Sun to host Holmes Beach candidate forum
Summer's end
"I stopped searching for perfection many waves ago. What really matters is the here and now, and that’s about all I know." - Oldest Surfer on the Beach, by Jimmy Buffett. Happy end of summer Monday!
Bean Point property owners can swim in ‘no swim’ zone
The 60-day emergency ordinance provides an exemption for some Bean Point homeowners.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Commissioners unanimously support the adoption of an emergency ordinance that formalizes a temporary Bean Point ‘no swim’ zone while still allowing a limited number of beachfront homeowners and their guests to continue swimming there.
Taking effect immediately, the commission adopted Emergency Ordinance 25-951 on Sept. 11.
To be replaced later by a permanent, and perhaps different, ordinance, the 60-day emergency ordinance says, “It shall be unlawful for any person
to engage in swimming, floating, rafting, paddleboarding, kayaking or other similar water-based recreational activities in the waters of the Bean Point area defined as: ‘The shoreline and waters beginning at the Fern Avenue (Street) beach access, extending northward around Bean Point and eastward to the beach access between 831 and 833 North Shore Drive.’ Fishing and wading in water up to knee depth shall be permitted but discouraged.”
Public input given by Bean Point homeowners and others convinced commissioners to revise the proposed ordinance to allow Bean Point beachfront homeowners and their guests to continue enjoying the Bean Point waters now off limits to other Anna Maria residents and visitors.
Holmes Beach Commission candidates Steve Oelfke, Jessica Patel, Terry Schaefer and Carol Soustek will participate in the forum. BY
JOE HENDRICKS
SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – The Anna Maria Island Sun will host a Holmes Beach city commission candidate forum at Holmes Beach City Hall on Wednesday, Sept. 24 from 6-7:30 p.m., and the public is invited.
The forum will feature the four city commission candidates seeking the three seats to be filled by the city election that concludes on Tuesday, Nov. 4. Current commissioners Steve Oelfke, Terry Schaefer and Carol Soustek seek additional two-year terms in office and challenger Jessica Patel seeks to unseat one of the incumbents.
Anna Maria parts ways with embattled building official
Mayor Mark Short briefly addressed Craig Greene’s Sept. 10 dismissal.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Craig Greene is no longer serving as Anna Maria’s contracted building official.
Toward the end of the Sept. 11 Anna Maria City Commission meeting, Mayor Mark Short briefly addressed Greene’s departure.
“That particular building official, as of yesterday, is no longer representing the city of Anna Maria,” Short said after first mentioning comments made by Anna Maria homeowner Jamie Walstad during public comment at the beginning of the meeting.
The mayor didn’t provide any additional details as to who will serve as Anna Maria’s building official moving forward.
Greene’s services were provided through the city’s agreement with Joe Payne Inc. (JPI), the firm that serves as Anna Maria’s contracted building department and also provides the city’s floodplain manager, plan reviewers and permit technicians.
When addressing the commission, Walstad read aloud remarks she prepared in advance. She began by saying the home she shares with her husband sustained flood damage during Hurricane Helene and they were fortunate to have Kevin Hutchison serving as their contractor.
“Craig Greene sent a letter to Kevin and his subcontractors stating we
CINDY LANE | SUN
No millage increase for Holmes Beach property owners
Maintaining the current 1.99 millage rate will provide a tax decrease for most Holmes Beach property owners.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – The mayor and city commissioners are maintaining the current 1.99 millage rate rather than increasing it to the maximum 2.1812 millage rate tentatively adopted by a 3-2 vote in late July.
During the city commission’s Sept. 11 budget hearing, City Treasurer Julie Marcotte presented a revised budget that’s now based on maintaining the 1.99 millage rate. The commission adopted on first reading the millage rate and budget ordinances that will be presented for final adoption on Thursday, Sept. 25. The new fiscal year begins on Oct. 1.
The proposed $22.07 million 202526 budget represents a $3 million decrease from the current $25.23 million fiscal year budget.
When presenting the proposed budget in early July, Marcotte and
Mayor Judy Titsworth proposed a tentative 2.1812 millage rate increase to help offset what was then expected to be an 8.33% decline in total assessed Holmes Beach property values. As the county’s property valuation process continued, the estimated total property value decrease was revised to 7.99% for the coming tax year. When property values increase and the millage rate remains the same, property taxes and the city’s property tax revenues increase; and the opposite happens if property values decrease.
Marcotte said some of the budget revisions were the result of getting more detailed revenue projections from the state and county. She said updating the employee salary schedule and employee health insurance policy selections saved an additional $51,163 and updating the city’s property and casualty insurance costs saved an additional $28,000.
The revised budget includes an additional $100,000 increase in estimated building permit fee revenues and the reallocation of $25,000 in city funds to the police department budget to help cover the cost of patrolling
HENDRICKS | SUN
Shown here at a July meeting, City Treasurer Julie Marcotte played a significant role in crafting the city’s 2025-26 fiscal year budget.
the county-owned beach and boat ramp. Titsworth hopes to recoup that $25,000 from the county during the new fiscal year.
The Islanders 4 Clean Water budget was trimmed by $15,000, the contingency fund was reduced by $150,000 and a $100,000 potable water project was removed from the budget.
The budget lists the mayor’s annual salary at $29,200 and the commissioners’ annual salaries at $8,340.
“With these changes, we were able to set the millage rate at 1.99 and have 25% of our unrestricted reserves that is suggested by the GFOA (Govern-
ment Finance Officers Association) and auditors for our governmental needs,” Marcotte said.
When comparing the new budget to the current budget, Commission Chair Dan Diggins said the mayor and commission expenditures are decreasing by $50,000, general government expenses are decreasing by $200,000, police department expenditures are increasing by $200,000 (in part to hire an additional officer), building department expenses are increasing by $180,000 and anticipated Public Works Department expenditures are decreasing by $900,000 due to the completion of several projects.
Commissioner Steve Oelfke asked Marcotte if it’s accurate to say the city created a budget that provides a tax cut to the taxpayers. Marcotte said that is correct.
Commissioner Carol Soustek thanked the department heads and employees that eliminated or postponed some of their planned projects and expenditures.
“What that does is show the community that we understand where
JOE
ISLAND NEWS
IN BRIEF
Water line replacement to begin soon
During the Sept. 3 Holmes Beach/Manatee County joint meeting, Manatee County Deputy Public Works Director Clarke Davis said the county has a signed contract in place and work is expected to begin soon on the installation of the permanent potable water service line that will eventually replace the temporary water line that sits atop the Anna Maria Island Bridge sidewalk along Manatee Avenue. Clarke said the work will begin when the needed materials are delivered, which he anticipates in October. He said the contract lists an October 2026 completion date and the county will push to get the work completed sooner, if possible. Clarke said it will take several months to get the new potable water line installed and tested before the temporary line is removed from the bridge.
Commissioners to discuss correspondence to Robinson, Boyd
Bradenton Beach commissioners will discuss the approval of correspondence to state Rep. Will Robinson and Sen. Jim Boyd at the Thursday, Sept. 18 meeting at noon. Attorney business will include the approval of that correspondence, an Anna Maria Oyster Bar reimbursement request and an update on 106 23rd St. N. New business will include approval of Infrastructure Solution Services’ “Simple Scope Short Form Agreement” and discussion regarding undergrounding. Old business will include the approval of Resolution 25-988, a revised building consolidation fee schedule; approval of Resolution 25-989 on parking fees; approval of Sundown Get Down Rock the Block and Christmas on Bridge Street and approval of Resolution 25-990, a revised employee handbook. The consent agenda will include approval of invoices from Integrated Solutions Consulting for $15,766.50, Infrastructure Solution Services for $3,654.55; M.T. Causley LLC for $5,214.30; Blalock Walters for $7,151.56; Environmental Science Associates for $37,283.10 and approval of a quote from Aramsco Inc. for $5,607.38 for street signs. The meeting will be in the Katie Pierola Commission Chambers, 107 Gulf Drive N.
CRA meets Thursday
The Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) will discuss the Fifth Street South and Bay Drive South project at a Thursday, Sept. 18 meeting at 9:30 a.m. Also on the agenda are the CRA Florida Redevelopment Association Annual Conference, a Florida Power & Light estimate and planning and redevelopment of the CRA. The meeting will be in the Katie Pierola Commission Chambers, 107 Gulf Drive N.
Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.
FDEP: Williams did not file complaint against AMOB
Drift-In bar owner Derek Williams made a public records request to FDEP to counteract claims by the Bradenton Beach city attorney that he had filed an FDEP complaint against AMOB.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – After Drift-In bar owner Derek Williams was named by City Attorney Ricinda Perry as the source of a Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) violation complaint against the Anna Maria Oyster Bar (AMOB), he made a public records request to the agency to clear his name.
In response to Williams’ request for information, an FDEP spokesperson confirmed there were no complaints on record and that the violation had been discovered during a routine inspection for the renewal of the city’s submerged land lease at the Bradenton Beach Pier, adjacent to the city-owned building at 200 Bridge St. that AMOB leases from the city.
The Sept. 9 email to Williams from FDEP Public Information Specialist Brian Humphreys stated, “I’m in receipt of your request for public records regarding 200 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL. I checked with our staff who advised we are unaware of any complaints received for that site, so I have no complaint records to share with you.
“Our staff conducted a compliance inspection for the state lands lease renewal as it was due to expire. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is required to inspect leased sites as part of the renewal process. During the inspection non-compliance was observed.”
On June 16, FDEP had sent a letter to the city which read in part, “FDEP compliance team conducted an inspection on 5/27/2025 for a (sovereign submerged land) lease renewal. It was noted that added over-water structures were seen at that inspection. Tiki hut structures were added on the docking structures, and the roof structures appear to hang beyond the docking structure footprint.”
FDEP requested the city remove the three tiki structures located on
the south side of the AMOB outdoor dining area.
During public comment at a Sept. 4 Bradenton Beach City Commission meeting, Williams criticized Perry for telling the owner and manager of AMOB that he filed the FDEP complaint.
“I had a local merchant come to me in the last week and tell me Ms. Perry had spoken directly to the owner and the manager of the business and informed them that I had personally reported them for certain legal issues, which I’m 1,000% sure I did not do,” Williams said on Sept. 4. “I got direct phone calls from those people; they doubled down and verified it was Ricinda.”
“I was advised that a complaint was filed with the DEP by an individual from Drift-In because of the tiki roof (at AMOB) and they wondered if the city had gone through everything they were forced to go through,” Perry said at the Sept. 4 meeting.
With the results of the FDEP public records request in hand, Williams sent the following email to Mayor John Chappie and Police Chief John Cosby: “Below is the response I got back from Florida DEP in regards to the accusations made. As you can see from public records, I did not and have not reported anyone despite the accusations from City Attorney Perry. Due to recent events I chose to address her at the most recent City Commission meeting in the public forum. Otherwise, it seems I will continue to find my good name being smeared.”
“At the most recent meeting I addressed the commission and more specifically Attorney Perry about the accusation that ‘Derek Williams filed a complaint with the Florida DEP about the city pier.’ Perry immediately
reacted and almost jumped out of her seat to defend her position and supposed ‘proof’ that I made the alleged call to Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Clearly the response below from DEP shows that no complaint ever existed per state/ public records,” Williams’ email stated. Williams stated in his email to the city that he also reached out to the West Bradenton fire marshal as they had previously spoken about the Drift-In AMI Tiki Bar. Williams stated the fire marshal confirmed their conversation was a “nonevent” and he had never reported anything about their conversations to the state.
“That leaves me once again bewildered and frustrated that this small local government contracted representative (Perry) continues to be unable to communicate in a civil manner. All signs point towards a different agenda for the businesses and property owners in Bradenton Beach. We deserve to know why,” Williams’ email stated. Williams asked Chappie and Cosby to share the email with Bradenton Beach commissioners.
“They deserve a better understanding of the person that they are relying on for legal guidance and city affairs,” Williams stated.
Chappie did not respond to The Sun’s Sept. 10 request for comment.
“City Attorney Performance” will be the topic of a Bradenton Beach City Commission work meeting discussion on Tuesday, Sept. 16 at 10:30 a.m. The meeting packet that references the single agenda item pertains to the FDEP violation letter that Perry alleged was the result of a complaint made by Williams. Open to the public, the meeting will be held in the Katie Pierola Commission Chambers at 107 Gulf Drive N.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
FDEP confirmed that the AMOB violation was seen during an inspection, not as a result of a complaint by Derek Williams, as claimed by City Attorney Ricinda Perry. Perry’s performance will be discussed at a Sept. 16 city commission work meeting.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The temporary potable water service sits atop the Anna Maria Island Bridge sidewalk.
BY LESLIE LAKE
Bradenton Beach, CRA finalize 2025-26 budgets
SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – The city and the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) finalized their 2025-26 budgets at back-to-back Sept. 11 meetings.
“The rollback rate is 2.7804 per thousand; the percentage increase over the rollback rate is -16.9%,”
City Treasurer Shayne Thompson said at both the city and CRA budget meetings. “The proposed rate for tax year 2025-2026 is 2.3329 per thousand, which is the same rate as the prior year.”
“The budget is money in as well as money out, how we use what we’re given,” Thompson said of the budget for the city. “This budget, if it performs as expected, and it should, puts about $300,000 in reserves.”
Commissioners approved joint resolution 25-985, which states, “A joint resolution of the city commission and the Community
Redevelopment Agency of the city of Bradenton Beach establishing a final millage rate for fiscal year 2025-26 commencing on Oct. 1, 2025 through Sept. 30, 2026.
“This cements what the commission wants for the millage rate for the next fiscal year,” Thompson said. “As stated earlier, it’s the same rate we’ve had since I’ve been here, which is 10 years. In the wake of what we experienced last year, to keep it the same is remarkable.”
Thompson read and described joint budget resolution 25-986, which was unanimously approved.
“A joint resolution of the city commission of the city of Bradenton Beach and the Community Redevelopment Agency of the city of Bradenton Beach for adopting and establishing a final budget for fiscal year 2025-2026 beginning Oct.1, 2025 and ending Sept. 30, 2026,” Thompson read.
“This puts the wheels in motion
to spend the money that has been approved through the millage,” Thompson said. “It puts the wheels in motion to where the commission wants to see the tax dollars spent.”
Joint ordinance 25-565, adopting a budget for fiscal year 2025-26 and receipt and collection of ad valorem taxes, was unanimously approved.
“This grants the power to the mayor and Terri to certify the millage and allows the tax collector to collect taxes on our behalf,” Thompson said.
“We already got our bills, is that for next year then?” Commissioner Jan Vosburgh asked.
“No, what you got is the proposed rate and last week what those numbers were on your tax bills as a tentative rate,” Thompson said. “What this now does is, if you look on the tax bill there’s proposed ‘if nothing’s done.’ The proposed column is what you’re
voting on tonight.”
BUDGET NUMBERS
The city’s projected revenues for FY 2025-26 total $5,354,012 with total general fund expenditures projected to be $4,995,515 - a difference of $358,497. General fund revenues total $3,484,297 with the largest portion of that number being ad valorem taxes of $2,137,076. Included in the $4,995,515 total projected general fund expenditures are $2,128,305 for police, including salaries of $1,120,000; $868,358 for administrative; $531,860 for planning; $516,730 for streets and roads; $240,301 for storm water management; and commission cost of $188,157. Expenditures for the CRA were $2,181,970, of which $1,814,050 is for capital projects.
Total CRA revenues were $776,404 with a carryover of $1,487,751 from the prior year.
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Is paid parking such a good idea?
So, Mr. Diggins thinks paid beach parking is a good idea! Why? I have been a visitor to the Island for many years; it really was worth the long flight from the UK! So good, I now live locally. I have watched the debate on parking rise and fall. There is no
shortage of parking on the Island; that has been proven many times. Paying for parking just makes people look elsewhere. Do not forget, those cars bring people and cash to the Island. Increased rents, higher restaurant bills, car hire and fuel all have an effect on tourists’ spending power. Locals, too, will lose out on those days at the beach, those strolls along the waterfront. Currently the Island is quiet;
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
many rentals are empty. If the charges are a plan to keep it that way, then maybe it's a good idea after all. Was it not these commissioners who have given carte blanche to local developers to build whatever and wherever they like without the foresight to consider the consequences?
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.
Martin Hemming Bradenton
ON THE AGENDA
BRADENTON BEACH
HOLMES BEACH
107 GULF DRIVE N.
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005
ANNA MARIA
10005 GULF DRIVE
Visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information.
5801 MARINA DRIVE
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800
Visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information.
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130
Visit www.cityofannamaria. com or contact city hall for more information.
Wednesday, Sept. 17, 9 a.m., Planning and Zoning Board meeting canceled Thursday, Sept. 25, 5:01 p.m., Final budget hearing and regular City Commission meeting
Wednesday, Sept. 17, 10 a.m., Pier Team meeting
Wednesday, Sept. 17, 1 p.m., Scenic WAVES Committee meeting
Thursday, Sept. 18, 9:30 a.m., Community Redevelopment Agency meeting
Thursday, Sept. 18, 12 p.m., City Commission meeting
EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE ANNUNCIATION
4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, Sunday service 9:15 a.m.
CROSSPOINTE FELLOWSHIP
8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, Sunday service 9 a.m.
HARVEY MEMORIAL COMMUNITY CHURCH
300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach, Sunday service 9:15 a.m.
Thursday, Sept. 25, 5:01 p.m., special City Commission meetingfinal budget hearing Thursday, Sept. 25, time to be determined, regular City Commission meeting.
ROSER MEMORIAL COMMUNITY CHURCH
512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, Sunday services 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m.
ST. BERNARD CATHOLIC CHURCH
248 South Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach, Masses: Saturday, 4 p.m.; Sunday 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.; Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m.
ANNA MARIA ISLAND CHURCH SCHEDULES
City receives nine pier bids
The city of Anna Maria has received nine bid proposals from construction companies seeking the contract to rebuild the City Pier, significantly damaged by Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024. City Clerk Amber LaRowe began opening the bids on Sept. 12 at 9:30 a.m. in the city commission chambers with Mayor Mark Short, City Commissioner Chris Arendt and Executive Assistant Barb Jeffries present. Bids were submitted by Russell Marine, YC Group, Underwater Engineering Services, RJ Gorman Contracting, Ballard Marine Construction,
Quality Marine Construction, Southern Road and Bridge, Tampa Bay Marine and Shoreline Foundation. The mayor and city staff will evaluate the bids and at some point during the next 30 days, if not sooner, Short will present his top recommended bid to the city commission seeking commission authorization to negotiate a final contract. The bid amounts and specific bid details will not be released to the public until Short makes his recommendation. Short estimates the pier reconstruction project will cost approximately $8 million and he ambitiously hopes to have
Paid parking lot approved
On Sept. 11, Anna Maria City Commissioners unanimously approved the site plan for a new paid public parking lot on a privately-owned property at 9806 Gulf Drive, at the Magnolia Avenue intersection. Some preliminary sitework is needed before the Easy Parking Group installs the automated payment kiosk, signage and other parking-related items.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Vacation rental stakeholders share common goals
Holmes Beach officials thank the vacation rental owners and managers who help create a good sense of balance for residents and vacationers.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Working together and supporting each other’s efforts were two main themes shared during the Vacation Rental Stakeholders meeting held at Holmes Beach city hall on Sept. 10.
More than 50 short-term vacation rental owners, managers and employees attended and participated in the two-hour meeting facilitated by Holmes Beach Code Compliance Chief James “JT” Thomas.
The speakers and presenters included Mayor Judy Titsworth, Police Chief Bill Tokajer, Development Services Director Chad Minor, Building Official Neal Schwartz, Development Services Coordinator Kim Charron, Code Compliance Officers Nate Brown and Sandy Olson, West Manatee Fire & Rescue Fire Marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski, Waste Pro District Manager Ben VanderBaan, Code Compliance staff member Allyson Kalicharan, Code Compliance Officer Jason Clayton and Thomas.
Speaking first, Titsworth welcomed the vacation rental owners and representatives and thanked them for all the cooperation they’ve exhibited in recent years as part of the ongoing efforts to make Holmes Beach a place where people want to live and vacation.
Chief Tokajer said, “You guys are doing a great job,” when praising the vacation rental owners and managers for significantly reducing noise complaints and preventing large house parties. He said guest parking remains a concern and he asked that rental guests be reminded to park between the lines (where lines exist), park in designated areas when applicable, park with the flow of traffic and park with all tires off the pavement. In response to a question posed by an attendee, Tokajer said vacation rental guests must leave the Island when hurricane evacuations are ordered because no one will rescue them once the winds reach 45 mph. He also said rental guests will not be allowed through the post-hurricane re-entry checkpoints after 7 p.m. while those are in effect.
On behalf of the building department, Schwartz, Charron and Minor stressed the importance of securing the proper permits to make hurricane damage repairs – and to not be afraid to come to the city and work with the city to ensure full compliance with city code and National Flood Insurance Program and FEMA regulations.
“It’s not too late. Please come talk to us. We will work with you. We will issue after-the-fact permits,” Charron said, noting the city doesn’t want to lose the flood insurance discount given to all Holmes Beach property owners, which increases to 25% on Oct. 1.
“The doors are always open here,” Minor added.
In response to a question about bringing damaged and repaired vacation rental homes back online –including those recently purchased by
new owners – Thomas said the city can assist with the research needed to obtain a city-issued vacation rental certificate.
Kwiatkowski stressed the point that the fire district’s now-mandatory annual inspections of short-term vacation rentals (Transient Public Lodging Establishments) are conducted to save lives and ensure public safety and the fire district has no desire to slow or impede vacation rental activities.
Representing Waste Pro, VanderBaan thanked the rental owners and managers for their cooperation and encouraged them to contact Waste Pro regarding any service issues. He asked them to remind guests to leave a clear path to and from the trash and recycling receptacles along the side of the house because Waste Pro employees will not attempt to retrieve or return the receptacles at the risk of damaging vehicles parked in the way. He also asked the rental owners and managers to remind their cleaning staffs not to bring to the street receptacles that require side-door service.
During the following day’s city commission meeting, Titsworth and commissioners Steve Oelfke and Carol Soustek praised Thomas for the congenial and engaging manner in which he conducted the annual stakeholders meeting.
The PowerPoint presentations used by the presenters can be found in the web version of this story at www. amisun.com.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The presenters shared useful and important information with vacation rental owners, managers and employees.
Sundown Get Down street party returning
The first
Sundown Get Down street party since the 2024 hurricanes will honor first responders.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH
– Bradenton Beach
Merchants Association
President Derek Williams and event planner Leah Brown say the monthly Sundown Get Down street parties on Bridge Street will return next month following a long hiatus due to the 2024 hurricanes.
“We are excited to relaunch our Sundown Get Down event series,” Brown said at the Sept. 4 Bradenton Beach City Commission meeting. “I like to have a strong ‘why’ around an event. We identified that October was first responder’s month and we’d like to honor the first responders that were so integral in bringing Bradenton Beach back to where it is.”
The event will return on Saturday, Oct. 11 with
SUBMITTED
Sundown Get Down: Rock the Block on a date that has special significance to the city.
“On Oct. 11 last year, according to the Bradenton Beach Police Department Facebook page, reentry to the city started at 8 a.m., so we feel that would be a significant day to not only relaunch the event series, but get our friends and families together on Bridge Street and drive
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Bradenton Beach Merchants Association President Derek Williams and event planner Leah Brown spoke to city commissioners about the Bridge Street street party. The Sundown Get Down: Rock the Block street party will be held on Saturday, Oct.11.
economic vitality but also to recognize those who helped get Bradenton Beach back,” Brown said. In 2024, the street parties consisted of entertainment, food vendors and special events by local merchants. An event packet was submitted to the city commission and final approval is expected to be on the consent agenda for the Thursday, Sept. 18 commission meeting.
Romantic comedy ‘Janus’ opens Island Players’ season
The Island Players will launch their 77th community theater season with performances of the romantic comedy, “Janus.” The theatrical production opens on Thursday, Sept. 18 and runs through Sunday, Sept. 28. “Filled with wit, charm and unexpected surprises, this delightful play sets the stage for an exciting season of theater on Anna Maria Island,” the Island Players’ press release says. “Each summer, the wife of a wealthy tycoon secretly joins a schoolteacher in New York to co-write best-selling novels under the pen name Janus. But this year, when her husband decides to pay a surprise visit, he’s swept into a whirlwind of clever deception and romantic entanglements.” Written by Carolyn Green in 1955, “Janus” is directed Mike Lusk, co-produced by The Ugly Grouper and stars Rick Kopp, Valerie Lipscomb, Dan Coppinger, Larry
The Island Players 2025-26 season kicks off on Thursday, Sept. 18.
SUN
Williams and Sue Belvo. Tickets are $20-$30 and available online at www. theislandplayers.org and in-person at the box office Monday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. If available, tickets can also be purchased at the box office before showtime. The Island Players theater is located at 10009 Gulf Drive in Anna Maria. For more information call 941-778-5755.
JOE HENDRICKS |
Turtle season slows down
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Sea turtle nesting is likely finished for the season, and hatching is slowing down, with just 64 nests left on the beach, according to Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring Executive Director Kristen Mazzarella.
“We continue daily patrols to check all nests and complete nest excavations,” Mazzarella wrote in a Sept. 12 email. “No new crawls have been observed this week, so we are pretty certain the turtle mamas are done for the season.”
The turtles finished one nest shy of matching 2019's record of 543 nests.
There has been only one disorientation in the past week and volunteers are finding that a record number of hatchlings have made it out of their nests, with 29,523 to date.
“We are hopeful that we will break 30,000 hatchlings this year,” she wrote.
TURTLE TIPS
During sea turtle season, May 1 – Oct. 31, follow these tips to help turtles:
• Turn off lights visible from the beach and close blinds from sundown to sunrise; lights confuse nesting sea turtles and may cause them to go back to sea and drop their eggs in the water, where they won’t hatch. Light can also attract hatchlings away from the water.
AMY WATERBURY | SUBMITTED
A live green sea turtle hatchling was found inside a nest during a recent excavation. All of the other 141 hatchlings had made it out on their own three days earlier. The hatchling was released and made it safely to the water.
• Don’t use flashlights, lanterns or camera flashes on the beach at night.
• Remove all beach chairs and other objects from the sand from sundown to sunrise; they can deter sea turtles from nesting and disorient hatchlings.
• Fill in the holes you dig in the sand before leaving the beach; they can trap nesting and hatching sea turtles, which cannot live long out of the water. You might also accidentally dig into an unmarked nest. To report large holes or other turtle obstacles, call:
• City of Anna Maria code enforcement — 941-708-6130, ext. 111.
• City of Bradenton Beach code enforcement — 941-778-1005, ext. 227.
• City of Holmes Beach code enforcement — 941-778-0331, ext. 260.
• Level sandcastles before leaving the beach; they can block hatchlings from the water.
• Don’t use balloons, wish lanterns or fireworks; they litter the beach and Gulf, and turtles can ingest the debris.
• Do not trim trees and plants that shield the beach from lights.
• Never touch a sea turtle; it’s the law. If you see people disturbing turtles, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).
Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring
NESTING NEWS
Turtle nests laid: 542 (527 loggerhead, 15 green)
Record: 543 in 2019
False crawls: 828 (797 loggerhead, 31 green)
Record: 831 in 2010
Nests hatched: 402 (390 loggerhead, 12 green)
Record: 453 in 2022
Hatchlings produced: 29,523 (28,738 loggerhead, 785 green)
Record: 35,850 in 2022
Hatchling disorientations: 141 (140 loggerhead, 1 green)
Adult disorientations: 30 (28 loggerhead, 2 green)
Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring
Where’s Winnie?
Winnie, a female loggerhead sea turtle, is in eighth place in a field of 12 turtles in the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s Tour de Turtles Race that began on Aug. 1. She has traveled 339 miles in the Gulf of Mexico since she was satellite tagged and released after nesting on Coquina Beach on June 23 and 189 miles since the race began. Winnie is swimming to raise awareness about the threat of light pollution and how lighting near shore can negatively impact nesting sea turtles and their hatchlings.
Her participation in the 2025 Tour de Turtles is sponsored by Hurricane Hanks and Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring. Visit The Sun’s Facebook page for weekly “Where’s Winnie?” updates and visit amisun.com for weekly updates on turtle nesting activity in “Nesting News.”
Dunkin’ launches Family Fun Night
The Dunkin’ in Holmes Beach offered its first Family Fun Night for students at Anna Maria Elementary School on Aug. 29. Everyone was offered a $1 scoop, and students packed in starting at 3 p.m. and kept trickling in until closing. The classes with the most students to attend won a Keurig coffeemaker for their teachers and a donut party. School officials decided to make donut party day on Sept. 12 a Color Spirit Day, encouraging students to wear bright colors to celebrate. Decked out in colorful gear, the kids gathered first thing in the morning on the new deck behind the school. AME principal Dr. Fradley stood by Dunkin’ owner Bryant Ogle and General Manager Liz Rhim to annouce a tie between teachers Erin Bobo and Nicole O'Neill, who both won coffeemakers before the buffet of colorful donuts was opened. Afterwards, students had the opportunity to dance it off before continuing the school day.
At left, from left, Dunkin’ General Manager Liz Rhim, Danny Ostwald, Sunny Neupert, Amaya Hodgkins and Assistant General Manager Emma Jury loved serving the excited elementary students on their first Family Fun Night.
At right, Selah, 5, far right, and her little sister enjoy delicious scoops on Family Fun Night for Anna Maria Elementary School at Dunkin’ in Holmes Beach.
AME kindergartners Sophia Troxler, Finley Stock, Lana Grace Wenzel and Isabella Troxler were in line for donuts on Sept. 12 during the donut dance party.
ANNE YARBROUGH | SUBMITTED
First grader Melody Krstevski sports appropriate flare for the Dunkin’ dance party at AME on Sept. 12.
ANNE YARBROUGH | SUBMITTED
ANNE YARBROUGH | SUBMITTED
City officials appreciate county joining SB 180 lawsuit
The mayor and commissioners feel the county also represents the city in joining the legal challenge to the new state law.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – The city is not joining the Senate Bill 180 lawsuit but city officials appreciate the Manatee County Commission’s recent decision to do so.
On Sept. 2, county commissioners voted 6-1 in favor of paying an initial $10,000 fee to join the lawsuit that will challenge a new state law created earlier this year by the Florida Legislature and supported by Gov. Ron DeSantis with the adoption of Senate Bill 180.
Originally intended to ensure property owners’ ability to repair and rebuild their homes after a hurricane, the farreaching legislation prohibits city and county governments from adopting and enforcing any new development regulations that are more restrictive or cumbersome than those in place on Aug. 1, 2024.
The local regulatory restrictions imposed by the state law
are scheduled to expire on Oct. 1, 2027, but would be extended in any jurisdiction located within 100 miles of a federally declared natural disaster area.
Fort Lauderdale-based attorney Jamie Cole is leading the legal challenge. When contacted on Sept. 12, he said 20 Florida cities and counties have joined the lawsuit and no decision has been made yet as to where it will be filed.
As a follow up to their Aug. 26 discussion, Holmes Beach officials revisited the lawsuit discussion on Sept. 11.
“My position hasn’t changed,”
City Attorney Erica Augello said. “Whatever the determination on this is, it’s going to affect everybody in the state. It’s up to you if you want to join, but they have enough to
move it forward. That’s the consensus in my office as well, with all the jurisdictions that we represent.”
Commissioner Dan Diggins said the only reason he’d vote to join the lawsuit would be to show the city’s support for the county commission’s decision.
Commissioner Terry Schaefer said he discussed the pending lawsuit with the city’s contracted lobbyist, Andrew Kalel. Schaefer said Kalel also believes an eventual court ruling would impact the city with or without joining the lawsuit and joining the lawsuit could impact the city’s relations with state leaders.
Commissioner Steve Oelfke said he discussed the lawsuit with District 3 County Commissioner Tal Siddique and expressed the city’s appreciation and support for the county commission’s decision. Oelfke said Siddique understands the city’s position on not joining the lawsuit.
Commissioner Carol Soustek hopes the lawsuit pressures the Florida Legislature into revising the new law during the 2026 legislative session.
Lightning prediction systems installed
MANATEE COUNTY – Early lightning prediction systems have been installed at two Anna Maria Island beaches and two other locations in the county.
The system, called Thor Guard, has been installed at Manatee County Beach Patrol Headquarters across from Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach, the Anna Maria Island Café at Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach, G.T. Bray Park in Bradenton and Lincoln Park in Palmetto.
The systems run daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., sounding signals when lightning is detected.
One long horn blast means lightning was detected nearby and people should seek shelter. Three short horn blasts mean conditions are safe again.
Signals are only for lightning; they are not used for tornadoes, flooding or other severe weather alerts. Due to their volume, alerts may occasionally be heard by surrounding residents, according to a Manatee County press release.
MANATEE COUNTY | SUBMITTED
Lightning prediction systems have been installed at two locations on Anna Maria Island and two other locations in Manatee County.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN City Attorney Erica Augello discussed the SB 180 lawsuit with the mayor and city commissioners.
SEE SB 180, PAGE 16
Mayor, police chief address city attorney’s consolidation comments
The three Island cities are preparing their responses to a consolidation-related letter received from state legislators.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Mayor Judy Titsworth and Police Chief Bill Tokajer disputed some comments that Bradenton Beach City Attorney Ricinda Perry recently made about consolidating city services.
On Aug. 28, the three Anna Maria Island mayors received letters from state Rep. Will Robinson Jr. and Sen. Jim Boyd that said, in part, “As we prepare for the 2026 Legislative Session, we want to follow up on our previous correspondence concerning the OPPAGA study and the discussions we initiated last year about streamlining services and improving efficiencies among the three Island cities.”
The state legislators requested an update from each city on any steps being taken to explore shared services or cost-saving measures or coordinate operations across the three cities to reduce duplication and improve efficiency and how those efforts are reflected in each city’s budget and planning efforts.
During the Sept. 11 Holmes Beach City Commission meeting, Titsworth addressed the city’s pending response.
“We’re working on a response to our letter from the legislators regarding any consolidation of services or efficiencies. Have we found anything that’s really going to decrease expenses? Not that much, but we can be there for each other as we always have.”
She then addressed some comments made by Perry.
“Unfortunately, there was some comments in the paper from Bradenton Beach that I do take issue with,” Titsworth said.
SB 180: City officials appreciate county joining SB 180 lawsuit
FROM PAGE 13
“I support the county for doing this,” she added.
“I agree with everyone up here,” Mayor Judy Titsworth said. “I’m so proud of the county for deciding to join that lawsuit. And we are the county; they’re representing us in this lawsuit.”
When presenting a draft version of her proposed response letter to the Bradenton Beach mayor and commissioners on Sept. 4, Perry said, “There was discussion of Holmes Beach wanting to basically take over the police department. There was request for our public works to do all the public works’ work. It just never really went where it needed to go.”
SEE COMMENTS, PAGE 27
Referencing the Florida Legislature’s past support for the previous county commission’s now-abandoned efforts to force the construction of a county-funded parking garage at Manatee Beach, Titsworth said, “We know what it feels like when we get trampled on by the state.”
Regarding the county commission’s decision, the mayor said, “I really support their efforts to try to protect home rule and I do feel they’re doing this to protect us.”
Titsworth said she’d support the city joining the lawsuit if the city commissioners wanted to. Augello said the city commission could revisit that decision later if the law firm handling the case needs more parties to join the lawsuit to help fund the legal challenge.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer addressed comments made by the Bradenton Beach city attorney.
BEAN POINT: Property owners can swim in ‘no swim’ zone
At the commission’s request, City Attorney Becky Vose added language to the ordinance’s penalty provisions that grant approximately 14 Bean Point homeowners an exemption not shared by vacation rental guests: “Owners, and their guests, of homes that are not vacation rentals with riparian rights in this specific area are exempt from these penalties.”
Regarding enforcement, the emergency ordinance says, “Violation of this ordinance shall be punishable as a noncriminal municipal infraction, subject to fines as provided through resolution of the city commission.”
A city resolution was not adopted to establish fines being levied while the emergency ordinance is in effect.
Mayor Mark Short implemented the ‘no swim’ zone on Sept. 2 in response to a drowning on Aug. 31
The Bean Point ‘no swim’ zone is designated by new signs that say, “No Swimming, Dangerous Currents.”
and other recent Bean Point water rescues that included a 45-year-old man dying the day after he and his 15-yearold son were rescued from rip currents.
The temporary signs installed on Sept. 2 have been replaced by metal signs that say, “No Swimming, Dangerous Currents.”
Short said while the 60-day emergency ordinance is in effect, he’ll work with Manatee County officials to develop a permanent solution that addresses the city’s public safety concerns.
Commissioner Chris Arendt said he’s OK with people wading in knee-deep water, including children accompa-
nied by an adult. He and the other commissioners agree the city must do something to protect visitors who aren’t aware of the dangers posed by rip currents at Bean Point.
PUBLIC INPUT
Before the homeowners’ exemption was added to the emergency ordinance, longtime Bean Point homeowner Wendy Blumenthal said, “So what are the consequences for me if I go behind my house and float in 3 feet of water?”
“The ordinance, at this point, calls for a warning. It does not call for a fine,” Short answered.
Sgt. Brett Getman leads the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Anna Maria Unit. When asked about enforcing the emergency ordinance, he said, “Compliance and education is our goal.”
Continuing, Blumenthal said, “I feel horrible about what’s happened in recent weeks with the visitors, and I know we need to do
something, but I think having a knee-jerk reaction may be too quick. What about those of us who do know the waters, have never had an incident, know when the tide’s going out? Why do we not get to use the water behind our home? It’s not just visitors that use the beach.”
When she suggested using buoys to create a designated swimming zone, Short said county officials already mentioned that option.
Bradenton resident Sydney Buckley and her husband, Richard, own and operate the Anna Maria-based Tangerine Group construction and real estate services company. She agrees the city needs to protect visitors but said homeowners’ rights must also be considered. She said the swimming prohibition might negatively impact a homeowner’s ability to sell their Bean Point home and
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Reel Time
was reminded this past week that it's a good time to remind anglers about the importance and protection of seabirds. Knowledgeable anglers know that these birds are valuable, but some beginning anglers (I’m being kind) should learn a few valuable lessons early on to keep them safe. Besides being an integral part of the marine ecosystem and beautiful to watch, they help us locate fish. An observant angler notices where birds congregate on a low tide. They know the birds are feeding on marine organisms that fish will seek out when the flat is covered with water on a rising tide. They point us to schooling fish, often indicating action much farther away than we can see. Anglers who
It’s for the birds
fish the coastal waters of Florida will invariably come into contact with the seabirds that inhabit local waters. The encounter can be deadly to seabirds if anglers don’t know the basics of caring for them.
The inspiration came as I was fly casting to Spanish mackerel (my target) and blue runners (an incidental but fun catch). My top water gurgler attracted observant birds on almost every cast, and I couldn’t take my eye off them for 10 seconds. Around me, a couple of other boats were chumming, and I noticed birds picked up hooked baits a couple of times. The fall run is just beginning, and a lot of effort will be put into fishing for breaking fish on the beaches. The encounter can become deadly if a bird becomes entangled in fishing line and takes some of it back to their roosts. The birds are also put in harm’s way when they come into contact with fishing line that careless anglers leave in the
SEE REEL TIME, PAGE 19
RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN
Line found floating in Longboat Pass could have had devastating consequences if left in the environment.
RUSTY CHINNIS
REEL TIME: It's for the birds
water and in the mangroves from an errant cast. That same day as I was waiting for the tide to change and drifting the west side of Jewfish Key, I noticed a braided fishing line trailing behind me. After about 30 minutes, I managed to retrieve 100plus yards of bright blue 100-plus-pound line. It was chilling to imagine how many birds and other wildlife that might have impacted. If a bird is hooked while fishing, it’s important to bring them to the boat with a properly set drag to prevent the line from breaking. It can be a death sentence when they return their mangrove roost trailing it. Eventually,
most anglers will hook a bird, even if they’re being diligent to avoid them. When it does happen, work them to the boat carefully as you would a big fish, then throw a towel over their head to calm them before removing the hook. Care should be taken with all birds, especially ones that have sharp beaks. They don’t know you’re trying to help them. Handle birds carefully as they have very light, hollow bones. Cautiously remove the line from their body, wings and feet and check them thoroughly before releasing them. If you see a hooked or tangled bird in an active rookery during nesting season, it’s important not to approach them as their young may be startled and
fall from the nest. You can reduce the chance of hooking birds by following a few simple rules. First, never feed birds, as this will teach them to look for a handout, a practice that is dangerous to the birds. Second, while you’re fishing, keep an eye out for birds that might be hovering, getting ready to dive on your offering. Taking care of the wildlife that inhabit our coastal estuaries is everyone’s and especially angler’s responsibility. If you see a bird in distress and can’t help it, call Save Our Seabirds at 941-388-3010 or Audubon Coastal Island Sanctuaries at 813-623-6826.
OBITUARIES
Garrett David Steger
Garrett David Steger, 44, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Sept. 9, 2025. The beloved son of Michele Steger and the late David Steger, Garrett grew up in Bradenton Beach, Florida on Anna Maria Island where
BEACH BEAT
HOLMES BEACH
Sept. 7, 5:01 p.m., 400 block 72nd Street. Bicycle injury. Police responded to a report of a juvenile who was hurt
he loved fishing and surfing. He is survived by his son, Bryce Steger; sister, Shauna Steger; nephew, Landen; niece, Kaylie; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. Garrett fought a brave battle against M.S. We all loved him dearly and he will be missed by all.
on a bicycle after riding into a rope that was tied between a tree and an electrical box. The juvenile was “clotheslined” by the rope and had a red mark on his neck. EMS responded and treatment was refused. Police took photos of the area.
REAL ESTATE
Signs of a real estate turnaround
Did you hear it? Did you hear buyers and sellers, and, of course, real estate professionals slightly exhal ing the breath they have been holding for over a year now?
There are definite signs that we might start seeing a turnaround in the real estate market, although based on the July sales statistics for Manatee County, we really don’t see it here. You could argue there is a leveling off but certainly nothing to get excited about.
Castles in the Sand
Across the country, however, the National Association of Realtors is reporting a definite uptick of the market. Sales of existing homes rose unexpectedly in July, raising hopes that the stalled housing market is improving and setting up for a busy fall. Home sales nationally were up 2% from the prior month, which is only a slight gain, but a gain nonetheless. Manatee County is still showing a decline in the number of properties sold and a decline in the median sale price
as well. The inventory of available single family homes in Manatee County in July was 4.8 months, compared to last July’s availability of 3.9 months - a substantial increase. The national median existing home price in July was $422,400, while Manatee County’s median single-family sales price was $489,900.
Mortgage rates have edged down to their lowest level of the year. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage declined last month to 6.58%. The hope here is that if the recent decline continues, it could set the state for a better-thanexpected fall selling season.
In addition, the Federal Reserve has
sent strong messages that rates could be cut. This in conjunction with inventory rising and prices dropping could open the door for first-time and marginal buyers. The Sunbelt, specifically Texas and Florida, have led the nation in the decline in prices.
Buyers are getting more leverage in making offers and choosing a property. However, first-time buyers are still not out of the woods. First-time buyers accounted for 28% of purchases in July. That was down from 30% in June and 29% in July of last year. If the 30-year fixed rate mortgage declines to 6% or below, we will finally see the first-time buyers coming back. We need first-time buyers, even first-time investors to spur the market above them.
Just for the fun of it, I read about a survey of the most expensive neighborhoods in the United States compiled by Zillow. Out of the top 10 most expensive neighborhoods, seven of them were in
Florida and three were in California. The number one spot went to Coral Gables Estates in Coral Gables, Florida running over Beverly Hills, California. The second spot was Port Royal in Naples, Florida and the third spot was Old Cutler Bay, Florida.
And since we’re talking about Florida high-end listings, Miami’s upper end properties are trying a new tack. They are delisting their properties, not removing them from the market, but delisting, which is not the same thing. About half the sellers in this category are taking a pause until later in the year, probably around November. They believe the market will be more favorable to buyers at this time and also hopefully building a competitive edge since everyone wants something they can’t have. We’ll see if the psychology of this works, but it’s an interesting step either way.
So as we all look forward to the fall and the positive expectations we’re hearing, most of us are all just waiting to exhale.
LOUISE BOLGER
BEAN POINT: Property owners can swim in ‘no swim’ zone
might also impact vacation rental guests if any of the temporarily exempted homes are used as vacation rentals.
“If I were to spend $10,000 on a house on the beach just to find out after I arrive that we can’t go dive in like we were expecting to, I’d be pretty furious,” Buckley said.
Longtime Bean Point homeowner John Dicks lives along the stretch of North Shore Drive referenced in the emergency ordinance. He applauded the city’s efforts to protect visitors and save lives but said the homeowners’ riparian rights and property rights must also be protected. He cautioned the commission against taking action that could expose the city to Bert Harris claims filed by homeowners seeking compensation for the loss of their long-held property rights.
“It’s diminishing the value of those properties. That’s the classic example of a Bert Harris case. We don’t want to get into that,” he said.
Dicks suggested using large, colored flags to warn people about the currents and water conditions. As an alternative, he suggested the
The emergency ordinance still allows knee-deep wading and fishing.
swimming exemption later added to the emergency ordinance. Dicks said he wasn’t sure, but he didn’t think any of the exempted Bean Point homes are vacation rental homes.
“I’m planning on swimming tomorrow,” he said, noting he doesn’t want to break the law when doing so.
Arendt asked Getman how hard it would be to enforce a ‘no swim’ zone that only allows certain residents and
guests to swim there.
“It’s just going to invite people to swim that see other people swimming,” Getman answered.
On Aug. 9, Getman entered the water to help rescue the teenaged boy caught in the rip current with his father. During a recent commission meeting, Getman said the Bean Point water rescues put deputies at risk too.
On Sept. 11, he said, “Keep in mind,
we’re not lifeguards.”
Regarding an exemption being given only to those beachfront property owners, Short said, “Does that open up a can of worms for people who live across the street?
“They don’t have riparian rights and I think that’s a valid distinction,” Vose replied.
Longtime resident and recently appointed Planning and Zoning Board member Don Buswell-Charkow said he’s walked that stretch of beach almost every day since 1991.
After acknowledging the tragic nature of the recent events, he said, “In the United States, we go out of our way to protect people from doing incredibly stupid things. I’m not saying all the people that swim there are stupid, but to say, ‘No, you can’t do that,’ when people who know what they’re doing and are cautious and careful are going to be deprived of something they have done for years seems a bit overstepping, excessively regulating everything. There should be a big sign that says this is a dangerous area. There are very strong currents here. If you swim in this area you could drown.”
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Jeff & Jennifer Jordan
Andrew & Brooke Doucett
Betsy Hagan
Joe McCall
Chelsea Oelker
Kathy Harman
Dee Munn
Scott Toland
George Myers
Suzy Korinek
Amy Ward
Hannah Hillyard
BUILDING OFFICIAL: Anna Maria parts ways with embattled official
FROM PAGE 1
had exceeded the 50% rule and defrauded FEMA. Kevin immediately contacted Greene and the mayor. Then, to add insult to injury, Kevin received an email that our permit was expired,” Walstad said.
“Our name and address was put into the record, wrongfully stating allegations of FEMA fraud. It made us feel that our good name has been besmirched in front of the community we love. At no time were we ever contacted. We received no apology. The stress of possibly being a subject of FEMA fraud has been horrible. This situation made us feel like criminals and we are concerned that FEMA may reject our policy in the future,” Walstad said.
When addressing Greene’s dismissal at the end of the meeting, Short said he was surprised to hear that Greene did not apologize to the Walstads directly because he saw the apology email Greene sent to Hutchinson.
“I did not realize the owner was not on that particular email,” Short said.
During the Holmes Beach City Commission meeting earlier that day, Mayor Judy Titsworth said, “We have currently been doing some inspections for the city of Anna Maria to assist them and their building department needs.”
She later told The Sun that Holmes
Beach would continue assisting Anna Maria with their building department needs if asked to do so.
BUILDERS’ CONCERNS
During the Aug. 14 city commission meeting, Mason Martin Builders and Agnelli Pools & Construction owner Frank Agnelli and Gagne Construction owner Dan Gagne expressed their displeasure and frustration with Greene and Joe Payne Inc. Agnelli called for them to be replaced with a fulltime, in-house building department staffed by city employees. During the Aug. 28 meeting, Agnelli, Hutchinson and MuniPlan owner and consultant Monica Simpson expressed similar views.
On Sept. 10, Simpson sent a letter to several builders regarding Greene’s dismissal.
“The city of Anna Maria has released Craig Greene from his duties as building official. The city is going to work diligently, but mindfully, to find a suitable replacement. As this is being done, please proceed with patience with the city regarding this effort and the transition. The city does not want to rush and make a hasty decision and we all want someone who will serve everyone well in the all-important position,” Simpson wrote.
In a separate email sent to The Sun, she wrote, “I am grateful the mayor took
the time to look at the issues raised by the community. I am optimistic a qualified individual will be named who can help ensure the highest level of service for property owners, contractors, designers and all the other individuals who work in the industry. The city of Anna Maria deserves it.”
When speaking to The Sun that evening, Agnelli said, “I think this change is going to be good for all the builders and citizens of Anna Maria. Hopefully, they replace him with somebody that wants to work with the builders, interpret the codes correctly and not put his own opinion into everything he interprets,” Agnelli said.
Regarding the mayor’s response to the builders’ concerns, Agnelli said, “It speaks volumes that they’re listening to us. We
want to work with the city, not fight with the city on everything we do.”
JPI AGREEMENT
Anna Maria’s current agreement with Joe Payne Inc. commenced on Feb. 3 and is scheduled to expire on Sept. 30, with the city having the option to execute up to four one-year renewals.
“The city reserves the right to terminate this agreement at any time provided the city gives JPI 30 days’ notice of such termination,” the contract says.
The agreement states that on average, the designated building official is to spend six to eight hours at city hall at least one day per week, with the remaining building department services provided remotely.
As compensation, JPI receives 50% of the building permit application fees generated each month and is guaranteed a monthly minimum of $35,000 if the permit fees don’t reach that monthly threshold.
The one-page 2025-26 fiscal year budget summary included in the Sept. 11 meeting packet lists $1.19 million for total anticipated planning and development revenues and matching expenses. The budget summary does not specify how much of the $1.19 million the city anticipates paying Joe Payne Inc.
BUDGET: No millage increase for Holmes Beach property owners
FROM PAGE 3
you’re coming from,” Soustek said in regard to potentially increasing the millage rate at a time when many property owners are still recovering from the 2024 hurricanes.
“I just want to congratulate the mayor and Julie for doing
such remarkable work,” Diggins added. “It lets the community know that we understand what you’ve been through. I think it’s the right thing to do.”
“I wasn’t certain we could do this,” Commissioner Terry Schaefer said. “Getting it back to the existing millage without a loss to service
is remarkable and I, too, want to compliment the mayor, our treasurer and all of the department heads.”
Participating by phone, Commissioner Carol Whitmore said, “Thank you mayor for working so hard on this. I know it wasn’t easy and I appreciate it; and so do our citizens.”
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Anna Maria homeowner Jamie Walstad expressed her displeasure with the former building official.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The Holmes Beach mayor and commissioners are one step away from adopting a budget that lowers total expenditures and provides a tax reduction for property owners.
ISLAND SPORTS
CENTER SOCCER SCOREBOARD
Solid Rock Electrical 48 (9-1)
G.I. Bins 19 (5-5)
Slim’s Place 48 (8-2) Coaster Continent 40 (6-4)
G.I. Bins W (5-5)
Cortez Pump & Sprinkler Forfeit (3-7)
Moss Builders 25 (4-6)
Reel Coastal Properties 12 (2-8)
Solid
Edible Cookie Dough Café 7 (1-9)
Solid Rock Construction 28 (8-2) Salty Printing 21 (6-4)
KEY ROYALE CLUB SCOREBOARD
Thirty-nine golfers played in the annual Labor Day Scramble on Sept. 1 at Key Royale Club. Pictured from left, capturing first place with a score of 28, 4 under par, is the team of Chris Hill, Stephanie Kurina, Gerald Martinek and Steve Kurina. The team of Janelle and Mike Clements, Daks Harding and Ken Nagengast tied the team of Leo Burke, John Kolojeski, Jana Samuels and Warren Stevens at even par, 32, for second. Winning closest to the pin on Hole #3 was Deb Richardson at 15'8". Long drive
Farrington, Fernandes win back to back weeks at pits
At left, Tom Farrington, left, and Gersey Fernandes teamed up to win the day’s competition on Sept. 3 after having the best record after pool play at Anna Maria Horseshoes. On Sept. 6, Gary Howcroft walked his way into the winner's circle after posting the only 3-0 during pool play.
At right, Fernandes, left, and Farrington teamed up again to win the day’s competition on Sept. 10 after they were the only team to go 3-0 during pool play. On Sept. 13, Jerry Jackson walked his way to the only 3-0 record and earned the day’s bragging rights.
winners were Lynn French for the ladies; Warren Stevens was best from the gold tee and Steve Kurina hit the longest drive of the day from the blue tee. Mike Clements made the longest first putt on hole #2 at 14'. Jody Meleeny won the putting contest for
the men and Daks Harding won the event for the men. A patio party cookout followed the event with everyone's favorite beverage.
SEPT. 2 - LOW NET SCORE
First Place - Jana Samuels 32 Second Place - Helen Pollock 33 Third Place - Sue Wheeler 39
SEPT. 4 - SCRAMBLE
First Place Team - Leo Burke, Greg Jump, Jana Samuels and Warren Stevens at 28, 4 under par Second Place Team - Mike Clements, Blake Ress and Deb and Dave Richardson at 31, 1 under par
SEPT. 11 - SCRAMBLE
First Place Team - Mike Clements, Tom Nelson and Quentin Talbert tied the team of Joe Coyne, John Kolojeski, Rich Salzburg and Warren Stevens at 28, 4 under par
FORUM: Sun to host Holmes Beach candidate forum
your forum questions to jhendricks@amisun.com no later than Sunday, Sept. 21. The forum will be livestreamed and archived for 30 days at The Sun’s Facebook page.
County Assistant Supervisor of Elections Sharon Stief, military and overseas vote by mail ballots will be mailed out on Friday, Sept. 19. All other vote by mail ballots will begin being mailed out on Friday, Sept. 26. The deadline to request Patel
ANNA MARIA HORSESHOES | SUBMITTED
FUN IN THE SUN
CLASSIFIEDS
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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
API’S DRYWALL REPAIR 15+ years experience. Free estimates. No job too small. Love to help you. Call 941-524-8067.
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
HOME SERVICE
ALL AROUND HANDYMAN Lawn maintenance, landscaping, trimming/removal trees. Boarding house for storms. Free estimates. Call 941-447-9266
HATE TO COOK? Long time Island resident. Can help with cooking, laundry and many things around your house. Many compliments on cooking. References available. Please Call or Text 941685-0045.
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
MOVING & STORAGE
MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-8095777.
PAINTING & WALLCOVERING
PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507
“WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Wallpaper installation/ removal. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455
DONALD PERKINS ABRACADABRA PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941705-7096
PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident. Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Minor repairs & carpentry. Free estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315
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
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
RENTALS: ANNUAL
ANNUAL RENTAL CENTRAL HOMES BEACH 3BR/2BA completely remodeled. Walk to beach, school, trolley, shopping. $2595/mo Call 941-7136743
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.
ANNUAL RENTAL! Available NOW, Palm Dr in Holmes Beach.2BR/1BA, elevated duplex, pets welcome with deposit. 2 car garage, washer and dryer hookups $2000/month Application with background check required. Call Carol with Island Real Estate, 941-345-1300
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 941-201-2190
SNOW BIRD SPECIAL: DISCOUNT for multiple months. 2BR/2BA 2nd Floor Condo in HOLMES BEACH. POOL, Tennis/Pickleball, in-unit laundry, WIFI, screened lanai, covered parking. AVAILABLE 2025/26 Season beginning December 2025. Beautiful, bayside seating area. Pool/Beach toys, Bikes included. Call Jack 312835-2323 for more info/ photos.
TOP FLOOR OCEAN VIEW
2BR/2BA rental available August 15th 3 month minimum rent. $5-10k prorated. Utilities included 201-317-6922 owner operated
WINTER APARTMENT
1BR/1BA a few steps from Gulf. 4-6 months rental. $3500/month. Call 941778-4499
TRANSPORTATION
ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $85. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095
COMMENTS: Mayor, police chief address city attorney’s consolidation comments
FROM PAGE 16
Regarding Perry’s comments, Titsworth said, “That is false. Nothing was ever drafted to take over police services for them. In fact, it was the city of Anna Maria that asked for a cost analysis on what it would be if we provided services for them.”
Regarding Perry’s comments about consolidating public works’ services, Titsworth said, “They said they were asked to provide all of our public works. That was surprising. We have a tremendous public works department, so that was false as well.”
Later in the meeting, Tokajer said, “I want to thank the mayor for bringing up the incorrect statements that were in the paper. Bradenton Beach said they were very pleased with their own police department, as Holmes
Beach is with theirs. We never had a discussion with them about taking over the Island policing.” Tokajer said information about consolidating police services was requested from all three cities by the team that conducted the OPPAGA consolidation study requested by the state legislators. “There would be no savings of funds because you’d still need the same amount of people to police the same amount of area, citizenry, population and inhabitants that come and vacation,” Tokajer said.
During the Anna Maria City Commission meeting held later that day, Mayor Mark Short said he’s working on Anna Maria’s response letter and he and the other Island mayors continue to discuss potential consolidation opportunities. The response letters are due on Oct. 1.
