Thoughts regarding road central reservation area
To: Longboat Key Code Enforcement Officer Paul Goodwin
Hi I’d like to convey my concern about the central carriageway reservation that’s been built in front of my house on 500 schooner lane. In the last couple of weeks we’ve had two occasions where vehicles have driven into the side of the new raised area at night. I have some serious concerns that someone will hit the central reservation and end up in our front yard or worse still through the front of the house. I thought I’d bring this to your attention now because I do have concerns and I don’t know how I’d be covered for such a situation. I look forward to your comments and recognition of my concerns. Thank you for keeping me posted and for reaching out to your Representative.
Charles T. Chapman
Legislative Advocate
Florida League of Cities, Inc
Thoughts regarding road central reservation area
To: Dave Schiller
Good afternoon Dave, I will reach out to my Comcast rep tomorrow and see if they can help get the service buried.
Charlie Mopps
Public Works Director
Town of Longboat Key
Thoughts regarding road central reservation area
To: Longboat Key Public Works Director Charlie Mopps
Thanks for your swift reply. It have been there since the road expansion started and goes over our driveway so I’m wondering if there’s any way of finding out when it’ll be gone seeing the roadworks are complete?
Dave Schiller
Longboat Key
Thoughts regarding road central reservation area
To: Longboat Key Town Manager Howard Tipton
Guy just confirmed that this is a Comcast Service Line. It is probably a temporary placement until the permanent solution is implemented.
Charles Mopps
Public Works Director
Town of Longboat Key Public Works
Thoughts regarding road central reservation area
To: Longboat Key Public Works Director Charlie Mopps
Good morning, that is correct. This is a Comcast service line.
Guy Matricciani
Construction & Facility System Manager
Public Works Department
Town of Longboat Key
Thoughts regarding road central reservation area
To: Loingboat Key Town Manager Howard Tipton
Sir, we will look into this. I included Guy, it could be a Comcast line, but he will confirm.
Charles Mopps
Public Works Director
Town of Longboat Key
Thoughts regarding road central reservation area
To: Longboat Key Public Works Director Charlie Mopps
Any idea what this is?
Howard N. Tipton
Town Manager
Town of Longboat Key
Thoughts regarding road central reservation area
To: Longboat Key Town Manager Howard Tipton
Tip, can someone look into this?
Gary Coffin
Commissioner
Town of Longboat Key
Thoughts regarding road central reservation area
To: Longboat Key Code Enforcement Officer Paul Goodwin
Paul thanks for this One more thing to notify you about. We have an orange wire running from a box into a cable box on our land. No idea what it’s for but it’s been there since the roadworks started. One more thing to notify you about. We have an orange wire running from a box into a cable box on our land. No idea what it’s for, but it’s been there since the roadworks started
Dave Schiller
Longboat Key
Thoughts regarding road central reservation area
To: Dave Schiller
I am forwarding this issue to public works and have looped Julie in on this.
Paul Goodwin
Code Enforcement Officer
Town of Longboat Key
Sovereign Immunity
To: Florida Senator Kathy Galea
The Senate Bill regarding Sovereign Immunity is similar to some suggestions we made earlier this year. The House Bill will certainly have a large negative impact on our insurance costs and certainly encourages frivolous and unsubstantiated lawsuits.
Further, we agree that having any increase based on inflation (as the Senate Bill states) is a responsible direction regarding Sovereign Immunity. We will continue to monitor the Senate Bill, but we are opposed to the House Bill. We appreciate Delegate McFarland’s concern about these cases languishing in Tallahassese, but we do think the Senate Bill creates financial numbers that are more reasonable.
SB 1366 – Sovereign Immunity (Brodeur)
These limits are more incremental in nature and appear to be more reasonable for an increase to claim limits. New proposed limits: $300,000 individual, $450,000 total.
HB 145 – Sovereign Immunity (McFarland)
These higher limits would almost certainly open the door to many more claims against the Town, including having to spend more time and money defending an even greater amount of frivolous and unsubstantiated claims than we do now, so these would be beyond what the Town would consider reasonable to be enacted all at once.
BJ Bishop
President, Manasota League of Cities
Commissioner
Town of Longboat Key
Land Use Legislation
To: Longboat Key Commissioner BJ Bishop
Thank you for taking the time to review these bills and for sharing your and the Town staff’s comments — this is very helpful. The insight from a built-out community like Longboat Key is important context as we continue to triage which proposals rise to the top tier of advocacy attention. We will incorporate your concerns in our conversations with legislators. Thanks again for sharing your analysis. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.
David Cruz
Deputy General Counsel/Legislative Counsel
Florida League of Cities, Inc.
Land Use Legislation
To: Florida League of Cities Legislative Counsel Dave Cruz
David: Town staff and I took a look at the legislation you mentioned in your discussion Monday. Hope this is helpful. In some regards since LBK is built out and some bills do not have the same impact they will in larger municipalities that are still growing.
BJ Bishop
Commissioner
Town of Longboat Key
Land Use Legislation
To: Longboat Key Commissioner BJ Bishop
SB 840 Land Use Regulations
Definite improvements to the SB 180 legislation (which limits applicable local governments from enacting more restrictive land development regulations or Comp Plan amendments). Some key positive changes:
Narrowed Scope: The bill reduces the geographic area subject to post-storm land-use restrictions from a 100-mile radius to within 50 miles of a hurricane’s track.
Property Specificity: Restrictions on new local building codes would apply only to storm-damaged properties being rebuilt, rather than all properties within a disaster area, allowing local governments to maintain stricter rules for new development.
Shortened Duration: SB 840 moves the expiration date for restrictions related to Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton from October 1, 2027, to June 30, 2026.
Removal of Legal Penalties: It deletes provisions that allowed individuals to file suit for injunctive relief against local governments to enforce these restrictions.
Local Government Exceptions: Explicitly allows local governments to continue managing infrastructure projects related to stormwater, flooding, drinking water, and sewer systems.
SB 208 – Land Use
Most aspects of this bill will have limited impact on the Town. However, a key provision on “infill residential development” is an overly impactful overreach, which would deny meaningful public input on residential developments of properties less than 100 acres (which would likely be most development within the Town). Key provisions of the bill are below (with problematic provision highlighted):
Redefining Compatibility: The bill specifies that land uses within the same residential category in a local comprehensive plan are “deemed compatible”. This prevents local governments from denying or delaying projects based on “neighborhood feel” or “community character” alone.
“Infill Residential Development” Mandates: SB 208 creates a new category for “infill residential development” on parcels up to 100 acres. Local governments must administratively approve these projects without public hearings if they meet certain density and location criteria.
Fee Limitations: The bill prohibits local governments from conditioning residential development approvals on the payment of certain fees and requires that any imposed fees must reasonably relate to the actual cost of review or inspection.
Building Design Preemption: It restricts local governments from applying building design regulations (e.g., style, color) to single-family or two-family dwellings unless those regulations were part of the original approval for a planned unit development.
SB 48 / HB 313 Land Use
Significant impact potential. Requires local governments to adopt ordinances allowing accessory dwelling units (ADUs) “by right” in single-family residential areas, meaning approval would not necessitate public hearings or variances if the site plan complies with zoning rules. This would mean that all single-family properties could add additional/separate dwelling units to their properties. The bill also protects homestead exemptions for properties with rented ADUs and mandates separate tax assessments for rented ADUs based on their use. Additionally, it simplifies permitting by removing the requirement to attest to renting at an affordable rate and restricts local governments from increasing parking requirements if a parcel can accommodate another vehicle without obstructing the primary unit.
SB 948 / HB 1143 – Zoning deregulation
Significant impact potential. The bill aims to increase the supply of attainable housing by establishing statewide land use standards that override local government restrictions. Key Provisions are below:
Minimum Lot Sizes: Prohibits local governments from requiring a minimum lot size greater than 1,200 square feet for residential properties connected to public water and sewer systems.
Residential Density and Type: Prevents local regulations from excluding diverse housing types, such as townhouses, duplexes, triplexes, or quadruplexes, from the definition of “residential dwelling unit”.
Setback and Height Requirements: Limits local government authority by capping minimum setbacks (e.g., 0 feet side, 10 feet rear, 20 feet front) and prohibiting height caps below three stories or 35 feet.
Limits parking requirements to no more than one space per unit for lots 4,000 square feet or smaller.
David Cruz
Deputy General Counsel/Legislative Counsel
Florida League of Cities, Inc.
Century of Cars Extravaganza
To: Longboat Key Town Clerk Trish Shinkle
I’m happy to report that there will be no road closures! We have an excellent traffic plan or St. Armands Circle for our load in of cars that will minimize impact on traffic driving on the Circle. Unplanned Benefit: Whoever is on the road Saturday morning will have a wonderful visual experience.
William F. (Bill) Hadley
Co-Chair
Sarasota Yacht Club YachtRodders
Century of Cars Extravaganza
To: Sarasota Yacht Club YachtRodders Bill Hadley
Will you advise if there will be any road closures that may affect traffic to and from Longboat Key?
Trish Shinkle
Town Clerk
Town of Longboat Key
Century of Cars Extravaganza
To: Longboat Key Commissioner Steve Branham
The Sarasota Yacht Club and St. Armands Circle is celebrating our 100-year Centennial with a Century of Cars Extravaganza on Saturday, January 17. There is Sarasota Main Street parade followed by a 200-car show at St. Armands Circle with 18 cars clubs exhibiting 100 years of automotive history. Elected dignitaries will be riding in Parade cars and law enforcement will be leading off the parade, including the incredible 2023 Florida State Highway Patrol Chevrolet C-8 Patrol Cruiser that was seized in a drug bust.
Many exhibitors will be in period dress matching their “Rides”. I would appreciate anything you can do to help with coverage…it will be the most amazing collection of automotive heritage Sarasota has ever experienced. The parade starts at 7:45 at Main and Links Ave. The Show hours are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
William F. (Bill) Hadley
Co-Chair
Sarasota Yacht Club YachtRodders
HJR203
To: Longboat Key Commissioner BJ Bishop
I appreciate you reaching out to my office on this very important topic. While I will be voting in favor of this bill at this committee stop, I will continue to gather any and all input from stakeholders, taxpayers and anyone else who, like yourself, have been gracious enough to reach out to me and my office to express their position on this matter. Hope you are doing well.
Will Robinson
State Representative, District 71
HJR203
To: Florida State Rep. Bill Robinson
Your Committee, State Affairs, is considering Delegate Miller’s legislation that phases out non-school property taxes over ten years. Each year, homeowners would receive an additional $100,000 exemption. The projected negative impact in 2030-2031 is $13.3 billion recurring for cities and counties. If approved, all non-school homestead property would be terminated by 2037.
71% of Longboat Key’s revenue is derived from property taxes. Our primary expenditures are Police, Fire, Emergency Services and Public Works. Those key services take over 68% of our budget. This legislation would be devastating to Longboat Key and other municipalities in Florida.
Property taxes fund core public safety and infrastructure, including police, fire, emergency response, roads, and utilities. These services make communities safe, insurable, and economically viable.
· Most cities have average taxable values of $250,000 or less. This is not a 10-year step down; it is much sooner for the majority of Florida cities.
· The provisions that prohibit reductions in law enforcement budgets in this bill would crowd out other essential services, such as fire protection, emergency medical response, and disaster preparedness, forcing cuts in areas that keep our communities resilient, if the city is even able to comply with the prohibition due to the loss of homestead property taxes.
· Florida consistently ranks among the best states for taxpayer return on investment, meaning residents receive strong public services for the taxes they pay. Local governments deliver disciplined, efficient spending even as costs rise, which is why Florida’s effective property tax rate is roughly half that of Texas. This balance of affordability and service is a competitive advantage worth protecting.
· Florida’s cities are partners in the state’s prosperity. We share your commitment to fiscal discipline, local accountability, and keeping Florida an affordable and secure place to live. However, this proposal would have the opposite effect by creating instability, increasing taxpayer inequity, and risking the quality of life across our communities.
On behalf of the towns and cities in Sarasota and Manatee Counties, the Manasota League of Cities urges you not to support HJR203.
BJ Webb Bishop
President, Manasota League of Cities
Commissioner
Town of Longboat Key
Half moon bay property
To: Maureen Merrigan
Thanks Maureen. As I just noted in the other email I sent to you about derelict/vacant properties, I’ll be happy to join the meeting on the 22nd and will do my best to answer questions about the Half Moon property. Most of my answers are probably going to be dismaying to the group. Property owners do have a right to maintain their properties. There are permitting requirements, of course, but those don’t allow for a ‘taking’ (i.e. the government preventing a person’s use of their property) unless there’s just compensation provided for the loss. This would be dealt with in the form of building permits, which don’t involve public hearings or the commission. You sure you still want me to attend? Kidding.
Allen Parsons
Planning and Zoning Director
Town of Longboat Key
Half moon bay property
To: Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Director Allen Parsons
Everyone is back on the Key and walking the beach. Not surprisingly, we are getting a number of resident concerns and questions about the old half moon property. See pictures below. Can it be rebuilt in the same location (including rebuilding their seawall in same spot)? Will there be serious Town discussion about setbacks, variances, etc. given the fact that this property has been source of multiple beach re-nourishment problems on Gulfside? Will this be discussed with Commission (eg., to consider a buy out of the property, etc.)? Can’t imagine this property would go through a typical administrative approval – given its very atypical location. No need for a response right now unless you have some quick info to share, but know it will come up by LBK North Reps at our next meeting on Jan 22. Thanks Maureen Location of Half-moon property significantly seaward of all other properties along Gulfside.
Neil Mazzei
Plans Examiner
Town of Longboat Key
Seahorse Beach Resort upcoming project
To: Town of Longboat Key Plans Examiner Neal Mazzei
The purpose for this note is to say thank you!
The meeting this morning was exactly what we hoped for, and the process you outlined is exactly what businesses like us need. You and Debra clearly listed the documentation we need to provide and the manner to provide it. Your assurances of expediting the approval process once our documentation is submitted was music to our ears. We will be sure to share our positive experiences whenever and wherever we can. We now believe we have a partner in the LBK Planning Department.
Sam McCarter
Director of Finance and Business Operations
Seahorse Beach Resort
Seahorse Beach Resort upcoming project
To: Sam Mcarter
I left a Voice mail message the other day and then again, this morning so we could discuss their plans and project schedule for their next phase of work. Debra and I would like to schedule a pre-permit consultation meeting so we can ensure they will have a complete permit and plan package so that once it gets submitted, we can expedite their permit process for them accordingly. Their office doesn’t open until 10 a.m. daily, so I will try calling again after 10 am and keep you all posted accordingly. Happy Tuesday!
Neal Mazzei
Plans Examiner
Town of Longboat Key
Premier Community, Exceptional Service
B.E.A.C.H. Values
Belong – Be part of something bigger than yourself – a team
Empathetic – Understanding the needs of others is key to service excellence!
Accountable – Take responsibility for your actions in words and deeds.
Collaborative – We are better together.
Honest – Never lose the Public’s or each other’s trust.
Steve Branham
Commissioner
Town of Longboat Key
LBK to AMI sidewalk and bike lane safety
To: Longboat Key Commissioner Steve Branham
Great to catch up. Here is the communication with Charlie on the complete streets (e-bikes) and the missing piece of sidewalk, as requested. Appreciate your work with the MPO regarding these safety issues.
Maureen Merrigan
Longboat Key
LBK to AMI sidewalk and bike lane safety
To: Longboat Key Public Works Director Charlie Mopps
I reviewed the commission meeting yesterday online which is why I have the questions and requests below. Was on the Commission when we were doing the original planning for the Complete Streets but the one thing that has changed dramatically over the last few years is the transition from manual to e- bikes, which is why I am curious if, based on that, we are thinking about the implications of this change, if any, to the original plans. If the multimodal plan is what we pursue as a priority and do not widen the GMD bike lanes – we will end up with e-bikes on the multimodal path, as the current GMD width is too dangerous with the 45mph speed limit.
The reason I am asking about AMI plans was that I thought you stated you had not viewed those plans recently and BJ stated both islands should be considered together so thought our meeting on the 22nd would be an opportunity to hear about those as residents on the north end bike north (to AMI) as much as they do south. I also thought Steve’s comments regarding funding made good sense.
Maureen Merrigan
Longboat Key
LBK to AMI sidewalk and bike lane safety
To: Maureen Merrigan
Maureen, Jenn will be briefing at the LBK North meeting and after yesterday’s Commission meeting, the focus may be on the multimodal trail. I would recommend viewing the last part of the Commission meeting to get some insight.
Charles Mopps
Public Works Director . Town of Longboat Key
LBK to AMI sidewalk and bike lane safety
To: Longboat Key Public Works Director Charlie Mopps
The sidewalk was brought up by Debra Williams at the TDC last year and by the community at the joint commission meeting with the County /Town – so it would be great to get it off their “to do” list. It was a miss when the sidewalks were designed at Coquina.
Relatedly for the LBK north meeting, when you discuss the complete streets project, would be great to have some sort of visual of what the plans are for AMI complete streets – to see how they differ and are similar.
Also will be interested in how we may be thinking about complete streets now (several years after initial design discussions) given that many, if not the vast majority, of residents are trading regular bikes for e-bikes. For example, do we prioritize wider GMD bike lane funding and consider reducing amount of sidewalks / width of multimodal trail, as many bikes would move to safer GMD lanes if they existed? See you on the 22nd and thank you again!
Maureen Merrigan
Longboat Key
LBK to AMI sidewalk and bike lane safety
To: Maureen Merrigan
Maureen, I sent this info to FDOT and included the Director of Public Works for Manatee County, to inquire if they can address this while the Contractor is still there. Let’s, see how they will respond.
Charles Mopps
Public Works Director , Town of Longboat Key
No sidewalk in highly trafficked area
To: Longboat Key Public Works Director Charlie Mopps
For years now any walker (or slower bike rider) to/from LBK to AMI must traverse the edge of GMD for a good stretch near the bridge, as there is no sidewalk. AMI and LBK all have sidewalks from end to end but FDOT/ BB/ Manatee County is missing a section (maybe 1/8 mile) on the stretch just north of the LB Pass bridge. We have raised this issue several times. Is this on any list to address – and if not -who does LBK need to reach out to make this passage to/from Coquina safer? Thanks for your help with this
Maureen Merrigan
LBK North co-chair
Property taxes
To: Town Clerk Trish Shinkle
Property taxes fund core public safety and infrastructure, including police, fire, emergency response, roads, and utilities. These services make communities safe, insurable, and economically viable.
· Most cities have average taxable values of $250,000 or less. This is not a 10-year step down; it is much sooner for the majority of Florida cities.
· The provisions that prohibit reductions in law enforcement budgets in this bill would crowd out other essential services, such as fire protection, emergency medical response, and disaster preparedness, forcing cuts in areas that keep our communities resilient, if the city is even able to comply with the prohibition due to the loss of homestead property taxes. (We expect an amendment to expand prohibited reductions to include fire and EMS, leaving other essential services vulnerable.)
· Florida consistently ranks among the best states for taxpayer return on investment, meaning residents receive strong public services for the taxes they pay. Local governments deliver disciplined, efficient spending even as costs rise, which is why Florida’s effective property tax rate is roughly half that of Texas. This balance of affordability and service is a competitive advantage worth protecting.
· Florida’s cities are partners in the state’s prosperity. We share your commitment to fiscal discipline, local accountability, and keeping Florida an affordable and secure place to live. However, this proposal would have the opposite effect by creating instability, increasing taxpayer inequity, and risking the quality of life across our communities.
BJ Bishop
Commissioner
Town of Longboat Key
To: Longboat Key Commissioner BJ Bishop
Good morning, Commissioner. Isaac and I have a meeting with Mr. Drake of the historical society to review our concerns and explore options going forward. I’ll also reach out to Rusty and ask him to donate the picture to the Clerk’s Office (at least for the interim). We’ll keep you posted.
Howard N. Tipton
Town Manager
Town of Longboat Key
Historical Society Donation
To: Rusty Chinnis
The Historic Society is not functioning. I am going to copy this to Tip and Isaac. We do a horrible job of maintaining historic records of Longboat. Since the group that moved the building to the Town Green is not doing anything we have to find a way to preserve these materials
BJ Bishop
Commissioner
Town of Longboat Key
Historical Society
To: Longboat Key Commissioner BJ Bishop
Happy New Year. I have a large framed aerial image of the north end of Longboat Key taken in 1949. I think it should be preserved for future generations of Longboat Key residents and would like to donate it to the historical Society. Can you help me initiate that? Hope all is well.
Rusty Chinnis
Longboat Key
HB103
To: Benny Jacques
I believe, is scheduled to be before your Subcommittee January 14. This legislation will have a serious negative impact on our Town’s revenues. Since the 2024 hurricanes we have faced numerous expenditures and in Manatee County, alone, have faced a loss of property tax revenue of more than 11%. I am asking that you not schedule your subcommittee to hear HB 103. This legislation will hurt towns and cities across Florida.
BJ Webb Bishop
President, Manasota League of Cities
Commissioner
Town of Longboat Key
Sidewalk
To: Longboat Key Public Works Director Charlie Mopps
Agreed! When I spoke w/ Tal Siddique about it, he said that sidewalk falls in the FDOT right of way — can we get their attention on this stretch? Not sure if the MPO’s Complete Streets plans for AMI might be causing the delayed response as more comprehensive projects get teed up?
Sarah Karon
Commissioner
Town of Longboat Key
Sidewalk
To: Longboat Key Public Works Director Charlie Mopps
Please let us know what you find out about the sidewalk. Seems a little insane that we would wait until the bridge is replaced (many years from now) to address that small stretch of missing sidewalk to have a safe walk for LBK residents headed to the coquina market / BB.
Maureen Merrigan
Longboat Key
LBK to AMI sidewalk and bike lane safety
To: Longboat Key Commissioner Sarah Karon
Ma’am, as for the Bike Path we have reached out to FDOT to get timing when the bike lanes will be repaved. Our workers that bike in and off Key have noticed the same thing.
As for the Sidewalk in the high traffic area, I know Manatee County has been working on something (Manatee County Trailways), and the FDOT has a study underway to address some of these concerns. Here is a link: 446681-1 Barrier Island PD&E Study. I think Commissioner Karon was at some of the meeting about this study.
An additional consideration would include, the study that FDOT is undertaking (436676-1 SR 789 (Longboat Key) Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study) to replace the Longboat Pass Bridge. Elements of both of these projects, if/when constructed could provide some relief to pedestrians trying to visit both sides of the bridge.
Charles Mopps
Public Works Director
Town of Longboat Key
Buttonwood projects
To: Longboat Key Commissioner BJ Bishop
Per your request, you wanted to know in advance when Public Works was sending out information to Buttonwood residents. We have scheduled the first public meeting on the Buttonwood Resiliency projects, which will share the 30% plans. The meeting will be on February 5th from 5-7pm at our Bayfront Park Recreation Center. I will be sending out the flyer to all addresses in the marked area of the map on the flyer, as well as asking our communications team to post it on our socials.
Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.
Julie Anderson
Office Manager Public Works Department
Town of Longboat Key
Good morning Commissioner,
Per your request, you wanted to know in advance when Public Works was sending out information to Buttonwood residents. We have scheduled the first public meeting on the Buttonwood Resiliency projects, which will share the 30% plans. The meeting will be on February 5th from 5-7pm at our Bayfront Park Recreation Center.
I will be sending out the flyer to all addresses in the marked area of the map on the flyer, as well as asking our communications team to post it on our socials. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.
Julie Anderson
Office Manager Public Works Department
Town of Longboat Key
Our conversation
To: Longboat Key Town Manager Howard Tipton
Tip, this merchant is requesting some feedback. Thanks for your help.
Gary Coffin
Commissioner
Town of Longboat Key
Begin forwarded message:
From: Christine Rothberg <Christine@seahorsebeachresort.com>
Date: January 12, 2026 at 4:28:45 PM EST
To: Gary Coffin <GCoffin@longboatkey.org>
Cc: Town Clerk <TClerk@longboatkey.org>
Our conversation
To: Longboat Key Commissioner Gary Coffin
Gary, Thank you for your support in this! Here’s the original email that I sent to you last week. Good Morning, Gary. Happy New Year! Check out our updated pool and deck work, post hurricanes, image attached. Thank you for your help in that permit process.
We have so many great things happening at Sea Horse. We were recently on the 6 pm news on Fox Tampa. See link below:
I’m forwarding you an email which my boss sent to Neil Mazzeo. We’re planning to do some balcony construction, in stages, at the Sea Horse. Any assistance you can give would be amazing.
Christine Rothberg
Sarasota
Sea Horse Beach Resort Project
To: Mr. Mazzei & Ms. Klahr
Your office has been helpful to us in the past, and we are reaching out again for advice and assistance on another Sea Horse building project.
Background
The Sea Horse Beach Resort (via licensed contractor) is preparing a permit application for reconstruction work on its building. The permit will be for the demolition of the existing second floor concrete balconies and replacement with a steel framed structure. The existing balconies date back to the building’s original construction and are in need of a modern facelift.
The plan is to complete reconstruction over time, allowing the Sea Horse to remain open during the project and to raise the required funding. The balconies follow the exterior walls of the building, divided into 6 separate sections. The project would be split into 6 consecutive phases – one for each balcony section.
Since Hurricane Helene, the Sea Horse has had one significant project after another, and thus is hopeful to receive approval to move forward on this project as quickly as possible. The cumulative projects have had a significant impact on rental business, and the goal is to minimize the impact going forward.
Request
Please provide guidance for: 1) obtaining the required approvals for Phase One demolition as quickly as possible (followed reasonably soon thereafter with the re-build), and 2) splitting the remaining project in phases. We are anxious to get started with demolition because it will have the biggest impact (primarily noise) on visiting guests. We would like to complete the demolition before the peak rental season, which begins in about a month.
We look forward to hearing from you. I will be at the Sea Horse until January 17th and would be happy to meet with you to discuss or answer any questions.
Sam McCarter
Seahorse Resort
Sea Horse Beach Resort Project
To: Longboat Key Commissioner Gary Coffin
Good Morning, Gary. Happy New Year!
Check out our updated pool and deck work, post hurricanes, image attached. Thank you for your help in that permit process.
We have so many great things happening at Sea Horse. We were recently on the 6pmnews on Fox Tampa. See link below:
I’m forwarding you an email which my boss sent to Neil Mazzeo. We’re planning to do some balcony construction, in stages, at the Sea Horse.
Any assistance you can give would be amazing. Thank you!
Christine Rothberg
Sarasota
Demolition application U.S. garage bldg, 330 S. Pineapple Avenue
To: Sarasota City Commissioner Jen Ahearn-Koch
The US Garage was approved for demolition in July 2023 by Dr. Clifford Smith after an extensive and thorough site visit. Dr. Smith confirmed that the building was non-contributing and ineligible for designation. On 11/6/25, the most recent application was submitted to the Clerk’s Office for processing (see attached). Upon receipt, staff reviewed the application and signed off on the Applicant’s Demolition Permit #2026-000658. I don’t believe the Demolition Permit has been issued yet (check with Development Services), but staff granted its approval as the Applicant had met our requirements.
I have attached the Application that was routed to Susan through the Clerk’s Office, and it was completed satisfactorily upon submission. Susan Dodd is also available to discuss this application if needed.
Steven Cover
Planning Director
Town of Longboat Key
Saravela
To: Sarasota City Clerk Lucia Panica
Thanks, Lucia, for this clarification, and for following up with the Applicant. I suspect that the Marketing folks are off doing their own thing — and are also unaware that some potential purchasers were turned away by the thought of having short term rentals in adjacent apartments.
I’m always reassured when you are on top of issues. All my best to you,
Debbie Trice
Mayor
City of Sarasota
Saravela
To: Sarasota City Commission
We have received questions regarding the signage and marketing for Saravela (proposed project 25-ASP-03, located at US 41 between 4th and 5th St) which is advertising the ability to do 3-day short term rentals. This project has not yet been approved and is still under DRC review, but at this time, that statement is not correct. The City’s minimum stay requirements for short term rentals would apply which is 7 days, 7 nights. If tenancy of units at Saravela are for 7 days, 7 nights or less, the units would then be considered transient lodging and would be classified as a hotel or motel use per Zoning Code Section II-304(b) and must be separated in the condominium from the rest of the residential units. They also could not be used in the calculations for bonus density. Therefore, the Site Plan application would need to be updated to identify/specify which units in the development are designated as transient lodging. We have informed the applicant of this information and requested they remove or clarify their advertising. We are continuing to work with the applicant on this issue.
Lucia Panica
Director Development Services
City of Sarasota
Sourced Candidates
To: Sarasota City Commissioner Jen Ahearn-Koch
I’m sorry it has taken me a while to get back to you on this particular request. As we discussed on the phone, we source candidates through advertising, targeted email, Linkedin messaging, direct calls, and direct emails.
We didn’t track the source of each candidate as we use all these methods to find candidates. To the best of my ability, I have identified the following candidates who we targeted for this recruitment that actually applied for the position.
There are dozens of other great candidates who we contacted but missed out on for various reasons. We also have a following from our other searches, where we talk with candidates who are in the market and mention to them our openings. Sometimes they apply, sometimes they don’t. I hope this explanation is helpful.
Warren Hutmacher
Sumter Local Government Consulting
Downtown Sarasota set to lose another popular oak tree
To: Kelly Franklin
Thank you for the email. I am meeting with Mr Bullock tomorrow morning and this is top on my list of discussion items. I am confident we will get clarity by tomorrow morning and I’ll be able to respond.
Jen Ahearn-Koch
City Commissioner
City of Sarasota
Downtown Sarasota set to lose another popular oak tree
To: Sarasota City Commissioner Jen Ahearn-Koch
I have had no response from the city to my question as to why city staff appear to be ignoring the plain language of the zoning code with regard to grand tree protection, and the requirements of the comprehensive plan for canopy coverage.
The legislative intent is clear – unless a healthy grand tree blocks more than 25% of a lot from being reasonably developed, that tree should stay. and infill should be built around it.
The centuries-old healthy live oak on Laurel currently stands at the edge of a parking lot. It will be in a parking lot when the new assisted living facility is built.
The new structure can be built without removing this particular tree, so why is this tree’s life, and the habitat it creates and supports, not being respected and protected, as our ordinance requires? I would appreciate an answer to my question and yours.
Kelly Franklin
Sarasota
Downtown Sarasota set to lose another popular oak tree
To: Sarasota City Manager Dave Bullock
Why was this tree approved for removal? It is a healthy grand live oak in what will be a parking lot in the new senior living center. It is not exempt from grand tree protections and not impeding development of the new facility.
Kelly Franklin
Sarasota
1605 Main St. pipe still leaking
To: Sarasota City Commissioner Jen Ahearn-Koch
Unfortunately this is a privately owned pipe. We have no authority to make any repairs on this leak. We will point out the leak to the account holder (who is paying for this water) again. Thank you for keeping an eye on this. Vern please notify this account holder of the leak.
Dave Bullock
City Manager
City of Sarasota
1605 Main St. pipe still leaking
To: Cheryl Foa Pecorella
I’ve copied the City Manager. I appreciate you bringing this to my attention again.
Jen Ahearn-Koch
City Commissioner
City of Sarasota
1605 Main St. pipe still leaking!
To: Sarasota City Commissioenr Jen Ahearn-Koch
Bon lundi matin, Jen, Just letting you know that on Saturday, I passed the eastern end of the Wells Fargo building (a Benderson property), 1605 Main St. and that pipe is continuing to leak at a fast pace.
Cheryl Foa Pecorella
Sarasota
State Street Garage
To: Karl Sieg
I am sorry to hear that the elevators are out of service in the parking garage. I agree that this is not acceptable. I am copying the interim city manager and deputy city manager with this response so that the appropriate staff can respond regarding when these will be fixed.
Liz Alpert
Commissioner
City of Sarasota
State Street Garage
To: Sarasota City Commission
We live in Venice. We enjoy visiting Sarasota for many things, among them Friday evenings at Mattison’s City Grille on Lemon Ave. We’ve parked at the State Street Garage.
The first time we parked there the entrance arm was up, which to us meant no charge parking. At the end of the evening we learned from our parking ticket that was not the case, and have since used the parking app on our phone.
The first time we parked there, Elevator 1 was out of service. It happens. 6 floors can be an impediment to senior citizens with compromised mobility.
We then found that Elevator 2 worked. So we subsequently parked as near to it as possible.
Elevator 1 remains out of service. For months!
On January 9, parking spaces were only available on the 6th floor. We parked near Elevator 2.
The call button on the 6th floor doesn’t work!
Fortunately we only had to carefully clamber down one floor to the 5th floor where that call button works. And fortunately, upon returning, we found that Elevator 2 would go to the 6th floor.
Do you find this condition of lack of reasonable and necessary maintenance on this City facility to be acceptable? The City has plenty of parking enforcement personnel covering the garage.
I would like to think that this lack of ability to get things done is a normal expectation of Democrats. So I’m surprised to see that Debbie Trice is a Republican!
Of course, Liz Alpert is a Democrat. So is Jen Ahearn-Koch. So is Kyle Battie. Kathy Ohlrich too? Nuff said? This kind of inability to get things done is a large reason by Republicans get elected in Florida, and this County.
A former R chair up north, winning every election for years by significant margins, but whose Party left him, I’ve tried to help or show Sarasota Dems how to win.
The inability of Dems is frustrating.
And your incompetence makes it even harder, and helps Republicans.
I expect that you will make sure that by Friday January 16 Sarasota City will have engaged the elevator maintenance contractor and both elevators will be fully functional.
Karl Sieg
Sarasota
Thank you
To: Sarasota City Public Art Administrator Ciera Coleman
Well done, Ciera. Excellent exhibit, well run reception. I’m looking forward to Monday’s event.
Debbie Trice
Mayor
City of Sarasota
Thank you!
To: Sarasota City Public Art Administrator Ciera Coleman
Ciera, thank you, and the City for hosting the opening for the Petticoat Painters exhibit Thursday night. Including a dance performance was a stroke of genius. This elevated the event from being yet another art opening to a true celebration of the arts.
As a Petticoat Painter, I’m honored to have our work displayed In City Hall. I really appreciate the opportunity to expose our work to members of the community who might not normally go to a gallery.
Sarasota promotes itself as a City that embraces the arts. The City Hall Heratige Exhibits demonstrate that for the City, this is more than just a marketing phrase. Thank you again, Ciera!
Alice Sundstrom
Sarasota
