, the colony’s numbers have been dwindling, which may indicate that they have chosen to nest elsewhere.
“While the protective closure is in place, please keep your distance from the closure and do not disturb resting birds. We want to make sure that we keep the beach as welcoming as possible!” Turtle Watch Executive Director Kristen Mazzarella said in a press release.
skimmers has been seen on Bradenton Beach.
MAUREEN RICHMOND | SUBMITTED
Here are some tips to help protect shorebirds:
• Respect posted areas. Keep away from nesting and resting areas and use designated walkways.
• Place trash in its proper place and do not feed wildlife. Food scraps attract predators such as raccoons and crows to the beaches. Litter on beaches can entangle birds.
• Keep your distance. If birds become agitated or leave their nests you are too close. Stay at least 300 feet
ASK TURTLE WATCH
Students from Anna Maria Elementary School submitted questions to Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring Executive Director Kristen Mazzarella about sea turtles. Each week two of their questions and Mazzarella’s answers will be featured in The Sun.
Ms. Flynn’s Kindergarten ClassWhat do sea turtles eat?
Loggerheads like to eat crunchy things
away from a shorebird nest.
• Do not bring dogs on Anna Maria Island beaches; it is illegal.
• Do not intentionally force birds to fly. When birds are chased or disturbed, they use energy they need to reserve for nesting and migration.
• If you see people disturbing nesting birds, call and report their activities to FWC's Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).
like crabs, clams and urchins. They have big heads and jaws to help them crush the shells of these critters. Green sea turtles mostly eat seaweed and algae. They have serrated (rough) jaws that help them rip these plants.
Ms. VanWormer’s Kindergarten class - How many eggs does the mama turtle lay in the nest?
A mother turtle will lay an average of 100-120 eggs in each nest. She also lays five to seven nests each season - one every two weeks.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
Slicker’s celebrates four years
CORTEZ – Slicker’s Eatery is celebrating its fourth anniversary on Saturday, May 17 under a giant tent with live music, food, raffles and prizes.
After being closed down for 128 days following extensive damage to the restaurant from Hurricane Helene and the long haul back to reopening the doors, the anniversary has special significance to owner Bob Slicker and his staff.
The actual anniversary of the restaurant was in February, but Slicker wanted to celebrate resilience following the storms.
“It’s means more now than it did before. We were excited about the
way things were going before the hurricane,” Slicker said. “It was like opening a whole other restaurant, we changed the concept a bit, we changed the style a bit and we added a lot of things to the menu for the economy and Cortez.”
He has added burgers, bratwurst, wings and pretzels to the menu.
“It’s interesting, it’s like starting over again,” Slicker said. “Our fourth anniversary is almost like a first year. We really changed everything purposely to help the (Cortez) village. Everyone’s going to be tight on money, there aren’t as many tourists, which means the locals are going to have less money.”
Slicker maintains a positive
attitude and has been involved in charitable initiatives through the Anna Maria Island Rotary Club, which has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to local causes.
“We’ve overcome quite a bit here, so for us this is really parallel to life, and how we deal with life and get through it and stay strong and stay happy and stay loving and kind,” Slicker said. “The last four years haven’t turned out how I wanted it to because of the struggles, but overall, spiritually and emotionally I couldn’t expect any more.”
Christine Olson, the founder of TIFF (To Inform Families First) will be available at the anniversary
celebration to have people sign up for the initiative to link emergency contacts to a driver’s license.
“Because of Christine, in Florida we think it’s common to have that on your license. Now there’s 18 states doing that, and we would like to be nationwide by Oct. 26,” Slicker said. “We would like it to be going worldwide.”
The four-year anniversary celebration will be from 4-10 p.m. at Slicker’s Eatery, 12012 Cortez Road W.
There will be live music by Steve Paradis, a liquor basket raffle and prizes. Burgers, brats and chicken sandwiches will be available outside as well as the full menu inside.
It’s tarpon time off Anna Maria Island
arpon are one of the premier gamefish that swim local waters and are a noble adversary on any tackle. The fish that frequent our beaches during the months of May through August can weigh over 200 pounds and average from 80-100 pounds. We are blessed with some of the best tarpon fishing in the world, and the local bars and inshore waters host some of the finest fly and spin fishing to be found anywhere. This isn’t a game of numbers and, to the anglers who pursue tarpon, it’s the hunt and the action that keeps them on the bow for hours in the hot summer sun. Tackle should match the size of the quarry and most anglers opt for a 20- to 30-pound spin outfit and an 11- to 12-weight fly rod, line and reel. A heavy bite tippet is required because of the size
of tarpon and their rasp-like mouth. Fly anglers generally use 60- to 80-pound tippet, while spin anglers choose 80- to 100-pound test.
While it might seem like a difficult task to land a tarpon on the fly, or any tackle for that matter, an angler who knows the limits of his/her tackle can actually land a tarpon in a surprisingly short time. The key is to apply maximum pressure from the hookup and never let up.
Too many anglers baby their tarpon in a misguided attempt to land them. The truth is that the longer you fight a tarpon the better chance you have of losing it.
A properly (IGFA-approved) tied tarpon leader used by fly fishers usually runs between 10-12 feet and is tapered to properly deliver the fly. The leader includes a class tippet (weakest link) from 16-20 pounds that is doubled at both ends to soften the (shock) impact to the class tippet and bite tippet.
Key to the whole equation is to have a very sharp hook as tarpon have extremely tough mouths. Conventional leaders vary from angler to angler, but a doubled
standing line tied to a leader and then to the bite tippet with a blood knot or Albright Special is recommended.
Key’s style to more complex designs like the Toad, and various baitfish imitations. Some fly anglers are not concerned with actually landing a tarpon, preferring to just enjoy the hunt, the hookup and the jumps that usually follow the hook set. They use light bite tippets, which allow the tarpon to work through the leader with their abrasive mouths.
The key to landing tarpon on the fly is accuracy. The fly must be placed perfectly,
move in a precise direction relative to the fish and be at the proper (fishes’) depth. Even when all of these factors come together, there’s still about a 50% chance that the tarpon will reject the fly.
The go-to bait for spin anglers is a live crab. Small blue crabs can be purchased from many bait shops and pass crabs can be dipped from the local passes on a falling tide. Other effective baits include pinfish, threadfin herring and pilchards. Artificial lures like the DOA Bait Buster and the 4and 6-inch shrimp, jigs and even topwater plug can be effective.
Patience is a critical factor when fishing for tarpon, especially when fly fishing. The most successful anglers find the edge of a sandbar or other underwater feature that tarpon track, anchor in casting range and wait. Sometimes tarpon come at a steady rate, but just as often there are long periods of time when the only thing to look at is the water and the bottom. This really separates the great anglers from the good anglers. There are times when you need to move, but knowing when and where is a skill that is developed if never mastered.
RUSTY CHINNIS
FERRY: Landing discussions continue
FROM PAGE 1
Options A, D and E propose constructing a stand-alone ferry dock near the Lake La Vista channel and jetty. Options A and D are closer to shore and would require dredging. Option E is in deeper water, almost parallel with the T-end of the pier, and would not require dredging.
Option C proposes a ferry dock constructed along the northwest side of the pier walkway, between the shoreline and the City Pier Grill building. Option B proposes a ferry dock constructed off the far end of the pier. Options C and B wouldn’t require dredging but would require a gangway that connects the ferry dock and the pier.
All five options propose wave attenuator walls that would help offset the wind, waves, currents and other conditions that impact docking, and all five options were subjected to extensive computer modeling that predicts how each option would be impacted by those natural conditions. Additional factors to consider include water depth, seagrass and
This diagram illustrates all five ferry landing scenarios.
marine life habitats, dredging needs, permitting requirements and cost.
The county presentation lists option D (by the jetty) and C (alongside the pier walkway) as the top two options. Using cost figures that are now 18 months old, the county presentation lists an estimated $1.2 million price tag for option D and $600,000 for option C.
Falcione said the county seeks the city’s input on how to proceed and he personally prefers the two pier-based options.
“We’re at a fork in the road,” he said of the ongoing decision making processes.
CONCERNS, CONSIDERATIONS
City officials aren’t sure the City Pier can accommodate a larger, heavier ferry. Participating by phone, Commissioner John Lynch asked how many more passengers would arrive and depart from the City Pier aboard the larger boat. The county representatives didn’t have that
MAY 23-AUGUST 30
THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY 7PM & 9P M
MANATEE COUNTY | SUBMITTED
REAL ESTATE
It hasn’t been pretty for condo own ers in the Sunshine State since the collapse of the Champlain Towers South in 2021. After this tragedy, laws were passed requiring “milestone inspections” of older buildings and “structural integrity reserve studies” to determine how much money should be saved for future major repairs.
Florida condo owners get a break Castles in the Sand
The milestone inspections were supposed to be completed by the end of 2024 for certain older buildings that are three stories or higher. Some condo associations hit owners with large assessments in the race to comply with the deadline.
On April 30, the Florida Legislature unanimously approved changing some of the condo laws enacted after the Champlain Towers collapse. HB 913 was passed to the governor’s desk, and he is expected to sign it into law. One of the changes was to extend by one year the structural integrity studies to Dec. 31 of this year. Hopefully, this will help some associations, but others will still struggle to meet the new deadlines.
Another change in the bill says the
LOUISE BOLGER
milestone inspections and structural reserve studies apply to buildings that have three or more habitable stories. Current law requires the buildings to have three stories or more, not specifying whether the ground floor is habitable. I remember at the time the original law was enacted, the definition of three stories was confusing, so clarifying this is an important point. It also could change how some condo buildings are evaluated going forward.
The bill will also allow for a temporary pause in reserve funding for two years immediately following a milestone inspection. This will give condo associations flexibility on meeting reserve requirements and also allow associations to use lines of credit or loans to satisfy reserve obligations if a majority of owners approve.
Under current law, the structural reserve studies target features that affect building structural integrity or safety, including roofs, plumbing, electrical systems, windows and exterior doors. The studies also include other items that have deferred maintenance expenses of more than $10,000, which the bill raises to $25,000.
Finally, the new measures also address education requirements of condominium association managers and management companies. In Florida, all newly-elected or appointed directors of HOA and condominium associations must complete a new board member education course within 90 days. This requirement also includes annual continuing education hours, with the amount varying based on the size of the association. The educational curriculum must include training on financial literacy and transparency recordkeeping, levying of fines and notice and meeting requirements.
The new law makes training mandatory for Florida condominium board members. Non-compliance by a director who fails to timely comply with the certification and
training requirements may be suspended from board services.
Associations with fewer than 2,500 parcels require at least 4 hours of continuing education annually. Associations with 2,500 or more parcels require at least 8 hours of continuing education annually.
In a variety of ways, educating board members is the most important issue to come out of this legislation. Many condo associations would not be in their current financial and possibly dangerous positions if their boards were better informed.
The spirit of the legislation as I see it is to keep condominium structures safe for residents and to give owners and associations some financial relief. Many homeowners in southern Florida are having to make a choice of whether or not they are going to leave their beloved Florida homes. HB 913, when finally approved, will give them some financial breathing room without giving up the structural integrity of their homes. It’s a rare thing to see all of government come together and agree; something to celebrate.
FERRY: Landing discussions continue
information but Falcione said he’d get it. Lynch also questioned how the increased passenger loads might impact the land-based infrastructure near the pier.
During public input, city resident and Planning and Zoning Board member Jeff Rodencal shared similar concerns. Regarding a pier-based ferry landing, he theorized there could be a hundred people getting off the large ferry, a hundred people waiting to board the large ferry and another 30-40 people waiting for a smaller ferry headed for another Island destination. He questioned where all those passengers would sit or stand on the pier while waiting for their boat.
“The logistics of moving people through that period and that time has to part of this project,” Rodencal said.
Pier tenant and City Pier Grill operator Brian Seymour can’t resume his business operations until the pier reopens and he expressed his concern that ferries coming close to shore would endanger manatees, dolphins, sea turtles and other marine life.
The logistics of moving people through that period and that time has to be part of this project.”
Jeff Rodencal, Anna Maria resident
He also expressed concerns about a landing alongside the pier walkway becoming dislodged during a hurricane and damaging the pier.
“I think B gives us the best option,” he said of his preferred pier-end option.
Regarding stand-alone jetty-based options, Seymour questioned how many ferry passengers would come ashore and then walk 900 feet back out to the T-end of the pier. As a pier-based business operator, he doesn’t see a financial benefit with that scenario.
Raising another consideration, Hunsicker said the county is constantly challenged by non-boaters fishing at county boat ramps and leaving their lines in the water when boats approach. He said this could be a problem on the City Pier unless an “all lines up” policy is in place during ferry arrivals and departures. Seymour said the L-shaped areas where the pier walkway meets the T-end are heavily fished but “No Fishing Beyond This Point” signs could be placed at the far end of the pier to accommodate the pier-end option.
Commissioner Gary McMullen agreed with Seymour’s assessment that more people would prefer to see a dock structure at the end of the pier than alongside the pier.
The discussion ended with Commission Chair Charlie Salem thanking the county representatives for their work and their presentation.
“There’s a lot of stuff to consider here and we’re obviously anxious to get going with our rebuild, but we know this is an important part of restoring ferry service. I look forward to continuing discussion,” Salem said.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Left, City Pier tenant Brian Seymour, left, shared his thoughts on the proposed ferry landing scenarios. Right, county staff members Elliott Falcione and Charlie Hunsicker addressed the mayor and city commission.
Center of Anna Maria Island soccer, basketball scores
8- TO 10-YEAR-OLD DIVISION - WEEK 5
Beach Bums 3 (4-0-1)
The Fish Guy Aquarium Services 1 (1-4)
Shady Lady
Horticultural Services 4 (1-3-1)
Adrian Griffin Interiors 2 (0-3-2)
Moss Builders 4 (3-0-2) Solid Rock Construction 1 (2-1-2)
11- TO 13-YEAR-OLD DIVISION – WEEK 6
AMI Outfitters 4 (1-5) Solid Rock Construction 3 (2-4)
La Creperie 7 (6-0)
Left, Tom Skoloda, Tim Sofran and Gersey Fernandes teamed up and posted the only 3-0 record during pool play to win the day’s competition on May 7 at Anna Maria Horseshoes. Two teams went 3-0 on May 10 and met in the final. This time, Sofran teamed up with Gersey Fernandes and beat Tom Farrington and Steve Augustine 21-9 and entered the winner's circle.
Moss Builders 7 (3-3)
ADULT SOCCER LEAGUE – WEEK 7
Bubble Binz 6 (2-5) Ross Built 3 (4-3) Moss Builders 7 (6-1)
(4-2)
Pool America 9 (2-3-2)
Key Royale Golf Club scores
MAY 5 - MODIFIED STABLEFORD
First Place - Rich Salzburg, +5
Second Place - Buddy Foy, +4
Third Place - Jim Bailey, Ron Huibers, John Kolojeski and Steve O'Reilly, +3
MAY 6 - LOW NET SCORE
Flight A
First Place - Roxanne Koche and Rene Chapman tied, 31
Second Place - Margaret Layh, Sue Porterfield and Lori Waggoner tied, 32
Flight B
First Place - Peggy Clauhs and Marilyn Manzer tied, 32 Second Place - Sue Christenson tied, 33
MAY 8 - SCRAMBLE
First Place - Janelle Clements, Jack Lowry, Larry Pippel and Terry Tarras tied the team of Marcia and Tim Friesen, Gary Razze and Steve Vasbinder, who tied the team of Ron Buck, Joe Godfrey, John Kolojeski and Bill Shuman with a score of 29, 3 under par.
ANNA MARIA HORSESHOES | SUBMITTED Skoloda, Sofran on top
FUN IN THE SUN
CLASSIFIEDS
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
CONSTRUCTION / INSURANCE
WE SPECALIZE IN THE FOLLOWING: WIND Mitigation forms, 4-POINT forms, DECK safety and evaluation. State Certified since 1990. Call Mike Conley 941-778-2385. Straight Inspection Service.
EMPLOYMENT
ROSER CHURCH SEEKS
part-time Assistant Facilities Administrator to cover Friday to Sunday and special events. Read the Job Description RoserChurch. com/job-opportunity.
EXPERIENCED NAIL TECHNICIAN and hair stylist, call for appointment. A Hair Day 941-795-5227
HEALTH CARE
NOW AVAILABLE HEALTH
CARE at your home by Certified Nursing Assistant! 12 years experience. Call Dennis Church 815-519-3993
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
RENOVATION SPECALIST
ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-725-0073.
KERN & GILDER CONSTRUCTION, INC New Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CBC 1261150. Call the Office. 941-7781115. NEW 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.
CCS DRYWALL REPAIRS We are local. Family owned & operated since 1991. Free Estimates. Licensed/Insured/Bonded. License # SCC131149803 Call 941-713-6531.
HURRICANE DAMAGE?
I’m an Island resident. Pressure washing, tree work, fence repair, mailbox replacement. Also see ads under “Landscaping & painting. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315
FROM HOME TO BUSINESSES, we build it all. You’re Reliable General Contractor for new construction, water damage, restoration 941-894-7549 or email at@ constructionatr.com
BATHROOM REMODEL STARTING at $1999 Limited Time Promotion (labor only) McGhie Construction Inc. State certified CBC 1258471 Call 813-966-3707 Free Estimates
START TO FINISH, Custom Carpentry, Accent Walls, Drywall and much more 941-565-2165
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
SHELL DRIVEWAYS & LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell and Lime rock driveways and scapes. Also River Rock, Sand, Mulch, & Soil. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067
DEVINE DESIGN
LANDSCAPE - Professional Landscape and Design Services for your entire property. Irrigation services, Tree Removal and trimming, Sod, Mulch, Fencing, Pavers and Landscape Lighting. Commercial and Residential. Call 941-465-6015 DevineDesign7@yahoo. com
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
TRUE TONE PAINTING. Painting, power washing, epoxy floors and more, No job too small. Please call 941-224-4020 www. truetonepainting.com
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
HOLMES BEACH Partial Gulf View & Intracoastal views 5BR/4BA/4CG
Custom built home private pool, elevator, all tile flooring. Best Price
$2,600,000. Sharon Hightower RE/MAX Alliance Group 941-3305054.
PERICO ISLAND
3BR/2BA single family home 2 car garage great community Clubhouse, pool, fitness room, sauna, sold furnished $699,900. Sharon Hightower RE/ MAX Alliance Group 941-330-5054.
LOOKING TO MOVE off the island or purchase your very own home away from home?
Tranquility awaits in this lovely, 2BR/2BA villa in Perico Island! Renovated in 2020. New roof 2021. AC 2024. Two car garage. Beautifully furnished. Hurricane impact windows. Waterview. NO FLOODING OR DAMAGE FROM HURRICANES.
$538K. Karen Parsons, Good Life Realty 407233-7059
FOR SALE - PERICO
BAY CLUB New Price for 2BR/2BA villa with Water View! 2 CAR GARAGE, open floor plan & high ceilings! $374,400 Call Erin Leathem at The Anna Maria Sales Team at Island Real Estate 941448-5616
FOR SALE HOLMES BEACH by Owner. 2nd floor. No hurricane/water damage. Carport underneath home. Call 860-922-3857
RENTALS: ANNUAL
ANNUAL RENTAL minutes to beaches 2BR/2BA Condo. Water/cable included, pool, washer/ dryer. $1595/mo. Call 941713-6743
HOLMES BEACH 209 83rd St.: 2BR/2BA private pool, large screened lanai! $3000/mo. Water, trash, lawn care included. Also pool care. Annual, unfurnished. 1 Year lease. 1st, & $4500 security deposit Call 941-809-2488
ANNUAL RENTAL! ISLAND CONDO on Flotilla Dr in Holmes Beach available June 1st. 2BR/2BA, second floor up, Max 4 occupancy, Sorry, no pets. Completely Renovated AND Furnished! 2 parking spaces, one covered. Complex offers pool and tennis courts $2750/month Application with background check required. Call Carol with Island Real Estate, 941-345-1300
HOLMES BEACH 2nd FLOOR rental. No hurricane /water damage. Carport underneath home. No smoking, No pets. $2200/ mo. Call 860-922-3857
BEAUTIFUL PERICO BAY Club Condo! 2BR/2BA, Second Floor Unit $4750/ mo seasonally, $2500/mo annually +Security Deposit Please call 941-7781979 for more details.
BRADENTON BEACH NEWLY RENOVATED 2BR/1BA downstairs, walk to beach & Bolan park. $2350/mo First, last & $800 deposit. Call 941-705-4737.
BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY
RENTALS: ANNUAL
WATERFRONT ANNA
MARIA ISLAND exclusive Key Royal home. 2BR/2BA/2CG. Completely remodeled. Pool, Dock with Boat lift. Walk to beaches and golf course. Pet friendly. Fenced yard. Non-smoking. Annual Rental. Unfurnished. Call owner 941-704-7336 $7500/mo. Available 7/1/2025
YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS this rare opportunity to live on Anna Maria Island. Please call the office at 941-778-1979 to see this 2BR/2BA $2975/ mo renovated home with a beautifully landscaped large backyard.
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
AVAILABLE NOW! SEASONAL RENTAL Beautiful bright renovated condo 2BR/2BA - 1 floor Perico Bay Club - gym, tennis, hot tub, pool, parking $4700/ month Call 612802-8357
WATERFRONT 2BR/2BA first floor condo available May and/or June. Additional months considered. Two pools, tennis/ pickleball, one block from beach, shopping. Call/ text Kathy 973-219-0335. Sorry, no pets.
TRANSPORTATION
ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $85. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-7795095
