Anna Maria Island Sun July 3, 2024

Happy Independence Day

DeSantis vetoes vacation rental bill

The Florida

Legislature’s latest attempt to preempt vacation rental regulation to the state has failed.

BY JOE HENDRICKS

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Ron DeSantis has vetoed proposed state legislation that would have significantly hindered city and county governments’ ability to regulate short-term vacation rentals locally. The Florida Legislature proposed the vetoed legislation as Senate Bill 280 and House Bill 1537. Legislators sought to reserve short-term vacation rental regulation and vacation rental advertising to the state, with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation serving as the statewide administrative and enforce-

ment entity.

Sen. Nick DiCeglie (R-St. Petersburg) sponsored SB 280 and State Rep. Philip Griffitts Jr. (R-Panama City Beach) sponsored House Bill 1537. Sen. Jim Boyd (R-Bradenton) and State Rep. Will Robinson Jr. (R-Bradenton) supported the vacation rental preemptions sought in the matching bills.

The proposed legislation also included a controversial carve-out that would have allowed Flagler County to continue enforcing its existing vacation rental regulations.

VETO LETTER

At approximately 6:30 p.m. on June 27, DeSantis sent Secretary of State Cord Byrd a letter informing him of the veto.

SEE BILL, PAGE 23

AMI prepares for another crowded, extended holiday

Record crowds are expected for the July Fourth holiday on Anna Maria Island, and Island officials recommend planning accordingly.

BY JASON SCHAFFER

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND - As Americans wish the United States a happy 248th birthday, many people will choose to celebrate on the Island, hitting the beaches, shops, restaurants and bars with enthusiastic patriotism.

On Thursday, July 4, be prepared for festivities that will last four days or more, as many will arrive as early as they are able, taking the celebration through the weekend. Last year, many Island officials believed it was one of the busiest holidays the Island has ever seen, and this year, due to the four-day weekend, they say it could be just as busy or more so.

SEE FOURTH, PAGE 13

Mayor proposes reduced millage rate

Increased property values would offset the proposed millage rate reduction.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Mayor Dan Murphy proposes lowering Anna Maria’s current 2.05 millage rate to the 1.8245 rollback rate, or lower.

The rollback rate is the rate needed to generate the same ad valorem property tax revenues generated during the current fiscal year, with increased property values producing the same revenues at a lower millage rate.

When presenting his final city budget before leaving office later this year, Murphy proposed the millage reduction during the Anna Maria City Commission’s June 27 budget

meeting. Focused on projected revenues, Thursday’s meeting was the first of three preliminary budget meetings scheduled for the preparation of the 2024-25 fiscal year budget that takes effect on Oct. 1. Regarding the millage rate, Murphy said, “We’re not going to go in at 2.05. We’re actually going to start at the rollback rate which will yield $4.24 million (in ad valorem property tax revenues). I think we can actually bring it in under the rollback rate and provide all the services we need to provide for the residents of this city, so the property owners and the homeowners of our city could experience a tax reduction. I hope that you could share that goal with me as we go forward with the budget.”

SEE MILLAGE, PAGE 14

LESLIE LAKE | SUN

The American flag flies over Bridge Street in celebration of Independence Day.

Treehouse owners prep for demolition

The clock is ticking for the court-mandated removal of a beachfront treehouse in Holmes Beach.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – The bells are tolling their last for the beachfront treehouse at Angelinos Sea Lodge as an attorney for the owners has confirmed in court that the structure will be demolished by the end of July. Twelfth Judicial Circuit Court Judge Edward Nicholas met with attorneys for both the city and the owners of the structure via a Zoom hearing on June 26 to hear how compliance with his February order mandating the removal of the treehouse was progressing. Attorney Fred Moore, speaking on behalf of owners Lynn Tran and Richard Hazen, said that permits were being filed with the city’s building department for the removal of the structure,

a contractor has been hired and a permit from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) has been issued for the demolition of the treehouse. With the FDEP permit expiring on July 31, Moore said the couple will move forward with demolition as soon as the city permit is granted.

“The demolition of the treehouse will take place,” Moore said.

Chad Minor, Holmes Beach city planner, said during the hearing that the treehouse owners’ contractor had not supplied all the required permit application documents as of the time of the hearing. Moore said that the contractor and the couple are working to comply with all the permit requirements. No permits for demolition were issued by the city as of press time for The Sun. Sanctions in the amount of $4,040 also were paid by the couple, the city’s attorney, Randy Mora, confirmed.

Nicholas agreed to a final case

status conference to be held by Zoom in mid-August to make sure that the treehouse has been removed in compliance with his Feb. 12 order. Initially, the order set a deadline of July 3 for removal, though he agreed to allow Tran and Hazen 45 more days to obtain the necessary permits and remove the contested structure. As of July 3, city leaders legally have the option to provide written notice to the owners to enter the property and remove the treehouse with

they contacted the city’s building department at the time to see if they needed a permit for a treehouse and were told they did not. Once the two-story treehouse was built in an Australian pine with additional wooden pillar supports westward of the couple’s home, which also is home to their four-unit vacation rental business, issues with the city began.

the bill for removal going to Tran and Hazen for reimbursement. Mora said that with the owners actively working on getting the permits and planning for demolition he doesn’t believe city leaders are planning to take that route and instead are still hoping for compliance from Tran and Hazen.

The treehouse has been a point of contention for more than a decade, since it was first dreamed up by the couple in 2009.

Tran and Hazen state that

Code enforcement notified the couple that they needed a permit for the structure, though they were unable to meet the requirements for an after-the-fact permit, according to city leaders, due to the treehouse’s proximity to the erosion control line.

The treehouse became the subject of code enforcement special magistrate hearings and court cases in 2011, continuing until this past May when an appeal to Nicholas’s February ruling was abandoned by the couple in Florida’s Second District Court of Appeal.

FILE PHOTO

The treehouse at Angelinos Sea Lodge is planned to be demolished by the end of July.

ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

City’s vulnerable areas identified

The vulnerability assessment report is designed to identify areas in the city that are subject to flooding.

CITY OF ANNA MARIA | SUBMITTED

The Island Players’ building needs a new roof.

Island Players’ roof to be replaced

The city of Anna Maria will pay Bringman Roofing $45,000 to replace the asphalt shingle roof on the city-owned Island Players building with a new asphalt shingle roof. On June 27, Building Department General Manager Dean Jones told city commissioners the work would begin in about two weeks. The commission previously earmarked $65,000 for the project and Mayor Dan Murphy said the goal is to have the roof replaced and the wind insurance policy reinstated before the peak hurricane season arrives.

Budget meetings scheduled

Holmes Beach leaders will begin hammering out their budgets for the 2024-25 fiscal year beginning on Tuesday, Oct. 1. Commissioners will hold a regular meeting for audit review only on Tuesday, July 9 at 2 p.m. immediately followed by a budget work session. On Tuesday, July 23 at 2 p.m. they will hold a special meeting to set the maximum millage rate followed by a regular meeting with a work session to follow. Commissioners are skipping the first meeting in August and will hold their only meeting that month on Tuesday, Aug. 27 at 2 p.m. with a work session to follow.

Correction

Running unopposed, Chris Arendt and Gary McMullen will fill the only two open Anna Maria City Commission seats after the upcoming general election. The mayor’s seat will be filled by the winner of the Brian Seymour/Mark Short race.

SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – In the second step required by a Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) grant to prepare a vulnerability assessment document for the city, a town hall meeting was held at city hall on June 27.

Environmental Scientist Associates (ESA) Senior Environmental Scientist Brett Solomon was retained by the city and led the presentation.

“This is the public outreach meeting,” Solomon said. “This is a grant through the DEP the city applied for and received last year. The document that will be produced is necessary based on new state law that says that every coastal community and city throughout the state needs to have a vulnerability assessment document prepared if they want to apply for funding for infrastructure, construction projects, etc.”

Solomon’s expertise lies in resiliency.

“This is one of the documents the city wanted to apply for resiliency grant dollars for construction,” he said. “They would need this document prepared and submitted to the state.”

According to state statute, there are eight tasks that need to be fulfilled: A kick-off meeting, a public outreach meeting, acquiring background data, exposure analysis, sensitivity analysis, identification of focus areas, a final vulnerability assessment report with maps and tables and a public presentation.

“We already did a kick-off meeting with the city commission, you can see that they all have the same due date which is March 31, 2025,” he said. “The city is trying to get this document finalized and submitted to the state ASAP because, in order for them to go for grant funding dollars again if there are construction projects that would meet the criteria of needing this document, they would need it for this fiscal year.”

The resiliency grant application period opens in July and closes on Sept. 1, he said.

“As the city is submitting for those public dollars then this

document will need to be finalized,” Solomon said. “This meeting today is to get the word out, what this document is, how it’s going to be used, and what we’ve been compiling over these past few months with the city.”

Solomon said sea level rise, king tides and intensifications of storms are factors that coastal communities are dealing with.

“If you have this elevated tide and then you get a 50- or 100-year storm event, what’s that going to look like? We’re trying to compile that projection data and see what can be useful for the city,” he said.

Three main categories were evaluated – critical and regionally significant asset inventory, topographic data and flood scenario-related data.

“We have some examples of the focus areas that the city commission directed us to take a look at,” Solomon said. “The focus area list is not the beall and end-all, but it will at least tell the state these are critical areas of concern for the city and what they can do.”

He said public input is welcome to identify critical focus areas throughout the city.

“Then we’ll be putting out the final document for public review and then the final hearing,” he said.

One of the areas of concern for flooding that was identified by the city was 12th Street North.

“Twelfth Street North at Avenue A, it’s very low and it takes a lot of water” from Gulf Drive, Mayor John Chappie said. “With the new construction that’s going on on Avenue A and at the end of 12th Street. it’s created like a dam, because they’ve built up the land, part of it, and it used to sheet over. Now there’s no place for it to sheet over and everything is being tunneled to the end of 12th Street North. Which, of course, backs up all along Avenue A. It’s one

of our hot spots. It’s a problem area we need to focus in on.”

“We rank these by elevation,” Solomon said. “A lower elevation is going to have a higher ranking with vulnerability.”

Another identified hot spot area was 21st Place North and Avenue A.

“We’re improving the infrastructure in that area,” Chappie said. “We had a $2.69 million appropriations grant from the state of Florida for stormwater work. They’re totally rebuilding Avenue A on the southern end.”

“This is a good example of what we’re trying to capture,” Solomon said. “In the future, the city and citizens can use this document to apply for more grant funding.”

Other areas of concern were Bay Drive near Fifth Street South and Bridge Street.

“What we did at ESA was, we assisted the city with coming up with a design for a resiliency adaptation project that was basically a living shoreline/resiliency barrier, we assisted the city with permitting and permits have been finalized so the city can go out and construct it any point,” Solomon said. “We assisted the city with applying for a construction grant with FDEP and we ranked high enough to receive funding, however, the city has not received word yet if that funding was funded by the state Legislature.”

The barriers to help dissipate wave surge along that low-lying area include reef balls, oyster domes and the planting of mangroves.

“We’ll be bringing in some sand as well. It’s a combination of things to fortify that area,” Solomon said.

Solomon said he is hoping to have a draft of the report available within the next month for the public to review before being approved by city staff and submitted to the state.

LESLIE LAKE | SUN

Environmental scientist Brett Solomon outlines a vulnerability assessment report for the city of Bradenton Beach.

Pier team discusses Bridge Street improvements

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH

– A monthly pier team meeting on June 26 at city hall covered a host of topics including feedback about the Gulf Island Ferry, the installation of cameras on the city pier, road closures for the upcoming Sundown Get Down street party and an update on the floating dock.

“We’re getting a lot of positive feedback from people coming in on the ferry. They absolutely love to hop off that ferry and be right in the middle of Bridge Street and Bradenton Beach,” John Horne, owner of Anna Maria Island Oyster Bar (AMOB), said during the concessionaire report. “I think it’s tremendous.”

Police Chief John Cosby gave an update on the security cameras to be installed on the city pier.

“I’m still waiting,” Cosby said. “I think they started installing some of the equipment. The last I talked to them, they’re waiting for the insulating conduit.”

Other business included the concessionaire report, a dock update, public

the street sweeper.”

For the upcoming Sundown Get Down street party on Bridge Street, which begins on Thursday, July 18 at 4 p.m., Cosby said the road will be closed to traffic at noon.

“We’ll move traffic out before it actually starts,” he said. “This won’t affect the parking at the pier unless I have to shut the circle down. This is the first time, so it’s a learning curve to see where the crowd is going and if it looks like it’s going to expand then we’ll do exactly the same closure that we do for the Christmas event.”

Cosby said barricades will be in place, but they won’t be used unless needed.

works and building departments reports and a facilitator report.

Cosby, who is also serving as interim Public Works Director, said regarding trash pickup on the pier, “I don’t really want to hire any new positions until we know what’s happening with OPPAGA (the potential consolidation of Island cities), if anything. We do have a budgeted person for the CRA district and that will be for Saturdays and

Sundays so that will be seven days.”

Three days a week, the public works crew will remove trash from Bridge Street.

“In the past, the street was only getting a half of days’ worth of service basically so now there’s two people on it,” Cosby said. “Every Thursday, as long as it’s not raining, they blow out all the dust from the sidewalks and the curb area and out into the roadway for

“I don’t want to shut things down that don’t need to be,” Cosby said. “We’ll see how it goes.”

Cosby said many people are planning to arrive for the street party by the Gulf Island Ferry and tickets are sold out.

“As far as the floating dock, everything’s been fixed that we requested to be fixed,” Cosby said.

LESLIE LAKE | SUN

From left, Police Chief John Cosby, John Horne, Commissioner Deborah Scaccianoce, Tim Bingham, managing partner of AMOB, and Mayor John Chappie participate in the June 26 pier team meeting at city hall.

OPINION

The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff

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Editor

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Contributors

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Layout

Ricardo Fonseca

Digital Editor

Kristin Swain

Advertising Director

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Advertising Assistant

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Classifieds

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Distribution

Bob Alexander

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Accounting

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Co-founding publishers

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JULY 3, 2024

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. The Anna Maria

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Act of kindness

In this world of negativity, I had a very pleasant experience at the Publix on 75th Street. While checking out, a gentleman put a bouquet of flowers in my basket (a gift). Amazed, I asked. “Why me?” He said, “I just wanted to see you smile.” Of course, I did. I asked the checker who he was. She told me he comes in a lot and buys two bunches of flowers and gives them away. I want to thank him again but have no idea who he is. Ginger Seybold Cortez

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3

Reactory Factory Rocks: The Sound of Science, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

One-on-one Tech Help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 3 p.m.

THURSDAY, JULY 4

AMI Privateers Fourth of July Parade, begins at Coquina Beach north boat ramp in Bradenton Beach, continues north on Gulf Drive, East Bay Drive, Manatee Avenue, Gulf Drive, Marina Drive and Pine Avenue in Anna Maria, 10 a.m. to approximately 2 p.m.

FRIDAY, JULY 5

Beach cleanup with Keep Manatee Beautiful, Waste Pro and the city of Holmes Beach, 52nd Street beach access, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m. All supplies provided.

Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.

Summer Game Night at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, JULY 6

Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon

MONDAY, JULY 8

Sunset Tai Chi, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 6:30 p.m.

TUESDAY, JULY 9

AMI Chamber Sunrise Breakfast, Cheesecake Cutie & Café, 3324 East Bay Dr., Holmes Beach, 8 a.m., $15 for members or $25 for prospective members

Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.

Turtle Tracks and Shorebird Facts, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Musical Motion, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 10

One-on-one tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-4 p.m.

Island Time Book Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 6:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, JULY 11

Seashell shore walk, Coquina Beach south, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 9 a.m.

Sword Fighting for History, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

One-on-one tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11 a.m.

AMI Chamber luncheon, Pesto Bistro & Wine Bar, 8799 Cortez Road W., Bradenton, 11:30 a.m., $22 for members or $30 for prospective members

Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

FRIDAY, JULY 12

Forty Carrots infant and toddler playtime, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Escape the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.

Summer Game Nights at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, JULY 13

Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon

Paws and Pages: A Dog Adoption Event, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

MONDAY, JULY 15

Digital Sketchbook Studio, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

TUESDAY, JULY 16

Turtle Tracks and Shorebird Facts, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.

ON THE AGENDA

ANNA MARIA

10005 GULF DRIVE

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130

Please visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information.

July 4, all day – City offices closed for Independence Day holiday

BRADENTON BEACH

107 GULF DRIVE N. FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005

Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information.

July 4, all day – City offices closed for Independence Day holiday

July 10, 9 a.m. – City Commission workshop

HOLMES BEACH

5801 MARINA DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800

Please visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information.

July 4, all day – City offices closed for Independence Day holiday

July 9, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting

July 9, 2:30 p.m. – City Commission budget workshop

ISLAND-WIDE

July 11, 9:30 a.m. – ManaSota League of Cities meeting, Longboat Key Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key July 16, 6 p.m. – West Manatee Fire Rescue board meeting, administration building, 701 63rd St., Bradenton

New law bans balloon releases

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

TALLAHASSEE - Celebratory balloon releases are no longer allowed in Florida.

House Bill 321, which prohibits the intentional release of balloons, was signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis on June 24 and took effect on July 1. The law replaces the formerly allowed release of 10 or more balloons within 24 hours.

“While releasing helium balloons into the air is a common way to celebrate an event, the balloons end up drifting in the oceans where sea turtles mistake them for one of their main food sources, jellyfish,” according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

“Thousands of sea turtles die each year from eating and becoming entangled in plastic bags and balloons floating in the water.”

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), turtles, birds and other animals also commonly mistake balloons for food.

“Sea turtles are especially hit hard as they surface to breathe and commonly eat balloons,” according to FWS.

“In addition, many animals can become entangled in balloon strings, which can strangle them or hurt their feet and hands.”

In May, researchers from the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program (SDRP) spent five days offshore conducting dolphin research and picked up multiple balloons that had ended up in the water far offshore.

“We collected 76 balloons and other marine debris up to dozens of miles offshore, including two ghost crab trap lines with floats and a beach ball. Most of the balloons had Mother’s Day or birth -

day messages,” the SDRP website states. “They heavily contribute to oceanic waste and animals can become entangled in them or ill from ingesting whole balloons or pieces.”

Bio-degradable balloons are not exempt from the Florida balloon release ban.

Exemptions to the Florida law are balloons released on behalf of a governmental agency for scientific or meteorological purposes, hot air balloons that are recovered after launching and balloons released indoors.

Florida joins nine other states that have banned balloon releases: California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Rhode Island, Tennessee and Virginia.

Multiple U.S. cities have also banned balloon releases.

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.

• 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 — 941-7086130, ext. 111.

• City of Bradenton Beach code enforcement — 941778-1005, ext. 227.

• City of Holmes Beach code enforcement — 941778-0331, 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 888-404FWCC (3922).

Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring

Growing least tern colony vulnerable to fireworks

Fireworks on AMI beaches are not only illegal, they pose a danger to nesting shorebirds.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring and Audubon Florida remind beachgoers to avoid disturbing nesting shorebirds with fireworks.

Setting off fireworks on AMI beaches is illegal, according to local law enforcement officials.

Turtle Watch has been monitoring a colony of least terns in Bradenton Beach since early May. The colony has grown to 45 birds and 22 nests, six of which are expected to hatch shortly. Six chicks already have hatched, ranging in age from one to two weeks.

“The adults are highly agitated by people coming too close to the buffer area, dogs on the beach and fireworks,” according to an email from Turtle Watch Executive Director Kristen Mazzarella. “Fireworks have been known to cause an entire colony of nesting birds to abandon their eggs and chicks.”

Local law prohibits dogs on AMI beaches.

The least tern chicks are using both washed-up seaweed and chick huts as shelter. The chick huts also protect them from predators such as fish crows and laughing gulls. Fish crow effigies have been placed to reduce predation from the crows.

“Chick Crossing” signs have been

KATHY DODDRIDGE | SUBMITTED

Signs and enclosures protect least tern chicks in Bradenton Beach from beachgoers.

KATHY DODDRIDGE | SUBMITTED

A least tern chick in Bradenton Beach stretches its wings.

placed around the colony and beachgoers are asked to watch for chicks outside the posted area. Do not pick them up and move them. Allow the least tern adults to call the chicks back into the enclosure.

Volunteer bird stewards will be at the colony throughout the holiday weekend to educate the public and respond to questions.

According to a press release from

BIRD TIPS

During bird nesting season, February to September, please follow these tips:

• Respect posted areas. Avoid posted nesting and resting areas and use designated walkways.

• Never touch a shorebird chick, even if it’s wandering outside a staked nesting area.

• Teach kids not to chase birds – if they’re disturbed, bird parents may abandon nests.

• Don’t feed birds – our food is not good for their health, and it encourages them to fly at people aggressively.

Audubon Florida, nesting shorebirds seen on Anna Maria Island beaches can include least terns, black skimmers, Wilson’s plovers, snowy plovers and American oystercatchers.

“Debris left from the fireworks litter on beaches and in near-shore waters and can be easily mistaken for food by sea turtles and other marine animals. Chicks nibble on plastic refuse, even ingesting some of the smallest pieces,” according to Audubon.

Audubon recommends that people attend a municipal fireworks show versus deploying store-bought fireworks on the beach.

“Nesting birds face threats from vehicular traffic, kites, off-leash dogs, getting stepped on and firework displays on crowded beaches. These

• If birds are screeching and flying at you, you’re too close. Stay at least 300 feet away.

• Avoid posted bird nesting areas and use designated walkways to the beach.

• Pets are prohibited on AMI beaches. Keep cats indoors.

• Keep the beach clean; food scraps attract bird predators such as raccoons and crows to the beach, and litter can entangle birds and other wildlife.

• If you see people disturbing nesting birds, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).

NESTING NEWS

Turtle nests laid: 492 (Record: 544 in 2019) False crawls: 587 (Record: 831 in 2010) Nests hatched: 0 (Record: 453 in 2022) Hatchlings hatched: 0 (Record: 35,850 in 2022) Hatchling disorientations: 0 Adult disorientations: 29

Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring

disturbances can cause adult birds to abandon their nests or chicks, which can ultimately lead to chicks starving, getting eaten by a predator or overheating in the sun,” according to Audubon.

Students visit WMFR Cortez station

Students from the Olivera Jiu Jitsu & Fitness Academy learn about the equipment firefighters use when battling a blaze during a June 19 visit to West Manatee Fire Rescue Station 2 in Cortez.

Two firefighters receive promotions

Firefighters Zackary Misiura and Brooks Larkin received promotions from probationary firefighters to third-class firefighters on June 18 during a West Manatee Fire Rescue board meeting.

WMFR | SUBMITTED

WMFR | SUBMITTED

CVHS needs book donations

The Cortez Village Historical Society’s two free little libraries in Cortez have run dry and donations are welcome. The free libraries are located at the post office and in front of Star Fish Co. “If you have books in good condition that you’re ready to part with, please consider donating them,” including children’s and young adult books, according to the CVHS newsletter.

Sundown Get Down coming to Bridge Street

The third Thursday of every month will bring a different themed party to historic Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach, and it kicks off this month. Sundown Get Down is a chance to enjoy a family-friendly street party that kicks off at 4 p.m. and offers a chance to sip, shop, stroll, dine and discover what Bridge Street has to offer. Parties planned for the third Thursday of each month for the remainder of the year include:

• July 18 - Retro Beach Party

• Aug. 15 - Pirate Powerboat Plunder

• Sept. 19 - Under the Sea Back to School Bash

• Oct. 17 - Pumpkins and Palms in Paradise

• Nov. 21 - Coastal Harvest Hoedown

• Dec. 19 - Sandy Clause Beach Celebration Come by car, walk, bike or take the Gulf Island Ferry. There will also be shuttle service provided by the Monkey Bus from the Coquina Beach public parking lot.

County leaders push for Holmes Beach water taxi stop

TDC members say they would support funding for a multi-use path if city leaders approve a water taxi stop. City leaders say that ball is in the county’s court.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – City leaders are willing to consider a water taxi stop in Anna Maria Island’s largest municipality. But they say it will be up to Manatee County leaders to put forth a site plan change for their consideration.

The discussion began during commissioner comments at a June 25 city commission meeting following comments from Commissioner Dan Diggins concerning a recent Manatee County Tourist Development Council meeting held at The Center of Anna Maria Island. During the TDC meeting, a proposal was reviewed from the city of Holmes Beach requesting funding for a multi-use path to enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists along the Marina/Gulf Drive corridor. TDC members deviated in their conversation from the requested path to the Gulf Island Ferry service which currently operates from a dock in downtown Bradenton to the Anna Maria City Pier and the Bradenton Beach Pier. They voted to recommend the multi-use path funding to Manatee County commissioners, who make the final decision, on the condition that city leaders provide a space for the ferry to dock. During their discussion, city commissioners

said it’s up to the county to approach them if they want a ferry dock in Holmes Beach.

Diggins said he’d spoken with Bradenton Area Convention Center and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Elliott Falcione about the ferry and suggested, in his personal opinion, that the county-owned Kingfish Boat Ramp at the entrance to the city on Manatee Avenue would be the best place in Holmes Beach for a ferry stop due to the large amount of parking and easy access to Island trolley stops and the beach.

Diggins also said he’d spoken with Falcione about his concerns regarding the safety of the pontoon boats currently used for the service. When he lived in Baltimore, he said a similar style of ferry had been capsized, leading to the deaths of five people, including a child. With how fast storms blow up in the area, he said he feels the pontoon boats are not a reliable form of transportation to and from the Island on the Manatee River. Another point of concern is that the ferry service currently can only operate in fair weather, leading him and other commissioners to question how it can reliably be used by patrons and workers if they could get stuck out on the Island due to a storm without transportation back to downtown. Commissioners stated that in the event of ferry service cancellation, riders’ only means of transportation would be hiring a car ride service or waiting for a Manatee County Area Transit bus to take them back downtown.

At Kingfish, Diggins said the county would be able to build the infrastructure to handle a larger boat than the

pontoon boats instead of the limited access provided by the Waterline Marina in the center of the city.

While commissioners said they certainly are not opposed to considering site plan approval for a ferry stop in the city, they agreed that it would be up to county officials to bring those plans to them for consideration, not for them to present a plan to the county.

“If they’re going forward, and the city has made it very clear through numerous opportunities, we’re more than willing to accept and review a proposal. But it’s incumbent upon them, not us, to both locate and then to pursue a site plan for that location,” Commissioner Terry Schaefer said. He said he believes the best location would be Kingfish, if county leaders want to move forward, but it’s up to the county to bring the issue forward to the city commission “like anyone else who wants to build something in our city.”

City Attorney Erica Augello stated that she was aware the county had approached the owners of the marina at Waterline Marina Resort & Villas about hosting a ferry stop in that location. She noted that trials had already been conducted to see if the current pontoon boats were able to access and move around the marina. If that plan moves forward, she said it would likely come before the city commission for site plan approval in a quasi-judicial format. She encouraged commissioners to keep records of all of their communications regarding the water taxi service and to stay out of the discussion when possible.

“At this point, the city doesn’t have a dog in that fight,” Augello said.

Second Pine Avenue RFP authorized

City officials hope to have the first four phases of brick paver sidewalks installed between Gulf Drive and Bay Boulevard by the end of November.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – As part of an ongoing block-by-block implementation strategy, city officials are issuing a request for proposals (RFP) for phase 1-B of the Reimagining Pine Avenue brick paver sidewalk installation project.

Phase 1-B calls for the installation of new pervious brick paver sidewalks and new crosswalks along Pine Avenue, between North Shore Drive and Crescent Drive.

In each of the four initial construction phases, brick paver sidewalks will be installed along both sides of Pine Avenue where no concrete sidewalks currently exist, including the unpaved pedestrian paths that meander inward toward the business entrances. The existing concrete sidewalks along Pine Avenue will remain in place until they are replaced in a future phase or phases of the project.

The unpaved pedestrian path near the Crescent Drive/Gulf Drive intersection would be part of the phase 1-B project.

The city commission approved the phase 1-B RFP issuance during its June 27 meeting.

Mayor Dan Murphy sought the phase 1-B RFP at this time so construction companies interested in phase 1-A can also submit bids for phase 1-B. He said if the same company is awarded the

phase 1-A and 1-B projects, they would only have to mobilize their equipment, materials and labor resources one time, which could produce some cost savings for the city.

City Clerk LeAnne Addy did not specify an exact phase 1-B bid submission deadline but she said those bids

are due in approximately 27 days, which is on or around July 25.

On June 13, the commission authorized the issuance of the phase 1-A RFP for new brick paver sidewalks and crosswalks along Pine Avenue between Gulf Drive and North Shore Drive. Phase 1-A bid proposals are due July 17.

The phase 1-C RFP for the section from Crescent Drive to Tarpon Street is expected to be issued on or around July 15 and the RFP for the Tarpon Street to Bay Boulevard section of the project is expected to be issued on or around July 31.

On June 13, Murphy said he expects phase 1-A to be completed by the end of September and all four initial phases to be completed by the end of November.

After the four phase 1 sections are completed, the mayor and commission will turn their attention to replacing the existing concrete sidewalks with new brick paver sidewalks. New streetlights will also be installed along Pine Avenue as part of the safety improvement project that will later extend to Spring and Magnolia avenues.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

FOURTH: AMI prepares for holiday

Tourism officials note a slight leveling off of tourism after the boom that occurred after the COVID-19 pandemic, when Florida became one of the few states that opened for business quickly after the COVID lockdown, but recent holiday weekends have been the exception.

“It’s going to be busy, but planning and patience will make it enjoyable for everyone,” Holmes Beach Police Chief

Bill Tokajer said. “We issued more than 100 parking-related tickets last year, but I drove around our city’s public parking spots and there was never a time there weren’t spots open, people just need to keep a lookout for them.”

Tokajer said the City of Holmes Beach’s website has an extremely useful page that uses Google Earth to show where every legal parking space in the city is located. All a user has to do is go to www.holmesbeachfl.org and click on the “I want to” tab, then select “Find parking.” Tokajer says this is a great way to find the public parking spaces many don’t bother to seek out. Using this resource can help visitors get to the beach faster, and maximize their time on the beach rather than sit in traffic at the Manatee Beach parking lot that is usually full by 10 a.m. during busy holiday peak times.

The parking situation is amplified in the City of Bradenton Beach, where despite more than 50 no-parking signs being erected along Gulf Drive South, people simply don’t seem to care.

“Over Memorial Day weekend, our officers wrote more than 400 tickets for illegal parking at Coquina Beach and Cortez Beach, and there were still plenty that probably got

away with it,” Bradenton Beach Police Lt. Lenard Diaz said.

Both Tokajer and Diaz believe that some people feel it’s worth the price of a ticket to park illegally and get on with their beach day, a sentiment echoed by many people The Sun has spoken to regarding parking.

“We were told the price of a parking ticket at Coquina Beach was $75, but these paid parking lots that have recently popped up are $20 an hour,” Joanne Stover, of West Virginia, said. “It’s a heck of a lot cheaper to pay a ticket than pay that for the day, if my math is right.”

Restaurant wait times over the weekend are expected to be excessive, and travel to and from the Island will be slow-going, but there will still be plenty of sand, sea and sun to make the Island a great place to wish America a happy birthday.

A few things to keep in mind so that everyone will have a safe and enjoyable July Fourth include knowing what is not permitted on any Island beach:

• Motor vehicles;

• Fires;

• Grills (except where public grills are provided);

• Pets;

• Alcohol;

• Harassment of wildlife (shorebirds and sea turtles are nesting, admire from a distance);

• Fireworks.

“I have three important reminders for the upcoming July Fourth holiday weekend,” Tokajer said. “First, you are vacationing in a residential area, so please keep noise to a minimum. Second, be respectful of your surroundings and leave it cleaner than you found it. Third, always park with all tires off the road. Parallel parking is parking with the flow of traffic. Saying you didn’t see the sign or were not aware will not get a ticket voided. Also, fireworks are not permitted on the beach and our department will be out strictly enforcing this.”

Holmes Beach police, along with Bradenton Beach and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, which patrols the City of Anna Maria, all remind the public that the laws prohibiting fires, grills, alcohol and pets are strictly enforced. All three departments plan to increase the number of officers on patrol for the busy holiday weekend.

“Remember to not put yourself in a position to be a victim of a crime of opportunity,” Diaz said. “Lock your car and don’t leave valuables in plain sight on car seats or places that entice criminals. Also, don’t bring valuables to the beach. Just bring what you need so you can relax and enjoy yourself.”

While violent crime is uncommon on AMI, a heavy influx of tourists will naturally bring out a few people with bad intentions. Simply taking common sense precautions can help assure a fun and safe day at the beach.

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

Manatee Beach was packed for the July Fourth holiday last year, and 2024 is expected to be just as busy.

MILLAGE: Mayor proposes reduced rate

The commission expressed preliminary support for the proposed millage reduction.

Murphy said a budget based on a lower millage rate would be “lean and mean” while still providing the services and benefits residents and property owners expect.

“It’s not like we’re going to live in austerity,” he said. “We maintain or improve our quality of life, yet we do it with less money because we do things more efficiently and we utilize what we’ve got in terms of the carryover from projects we couldn’t finish.”

At 1.8245 mills, Anna Maria property owners would pay a city property tax of approximately $1.82 per every $1,000 of assessed property value after homestead exemptions and other tax exemptions are applied.

According to the Manatee County Tax Collector’s 2024 Preliminary Taxing Authority Report, the taxable value of Anna Maria’s 1,707 real properties is $2.32 billion.

Anna Maria’s current 2.05 millage rate has historically been the lowest on Anna Maria Island and the lowest in Manatee County.

In 2022, the Holmes Beach City Commission lowered its 2.15 millage

rate to 2.07 and in 2023 they lowered it again to 2.05 for the current fiscal year. The Bradenton Beach millage rate has remained at 2.3329 for several years.

Anna Maria property owners also pay Manatee County property taxes and the county’s 2023 millage rate was 6.2326. Manatee County property owners also pay taxes and assessments levied by the Manatee County School Board, fire and rescue districts, stormwater management districts, mosquito control districts and the West Coast Inland Navigation District.

CITY REVENUES

Murphy said the city received slightly more than $10.1 million in total revenues for the current 2023-24 fiscal year that ends on Sept. 30 and he projects the city receiving $18.1 million in total revenues during the 2024-25 fiscal year that begins on Oct. 1. The $8 million increase includes $6 million in unspent project-related funds to be carried over into the new fiscal year. Murphy said $12.8 million is already earmarked for specific projects and expenditures and the remaining $5.3 million is not yet earmarked for specific expenditures. Murphy said $1.28 million of the

projected $3 million in stormwater revenues is carryover from the current fiscal year. He said some stormwater and drainage projects couldn’t be completed this year because the contractor didn’t have the needed labor resources.

Stormwater revenues are received from the Southwest Florida Water Management District, FEMA and the stormwater assessment fees the city levies annually on Anna Maria property owners.

Regarding the stormwater and drainage projects to be included in the new budget, Murphy said, “When this is completed, the whole city is covered with vertical infiltration and stormwater treatment.”

The projected revenues include a previously approved $2.6 million state appropriation for the Reimagining Pine Avenue safety improvement project and an additional $185,094

in remaining American Rescue Plan funds that will be used to install new Pine Avenue streetlights.

Murphy noted that Gov. Ron DeSantis recently vetoed the city’s $475,000 state appropriation request for the construction of a stand-alone public comfort station (public restrooms) near the public parking lot by city hall and the Island Players.

Murphy said Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Elliott Falcione supports the city seeking $288,000 in tourist development tax revenues to help fund the comfort station project.

“I feel optimistic that we can convince the county commission to give us that money,” Murphy said. “It’s an excellent investment in the city – a comfort station near the beach, with a diaper changing station and an outdoor shower. It’s a good use of tourist development money.”

SENIOR DISCOUNT

Commissioner Mark Short mentioned the tax exemptions given to Manatee County property owners. According to the tax collector’s office, permanent residents qualify for a $25,000 homestead exemption and those whose assessed property value exceeds $50,000 are eligible for an additional $25,000 exemption. Senior

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Mayor Dan Murphy wants to reduce the millage rate for Anna Maria property owners.

FWC offers free program to remove at-risk vessels

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

CORTEZ – Before an unwanted boat reaches the condition of the abandoned, partially-sunken vessels littering the waters south of the Cortez Bridge, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) Vessel Turn-in Program (VTIP) may be the answer for some boat owners. The voluntary program is designed to help owners dispose of their at-risk vessels before they become derelict. Since the inception of the program in late 2022, the FWC has received 186 applications from owners statewide of at-risk or unwanted vessels and a milestone 100th vessel was removed on June 7.

“We are encouraged to see so many vessel owners taking advantage of this program,” VTIP Administrator Phil Horning said. “It is an easy and free way to have their at-risk vessels removed from waters of the state before they face potential legal action by allowing their vessel to become derelict. It would be great to remove a hundred more.” Upon approval of an application, VTIP will take a surrendered vessel and dispose of it at no cost to the boat owner.

Local boat captains have expressed concern about sunken and unregistered boats south of the Cortez Bridge, and in May, marine law enforcement agencies issued more than 20 citations for multiple unregistered and derelict vessels.

“Removing the vessel before it deteriorates into a derelict condition will prevent legal ramifications for the vessel owner, protect Florida’s valuable seagrass resources, marine life and human life, safety and property, and save Florida taxpayers money,” according to the FWC.

To qualify for VTIP, the vessel must be floating in Florida waters and cannot be determined derelict by law enforcement. The owner must have at least one written warning or citation for an at-risk condition and have a clear title to the vessel.

“We know that for a number of reasons some boat owners are unable or unwilling to maintain their vessels,” Boating and Waterways Derelict Vessel Removal and Prevention Unit Leader Capt. Travis Franklin said.

LESLIE LAKE | SUN

Partially sunken abandoned boats off the coast of Cortez create hazards to navigation.

“These boats then become derelict or at-risk of becoming derelict. This is a concern because they pose hazards to public safety and the environment, are costly to remove, and can produce criminal liability for the owner. This is where the VTIP program comes in.”

At-risk criteria include a vessel taking on water without an effective way to dewater; spaces meant to be enclosed remaining open to the elements; the vessel listing due to water intrusion or the vessel has or may break loose from its anchor and

the vessel is tied to an unlawful or unpermitted structure or mooring.

“FWC makes every effort to work with the vessel owners to have them either remove the vessel from state waters themselves or return it to non-derelict status to minimize the cost to taxpayers,” FWC spokesperson Bradley Johnson wrote in a May email to The Sun. “There is a difference between a vessel that is derelict and a vessel that is at-risk of becoming derelict. It is much less expensive to remove an at-risk vessel than it is to remove one already rendered derelict.”

A derelict vessel is any vessel that is left in a wrecked, junked, or substantially dismantled condition upon waters of the state.

The FWC is actively taking applications from at-risk vessel owners for the Vessel Turn-In Program. Vessel owners can call VTIP specialists at the FWC for more information on the program at 850-488-5600 or visit the VTIP website at MyFWC.com/ boating and click on “Vessel Turn-In Program.”

Resilience Incubator launches

Reel Time

n June 27, I had the pleasure of attending the ribboncutting ceremony in Sarasota for the new offices of Suncoast Waterkeeper and 10 other leading non-profit organizations that are joining forces as a resilience incubator to ramp up their efforts to bring services to Sarasota and Manatee County. Representatives from the various organizations were joined by numerous elected officials to officially launch the partnership and offer tours of the brand-new collaboration and facility.

“This partnership marks a turning point for the Sarasota region. By working together as the Resilience

Incubator, we can address our community's most urgent needs more effectively than ever before,” Executive Director of Rebuilding Together Tampa Bay Joe Garcia said. “This is more than just a collaboration, it's a commitment to a brighter, healthier and more resilient future for everyone in Sarasota.”

“We are thrilled to be part of this innovative effort. Together, as the Resilience Incubator, we can have a greater impact on ensuring clean and safe water for all, while enhancing our ability to protect this vital resource for future generations,” added Abbey Tyrna, executive director of Suncoast Waterkeeper.

Amber Whittle, executive director of Southface Sarasota, added, “We are excited that our dream to partner with these change-making organizations to create a more resilient community has become a reality. By coming together, we generate more awareness of climate resilience for our community and can make a real impact for the people of Sarasota and surrounding communities.”

• Hurricane Preparedness and Resilience: Enhancing our readiness and response to natural disasters, ensuring the safety and well-being of our community members.

• Education and Youth Development: Providing robust educational programs and opportunities for youth to thrive and succeed.

• Affordable Housing: Addressing housing challenges by creating accessible and affordable living options.

• Mental Health Services: Expanding access to crucial mental health resources and support, promoting overall well-being.

“By combining our strengths under the Resilience Incubator, we can collaborate and utilize resources in the most effective way possible benefiting the well-being of our community members,” said Matt Sauer, of the Charles and Margery Barancik Foundation.

Scott Bush, CEO of

Suncoast Blood Centers and landlord for the building, remarked, “I am excited to see this space utilized in this unique and unprecedented way.”

The collaboration represents an enormous effort to address Sarasota’s most pressing needs with efficiency and impact. By uniting their resources and expertise, these organizations can better tackle critical issues head-on and create lasting positive change in the community. The new unified approach will focus on:

• Protecting Our Waters: Strengthening our efforts to protect and preserve our local waters for the benefit of all while safeguarding these vital resources for future generations.

• Sustainability: Promoting ecofriendly practices and initiatives to create a more environmentally responsible community.

The following organizations will be housed in the Resilience Incubator located at 1760 Mound St. in Sarasota: Community Harvest SRQ, Elizabeth Moore/Suncoast Stargazers, Florida Veterans for Common Sense Fund Inc., Minorities in Shark Sciences, Rebuilding Together Tampa Bay, The Recycling Partnership, Sarasota Bay Watch, Southface, Southeast Sustainability Directors Network, Suncoast Waterkeeper and Sunshine Community Compost.

Having been involved in advocacy since the 1980s, I’ve been aware of the many local nonprofits and their good works and wondered how their impact could be enhanced if there was an opportunity to join forces to effect the changes necessary to assure a sustainable environment and community for future generations. This is exactly what the Resilience Incubator has been designed to do. Join in at www.suncoastwaterkeeper.org.

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN

Dr. Abbey Tyrna, executive director of Suncoast Waterkeeper, addresses attendees at the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

RUSTY CHINNIS

MILLAGE: Mayor proposes reduced rate

Tarpon remain good target

CAPT. RICK GRASSETT

citizens who are at least 65 years old and meet the income threshold are eligible for an additional $25,000 exemption.

“We have the ability, through ordinance, to change that to $50,000,” Short said in regard to increasing the city’s senior citizen tax exemption to the full $50,000 allowed by the state.

“As we move forward, I would like to take that into account,” Short said. “It doesn’t affect a lot of people who live in the city, but it does affect some.”

BUDGET MEETINGS

The mayor and commission will discuss operating expenses on Thursday, July 18. Capital project and improvement expenses will be discussed on Thursday, July 25 and the tentative millage rate will also be set during that meeting. Both July budget meetings will start at 5 p.m. The commission will set the final millage rate on Thursday, Sept. 12 and adopt the final millage rate and 2024-25 budget on Thursday, Sept. 26. FROM PAGE 14

Tarpon will still be a good option this month. Shallow water action for reds and big trout will be best early and late in the day. Some of the best action will be with trout, blues, pompano and more on deep grass flats. Catch and release snook fishing in the ICW at night or in the surf should also be good options.

Tarpon fishing should be good in the coastal Gulf this month. Large schools of tarpon will dwindle in size and numbers to singles, doubles and small schools of post-spawn fish during July. I usually find tarpon to be aggressive in July, with spawning completed and after a long migration, they usually feed aggressively. I also find them to be more curious this time of the year, often swinging closer to check out the sound of a landing bait, lure or fly. Spin anglers will do best by setting up in travel lanes and drifting live baits under floats while staying ready to sight cast to fish that may pop up with no notice. The DOA Baitbuster is my “go to” lure for tarpon. The DOA Swimming Mullet, 4” Shrimp and CAL 4” swim bait are also good choices depending on the situation.

This is my favorite time to fly fish for tarpon. The tactics are the same as

CAPT. RICK GRASSETT | SUBMITTED There should be good action on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay early in the day in July. Capt. Rick Grassett caught and released this trout on a DOA Deadly Combo.

earlier in the season, anchoring or staking out on travel routes, although fish are in a better mood. Unlike the large tarpon schools that we see around full and new moon phases in June, July fish are usually aggressive. Large schools of tarpon are impressive, but if you spook the lead fish, you will spook all of them. Tarpon will thin out towards the end of the month as they begin to move to inside waters of Sarasota Bay, Tampa Bay and Charlotte Harbor. They move into these areas to rest and feed following spawning. They can be targeted in these areas with flies, a variety of DOA

lures or live bait. Also look for tarpon feeding in schools of “breaking” ladyfish in these areas.

Catch and release snook fishing will be a good option this month. With very warm water this time of year, it is important to use tackle heavy enough to land them quickly. Spin anglers should do well fishing lighted docks and bridges in the ICW with CAL jigs with shad tails or jerk worms or DOA shrimp. Fly anglers should do well with clear intermediate sink tip lines and wide profile flies, such as Lefty’s Deceiver or EP flies, since larger baitfish may be more predominant. Docks and bridges close to passes should be the best ones. You’ll also find snook in the surf, where you can walk along the beach and sight cast to them in shallow water. Gibby’s DT Variation is a “go to” fly for many snook surf anglers.

You’ll find reds very active in shallow water this month. With plentiful baitfish and higher tides, they’ll spend more time feeding over shallow grass flats. Look for them along the edges of bars or in potholes when the tide is low or along mangrove shorelines and around oyster bars when the tide is high.

Shade sail approved for children’s playground

The children’s playground at City Pier Park will soon be covered by a new shade sail structure. Authorized by the Anna Maria City Commission on June 27, the $72,759 shade sail will be installed by Playground Boss, which is not the same company that installed the City Pier Park shade sail structure several years ago. Mayor Dan Murphy and the commission originally budgeted $85,000 for the park improvement and the other bid received came in at $170,000. Measuring 60 feet by 38 feet, the shade sail comes with a 10-year warranty and is designed to withstand 115 mph hurricane-force winds. “It’s something we’ve had a lot of requests for,” Murphy said.

CENTER NOTES

AMI Skims and Surf Camp

The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave. in Anna Maria, will offer AMI Skims and Surf Camp by Island local Evan Talucci. Campers will have fun learning to use a skimboard and surf, while

enjoying and respecting the local beaches. The camp runs from July 8-11 with two sessions: 10-11 a.m. and 11-noon. Space is limited and pre-registration is required by emailing youthprograms@centerami.org.

The cost is $60 per session for members and $70 per session for non-members. To register for Center programs or for more information, email customerservice@ centerami.org or call 941-778-1908.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The children’s playground at City Pier Park will soon be shaded.

Summer golf heats up at Key Royale Club

HOLMES BEACH - The heat isn't stopping golfers at the Key Royale Club from enjoying their summer.

JUNE 3 - MODIFIED STABLEFORD

First Place - Ron Buck and John Purcell with a score of +5

Second Place - Mike Cusato and Warren Stevens with a score of +3

JUNE 4 - LOW NET SCORE

First Place - Jenny Huibers and Janet Razze tied with a score of 31

Second Place - Sue Wheeler with a score of 34

of 68, four over par

JUNE 17 - MODIFIED STABLEFORD

First Place - Mike Clements with a score of +4

Second Place - Quentin Talbert with a score of +2

JUNE 18 - LOW NET SCORE

First Place - Janet Razze

Second Place - Ann Klein

Third Place - Terry Westby and Jana Samuels (tie)

JUNE 20 - SCRAMBLE

Third Place - Sue Christenson and Ann Klein tied with a score of 36

Birdie/Chip-In: Sue Wheeler on Hole #1

Chip-In: Terry Westby on Hole #5

JUNE 6 - SCRAMBLE

First Place Team - Bruce Christenson, Mike Clements, Marty Hicks and Jana Samuels tied the team of John Kolojeski, Chuck Patrick and Terry Schaefer with a score of 28, 4 under par

JUNE 10 - MODIFIED STABLEFORD

First Place - Mike Cusato +9

Second Place - Rod Hammonds and Ron Vandeman tied with a score of +4

JUNE 13 - SHAMBLE/RAMBLER

First Place - Mike Cusato, Ed Harrell and Terry Schaefer with a score of 65, one over par

Second Place - Dom Livedoti, Chuck Patrick and Debi Wohlers with a score

In a regular scramble, the team of A. J. and Rob Ellis, Chuck Patrick and Quentin Talbert tied the team of Mike Clements, Ken Nagengast and Warren Stevens.

JUNE 24 - MODIFIED STABLEFORD

First Place - Terry Schaefer with a score of +5

Second Place - Dale Miller with a score of +3

Third Place - Mike Clements and Rich Salzburg tied with a score of +2

JUNE 25 - LOW NET SCORE

First Place - Janet Razze with a score of 31

Second Place - Debbie Milder, Helen Pollock and Sue Wheeler tied with a score of 34

JUNE 27 - SCRAMBLE

First Place Team - Mike Gillie, John Purcell and Warren Stevens with a score of 28, 4 under par

REAL ESTATE

The three-month sofa

Tomorrow is July 4, a festive day for the country and Anna Maria Island, where small-town vibes and celebra tions still happen. Flags flying, parades, fireworks and barbecues will be on full display, but what about the display of your home if you’re planning on selling it soon? This is where you may want to talk about home staging.

Reading about home staging reminded me of my three-month sofa. When we were selling our New York home and moving to Florida our family room sofa was, you might say, a little odorous. It had barely survived the puppyhood of our dog and there was no way I was embarrassing myself and Duffy in front of the real estate community.

The problem was quickly resolved at one of the discount furniture stores where the furniture was up on racks. When the salesman asked us what we were looking for, I said a three-month sofa. He got it and two days later Duffy’s puppy mistakes

Castles in the Sand

were history, and I could boast that we were leaving a brand-new sofa.

Sorry if this was a little long-winded, but the point is don’t have anything nasty in your house when you sell because, believe me, that’s the only thing the buyer will remember. Buyers will also wonder what else in the property has not been maintained if something as simple as a sofa is trashed.

My sofa saga was an easy and inexpensive fix, but homeowners go to great lengths to make their homes presentable for sale. Home staging has gone from catering to high-end properties to sellers in all price ranges

who are starting to understand the value of appearances. Requests to hire home staging companies have increased 10% in the first quarter of this year alone and the average cost to stage a home rose 10% to $1,816 compared with the year before the pandemic per Thumbtack, an online service professional platform.

Similar to all professions, staging has a menu of options for homeowners ranging from a one-day consultation to help declutter to a 60-day contract involving new high-end furniture. According to the National Association of Realtors, Realtors can personally stage the home for a minimal fee of around $400.

Virtual staging is currently the cost-cutting option, using software to show what the space could look like at a cost of approximately $100 a room. This could, however, backfire when the buyer is disappointed that the sleek color-coordinated look is not actually in the home when they tour it.

Is it worth the money? Most real estate professionals say yes, it is and that staging a home increased the volume of offers between 1% to 5%. It’s also a built-in way to get ready to move when all your stuff and personal things get stored away.

There are a couple of downsides to staging. The obvious is the cost, but staging can also delay a home getting on the market until the staging is completed. And it may not be as comfortable having to live in a staged home, especially if the selling process continues to take longer.

While you’re watching the fireworks be thankful for our freedoms. The freedom to discuss anything you want to and the freedom to control your assets. Your home is likely your largest investment and this country gives you the freedom to do with it as you like. Not every country in the world lives with that creed; we are among the very fortunate. Happy Independence Day.

LOUISE BOLGER

BILL: DeSantis vetoes vacation rental bill

“Beyond creating new bureaucratic red tape that locals must comply with, CS/SB 280 prevents local governments from enforcing existing ordinances or passing any new local measure that would exclusively apply to vacation rentals. Under the bill, any such measure must apply to all residential properties. The effect of this provision will prevent virtually all local regulation of vacation rentals even though the vacation rental markets are far from uniform across the various regions of the state,” DeSantis stated in his letter.

“Going forward, I encourage the Florida Legislature and all key stakeholders to work together with the understanding that vacation rentals should not be approached as a onesize-fits-all issue. For these reasons, I withhold my approval of CS/SB 280 and do hereby veto the same,” DeSantis wrote.

ANNA MARIA DISCUSSION

Before DeSantis vetoed the legislation, Mayor Dan Murphy told Anna Maria City Commissioners the city’s

lobbyist, Matthew Blair, remained optimistic the governor would veto the bill.

Murphy said seven opposition campaigns recently initiated through the city-owned HomeRuleFl.com website resulted in approximately 3,000 letters, emails and phone calls being directed to DeSantis and his staff.

“The raw nerve was the Flagler County carve-out. There’s no logical explanation for the carve-out of Flagler County other than it’s the home of the speaker of the house (Paul Renner) and home to a relatively powerful senator (Travis Hutson),” Murphy said.

He also addressed the "pork chop" legislation references contained in the emails sent to DeSantis. He noted the Tampa Tribune newspaper coined the phrase "pork chop politics" decades ago while covering the patronizing and self-serving actions of Florida politicians who made laws that excluded certain people while impacting most others.

“It’s a lousy way to do politics,” Murphy said.

The city of Anna Maria can continue inspecting and regulating short-term vacation rentals.

ISLAND REACTION

Later that evening, after learning of DeSantis’ veto, Murphy sent an email to city commissioners and others that said, “Congratulations commissioners and staff. Our governor vetoed the vacation rental bill tonight. I so much appreciate all of your support with our campaigns and efforts to stop this poorly thought-out piece of ‘pork chop’ legislation.”

Friday morning, Home Rule Florida distributed an email thanking subscribers for their efforts.

“Thanks to you and your thousands of letters and phone calls made to the governor, he saw that this was ‘pork

chop’ legislation and simply bad policy. It’s amazing what we can do when we all pull together. The ‘pork chop’ has been chopped,” the email said.

When contacted Friday morning, Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth said, “I was out of town when I received the news. I am eternally grateful to the governor for allowing us to continue to self-govern and retain our ability to regulate our vacation rental industry accordingly.

“The ability to regulate with daily fines allows us to bring all into compliance. The bill that was passed would have circumvented all regulations we have been able to use to restore the balance in our residential districts,” she said.

“Regulating this commercial industry in our neighborhoods is crucial in maintaining quality of life for our residents and to maintain our full-time population. This is crucial for our churches, our commercial and professional economy and our schools. The ability to enforce occupancy and length of stay would have been the biggest concern of this bill. It pretty much took all the tools out of our toolbox,” she said.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Tokajer, turtle meet

HBPD | SUBMITTED

Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer and Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring volunteer Hollis Hatfield teamed up after the June 25 Summer Turtle Tracks and Shorebird Facts meeting at Holmes Beach City Hall hosted by Turtle Watch.

BILL: DeSantis vetoes bill

FROM PAGE 23

“I thank all those who wrote letters and participated in the Save Home Rule campaign. We are gaining residents in our city and it has everything to do with our ability to self-govern on quality-of-life issues. There is a lot to be said about being on the right side of history. I wish more leaders would figure that out,” Titsworth said.

Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said, “The mayor and I are ecstatic that the governor vetoed this bill and left it to the local governments. We, as a city, are doing a tremendous job at monitoring our vacation rentals for safety for our visitors and residents alike. We also want to thank all the citizens from Holmes Beach and Anna Maria Island that reached out to the governor asking for the veto of this bill. A village came together on this and it is much appreciated.”

When contacted late Friday morning, Murphy said, “I was elated that we were able to once again stop this legislation from going forward. It shows that when we all work together, we can accomplish great things. This is an illustration of the power of the people and getting the message up to the governor. I’m extremely grateful to the governor for having vetoed it and for listening to the people who would have been impacted by this legislation. This was a statewide effort and HomeRuleFl.com played a large part in getting that message out.”

Regarding the proposed legislation, Murphy said, “The heaviest impact would have been pulling away the occupancy limits. For us, that would be an overnight increase of approximately 30% in terms of occupancy in our city. We don’t have the infrastructure for it. We don’t have the parking, the police, the sewer or the water to cover a 30% increase. You could absorb it over time, but to pull the plug on us overnight is wrong. That was poorly thought out by Sen. DiCeglie,” Murphy said.

The proposed legislation would have allowed local governments to still conduct an initial inspection of a vacation rental property but would not have allowed annual follow-up inspections.

“That shows you how little the author of this bill knows about the vacation rental business. It doesn’t make sense,” Murphy said. “These homes experience constant turnover week after week. Things wear out. Things get broken. People will cram as many people as they can into a home. We find rooms with no egress, with smoke detectors underneath fans, with pool alarms and pool fences missing and those types of things. That’s not

It’s amazing what we can do when we all pull together. The ‘pork chop’ has been chopped.”

Dan Murphy, Anna Maria mayor

safe. This is not one-size-fits-all. Anna Maria, Orlando, St. Augustine and the panhandle attract different types of visitors.”

Despite this year’s success, Murphy expects the legislative battle to continue.

“It’s going to be back next year and the year after that,” he said. “They’re not going to go away, but fortunately the governor and his staff have enough wisdom to see this is not in the best interest of the State of Florida. It’s not in the best interest of the visitors and it’s not in the best interest of the voters. It’s in the best interest of out-of-state corporations like Airbnb and VRBO.”

Murphy will not seek reelection this fall and this was his final vacation rental battle with state legislators. During his 10 years as mayor, he repeatedly led Anna Maria’s annual efforts to defeat the Florida Legislature’s failed preemption attempts. He will soon turn those duties over to Anna Maria’s next mayor, Mark Short or Brian Seymour.

“I feel good that we have two candidates for mayor that are qualified to carry this fight on. We’ve got a good staff that’s trained and knows how to use these tools and we’ve got a good lobbyist. That’s what it’s going to take,” he said.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The city of Holmes Beach can continue inspecting and regulating short-term vacation rentals.

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

Center summer sports kick off

ANNA MARIA – The gymnasium at The Center of Anna Maria Island was filled with excitement as the summer sports season started on the Island last Tuesday night. Getting out of the heat, youth indoor soccer kicked off the season on the inside pitch while the adults heated up the field with flag football action.

The youngest players, ages 3-7, played scrimmages as part of their developmental work with the older kids playing in head-to-head matches. Four of the five 8- to 10-year-old league teams played with Shady Lady Horticultural Services sitting out the first week.

Team Positive Waves beat the Progressive Cabinetry team by three goals. With the final score at 5-2, Ryan Greenberg had the hot foot for the Positive Waves squad. Hitting three shots, Greenberg’s scoring was joined by solo goals by Sebastian Cordova and Silas Whitehead.

In the win, Parker Svoboda was credited with an assist. Goalie Kellen Reed had five saves in the game against the Progressive Cabinetry offense.

Assists by Jackson Griffin, Ellison Maynard and Rafa Price helped keep the Progressive team in the game for two halves of fast-paced action. With an arsenal of shots coming their way, Wesley Bekkerus worked hard, successfully saving seven of the Positive Wave shots in the first half of the game. Griffin relieved Bekkerus,

Construction each scored 10 points in their first game of the indoor season. Gulf Drive’s points were scored by Dallas Biggers, Joseph Caballero and Leo Burns, with six, three and a single goal, respectively.

Game statistics note two assists by Biggers and three for Burns.

Both teams put two goalkeepers in goal during the tied ballgame. On the Gulf Drive side, Everett Hood made nine saves and Titus Moss stopped eight shots. Solid Rock’s Elijah Roadman had 13 strong stops, while Carson Long saved six shots on goal.

Solid Rock’s scoring came off the boots of two players. Samuel Raulerson scored his solo goal. Teammate Matthew Darak used his skills and the boards to put nine points on the scoreboard.

With only four teams, the teams will get to know their competition well. Week one play matched up Jiffy Lube and AMI Outfitters. Finishing the game in another tie, each team scored eight goals.

Jiffy Lube’s Callin Westfall scored half of the points for his team. Hudson West and Gunnar Maize split the remaining four goals. Assist credits went to Maize with three and West with a single.

Putting three players at the net, Jiffy Lube’s Nolan Anderson had five stops, while Parker Svoboda made three and Maize saved one. AMI Outfitters followed suit with their five-person defensive attack in goal.

Sharing the responsibility, Jordan Tobey led the pack with six saves in

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN Island area youth enjoy indoor soccer fun at The Center to start the summer season last Tuesday night.

Darak and Maggie Neidzwick each had a single save in the final game of the night.

Offensively, Wes Saxon scored six points. G. Cohen got the soccer ball past the goalie once, along with Matthew Darak, each claiming one point. Assisting with the scoring for AMI Outfitters, G. Cohen was credited with two passes that led to the successful shot.

Matthew Darak and Neidzwick each had assists in the game, adding to their game accomplishments.

In what looks to prove to be an exciting adult co-ed flag football season, eight teams took to the gridiron last Thursday night. The four high-scoring games showed the skills of the players this season.

Team Floridian Mortgage earned a win against Moss Builders 26-25. Also scoring 26 points, Fishing with Salty beat the Solid Rock Air Conditioning team by five points in the second game of the season.

Prosper Bradenton beat Salty Printing 27-25. The Salty team played without their quarterback, Charles “Tuna” McCracken. In the week’s blowout, Solid Rock Electrical scored 41 points against team Slim’s Place. Slim’s Place finished the game by putting 25 points on the board, ending week one flag football action on the Island.

FUN IN THE SUN

CLASSIFIEDS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WANT TO RENT A PLACE TO STORE, ON THE GULF, MY 1 PERSON SAILBOAT WHICH IS THE SIZE OF A KAYAK. PLEASE CALL 914-8824040.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:

TINGLEY LIBRARY in Bradenton Beach is looking for volunteers. Fun and friendly atmosphere. Morning and afternoon shifts. If interested, please contact Library Clerk, Eveann Adams, @ 941779-1208.

THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Kathy Primeau at 989-560-6381.

ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food, PAPER & PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s.

HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS

WANTED to assist at our information desk, especially weekends. Great for teens needing volunteer hours (16yrs+). Other assignments available. Please call the Blake Volunteer Office at 941-798-6151.

BOATS FOR SALE

BOATS ARE SELLING VERY WELL. “Business On A Handshake” Your Local Trusted Boat Dealer For 24 Years. I also buy boats. Dave Struber 941-228-3489. Islandboatsales.net

COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE

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

CLEANING SERVICE

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

EMPLOYMENT

EXPERIENCED NAIL TECH, great personality to take over existing clients PT to FT. Tired of where you are come join our salon! Call 941-545-3305.

Join Duncan Real Estate! Open positions: Bookkeeper, Administrative Assistant, Housekeeping Liaison Apply: Send resume to sybille@ teamduncan.com

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

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.

API’S DRYWALL REPAIR 15+ years experience. Free estimates. No job too small. Love to help you. Call 941-524-8067.

ISLE TILE specializing in Custom Bath/Shower & Backsplash installation. Pressure washing available. Call 941-302-8759 isletileservices.com

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

BMF INTERIORS Home repairs and more, No job too small. Please call 786318-8585

HOME SERVICES

OUR SERVICE House cleaning, home repairs, tile, concrete, remodeling, decks, steps, flooring, water drainage solutions, rental 24 hour service, hurricane shutters & pre-storm service. New low cost generator and installation (starts & runs on propane when power goes off) no permits needed. Islander over 40 years here!! Call 941-404-9163.

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, bimonthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing. Call Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315

MOVING & STORAGE

MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-809-5777.

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

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

HISTORICAL COTTAGE

409 Pine Ave. $2.2M 4BR/3BA pool. Brenda Boyd May Broker / Owner. All realtors welcome. 941-730-8589

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

HISTORICAL COTTAGE

409 Pine Ave. $2.2M 4BR/3BA pool. Brenda Boyd May Broker / Owner. All realtors welcome. 941-730-8589

RENTALS: ANNUAL

ANNUAL RENTALS WANTED! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee. Call today for details. Ask for Paige DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 513-382-1992.

ANNUAL RENTAL: 2BR/2BA furnished Wildwood Springs condo, no pets. $1850 monthly Call 941-778-4800

ANNUAL RENTAL: Imperial House Condo 2BR/1BA $2000/mo - Available Aug 1st. 208 A Magnolia Ave. 2BR/2BA $2800/moavailable June 1st. 208 B Magnolia Ave. 2BR/2BA $2800/mo- available Aug 1st. 407 76th St A Holmes Beach, FL 34216 3BR/2BA $5000/mo- available now with dock slip available for rent. Contact Sato Real Estate for more information. 941-778-7200

2BR/1BA, ANNUAL, carport, laundry room, porch, new central a/c, no pets, short walk to the beach. $2150/mo. Dolores Baker Real Estate. 941-778-7500.

2BR/2BA HOLMES BEACH $2500/month 2 blocks to beach. Internet and basic cable included until March 2025. 920-7632800

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION

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

ANNA MARIA ISLAND

CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $900 to $1200 per week redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525

FOR RENT (SUMMER AT THE BEACH) AMI updated 5 star condo. Available May to November (monthly with Multi-month discount). Million$ water view, first floor, 2BR/2BA, beautiful water view deck, walk to beach, pool, tennis (smoke free/no pets) Owner/ renter email NOW marketreps@aol.com or 570-239-0431

CONDO TO RENT IN GATED COMMUNITY (5 mi from Anna Maria) available July till end Nov. - all included! www.floridarentals. com/10943/ 704-9930288

TRANSPORTATION

ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $85. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-7795095