Here is the latest news from Longboat Key Town Manager Howard Tipton
Community Hall Fundraising Goal Reached – $4 Million
Longboat Key has officially met its fundraising goal of $4 million for the new Community Hall at the Town Center Green. This future 200-person facility will provide a versatile space for community events, educational programs and hurricane recovery efforts. It will be constructed as part of the new Sarasota County Library, supported by an $11 million contribution from Sarasota County. Next steps include finalizing the design and preparing for groundbreaking in 2026.
Undergrounding Nears Completion
All electrical conversions are now complete for all four (4) project phases. Wilco has installed new backlit street name signs. Upon design and permitting, Wilco will begin installing new light poles along the multi-use trail on the east side of Gulf of Mexico Drive. FPL’s contractor, Irby Construction, is in the process of removing all remaining electrical poles.
FY26 Budget
The Fiscal Year 2025–2026 (FY26) Budget process continued on June 27, 2025, at 10 a.m. The first Budget Workshop was held on May 19, followed by a second on June 23, which furthered discussions on identifying and funding the Commission’s priority projects for the upcoming year. On June 27, the Commission set the maximum millage rate for FY26. They will reconvene on September 8 and 22 (both at 5:01 p.m.) to hold public hearings, approve the final millage rate, and formally adopt the FY26 Budget.
Sea Turtle Nesting Season Underway
Beachfront lights now glow red or yellow to protect nesting and hatching turtles. Dogs are not allowed on Longboat Key beaches—only leashed, trained service animals are permitted. (note: therapy and emotional support animals are not included under this exception). Even well-behaved pets can disturb wildlife and disrupt nesting. Remove beach furniture, fill holes. Learn more at www.longboatkey.org.
Country Club Shores Turn Lane
Construction continues to progress in accordance with the project schedule. Superior Asphalt, Inc. is currently installing base rock. The contractor will pause construction during the week of the 4th of July. Looking ahead, embankment and swale work, additional tree removal and the installation of a drainage structure and piping are expected upcoming construction activities in July.
