Friday, July 2nd, 2010 | Posted by Longboat Key News

Longboat Key Letters – July 2010

Updated July 30, 2010.

The new Vision Plan

To: Editor

Longboat Key. We loved you—we married you—now change.

Like the husbands of cliché whose wives announce during the honeymoon, “You’re perfect; now change,” people in Longboat Key politics are often blind-sided by the embrace-then-rip-apart torture that is the end product of “change” (with apologies to the New York Times of July 25, 2010).

It now appears that our politicians and entrepreneurs are assiduously trying to make this affluent bedroom community—our private God’s Waiting Room—into “something else.” My suggestion is this: if they want “something else,” they should go to that “something else” and enjoy. One proponent proudly states that he wants to make this town into a Boca Grande, but better. Perhaps he should go to Boca Grande. Would it not be better and easier for everyone?

I believe I speak for those people who came here because of what it was, not what they could change it into. These are the people who subsidize and endow all of the arts and culture here and in the neighboring communities. Not the day (or week, or month) trippers who buy t-shirts.

But, to compound the matter, the “change” cabal keep their society exclusive, refusing to allow any possibility of a volunteering conservative thought into their midst. It appears that we truly need an equal rights amendment here to see that we, the evidently new minority, albeit still taxpayers, gain access to the decision-making process. Let the Sunshine Law in.

Bradford Saivetz, P.E., FASCE
Planning and Zoning Board
Longboat Key

Longboat Key Club redevelopment plan

To: David Brenner

Can this finally get settled in a way to preserve Longboat Key’s vitality? We thought all the hearings would have achieved some closure on this issue, and the final vote would just be an affirmation of the deal. We were appalled at the Longboat Key Observer’s account of the vote, the comments (which should have been worked out in committee before the vote), and the general poor judgment and remarks by the commission members. This is a terrible reflection on the commission’s ability to make decisions in the best interest of the island community.

Maybe the vote on the 28th will show more sensible thought and better planning. Otherwise, the commission should be recalled and let some wiser heads (if we can find them) deal with this issue.

The Longboat Key city charge to the club seems ridiculous for the use of their own land. Also, we believe there is no need for a sidewalk on the west side of Gulf of Mexico Drive. What is needed is more automobile and wider bike lanes better marked at this busy street intersection.

Saralyn and Gene Oberdorfer
Longboat Key

To: Gene Oberdorfer

I received your email today (July 27), but the time reference seems to be the end of June. In any event, the modified proposal was approved 6-1 on June 30, and we are now in a period where IPOC or anyone else can file objections either administratively or with the court. I won’t answer your specific questions, because they’ve all been put to bed. Your comments about the commission only prove some of the difficulties working with the Sunshine Law and, once again, that you can’t believe everything you read in the paper.

Dave Brenner, commissioner
Longboat Key

To: Commissioner David Brenner

We’ve had computer problems…the e-mails must have been locked up and finally released in July…headaches supreme. Sorry my comments were delayed…the deal seems to have been resolved…somewhat. We’ll hope this can get started and begin to bring some closure to a difficult period in the history of Longboat Key. Would like to hear your version sometime. Thanks for responding to my ill-timed e-mail.

Gene Oberdorfer
Longboat Key

Enough with the litigation

To: Town Commission

After over a year’s worth of negotiating, hundreds of thousands of dollars spent on lawyer fees, thousands of hours of town of Longboat Key staff time, and countless and interminable conversations, it is time for IPOC and Mr. White to conceded what appears to be a personal and selfish agenda. What can be more detrimental to a vacation community than what we have and are currently witnessing on Longboat Key? The endless tort mongering is not only ugly but is off-putting to prospective owners and visitors: neighbor against neighbor; the misuse and misrepresentation funds; and worst of all, what seems like Mr. White’s personal vendetta at the expense of the entire town. And frankly, it is off-putting to this recently new homeowner who never would have considered buying a vacation home where there was such an appetite for a reactionary and backward-thinking community agenda. Enough with the litigation!

As a Longboat Key commissioner, I urge you to continue to protect our community with progressive change that will enhance the town of Longboat Key in ways that will enliven, enhance and encourage tourism and vacation home owners.

Susan C. Levine
Longboat Key

Enough is enough

To: Mayor George Spoll

Enough is enough! Bob White should drop this lawsuit; he is hurting the entire island all for his view!

Patricia Sugalski
Longboat Key

Gone too far

To: Town Commission

This has really gone far and above reasonability in my opinion. How the town “prevents” a lawsuit is probably out of the town’s purview, but we all need to move forward in life. If Mr. White proceeds in the direction he is indicating, then Mr. Persson Esq., needs to find a checkmate in his legal bag of pursuits. To win at any cost reminds me of “matrimonials,” if there is money to be “burnt” then let’s light the fire. Those of you that have attended law school will smile on this one!

William Kary
Longboat Key

The community must unite

To: Key Club residents

It is time to unite for the success of the key. After almost 30 hearings with the town’s government and more than 50 meetings with the community, club members, condo associations, organizations and town leadership, Longboat Key Club & Resort heard the majority of residents, along with Bob White and IPOC. After working many long hours, we are pleased that the amended ordinance approved by the Town Commission includes a plan that represents a compromise that incorporates the concerns of so many interested parties, while still remaining financially viable.

The plan, as it was introduced in 2008, has changed significantly. No longer will the condo towers proposed on the north parcel block Bob White’s view. They have been replaced with four, four-story villas, and one five-story villa. What was once a great divide has now shrunk to 32 residential units. These condominiums are absolutely necessary to make the plan financially viable.

Many of White’s IPOC supporters have stated that they do not want to pursue a lawsuit. They acknowledge that a compromise was reached and want to move beyond this battle and heal the rift that has impacted our community. A lawsuit would only postpone the project, setback the town’s recovery and delay a much-needed boost in property values. We have serious issues such as the oil spill, beach renourishment and the underfunded pension fund that need to be dealt with as a united community.

Stuart Scheyer of the Longboat Key Moorings Slip Owners LLC said it best, “It’s time for White and the owners within the gates to be proud of what they have accomplished and let the club move ahead. Further legal battles will be harmful to Longboat Key and ultimately discredit IPOC. Hopefully, White and his fellow leaders will also consult with their owners, as we did. Thoughtful owners will join the majority, inside and outside the gates, who now support the project. This is not a game where the goal is winning at all costs. Winning must be for all involved, not for the destruction of one side. Reasonable change for the benefit of Longboat must be encouraged.”

Mr. Scheyer is not the only person who feels that Bob should spend his time and money in more productive ways—for the benefit Longboat Key, instead of to its detriment. The president and CEO of the Longboat Key, Lido Key, St. Armand’s Key Chamber of Commerce, Tom Aposporos, said in a letter to Bob White, “I believe there is a better place for your time, expertise and the funds you can raise.” He goes on to ask for a meeting with Bob to discuss how he could help contribute to the goodness of our community.

The community of Longboat has expressed overwhelming support for a more positive vision for the Key. In fact, the club continues to add to our 4,000-plus supporter list daily, as more Longboat Key residents join together in solidarity to heal the wounds incurred over the last several months of impassioned debate. What unites us is our mutual passion for Longboat Key, and what we can all agree on is that the island needs revitalization. Now, let’s focus on how to make that happen quickly for the benefit of the entire community.

We need your support to make this happen. Bob White has stated from the beginning that he is not willing to compromise. In an e-mail from June 2008, White declared to Islandside property owners, “The Loeb Organization recently approached the coalition, through our attorney, with an offer to negotiate on their proposed development. After careful consideration and an extensive review of legal documents and discussions with our attorney, we declined their request, as we believe that the massive proposed development is not legally permissible. Diverting coalition resources to fund time-consuming and expensive discussion of this overreaching and legally questionable plan was therefore felt to be inappropriate.”

Please send an e-mail to the Longboat Observer and the Town Commission asking Bob White to drop his legal crusade and rejoin the community to move forward in a more positive direction.

Longboat Key Club & Resort
Longboat Key

Regarding ‘Community must unite’

To: Key Club and Town Commission

There are many of us that do not support your view! Please do not hang this opposition of your plan on Bob White—there are many of us that think your plan will do great damage to Longboat Key. So stop thinking that you have majority support—you do not, and we are grateful to Monica for standing up for our rights and voicing disapproval of an egregious and selfish plan.

Les Brualdi
Longboat Key

Static environment is not healthy

To: Town Commission

As registered voters and longtime residents of Longboat Key, we understand the ‘paradise’ that everyone wants to save and enhance, and that’s why we want to move forward to the future and support the club’s expansion plans. Please know that your constituents want you to save our island paradise by looking to the future of our lifestyle and economy. One thing is certain, change is a constant in Florida and that is what has energized us and kept this island desirable. We need younger demographics to grow our island, and listening to those who want a static environment is not healthy. Let’s move forward.

David and Kathleen Callender
Longboat Key

Key Club Plan

To: Commissioner Bob Siekmann

I recently voted for change in the ballot for new commissioners. I hope you will support this project. It is vital to the community and will add jobs and likely fill some vacant storefronts. I am a long-term member of the community and feel this is vital for us.

Jim Dixon
Longboat Key

Key Club advertisement

To: Editor

I refer to the full-page advertisement by the Longboat Key Club in last week’s Longboat Key News and the letter by Stuart Scheyer featured in that advertisement. In it he states that ‘the vast majority of Longboat Key residents support the downsized project and are relieved that the battle is over.’ At the end of the next paragraph he says that IPOC no longer reflects the views of the majority.

How can he know these things—has he had his own referendum? Statements such as these are pure hyperbole and have no value whatsoever, other than to try and further the Key Club agenda and convince the rest of us that the massive construction project is in some way a good idea.

M. Barry
Longboat Key

Move forward with Key Club plan

To: Town Commission

It’s time to move forward with the planned development at the Longboat Key Club. This continuous debate is having a negative effect on all of our property values. Let the community unite on what is a reasonable proposal. Whose interest is Mr. White serving? It certainly isn’t mine or the majority of the community.

Greg Spinazze
Longboat Key

Key Club plan makes sense

To: Town Commission

The current plan is a good one and is the result of considerable effort on all sides. IPOC has achieved considerable compromise through its effort, and there’s now a plan in place that makes sense for all involved. It’s now time to move on, implement the plan (without lawsuits) and begin to make the progress that Longboat Key so desperately needs!

Arthur Warshaw
Longboat Key

Stop this unpleasantness

To: Commissioner Hal Lenobel

It is time to put a stop to this unpleasantness in our community and move forward to a full recovery.

Barbara Horowitz
Longboat Key

Everyone should join together

To: Mayor George Spoll

It is time for all of Longboat Key including IPOC to join together and make the Longboat Key Club and the entire island a destination we can all be proud of.

Bert and Bea Rapowitz
Longboat Key

Drop the legal crusade

To: Mayor George Spoll

I support The Longboat Key Club. Please tell Bob White to drop his legal crusade and rejoin the community to move forward in a more positive direction.

Camille Weiser
Longboat Key

Revisions to Vision Goals by Jim Brown

To: Vice Mayor Jim Brown

I read your public letter to Ms. Simpson regarding the vision plan with both personal and professional interest. I took part in the vision plan and was a strong advocate of its conclusions and recommendations. I have been disappointed that the Town Commission has not addressed the plan until now, but I am obviously pleased with the fact that the current administration is dealing with it now in a very straightforward, professional and public manner.

I have lived and/or worked in many resort communities similar to ours throughout my career. Remote mountain communities, islands in the Caribbean and small towns throughout North America all shared the fact that this destination first drew visitors who became residents who then became overly protective of their town’s and shunned visitors. Many if not all of those communities faced what we are now facing and that is that without visitors, their paradise will not be maintained.

Many residents in these communities were as ours are, seasonal, making it difficult for businesses to survive year round. The beauty of visitors is that they can be attracted year round, support our amenities and contribute to our tax base funding important services. While most leave, some turn into future homebuyers, which keeps are home values buoyant and replenishes our community with a like demographic, who live, play and pay taxes.

The concern is to balance the visitors and residents in the two primary seasons. In the winter season, the hotels and rental companies market Longboat Key and with the seasonal residents, all is fine. Unfortunately, in the summer season the demand does not currently exist to be of any concern. This of course must change; an effort and product must exist to attract visitors.

To assure the island remains competitive and to assist the hotels and rental companies to attract the necessary visitors, I would advocate contracting the Chamber of Commerce to develop an annual calendar of arts, sports and civic events and activities in conjunction with the town that not only enhances the lifestyles of our citizens, but adds to the attractiveness of the town as a visitor destination.

These events can range from professional golf and tennis tournaments to an annual triathlon event, major art exhibits, concerts, etc. All of which attract individuals, enhance the experience of residents, support our businesses, generate tax income to the town, etc.

So many of the town’s goals are achieved through a well thought out and administered plan in this regard.

As a result of my recent experience, I would also advocate a review of the town’s codes to ensure they are consistent with a revised direction. I, and of course the club, am available to provide any support the commission may need in this endeavor.

Michael D. Welly, general manager
Longboat Key Club & Resort

To: Michael Welly

I’m sure Jim will respond for himself, but I wanted to share with you the principal thoughts I had after reading your e-mail.

First, a major issue in my campaign was to make the Vision Plan the adopted policy of the town. The commission appointed a subcommittee to bring the initial plan up to 2010 and present a revised plan for adoption in the fall.

The subcommittee has been working on its assignment over the summer (We meet in public sessions every Wednesday). I would assume we’ll have some sort of larger public forum to review what is in the revised plan before it goes to the commission this fall.

Second, at the May workshop the commission encouraged the chamber to become in an organized way the principal focal point for economic development on the key. This suggestion arose from the April goals workshop. I met with the chamber executive committee in July to help them put this idea into motion. My personal preference was for them to consider reviving the Economic Development Council of the chamber, with some new players, as a way to get this moving. Thanks for your continued interest in making Longboat Key a better place.

Dave Brenner, commissioner
Longboat Key

To: Commissioner David Brenner

Thank you for your note; please advise how I may be of any assistance or support during this important process.

Michael D. Welly, general manager
Longboat Key Club & Resort

Beach renourishment questions answered

To: Stephen Spotte

My name is Bruce St. Denis, and I am the town manager of Longboat Key. I am writing in response to your e-mail to Commissioner Brenner.

First your question about tax levels. Each year the Town Commission must make a decision regarding balancing lowering expenses due to decreased revenues associated with declining property values and maintaining level of service.

It is difficult to achieve a 30 percent reduction in tax collections and maintain the desired level of service when 50 percent of expenses are related to Public Safety. Over the past three years actual tax collections have been reduced by $1,269,131 or 14 percent.

Next, your question regarding the funding mix for beach projects. Over the last two beach projects the funding has been 80 percent from beachside properties (District A) and 20 percent from bayside properties (District B). This balance was based on the promise that a beachside owner receives more benefit from the beach project in the form of increased property values, immediate access to the beach and critical property protection during storm events.

The political reality is that there are significantly more voters in District B and if they felt that the project cost exceeded their perceived benefit, the bond issue funding the project would not be approved. Thus the decision to have a varied tax rate. I hope that this answers your questions. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you would like more information.

Bruce St. Denis, town manager
Longboat Key

To: Town Manager Bruce St. Denis

Thank you for replying, but the answer to my second concern discounts all notions of fairness. It remains a fact that beachfront residents pay substantially more in property taxes than residents of so-called District B. The privilege of immediate access to the beach is heavily taxed and represents part of the cost of living where we do. As to the greater property values of beachfront houses, these form the basis of our higher taxes compared with District B, rendering this aspect of your argument redundant and thus without merit. Finally, greater protection from storms, by your definition, holds true only if all storms arrive from the west, which of course they don’t.

All told, the minority of residents (those living in District A) are being taxed out of proportion for beach restoration solely because of political expediency. You’ve made this clear. Please explain to how the cost came to be split 80/20 with those on the beachfront shouldering the 80 percent. Was it simply arbitrary or based on some sort of formula?

Stephen Spotte
Longboat Key

To: Stephen Spotte

Your question goes back to decisions made before I got here, so I asked former Mayor Jim Brown for his thoughts. He was actively involved with getting the beach nourished in the early ’90s. At that point beach conditions were critical and he was one of several community leaders that rose to the occasion.

He had sent me some thoughts in response to my request, but I see that he has also written a column that will be in the Herald Tribune in the next week or so.

To me the issue is based on the political realities of the situation. The beachside owners have a greater need (property protection) and benefit (view and easy access to the beach) with the project than bayside residents. Simply put, it means more to them.

Combine that with the fact that there are almost twice as many voters on the bay side of Gulf of Mexico Drive than the beachside. That gives the bayside the ability to essentially veto any project that they feel costs them too much to them for the benefit they feel that they receive. I hope that this answers your question. Let me know if you need additional information.

Bruce St. Denis, town manager
Longboat Key

To: Town Manager Bruce St Denis

Thank you for the response, but you still haven’t explained how the 80/20 split came about.

Stephen Spotte
Longboat Key

To: Stephen Spotte and Town Manager Bruce St. Denis

I urge you to read Jim Brown’s column in the Tuesday Sarasota Herald-Tribune. As he explains, the 80/20 split was a politically expedient solution to having beach renourishment or no renourishment at all. Is it time to revisit that decision? Maybe so.

Dave Brenner, commissioner
Longboat Key

Roundabout

To: Mayor George Spoll

Based on their original schedule, the FDOT should be working now on the plans for the roundabout at 10th & U.S. 41. The town may want to again go on record to the FDOT about our strong opposition.

Lee Rothenberg
Longboat Key

Accuracy

To: Editor

I did not ask for Mr. Saivetz’s resignation. I stated his failure to disclose his membership on the Planning and Zoning Board was “unseemly.” Of course, you, as the editor, did not note Mr. Saivetz’s relationship with the Planning and Zoning Board either. Very disappointing.

BJ Webb, chairwoman
Planning and Zoning Board
Longboat Key

Citizens panel for town review

To: Commissioner David Brenner

I’d like to volunteer to be on your citizens committee.

Ray Rajewski
Longboat Key

To: Ray Rajewski

The committee is me, Phill Younger and Lynn Larson. What we are doing currently is recruiting a panel of “experts” who would carry out interviews of department heads as part of this review of the town’s organization. Your background will be important in matching up the interviewer with the interviewee. In any event, our next committee meeting is Aug. 12 at 7 p.m. I hope you’ll come by so you can talk to the committee to see where the best fit is. In the meantime, if you send Susan Phillips your biographical information, she’ll get it into our hands before the meeting. Thanks for your interest.

Dave Brenner, commissioner
Longboat Key

Subcommittee expert request

To: Commissioner David Brenner

Good speaking with you David. Thanks for getting back to me so quickly. As per your request I’m attaching my “bio” in PDF format. I’ve also reserved both times Aug. 12—9 a.m. and 7 p.m.—in the event that you and the subcommittee want to interview me. I think that this is a very good idea for all concerned; I also understand some of the “angst” that Longboat Key employees may be feeling. Having spent most of my professional life living in a “glass fishbowl,” I, better than some, understand what they may be imagining. If there’s anything else you may need, please feel free to contact me.

Rabbi Peter E. Kasdan
Longboat Key

To: Peter E. Kasdan

Hi Peter, I have worked with you on the Police Pension Board and think that if I miss your interview, I know from experience that you are well qualified and work well in a group for the good of the organization.

Lynn Larson, commissioner
Longboat Key

To: Commissioner Lynn Larson

Thanks for the vote of confidence.

Rabbi Peter E. Kasdan
Longboat Key

Subcommittee question suggestions

To: Commissioners David Brenner, Lynn Larson, Phillip Younger

Based on our conversations this morning, here is a thought. There are many types of analyses that can be used when reviewing the town’s operations. Perhaps the most appropriate for the interview stage is a value-chain analysis. A value-chain analysis identifies at what stages of each process is value-added that is important to the customer (in this case the citizens).

The line of questioning from the interviewer to the interviewee goes like this:

1. Name the five most important things you do every day, week, month or year (the word “important” is purposely not defined so the interviewee has to decide what they think is important).

2. Name the five least important things you do every day, week, month or year.

3. Name the five most important things that you do not do every day, week, month or year…but in your opinion should be doing.

4. Name the five things you do every day, week, month or year that you feel add the most value to the/your customer.

It is at this point that the discussion can really begin between the interviewer and the interviewee, because there is a big difference between what is “important” and what adds value. Experience shows that every organization, over time, develops policies, procedures, activities, reports, meetings and so on that are/were “important” but actually no longer add any value, at least to the customer.

Questions 5 and 6 then use the same technique for the five least value added things and the five value added things that are not being done.

This same technique can be used to probe inter and intra departmental support (for example, “What are the five most important things the IT department does for you?”).

A value-chain analysis can provide some of the structure we discussed today and produces lengthy lists of activities that are relatively easy to analyze and prioritize for further discussion, investigation and action. Such lists also help eliminate interviewer bias and interpretation. As Sgt. Joe Friday would have put it, “Just the facts please.”

Just so there is no confusion, a value-chain analysis would only be part of the interview process.

Tom Freiwald
Longboat Key

Cell phone tower suggestion

To: Commissioner Robert Siekmann

We have a tower in W. Bloomfield, Mich., that looks like a tree. We think it’s great, didn’t realize it was there for many months, smiled when we finally noticed it and now don’t even see it. We would be happy to send you a picture of it if you would like.

Barbara Frankel
Longboat Key

Big Pass/New Pass IMP

To: Public Works Director Juan Florensa

We will be presenting the subject inlet management plan report to our BCC on Tuesday afternoon. I wanted to share the board packet with you, in case you have any questions or would like to discuss. Attached are PDFs of the four documents in the packet: the cover memo, the draft IMP, the consolidated peer review report and the PowerPoint slides. Cliff Truitt will do the majority of the presentation.

If you would like to get together (either in person or by telephone) to discuss these documents, here is my availability in the next few days:

Thursday – afternoon is pretty wide open

Friday – I could make early morning or late afternoon work

Monday – afternoon is wide open, or late afternoon

In the future, if the BCC decides to pursue any tangible projects as a result of this IMP, there will be need for significant coordination between our office and yours (as well as city of Sarasota). I’ll look forward to working with you on this, as opportunities materialize.

Laird S. Wreford
Sarasota County Coastal Resources Manager

To: Laird S. Wreford

Thanks Laird. I’ll peruse it and call you with questions. We may not need to meet. Is the BCC meeting on the 27th? Time certain?

Juan J. Florensa, director
Public Works, Longboat Key

To: Public Works Director Juan Florensa

Juan, yes, this discussion item is on the afternoon of the 27th. The only time certain is that the afternoon session begins at 1:30. However, this item is the last discussion item on the agenda—so it will likely be later in the afternoon (dependent entirely on how quickly all the other agenda items go). Anyway, let me know if you have any other questions.

Laird S. Wreford
Sarasota County Coastal Resources Manager

To: Laird S. Wreford

Thank you for the opportunity to read the IMP before staff’s presentation to the BCC this coming Tuesday. I have done a quick read and have a question for you. The last paragraph on page12 of 29 states:

“All sand dredged from the Federal channel at New Pass should similarly be re-introduced into the littoral drift system on north Lido Key. Historically, such dredged sand at New Pass has been divided between Longboat Key and Lido Key as part of an agreement to “make up” sand volumes previously lost from Longboat Key. The present strategy presupposes that the historic deficit now has been satisfactorily made up and a consistent overall strategy of navigation maintenance by-passing should be pursued…”

As I read this it seems to suggest that ALL future sand excavated from New Pass should be deposited on north Lido. If that is a correct interpretation, then the town of Longboat Key would object to that and would like to discuss this at some time in the future. Bruce or I will be attending the BCC meeting this Tuesday and would like to address the BCC on this issue at that time.

Juan J. Florensa, director
Public Works, Longboat Key

To: Juan Florensa

Thanks so much for your review and comment. I certainly understand your concern, and I can assure you that the paragraph you cited (and in fact most of the other recommendations in this draft IMP) are not intended to be set in stone—certainly not to that level of specificity. We have asked for (and paid for) our consultant team’s professional recommendations based on their technical/engineering expertise. However, when it comes to actually implementing the major coastal projects that may result from this plan, the only way we can successfully do so is in full coordination with the affected municipalities. Clearly, the manner in which sand from a New Pass dredging would be distributed would be fully agreed upon by all parties involved during the design and permitting phase—and absolutely not pre-determined for all time as a result of a recommendation in this IMP.

In any case, it will be great to see you or Bruce at the commission meeting Tuesday afternoon. Since this is a discussion item, and not a public hearing, there may not be an opportunity to address the BCC at that time. However, there will be numerous opportunities to modify specific details in this plan over the next few months, and to provide input for any projects that may go forward as a result of the IMP.

Hope you have a great weekend, and I’ll look forward to seeing you on Tuesday.

Laird S. Wreford
Sarasota County Coastal Resources Manager

Beach sand

To: Town Manager Bruce St Denis

As a tax-paying resident of Sans Point Condominium, I would prefer the larger grained, slightly off-white sand for the renourishment project. At a time of great economic uncertainty, it is the wise option to save money where possible.

Thomas H. Cobb
Longboat Key

To: Thomas Cobb

The Town Commission has had extensive discussions regarding the source of sand for the next project. The decision was to use fine white on most of the beach and slightly less white/slightly larger grain in the high erosion areas on the north end. I will forward your comments on to the commission. Thanks for your interest and let me know if you have any other questions/comments.

Bruce St. Denis, town manager
Longboat Key

Call for Board member resignation

To: Editor

Most of you have been treated to Mr. Saivetz’ ranting letters to the editor over the years. As the years go by these seem to be becoming harsher.

I was, as were many others, shocked that Bradford Saivetz was appointed to the Planning and Zoning Board. The Town Commission clearly made an error in their decision to allow this appointment to stand. But their reasoning must have been legally significant in allowing this.

After the appointment debacle, Saivetz stated in his own defense, “I love this island, this is my home and I feel it’s an honor to be able to serve on this board, and I assure you that with my 60 years of professional integrity, I will look at everything fairly and squarely.” He also stated that evening “I volunteered to serve on this board…I feel I can serve the town with all the integrity that I possess.”

With his words in my mind, I read Saivetz’s most recent letter published July 16 in the Longboat Key News. Another tirade against the Town Commission for their decision to approve the Key Club’s application.

There is no way a reasonable person can believe that the words Saivetz uttered (above) in his defense during his appointment process were honest. His July 16 letter clearly states where his mind is on this matter. It would be virtually impossible for him to act “fairly and squarely” and “with all the integrity he possesses” in the town’s best interests. His lack of objectivity will significantly handicap the other Planning and Zoning Board members.

Also, his letter did not identify himself as a member of the Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Board. This is not a proper action by a board member, Mr. Saivetz.

He is obviously not capable of doing the job he has volunteered for on the Planning and Zoning Board. He will remain a serious detriment to the board as it serves the town of Longboat Key. I am certain that he will continue to write letters criticizing Planning and Zoning Board and Town Commission decisions.

I call for Mr. Saivetz to resign his seat on the Planning and Zoning Board for the good of Longboat Key.

Ron Johnson, former mayor
Longboat Key

Welcome signs

To: Public Works Director Juan Florensa

I spoke with James (Linkhogle) today regarding the color for the trim for the two welcome signs. I would prefer to see the trim in white to frame the signs. I think it would disappear if it were blue. Call me if you have any questions.

Jim Brown, commissioner
Longboat Key

To: Commissioner Jim Brown

I concur, Jim. Have a great weekend.

Juan Florensa, public works director
Longboat Key

Cell Tower at Spanish Main Yacht Club

To: Planning, Building and Zoning Department Director Monica Simpson

I live at Spanish Main Yacht Club at 5700 Gulf of Mexico Drive. We have an old 65-foot tall TV tower on the property that would not work as a cell tower, but we are used to having a tower so a cell tower would not likely be objectionable to us. I sent an e-mail to Bruce a few weeks ago, and copies of the e-mail made their way to the commissioners.

Commissioner Brenner visited Spanish Main Yacht Club last week for a first-hand look at our idea. He asked me to gather some additional information, beginning with a meeting with you to better understand the zoning issues that would have to be dealt with.

I live here full-time and can meet with you at your convenience. Please let me know the best time for you and what additional information I should bring. Thank you!

Tom Freiwald
Longboat Key

Cell tower at Spanish Main Yacht Club

To: Tom Freiwald

Thank you for your e-mail. I was just made aware last week that there was some interest in the possibility of erecting a cell phone tower at the Spanish Main Yacht Club. As you are probably aware, the current Zoning Code only allows personal wireless service facilities other than antennas to be located on land with the zoning classification of Institutional (INS). In order for the town to consider an application (site plan and special exception) for the construction of a cell phone tower at 5700 Gulf of Mexico Drive, the Zoning Code, Section 158. 200 Personal wireless service facilities, would need to be amended.

The Zoning Code amendment can be initiated by an individual or by the Town Commission: if an individual makes an application to amend the Zoning Code, the Town Commission (after recommendation by the Planning and Zoning Board) must consider the application; on the other hand, the Town Commission may or may not take it upon themselves to consider amending the Zoning Code if a formal application is not made by an individual—in other words, the Town Commission may chose to not take up the matter for whatever reason.

I would be more than happy to meet with you regarding this issue. Please coordinate a meeting with Donna Chipman, office manager, to meet with me and the two planners in the department.

Monica Simpson, director, Planning, Zoning & Building Department
Longboat Key

To: Planning, Building and Zoning Director Monica Simpson

Monica, thank you for your response. I will coordinate with Donna.

Tom Freiwald
Longboat Key

Cell Tower at Spanish Main Yacht Club

To: Town Manager Bruce St. Denis

Thank you for the preliminary information about the requirements and regulations regarding cell towers. As I explained during our conversation, we already have an old and unused 65-foot tall concrete TV antenna on the Spanish Main property, and the residents are accustomed to seeing it (or ignoring it as the case may be). Since we already have a tower, there may be an interest by the members of Spanish Main to allow a taller tower to be installed in exchange for the fee(s) paid by the cell service providers who use the tower.

Based on your input from our previous conversation, following is an update:

Requirement 1. The only type of tower allowable on Longboat Key is one that looks like a flagpole. I believe a tower that looks like a flagpole would be acceptable to Spanish Main Yacht Club as we have two flagpoles now. In fact, one of the flagpoles is within a few feet of where a cell tower might be placed (more on that location in a moment).

Requirement 2. In addition to the footprint of the tower itself, some ground equipment is required. The area that might work for a tower includes space for ground equipment, which could be concealed by shrubbery.

Requirement 3. Some trenching is required. The area that might work for a tower is lawn and trenching would not be a problem. The area is not far from the property lines of Emerald Harbor and Cedars, and utility easements run the length of the property line between Spanish Main and Emerald Harbor and also between Spanish Main and Cedars.

Requirement 4. A “fall zone” equal to the height of the tower must exist in all directions around the tower. No residences can be within the fall zone. A 240-foot space exists at Spanish Main Yacht Club between the clubhouse and the closest residence on Spanish Drive North. This 240-foot space would allow for a 120-foot tower. If the clubhouse does not count as a “residence,” then the tower could be placed closer to the clubhouse and a taller tower could be accommodated.

Requirement 5. Current zoning requirements of Longboat Key do not allow cell towers on residential property. However, the Town Commission and/or Planning and Zoning Board could change the zoning requirements if all parties agreed that having a tower at Spanish Main is in the best interests of all parties. Another option is that the area where the existing TV tower is located is a patch of lawn with never-used shuffleboard courts and an old putting green. Perhaps there is a way to rezone that parcel to a “commercial zone.”

Bruce, based on our preliminary review of the requirements and regulations, I do not see any “show stoppers” that would prevent the installation of a tower at Spanish Main. However, at this time, I am simply collecting basic information for initial review by the Spanish Main Board of Directors.

What would you suggest as a next step? I could meet with you or the appropriate folks at City Hall, or we would be glad to have you visit and take a look at the possible site here in Spanish Main.

Tom Freiwald
Longboat Key

To: Town Clerk Trish Granger

Trish, someone better talk to the Spanish Main Board, as they have not taken a position on a cell tower in their community. Without the board’s approval, everyone is wasting their time.

Robert Siekmann, commissioner
Longboat Key

To: Commissioner Robert Siekmann

I will forward to Monica as she is working with Mr. Freiwald. Thank you.

Trish Granger, town clerk
Longboat Key

To: Commissioner Robert Siekmann

I will be meeting with Mr. Freiwald soon, at which time I will explain the fact that the association must take action authorizing the submission of an application, and that those board actions must be made part of any application for development on property commonly controlled/owned by the community. Thank you for your valuable input.

Monica Simpson, director, Planning, Zoning & Building Department
Longboat Key

Wayfinder signs

To: Linda Cullen

Thank you for your input on the sign issue. The Town Commission has asked the Chamber of Commerce, Andrew Vac and the individual businesses and others to work out how best they, visitors and residents can be served by the signs. This is an important issue since visitors and residents cannot use services on the island if they cannot find them. I am thankful that the individuals involved in the process are the ones who will be guiding us with their recommendations.

Lynn Larson, commissioner
Longboat Key

Visioning Plan revised document

To: Visioning Plan subcommittee members

Please find attached the first version of a revised Vision Plan document—as edited by Vice Mayor Jim Brown, Commissioner Dave Brenner and P&Z Board member Symanski. Deleted text is struck through, and new proposed text is in red (and that which is underlined is text that I added, either on my own or in response to one of the editor’s comments).

Some of the outstanding issues not yet addressed in this document but were part of the e-mail comments from Messrs. Brenner and Symanski are noted below:

• Mr. Brenner’s edits included a phrase “We want to be Boca Grande, but better.” This direct statement is contrary to what I had as a general consensus of the subcommittee not to include specific community names as a point of reference.

• Mr. Symanski mentioned the following in his e-mail:

1. Whether we should consider an additional narrative section discussing some objectives to be achieved, or at least addressed, in a review of the Comp Plan before the charts in the Vision Plan.

2. Should the Vision Plan address specific desired outcomes: Publix Complex: would we like to have a replacement gas station, would we like to see the Einisman (a.k.a. MODA or the Enclave) property reincorporated into the commercial area (or other), would we like to see some sort of elderly housing at least studied at these shopping/dining support services, requiring a Chinese restaurant, etc.? Does Publix have elements elsewhere that we would like to encourage here?

3. The subcommittee at the last meeting agreed that they wanted comprehensive redevelopment of a site, and staff and the town attorney stated that comprehensive redevelopment was required using the voluntary rebuild ordinance. Mr. Symanski brings up The Colony and whether the Vision Plan should specifically state that any redevelopment proposal, including a request for any of the 250 tourism units, can only be done comprehensively, not in a piecemeal fashion. And, should a Tennis resort encouraged?

4. He believes that the Vision Plan should clearly state for the Mar Vista parcel that the town does not support residential development at that site. He also ponders whether the Vision Plan should specifically state that the town encourages Moore’s to stay a restaurant and state a willingness to consider proposals for enhancing the property/restaurant including a rezoning to include the restaurant?

5. Should the town consider as possibilities for the Whitney Beach Plaza to do something other than what it is zoned for now such as tourism units in a mix? Examples would be consolidation of parcels, comprehensive approach, requirement for commercial services, etc. Would we want to urge a gas station be part of a mix, as another example?

6. Does the town need to do anything further regarding the implementation of the 250 tourism units?

7. Is there any specific Vision Plan language that needs to be added about the Hilton?

8. Is there anything in the Vision Plan that can address the loss of the 7-11?

9. GMD landscaping: Should we urge a new blue ribbon committee to propose some uniform planting scheme connected to either end and perhaps dovetailed with the Longboat Key Club ideas rather than just allowing the somewhat haphazard system to proceed. Occasionally, this is discouraged by stating that it is owned by the state, that the state will not allow palms, for example, and on and on, while we see palms planted in narrow strips on Fruitville Road. Now this may not be on a state road, but is Sarasota really doing dangerous plantings? In other words, has this really been investigated with the state with a view toward wanting to do it?

10. Gulf of Mexico Drive signage: There is a proliferation and a lack of uniformity at least with regard to No Parking signs. Once again it is a state road but would the state allow some town control if it were desired?

11. Idea of some enforcement with regard to, for example, foreclosure properties to prevent negative ripple effects throughout neighborhoods, which discourage and delay recovery.

My hope is that the subcommittee will be able to work through Mr. Symanski’s list and come to a consensus on how to handle each of his points. Some have been discussed before, but may not have had an actual decision on how to address it, if at all in the Vision Plan document.

Thank you to all who worked on this document over the past several days. Again, as always, if you need a hardcopy of the document, please let me know. See you Wednesday.

Monica Simpson, director, Planning, Zoning & Building Department
Longboat Key

Word version of the Vision Plan

To: Monica Simpson

I received the Word doc. Thanks. I notice that the doc had comments including those by Herb Marlowe. Have these been incorporated into the latest document and is this the document we have been working with in our meetings? I mean everyone except David Brenner who seams to have his own version.

Jim Brown, vice mayor
Longboat Key

To: Vice Mayor Jim Brown

Vice Mayor, that is the final document. I don’t know what you are seeing, perhaps the track changes comments—turn the track changes off and you should see the actual accepted plan without the crazy commentary.

Monica Simpson, director, Planning, Zoning & Building Department
Longboat Key

Planning Board member’s editorial

To: Planning Board members

The recent Longboat Key News included an op-ed piece by Bradford Saivetz. For a Planning and Zoning member to be writing articles, pro or con, after a decision has been made by the Planning and Zoning Board and not even acknowledge he is a member of the Planning and Zoning Board is unseemly at best.

Being on a public body, appointed or elected, has certain public speaking restrictions and disclosure requirements. The time to debate an issue is before a vote with fellow board members. If one is not able or willing to debate an issue from the dais, perhaps that is not a person well suited for serving on a board. We will have a discussion of this issue on the September agenda.

BJ Webb, chairman, Planning & Zoning Board
Longboat Key

Saivetz’s response to Webb’s criticism

To: Editor

Follow the mail from BJ Webb to the commission this morning. This is my answer. When I was sworn in to the Planning and Zoning Board, I took, very seriously, my oath to “support, protect and defend the Constitution and Government of the United States and the State of Florida.” There is nothing in this oath with reference to defending the opinions or actions of my board chairman or of the town commissioners of the town of Longboat Key.

The actions that were taken by the Planning and Zoning Board with reference to Ordinance 2009-25 occurred long before my appointment to the board. The departures mentioned in my op-ed piece referred to a much different plan than the one that the Planning and Zoning Board processed and approved—albeit subsequently approved by the Town Commission without a referral back to the Planning and Zoning Board.

So neither the new plan—never processed through the Planning and Zoning Board—nor the original one—was a thing that I was able to “debate…from the dais.”

In my own defense, I am extremely well qualified and suited to serve on a board, especially the Planning and Zoning Board, in this town in which I have resided for more than 30 years. It is not in the best interest of this board, or any board, that the members are in lock-step with its chairman.

I believe the Planning and Zoning Board is not constituted as a choir—with a director. Nor is, thankfully, our Town Commission.

Bradford Saivetz P.E., FASCE, Planning & Zoning Board member
Longboat Key

Comprehensive Plan binders

To: Planning and Zoning Board

Because of the many amendments that have been made to the Town’s Comprehensive Plan in the last several years since its adoption in December 2007, we need to make sure each of you have a hardcopy of the most up-to-date version. I realize it is quite a large document to keep around the house, but I believe we all now have seen the document’s importance in the decisions made by the Planning and Zoning Board and the Town Commission.

If you have your copy, please drop it by as soon as possible (we will gladly come by to pick it up as well, just let us know)—we will not be replacing all of the pages in the document, just those sections that have been amended. For those of you out-of-town, we will prepare new binders for you and pick-up the old ones when you return to the key.

Thank you for your help in saving resources.

Monica Simpson, director, Planning, Zoning & Building Department
Longboat Key

Subcommittee questions

To: Town Manager Bruce St. Denis

Please see my answers below. If you have any question, please let me know. Kelly Martinson will be filling in for me from Monday to Thursday next week.

David Persson, town attorney
Longboat Key

Answers to town manager’s subcommittee questions

To: Town Attorney David Persson

The following questions came up at the subcommittee meeting today. I think that we addressed some of these generically at an earlier meeting, but they came up again with more specificity today.

1. If someone (a volunteer) is appointed by the subcommittee to review a department and report back to the subcommittee, is the discussion between the appointee and the department head a public meeting?

Town Attorney David Persson answer: No, not if it’s a fact-finding discussion.

2. If one of the subcommittee members (commissioners) meets with a department head as part of their subcommittee responsibilities, is that a public meeting?

Persson answer: It is not a public meeting if it’s fact-finding. The fact that it is a commissioner doesn’t change the answer. The Charter helps indirectly with this question, because it limits a commissioner’s interaction with staff to inquiry (fact-finding) see Art. II Sec. 12 (a). The discussion about a recommendation from the facts takes place at a public meeting.

3. If a single subcommittee member meets with a prospective volunteer appointee, is that a public meeting?

Persson answer: No. Sunshine law applies to two or more members of the same committee.

Bruce St. Denis, town manager
Longboat Key

Town functions

To: Town Manager Bruce St. Denis

I believe we got off to a good start at Friday’s meeting. The “suggestion box” idea was a plus. Another plus I failed to mention was the establishment a “grant getting” function within the town’s administrative framework. As we discussed, my son, who heads such an effort for the state of Maryland, would be happy to provide some guidance to whomever you designate. You may want to share this with the commission since we won’t be able to report to them until our September meeting. Thanks.

Dave Brenner, commissioner
Longboat Key

Condor Airlines thanks you

To: Community leaders and business owners

Once more I would like to thank Michael Welly for his generous commitment of $100,000 during yesterday’s meeting, which was arranged by Tom Aposporos of the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce.

With my July 16 deadline looming around the corner, I would like to encourage you once more to reach out to your sphere of influence within the Sarasota and Manatee County business community and try to collect some marketing commitments (see attached forms) toward this last minute effort to bring Condor Airlines directly from Frankfurt into Sarasota/Bradenton Airport starting in 2011.

Again, please keep in mind that we are not looking for “immediate cash commitment” but simply for a marketing dollar commitment for the year 2011 (which may already be in your 2011 marketing budget) to promote the West Coast of Florida to travel-happy and shopping-friendly Europeans… In the unlikely event Condor Airlines decides not to start the route in 2011, we are not committed to anything but certainly supported a very worthy cause. Please forward your commitment forms to me tomorrow but please no later then July 18, 2010. I really appreciate your support and look forward to hearing from you all!

Tina Rudek, Engel & Volkers
Longboat Key

North end power outages

To: Don Sayre

Commissioner Bob Siekmann, a resident in the Village at the north end of Longboat Key, reported at Monday night’s meeting that the trimming of vegetation and tree branches around FPL lines have resulted in a reduction of the frequency of power outages/fluctuations in his neighborhood but not completely eliminated.

He stated that short power or voltage fluctuations occurred last Saturday and again Monday morning. These incidents were relatively short in duration but long enough to reset clocks, computers and similar appliances. Commissioner Siekmann resides at 660 Lands End Drive. I trust you can look into this matter to determine if there is anything else FPL can do.

Juan Florensa, public works director
Longboat Key

To: Juan Florensa

I looked at our data from July 9-13. The feeder breaker at the substation did not operate, neither did any other feeder in the substation (a customer can see a voltage dip if an adjacent feeder relays). I did not find any trouble tickets associated with the feeder either. It is not uncommon for animals, birds, trees, lighting, etc., to contact our lines and not relay the breaker. The resulting voltage dip (not down to zero) can be enough to blink clocks, VCRs, etc. Unfortunately, it is impossible to totally eliminate these occurrences. I’ll be glad to investigate any future occurrences. Knowing the time of the day would help. Would you like me to contact Bob?

Don Sayre
Florida Power and Light

Wayfinder signs for All Angels Episcopal Church

To: Town Commission

On behalf of our Senior Warden, Bill Race, myself and our congregation, I just want to thank you for the opportunity last Monday to present our case for including All Angels Episcopal Church on the new wayfinder signs. While the matter needs further discussion, and the outcome further refinement, we are confident that we will receive a full and fair hearing when the issue next comes before the Town Commission, and that an amicable solution will be found. Thank you.

Fr. David L. Danner
All Angels by the Sea Episcopal Church

False reports of tar balls on Siesta Key

To: Town Commission

Please see the attached information regarding the possibility of tar balls on local beaches. We are still in good shape.

Bruce St. Denis, town manager
Longboat Key

To: Town of Longboat Key

Over the past few days many of you may have heard rumors or received e-mails about tar balls on Siesta Key Beach. These are not tar balls. They are colonial tunicates (organic sea life) and occasionally wash up along the shore. We have been seeing them along the beaches in Sarasota County for several months.

The fuel smell that people associate with these is probably from a passing boat or Jet Ski near shore. I personally went out to investigate this yesterday on Crescent Beach in Siesta just off of Point of Rocks Circle. They were tunicates. I have attached the pictures. Today the USCG and DEP responded to beach access point 8 for a report of tar balls. Nothing was found, and both SNN6 and ABC 7 did a story on this.

If you or your friends find any other objects in the marine environment that look foreign to you, please feel free to pass along the photos to us and we will have them identified. Please share this e-mail with all that have questions about this.

Edward McCrane, emergency management chief
Sarasota County Government

Town review subcommittee volunteer

To: Town Commission

As a year-round Longboat Key resident, please consider me for your proposed subcommittee to review town operations.

Nick Kovalakides
Longboat Key

Seaweed, algae washing ashore

To: Town Manager Bruce St. Denis

Commissioner Brenner called yesterday inquiring about large clumps of algae or seaweed (a.k.a. “wrack”) that have washed ashore near his condominium and along other sections of our beach. He wanted to know if the town has an established program to remove these clumps from the beach.

I informed him that long-standing town policy has been not to remove this seaweed from the beach for the following reasons:

• Seaweed is part of a healthy beach ecosystem; it provides food to seabirds and other sea life

• Shorebirds use the seaweed for camouflage and nesting

• It helps dune creation by providing seeds for dune plants and natural nutrients and fertilizer for the plants

• The amounts of wet seaweed is so large and heavy that it would require heavy motorized equipment on the beach that would have a negative effect on turtle and shorebird habitat.

• The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) has taken a position that no beach raking or seaweed removal will be allowed in the future. To that end FWS is requiring newly issued beach restoration permits to contain a no rake/removal special condition for the duration of the project. The North End interim project biological opinion issued to the town on June 11, 2010 contains such a requirement.

He was understanding of this policy but wanted to make sure other commissioners would have this information available to them in case they are contacted by their constituents. I told him I would share with him a couple of news articles I have compiled that discussed these issue in more detail.

Juan J. Florensa, public works director
Longboat Key

Wayfinder signs

To: Town Commission

On behalf of our Senior Warden, Bill Race, myself, and our congregation, I just want to thank you for the opportunity last Monday to present our case for including All Angels Episcopal Church on the new wayfinder signs. While the matter needs further discussion, and the outcome further refinement, we are confident that we will receive a full and fair hearing when the issue next comes before the Town Commission, and that an amicable solution will be found. Thank you.

Fr. David L. Danner, All Angels by the Sea Episcopal Church
Longboat Key

Wayfinder sign suggestion

To: Commissioner Lynn Larson

Why could you not have a sign in smaller font placing both All Angels Church and Temple Beth Israel on one line? List together in smaller fonts, for example:

Longboat Town Hall / Library
All Angels Church / Temple Beth Israel
U.S. Post Office (Since no one ever knows where they are located)
Sun Trust Bank / Bank of America
RE/MAX Excellence Real Estate
Naterson CPA
Longboat Key Dental
Tennis Center

Linda Cullen
Longboat Key

Topics for town planning and zoning director

To: Town Planning and Zoning Director Monica Simpson

Please pass this on to the committee members for their review. Feel free to edit. It is double spaced for ease of editing. Revised bullet points at bottom of page one follow:

• Affordability of property ownership is being impacted by dramatically higher property taxes (with severe upward pressure from pension costs and beach renourishment expenditures) and insurance costs.

• The town’s major resorts are over 20 years old and are showing their age. The Key Club, Colony and Hilton management’s are examining, each in their own way, what they want to be over the next 20 years. Publix and Whitney Plaza, while not resorts, are significant properties on the Key and are going through the same exercise.

• Country Club Shores has changed from a neighborhood of Florida-style ranch homes to an area with an increasing number of “McMansions,” and beset with a substantial number of foreclosures and the attendant “blight.”

• The local arts center is no longer an independent institution.

• Maintenance of restaurants with emphasis on outdoor dining is important.

I’ll send you a separate e-mail with my revision to the closing paragraph on page 2.

Dave Brenner, commissioner
Longboat Key

To: Town Planning and Zoning Director Monica Simpson

Same ground rules as the earlier e-mail. The existing bullet points work for me. The following should be added:

• The infrastructure (water, wastewater, etc.) will be maintained or upgraded on an ongoing basis.Enhancements, such as pole removal, will be part of this consideration.

• We want to be Boca Grande, but better. We want to continue to have many basic services on the Key (like supermarket services). Our proximity to Sarasota and its substantial arts environment is an important part of our special character and ready access to Tampa/St. Pete is another plus.

This completes what I volunteered to do. Any questions please ask. Nothing like the threat of rain to help do my homework.

David Brenner, commissioner
Longboat Key

Condor Airlines

To: Michael Welly

This the latest from Tina. Anything the club can add to the incentive package would, obviously, help influence Condor’s decision. You might want to talk to Tina before you meet with Condor in case she has some specific gesture in mind.

David Brenner, commissioner
Longboat Key

To: Community Leaders and Business Owners

Once more I would like to ask for a few moments of your time to help encourage Condor Airlines to make a positive decision for Manatee and Sarasota County businesses by offering a direct flight from Frankfurt to Sarasota/Bradenton Airport twice a week starting in 2011.

Please take a look at the attached revised presentation, which will help fully understand and support this cause. As you will see on page 6 in the “Project Condor” presentation, Engel & Voelkers has committed $8,300 toward our $300,000 goal, and we’re hoping to complete this important rally by July 16, 2010.

Please use the Commitment Letter and Commitment Form to keep track of your efforts and try to get them back to me by July 16, 2010, but absolutely no later than July 18, 2010. I will forward the total commitment number to Michael Walley, director of development and community relations at Sarasota/Bradenton airport, via e-mail to present at the July 19, 2010 meeting with Condor Airlines in Hamburg, Germany. Thank you very much for your efforts, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Tina Rudek, Engel & Voelkers
Longboat Key

Cell tower on Longboat Key

To: Commissioner David Brenner

I have spoken with Bruce several times about the interest Spanish Main Yacht Club has in pursuing the idea of hosting a cell tower on our property. The genesis of this idea is that we already have an old and unused TV tower on the property, so we are accustomed to a tower. Bruce mentioned that you indicated some interest in following up on this idea.

Perhaps the easiest way to begin is to invite you to Spanish Main for a first-hand look at the old tower we have (the old tower is not suitable for a cell tower), because the new tower would/could be located in the same area. Also, you will notice that the old tower is clearly visible from GMD, and nobody has complained about it for the past 40 years.

If you are interested in a visit, or have a different idea as to how we might open some dialogue, please reply by e-mail or give me a call at the number below. I realize the Town Commission is on break for two months, so there is no rush.

On a side note, thank you for your vote for the Key Club.

Dr. Tom Freiwald
Longboat Key

Sand questions answered

To: Andrew Maass

My name is Bruce St. Denis, and I am the town manager of Longboat Key. I am writing in response to your e-mail to Commissioner Brenner. You ask an interesting question about the sand.

People are understandably focused on the color of the sand on their beach. Most prefer white. Engineers focus on the size of the grain, as it is the most important characteristic impacting performance of the beach. They prefer a large grain. The obvious answer is to find a large-grain white sand.

We have been looking for the 14 years I have been here and have not been able to find it.

Faced with this dilemma, the Town Commission opted for a slightly larger but not quite as white sand for the north end due to the high erosion rates experienced in the area, which can be addressed with larger-grained sand.

The sand is much finer and lighter in color than what was used on the north end in the last nourishment. We have samples in my office, which I would be happy to discuss with you if you have the time.

I hope that this answers your question. Please contact me anytime if you would like more information.

Bruce St. Denis, town manager
Longboat Key

To: Town Manager Bruce St. Denis

Thank you very much for your response to my query to Commissioner Brenner. It, indeed, sounds as if we will be better served by this new round of renourishment with somewhat whiter sand. I must say that the color and texture of Longboat Key sand are what has kept us coming here for the past 25 years and buying our home 11 years ago.

We love Longboat Key and are full-time, actively involved residents. Keep up the good work, and please ensure that the Key continues to grow and improve.

Andrew Maass
Longboat Key

To: Sandy and Marcie Mackman

My name is Bruce St. Denis, and I am the town manager of Longboat Key. I am writing in response to your e-mail to Commissioner Brenner. You had asked a question about the sand that would be used in the upcoming beach project.

The area around the Bay Isles Beach Club will receive the same fine-grained white sand that was put in place as part of the last renourishment. The coarser sand that has migrated to your area came from higher erosion rate locations to the north of you. Because of the groins that have been installed at the Islander, we will not need the coarser sand in those locations in the next project. I hope that this answers your questions. Please contact me anytime if you would like more information.

Bruce St. Denis, town manager
Longboat Key

To: Town Manager Bruce St. Denis

Thank you for your timely response to our question about the sand at Bay Isles Beach Club. You have put our concern to rest.

Sandy and Marcie Mackman
Longboat Key

Tax questions answered

To: Stephen Spotte

My name is Bruce St. Denis, and I am the town manager of Longboat Key. I am writing in response to your e-mail to Commissioner Brenner.

First, your question about tax levels. Each year the Town Commission must make a decision regarding balancing lowering expenses due to decreased revenues associated with declining property values and maintaining level of service. It is difficult to achieve a 30 percent reduction in tax collections and maintain the desired level of service when 50 percent of expenses are related to Public Safety. Over the past three years, actual tax collections have been reduced by $1,269,131 or 14 percent.

The political reality is that there are significantly more voters in District B, and if they felt that the project cost exceeded their perceived benefit, the bond issue funding the project would not be approved. Thus the decision to have a varied tax rate. I hope that this answers your questions. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you would like more information.

Bruce St. Denis, town manager
Longboat Key

Key Club legal action

To: Selected Islandside Residents

I have been in touch with a number of Islandside Property Owners who are interested and willing to fund an aggressive appeal of the Town Commission’s decision to approve the Key Club’s development plan. This action would involve a de-novo (new trial) action challenging the approval’s consistency with the town’s Comprehensive Plan. This option is considered to have a high probability of success by our attorneys, but of course no guarantee.

If the approval is found inconsistent, it would be invalidated. The remedy would be for the town to attempt to amend the Comprehensive Plan, which may require a referendum, particularly if Amendment 4 passes in November. It should be noted that our ability to prevail in a referendum is by no means assured.

The cost of this appeal would be in excess of $250,000, higher if it is taken to the appellate court.

Based upon what I have experienced, if this is to be a viable option we would need to have a group of backers who are willing to contribute a minimum of $10,000 to the effort, provided that a minimum of $250,000 would be pledged.

I am sending this to a list of 34 key people and would like your confidential response as to whether you would be willing to be a major funder of this effort. We will of course aggressively pursue contributions from all property owners within Islandside, but lead contributions will be vital. Any contributions received from lead contributors will be returned pro-rata if no longer required or if further opposition is determined to be inadvisable.

Please let me know if you are willing to provide $10,000 or more in funding as soon as possible, as we must begin work on our appeal immediately and file by July 30.

P.s. The other options mentioned in my previous e-mail are still viable and fundable without major donors, but the potential for success is not as great.

Bob White, president
Islandside Property Owners Coalition, LLC

Longboat Key Club legal appeal

To: Bob White, President  Islandside Property Owners Coalition

I am a homeowner in Lighthouse Point, but let me be clear that this e-mail and the opinions expressed herein are my own and not necessarily the opinion of other Lighthouse Point homeowners.

In response to your e-mail and your request for financial support to mount a legal appeal effort opposing the approved Longboat Key Club project, I have no intention of supporting that effort.

While I was definitely opposed to the massive Key Club expansion plan, it was apparent to me early in the process that your personal agenda, and consequently the agenda of the Islandside Property Owners Coalition, was overwhelmingly prejudiced in favor of the condo owners on the beach. Whereby your agenda became painfully obvious to everyone in the final days, when the coalition was fighting to remove all development on the north parcel, in favor of everything being placed on the already massively overdeveloped south parcel.

Even Michael Welly was compelled to step-in and correct the excess of your demands in favor of a more sensible and balanced plan.

Your request for financial support for a legal appeal is an insult to the intelligence of every individual that witnessed your actions, and are consequentially affected by the massive over development of the south parcel. If I were to support a legal effort, it would be to sue you and the coalition for misrepresentation, regarding money previously given to your group. Maybe we will still have a viable opportunity to do that, once we see the structure of your appeal.

B. R. “Buzz” Schaberg
Longboat Key

To: B.R. Schaberg

Your allegation that IPOC suggested moving significant density from the north parcel to the south parcel is patently false. During the Planning and Zoning Board hearings we proposed eliminating the residential towers from the north parcel, with an increase of one story to the hotel on the south, as the public record reflects. The additional density that was ultimately approved (four stories on the hotel and an eight-story condo on the south parcel, spa and five villas on the north) was due to Loeb’s and the town’s doing, as the record reflects. The information that you received alleging that the hotel was moved from the north to the south parcel is also absolutely untrue; it was proposed for its current location since day one. The original proposal also included five villas on the south parcel, not the three that were approved. All proposals of the coalition were approved by the voting members, including Lighthouse Point.

Bob White, president
Islandside Property Owners Coalition, LLC

To: Bob White

I realize the division between you and the Longboat Key Club and Resort may linger but I hope that it has been significantly reduced over the months, even years, of discussion and revision. Your effort on behalf of your constituency has been tireless. I believe you have accomplished a great deal.

The newspaper accounts since the Town Commission cast their vote in favor of the last plan submitted by the club indicate that you will mount a legal challenge and that you are raising funds for that purpose. It will not surprise you that I am writing to express a hope that you will not challenge the decision of the commission. I believe there is a better place for your time, expertise and the funds you can raise.

Several months ago, I began suggesting to Longboaters that I hoped to see a foundation created for the benefit of our residents and visitors. I envisioned a handful of projects, cultural and physical, that would not change the life here but would compliment and contribute to the goodness of it. Toward the end of the hearings by the Town Commission, there was a little mention of this but not the whole of it. I would like to speak with you about my thoughts and urge your participation in building this foundation for Longboat Key. When your time allows, can we talk about this?

Tom Aposporos, president
LLSA Chamber

Garbage pickup miscommunication

To: Town Manager Bruce St. Denis, Public Works Director Juan Florensa

On Monday July 5, since it was a holiday weekend, I was uncertain as to the garbage pickup that normally takes place on Mondays. I therefore consulted the garbage pickup schedule link contained on the Public Works page of the town Web site. It indicated that the pickup would be according to the normal Monday schedule.

Unfortunately the schedule was not followed, and the pickup took place on Tuesday. As a tax-paying resident, I expect that the information on our town Web site be accurate and up to date. If changes become necessary, residents should be notified immediately.

Paul Zipper
Longboat Key

To: Paul Zipper

I agree with you that the information on the Web site should be up to date, and that it was not in this case.

This is what happened. Waste Management works the days that the Manatee County Landfill is open. Earlier in the year it was anticipated that the landfill would be open July 5, and this was indicated on the schedule we were provided by Waste Management. That information was posted on the Web site.

At some point Manatee County decided that the landfill would not be open July 5 and notified Waste Management. Waste Management notified both local papers and at least one ran a small public notice. Waste Management did not notify the town of the change, so there was no modification to the information on the Web site.

We have notified Waste Management of the importance of notifying the town with this sort of information, and they have made internal communication adjustments to make it happen.

I am sorry for any inconvenience that this caused you or any of our citizens. We have taken steps to make sure that it does not happen again. Thanks for bringing it to our attention.

Bruce St. Denis, town manager
Longboat Key

FDOT inclusion in sign review

To: Planning and Zoning Director Monica Simpson

I don’t know if you saw this, but shouldn’t the FDOT question be part of the sign review the Planning & Zoning is doing?

Dave Brenner, commissioner
Longboat Key

To: Commissioner David Brenner

You are right that the Planning & Zoning Board has discussed and questioned the FDOT and county signs on Gulf of Mexico Drive, as has the Town Commission. As a result, I have spoken to and invited Keith Slater and his associate from the FDOT District One office in Bartow (our district office) to appear at the September Town Commission workshop to discuss the signage—why they are there, what rules FDOT has to follow, what other jurisdictions have signs and how FDOT handles them, etc. FDOT has accepted the invitation. The P&Z Board members have been made aware of their visit, and we will be posting an agenda for the P&Z Board so that they can attend the workshop in mass.

Hopefully, this dialog will help all involved gain a better understanding about the Gulf of Mexico Drive signage issue.

Monica Simpson, planning and zoning director
Longboat Key

Three responses for ‘Bush and Obama: Disaster in the Gulf’

To: Editor

More important then Obama’s lack of ability to execute effective management and results is the commissioners of Longboat Key, Sarasota and Sarasota County’s unwillingness to recognize the extreme severity of the situation, relying on the Gulf loop current to keep the oil from our shorelines. As proven by evidence in Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi and western Florida, the local parish and county officials have had limited cooperation from BP and the federal government, while the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers have obstructed practical solutions in keeping the oil out of the bays and estuaries.

Sarasota officials have to develop plans that are based on helping ourselves at crunch time without relying on the Coast Guard or anyone or anything. If oil reaches our shore and no effective plan is executed to contain it, then the blame rests squarely on every commissioner who has had ample time—it is now day 80—to get ready for the deluge, which will be here eventually at 2 million gallons a day. The commissioners are not prepared mentally or equipment ready. Most citizens have no faith in any level of government to get anything right the first time, second time or third time around.

Citizens have only prayer left to help ourselves.

Mike Fox
Bird Key

Town thanks

To: Rabbi Jonathan Katz

On behalf of the Town Commission and the citizens of the town of Longboat Key I want to express our appreciation to you, your congregation, and your staff for being such gracious hosts during the Longboat Key Club ODP Public Hearings.

We wanted to make sure that the interested parties and our citizens were able to conduct this important business in a comfortable, professional environment. The facilities and the hospitality we received at the Temple allowed us to accomplish that important mission.

We were grateful to have such a generous partner join us in the effort.

Bruce St. Denis, town manager
Longboat Key

Thanks

To: Town Commission

I wanted to say “Thank You” for all your time and effort that each and every one of you have put into the decision of voting for the revitalization plan for the Longboat Key Club. I believe that your decision on Wednesday indeed sends a strong message to the minority group on the South end of our island that “Our Town” is finally heading in the right direction. I also feel that it will inspire other businesses to start putting together their own plan on making Longboat Key the best barrier island in Florida. Your decision has opened up the mindset of both the business owners and tourists alike. This is a good start to a long road of making Longboat Key a vital island paradise that we all love. Thank you again for your vote!

Michael D. Drake
Longboat Key

Thank you for approving Key Club

To: Commissioner Lynn Larson

As a recent new homeowner on Longboat, I watched and waited with cautious optimism mixed with worrying concern as you and your fellow town commissioners deliberated and deliberated and deliberated on the Longboat Key Club’s redevelopment project.

Upon learning of the town commissioners’ approval of the project, I feel so relieved and optimistic about the future of Longboat Key.

Thank you for your deep consideration and thoughtful deliberation. The issues are complicated and there is a lot of money involved making it difficult to parse the reality from the emotion.

Congratulations to you and your fellow town commissioners for helping to move Longboat Key into the future—a future that will now be as bright and successful as Longboat Key’s illustrious and impressive past!

“The only man I know who behaves sensibly is my tailor; he takes my measurements anew each time he sees me. The rest go on with their old measurements and expect me to fit them.” -George Bernard Shaw

Thank you for being a “sensible tailor” and thank you for all of your hard work.

Susan Levine
Longboat Key

To: Susan Levine

Thank you for your kind words. Each time a decision is made, some will applaud while others groan. I hope this project will make us all proud.

Lynn Larson, commissioner
Longboat Key

To: Commissioner Lynn Larson

Thank you for taking the time to write me this kind note! And thank you for serving in a difficult, but important, job. I look forward to having the opportunity of meeting you.

All the best and Happy 4th of July!

Susan Levine
Longboat Key

Feeling hopeful for Longboat Key

To: Town Commission

I just want to express my sincere thanks for your time, effort and vote for the Longboat Key Club’s redevelopment plan. We desperately need redevelopment on the key and this is a terrific opportunity at no cost to taxpayers. For the first time in a long time, I feel hopeful that Longboat Key may regain some of the luster that brought me here 14 years ago. Thank you for a terrific job!

Susan McAnany
Longboat Key

Thanks for saying ‘yes’

To: Town Commission

Thank you all for your courage to say yes and your vision for our community in the face of very loud and persistent opposition. You have served your community well. Have a Happy Fourth!

John and Joanne Forch
Longboat Key

Thanks for hard work

To: Town Commission

Thank you so much for your hard work! Your votes are much appreciated by many of us…

Tina Rudek
Longboat Key

Disappointed

To: Town Commission

Once again, Michael Welly of the Longboat Key Club has misrepresented claiming that all members of the club are supportive of the expansion that you approved. Again, I wish to assure you that is not the case. He is being very presumptuous. My wife and I, and I’m sure other club members, are anything but supportive.

I was very disappointed that you approved this project against the recommendation of your own consultant.

I think you were wise in providing that the Loeb organization will pay the defense costs should legal action be instituted against the village. I certainly hope that the IPOC and other concerned citizens will carefully consider that alternative, as I believe the project that you have approved is not in the best interest of the majority of the citizens of Longboat Key.

Dick Jaffee
Longboat Key

Thanks for wisdom

To: Town Commission

Thank you for your courage and wisdom in approving the Longboat Key Club renovation plan! We look forward to seeing Longboat Key revitalized, hopefully in the not too distant future.

Ed and Vivian Rabin
Longboat Key

In the best interest of each resident

To: Town Commission

I received an email from Michael Welly about the vote. I have sent many emails urging that the Club be allowed to do their expansion. I have zero interest in this matter, except that I love and care about Longboat Key, and each and every resident and business. Without these small businesses, where are we?

I strongly believe you have done what is in the best interest of each resident and visitor to our island. Diana and I thank you!

Kerry and Diana Helinger
Longboat Key

Vision and courage

To: Commissioner George Spoll

Thanks for approving the Longboat Key Club plan. Your vision and courage to make a difficult decision will result in a more prosperous Longboat Kay.

George Davis
Longboat Key

Thanks for your hard work

To: Commissioner Lynn Larson

I’m the fellow you spoke to on our break yesterday. My comment at the time was that I didn’t see how the commission could approve a development that the town’s planner recommended against.

I wanted to say two things in the aftermath of the meetings on June 28 and 30. First, it wasn’t lost on me that your first question after the break addressed my immediate concern above. I appreciate that you were listening and had the fortitude to pose that question publicly.

Second, while I still don’t agree with the Loeb proposal, I appreciate the commission’s time over many, many months on the issue. From my perspective, the development will benefit the town due to increased tax revenues and a one-time payment of fees. Beyond that, it’s hard to see how it will help existing businesses or the founding of new ones. My bet is that the additional population the project will bring will eat at the Club’s facilities and probably go into Sarasota for shopping and meals but it’s hard for me to bet that they’ll patronize other restaurants on the key in significant numbers. I hope I’m wrong. As for property values, my sense is that it’s anybody’s guess as to whether the project will help or hinder values in the future. I think strong arguments can be made both ways.

As to my background so you understand where I might be coming from, my wife, Tory, and I moved here in 2005 so we’re relatively new to the area. However, my family has a legacy with the key that extends nearly 60 years so Longboat Key is near to our hearts. My background is in entrepreneurship—teaching people how to start new businesses and advising schools and sometimes government agencies how to stimulate job growth through new business development.

Thank you for your work on the commission. I understand that it is sometimes a ‘you can’t win for trying’ type of job but I’m sure most people on the key respect the commissioners’ efforts to balance the many, many factors needed for long-term success.

John Newman
Longboat Key

To: John Newman

Hello, I almost said Dear John, but I guess you get enough of that. I agree we will receive more taxes to the town over time, and more help to pay for beach renourishment. I hope that our businesses on the key will see benefit and agree St. Armands will likely benefit as well.

Thank you for the note. Your background sounds helpful to our businesses. Also, we will be reviewing town functions and will be asking for citizen volunteers. Have you thought of joining the Chamber?

Lynn Larson, commissioner
Longboat Key

To: Commissioner Lynn Larson

Thanks for your response. I don’t know how I might be helpful to area businesses, but I do volunteer for various organizations from time to time. Time permitting, I’m always happy to help.

John Newman
Longboat Key

Caved into pressures from Loeb

To: Mayor George Spoll, Commissioners Jim Brown, David Brenner, Lynn Larson, Hal Lenobel and Phill Younger:

I am very distressed that you have caved into the pressures exerted by the Loeb organization to change the character and serenity of Longboat Key forever. I think your vote and action was irresponsible and unforgivable.

Martin Rich
Longboat Key

IPOC’s position

To: Longboat residents

Despite the firmly stated opinion of Monica Simpson, Planning and Zoning director, that the Key Club’s proposed project was too massive, too dense, required too many departures, was inconsistent with the Comprehensive Plan and would result in an overbuilt site, the Town Commission, after paying some lip service to her concerns and recommendation of denial, approved the club’s plan with no changes, thus relegating to the dustbin over 26 years of zoning designed to prevent just such a project.

If this approval stands it will change the face and the character of Longboat Key as we know it and open the door for more massive, intense development elsewhere on the Key.

The Town Commission has caved in to the Loeb Organization’s demands, including every one of the dwelling units that claim they need at the expense of the key’s residents and the town’s character and zoning.

We expected more from our elected representatives. The lone vote against the plan was Commissioner Siekmann, a voice of reason and responsibility in a decision devoid of these attributes. Recognizing their exposure to the wrath of aggrieved homeowners and the costs of defending the Commission’s decision, the town attempted to cover itself by making the costs of defense the responsibility of the Loeb Organization a condition of approval.

The club has 30 days to accept the approval and any aggrieved parties, including IPOC, have 30 days to file a judicial appeal of the decision. Needless to say the final chapter in this saga has not yet been written.

Bob White, president
Islandside Property Owners Coalition LLC

Response to IPOC

To: Bob White

While I don’t usually like to respond to emails of this nature, I feel compelled to counter some of your misleading statement.

During this long process you and others form IPOC have made many statements that have misrepresented the facts. Your characterization that the commission paid lip service and then ignored Planning Director Simpson’s opinion is just not true. I can tell you that I hold her opinion very highly. As was stated many times during the hearings, her job is to interpret the proposals based on the comprehensive plan and codes in their strict sense. She cannot make judgment calls. The Commission on the other hand has that discretion. The language of the Comprehensive Plan clearly gives the Commission that authority. You have never accepted this fact, as that would mean you would have to concede that your opinions are incorrect. In a dramatic fashion you state over and over as if the more time you say it the truer it will become, that the project is too dense and massive. Those are subjective statements and are countered by other including myself. You state that you expect better from your elected officials. What does it say that the candidates you chose to support heavily with your money lost their seats by a large margin? I think it says that your positions on the issue are not those of most of the voters of Longboat Key.

While I expected to continue to hear your threats of lawsuits, I would think it would be interesting for you to poll the citizens of Longboat to see how popular you lawsuit would be.

I also hope you understand that even the delays of lawsuits will not stop the development from being built. All that will happen if the challenges are successful in some way is that the design will be modified to conform to the findings and the project will go forward. You will have spent your money and time only to see a modified project built. As you say, “the final chapter has not be written” but the ending very likely has.

Hopefully cooler minds will prevail and you and your fellow IPOC members will not take this decision as a personal challenge to them. We don’t have to agree and we don’t always get everything we want so why can we just accept that the project will be good for our island and stop seeing the decision as being against you. It’s not about you it’s about the future of Longboat. Bob, I admire your passion but being passionate and being right are not always the same.

Jim Brown, commissioner
Longboat Key

IPOC response to Commissioner Brown

To: Commissioner Jim Brown

Your contention that my email misrepresented the facts is neither true nor supported by any evidence to the contrary, only your inaccurate opinions.

Your lengthy explanation of Monica Simpson’s role and the Commission’s authority was unnecessary as I am aware that the Commission is not required to accept the Town Planner’s recommendation. Contrary to your claim, I have never indicated otherwise.

I disagree, however, that her only responsibility is to interpret the code. Her staff report included her professional judgment that the Club’s project was too dense, intense, overbuilt and inconsistent with Town policy, in addition to detailing the numerous problems with the Code. While you may not be required to heed her recommendation, your decision is certainly subject to a critical review of your judgment and findings of fact.

Whether a majority of Longboat residents are in favor of the Club’s plan is debatable, but it’s not the sole measure of relevancy. Most Key residents won’t be impacted with the dramatic alteration of their neighborhood and lifestyle that Islandside residents are facing. There are an abundance of laws in our nation that are designed to protect minority interests from the whims of often-fickle popular opinion. Protection of property and neighborhoods from radical transformation, through restrictive zoning and land use codes, is but one example.

The Commission’s action smacks of populist politics, subrogating the interests of a minority of residents (who inconveniently happen to have the law and longstanding policy on their side) for the questionable claim of benefit to the supposed majority.

As to your contention that the plan will proceed even if a lawsuit is successful, this may unfortunately be true, given the compliancy of the current Commission with Loeb demands and the Commission’s willingness to abort your previously approved plan (a plan which we had agreed to accept) based upon Loeb’s assertion, with no supporting evidence, that they needed even more condominiums. Assuming that the Commission would also be willing to make additional changes to the Code or Comprehensive Plan that would be necessary to cure any court adjudicated violations, you may well be able to circumvent the spirit of the law and shove this overbuilt scheme down our collective throats, to the detriment of all concerned.

With the plan you approved on first reading, you had the makings of a responsible compromise – you blew it.

Bob White, president
Islandside Property Owners Coalition LLC

Right by the residents

To: Commissioner Bob Siekmann

You did the residents right by your vote today. Too bad the other commissioners didn’t.

Ray Rajewski
Longboat Key

To: Ray Rajewski

Thank you. The ump should have called the slaughter rule.

Bob Siekmann, commissioner
Longboat Key

The future of Longboat Key

To: Mayor George Spoll, Vice Mayor Jim Brown and Commissioners David Brenner, Lynn Larson, Hal Lenobel and Phillip Younger

Simply, you all rock! And today, your voices clearly resonated that you all voted with vision and pure brilliance. I bow to you all for setting aside any personal agenda and having the courage to blaze a trail for our future of Longboat Key.

Lucile Capo Miller
Longboat Key

Thanks for your efforts

To: Commissioner Robert Siekmann

Thank you for the prodigious amount of time you and the rest of the commission spent grappling with the Longboat Key Club redevelopment ordinance. We hope that July and August will afford you a bit of respite after your efforts over the past several months. We appreciate your service to our community.

Matt and Margaret Callihan
Longboat Key

Town assessment needed

To: Town Commission

Clearly, the town’s present real estate development and capital expansion review process needs to be modified. It does not promote business/real estate development and expansion, is too costly and time consuming for both the town and developer, too lengthy, too repetitive and creates uncertainty by permitting last minute unexpected changes.

Now that the long draw out Key Club capital expansion review has been concluded, it would be timely for the town commissioners and town manager to critically self-access the approval process that was used, and to propose new review processes for use in addressing future proposed major capital expansion projects.

A first step, while thoughts are fresh in their minds, would be to seek the candid views of the all the main participants [i.e., town, Key Club and IPOC] in the club’s capital expansion review process.

What worked working well and what didn’t? What can be done to streamline and improve the process? Is it necessary and/or beneficial to have two sets of hearings, first by the Planning and Zoning Board and then by the town commissioners, covering essentially the same information? Etc, etc, Simply put, the existing process must be changed to enable and encourage future development and expansion on Longboat for the overall benefit of our entire community. I am hopeful that the town commissioners will take timely and decisive action.

Paul Bjorn
Longboat Key

To: Paul Bjorn

Thank you for your timely suggestions. We receive much needed criticism but constructive criticism helps our town. I believe this would be a great workshop idea, to meet at a round table with all participants having an equal seat. Perhaps one of our citizens could be the chairperson.

Lynn Larson, commissioner
Longboat Key

Withdrawing support of recreation center

To: Commissioner Lynn Larson

I am withdrawing my previous support for the recreation center. Now that you and your fellow commissioners have placed the future of Longboat in jeopardy for uncontrolled development, my financial support is going to IPOC to right this wrong in the courts.

Bob White, please let me know where to send a check.

Ray Rajewski
Longboat Key

Thanks for your service

To: Town Commission

Our sincere thank you for approving the Longboat Key Club’s improvement application today. This major private equity investment in our town will not only help stop the erosion of the Longboat brand image but build our competitive brand both near and long-term. This project will undeniably attract more high-end visitation to our island, which we lost over the past 10 years, this to the benefit all real estate values and will support our island businesses. Thank you for your service to our community.

Bob and Shannon Gault
Longboat Key

Thank you for voting

To: Commissioner Lynn Larson

First of all, a belated congratulations on your election to the Town Commission! I was thrilled to see you elected!

Also, thank you for voting for the Longboat Key Club expansion! I don’t live on Longboat Key, but manage the key offices for Michael Saunders & Co. and really love the key. I think the expansion and revitalization of the Longboat Key Club will certainly play a large part in the continued desirability of this fabulous location. Take care and I hope you have a Happy 4th!

Georgina Clamage
Michael Saunders & Co., Longboat Key

Vote was responsible

To: Town Commission

Thank you for having the courage to stand up to obstructionists who only had their own vested interests in mind. You as a body have voted responsibility to help move Longboat Key ahead to continue to be a diverse, vibrant place to live and visit!

Michael and Mimi Charnas
Longboat Key

Beach project for summer and fall

To: Bob Appel

It appears that we will have a favorable Biological Opinion (BO) from the Federal Agencies in the next week. This is a significant hurdle that will have been negotiated and means that we will be able to work in turtle season.

Once the BO is issued, the state and USACOE can finalize their permits for the project. We are starting to take steps to get our bidding start our bidding process. We will keep you posted.

Bruce St. Denis, town manager
Longboat Key

To: Town Manager Bruce St. Denis

Thank you for the update on the Biological Opinion. Based on this email and subsequent discussions with ECE, I understand that you anticipate the BO to be issued by early July with the State’s verbal agreement to expedite their permit review in advance of the full (typical) 90 day review clock. With that said, your estimate shows construction commencing in September 2010. If the BO is issued within the next two weeks and FDEP, USACE, and FWC expedite their review process by issuing permits within six weeks of the BO, I agree that a September start date is a possibility, although I believe a six-week review time may be slightly optimistic.

Further, my understanding is that the Town’s construction bidding process takes 60 days to complete and typically is not initiated until all permits have been received. At this time, I request that you approach the Town Commission for an “emergency” authorization to commence construction bidding prior to receipt of the permits. This would allow construction to begin immediately upon issuance of the permits. If this is not done, I do not foresee even a remote possibility of constructing in September. Have you obtained or are you in the process of obtaining such emergency authorization? When do you anticipate putting the project out to bid? Thank you for keeping me posted.

P.S. I want to thank you for all of the work you and your staff are doing for the North end of the key. We are aware of the time and effort it has taken to get us to where we are.

Bob Appel
Longboat Key

To: Bob Appel

We’re still working on the schedule. I think that what you suggest is a little more ambitious that what we think the scenario is likely to be.

We anticipate best case will be second or third week in October for a start date. We are still refining and talking to parties that can affect the timing.

I am reluctant to go for an emergency declaration as we are counting on FEMA reimbursement for part of the project. That could be in jeopardy if there are bidding irregularities. However, we are doing what we can to expedite the process.

Starting to have concerns with dredge availability with unanticipated projects being undertaken in Louisiana. Will keep you posted.

Bruce St. Denis, town manager
Longboat Key

Church takes issue with signs

To: Town Commission

When the Commission takes up the matter of the new wayfinder signs, All Angels Episcopal Church respectfully requests that it be accorded an individual place on the signs. Each year our church welcomes hundreds of visitors and the absence of a clearly marked directional sign will certainly be detrimental. Those of you with long institutional memories will recall that originally All Angels was permitted its own individual sign which is generally used by Episcopal Churches throughout the United States. When the previous wayfinder signs were erected, we agreed to remove our individual sign in exchange for a place on the new sign board. Now we find ourselves removed entirely! This certainly feels like a breach of trust. There are only five houses of worship on the Island, three of which have property abutting Gulf of Mexico Drive, and thus permitted highly visible signage. Only Temple Beth Israel and All Angels will be excluded from having a sign on the main thoroughfare.

We understand that three proposals are being considered. The generic option of “Houses of Worship” is meaningless and unacceptable. The option to place All Angels and Temple Beth Israel on the same slot, obviously in smaller font, is acceptable to All Angels, but far from ideal. The option to erect a second wayfinder sign, which would offer a place for the Temple and All Angels, seems the most reasonable although the suggestion that those entities choosing to be included on the secondary sign must pay for it seems rather ludicrous. The fact is that it may be difficult to fill all the spaces on some of the other wayfinder signs, while the single one located at the corner of Bay Isles Road and Gulf of Mexico Drive is insufficient. Should not the town erect the requisite signage?

In brief, we feel that for reasons of past agreements, and the sake of our Island’s visitors, that appropriate, individual signage identifying All Angels and Temple Beth Israel should be approved by the Commission.

The Rev. David L. Danner, Rector
William S. Race, Senior Warden
All Angels Episcopal Church, Longboat Key

BP comments explained

To: Editor

Retired petroleum geologist Weldon Frost is offended by my recent column on the Gulf oil calamity, and for that I sincerely apologize.

As I told him back in early April, I respect his point of view but disagreed on the risk/reward ratio. I indicated that drilling in the Gulf was an issue on which reasonable citizens can differ. As it turns out, Mr. Frost is in good company. Both the governor of the Florida and the president of the United States expressed a favorable view of drilling before the catastrophe occurred.

I have the highest regard for Mr. Frost and regret that my anger and dismay at BP’s negligence may have colored my comments.

Dick Hershatter
Longboat Key

Commissioners should use caution

To: Mayor George Spoll and Town Commission

Just a reminder that one of the actions that may be taken against the town’s decision will be a challenge to its Comprehensive Plan. If this happens, the Court’s review is “de novo,” meaning that it will look at this anew and not be confined to the record of your proceedings (a Writ of Certiorari, on the other hand, directly challenging your decision, is limited to the record that was before you when you made your decision). Any statements by you about the Comprehensive Plan will be discoverable (i.e., you may be asked questions about them under oath either at deposition, trial or both). I’m not suggesting that you should not comment (that’s up to you). Nor should it prevent or discourage any effort to amend the Comprehensive Plan to expand its description of what is or is not appropriate for the future land uses of the town. Rather, I am suggesting caution when making statements and would be pleased to discuss it with you if you have any questions.

David Persson, town attorney
Longboat Key

Memento mori

To: Editor

It is a classical Latin expression, acceptably translated to mean ‘remember, you are but mortal.’

It is told that during a triumphal procession in ancient Rome, the conquering general had standing behind him and holding a gold crown over his head, a slave who was whispering that expression into his ear. It was to remind him that even though the crowd was cheering him and viewing him as a demi-god, he was still a mortal human being.

Our town commissioners, having been advised by the Town Counsel that they had a free hand to change the town zoning ordinances as they will and to grant as many departures as were requested, have adopted Ordinance 2009-25 The Expansion of the Key Club and Resort.

To a neophyte it seems to be democracy in action—the rule of the majority. But, as I recall in Civics 101, this United States of America is not a Democracy—but a Constitutional Democracy. And if my memory serves me correctly, previous direction given to our town commissioners on another development matter resulted in making Dr. Klauber a relatively rich man in the amount of many millions of our taxpayers’ dollars.

Also for a town commissioner to taunt an affected taxpayer, in print, with, “I also hope you understand that even the delays of lawsuits will not stop the development from being built. All that will happen if the challenges are successful in some way is that the design will be modified to conform to the findings and the project will go forward. You will have spent your time and money only to see a modified project built.”

In our enlightened society slavery is not tolerated, but to this taxpayer it seems advisable if someone were delegated to sit in the back of the future Town Commission meetings, and whisper, in English, this time, “Remember that we are a Constitutional Democracy, and remember that there will be a next election.”

If there is humor in this entire fiasco, it is the (probably) scrivener’s error in Paragraph 52 on Page 26 of 57 of Ordinance 2009-25. On the town’s Web site where anyone interested can read: “…the Applicant…owning the town at the moment of termination.”

Bradford Saivetz
Longboat Key

Best president ever!

To: Commissioner David Brenner

I just wanted you to know—for whatever it is worth—that since I moved to the Islander Club in 2000, I believe you are the best president we have had. I also voted an absentee ballot for you and know you will do the best for our Island.

Valerie Zamberletti
Longboat Key

Signs out of place

To: Town Manager Bruce St. Denis

Bruce, I arrived home tonight (Friday) to find the signs out of their bases. I can check on them in the morning or you may prefer to have the police check. What’s your preference?

Dave Brenner, commissioner
Longboat Key

To: Commissioner David Brenner

Public Works staff will pick them up this morning. Will reinstall more securely next week.

Juan J. Florensa, public works director
Town of Longboat Key

Sand pick creates division

To: Editor

I am an owner in the much-mentioned Longbeach Condominium Group on the eroding North end of the Key. I first visited Longboat in the late 1950s. It has been well documented in your, and other papers, that a major contributor to the erosion on the North end, including the expansion of Beer Can Island, is due to the lack of inlet dredging and the resultant beach restoration that the Army Corps of Engineers were performing regularly during the 1980s on Beer Can Island and the immediate North end beaches.

Absent that, throw in the apparently contentious relationship between the town and Manatee County, which caused stagnation in dealing with the erosion on Beer Can beginning at least five years ago, and lastly the advent of storms that naturally take advantage of any unprotected land, and the result is the erosion that we see.

I have been following the actions of the town through the town manager and the commissioners. I find their treatment of the owners of property on the North end to be appalling.

Here is an area where our beach has been left to decay and what do we receive? Threats of breakwaters that would trash our views but save money for everyone else then to be spent on their southerly needs, threats of cell phone towers because the south end doesn’t want them even though they are the ones who have the highest population hence the most cell phones, threats of inferior darker sand because after all, the north end is apparently populated by undeserving residents.

Building permits were originally issued to Longbeach in 1974-1975 creating 89 property tax-paying units that the town/county were hungry to receive the revenue from. The building locations haven’t changed nor been added to since then. So, what did the town/county think was going to be required to keep the beach healthy there, just like all the beaches on the key? The North end residents pay just as much as everyone else for the sand and all the services on this island.

If the North end of the Key is allowed to erode away, the beaches southerly would become the north end just like we did when Beer Can was allowed to degrade, and then the beaches below them would erode and eventually there would be no key at all, or there would be one long breakwater surrounding, and affecting the views of, the entire island. Wonder how IPOC and the rest of the Key residents would respond to that?

Recently the town arranged for a minimal amount of dark, coarse sand for a small area on the north end, which was intended to buy time until the decision to do the job properly could be made at the state level. I am not aware of any decision in that regard.

So, the thanks we get for putting up with endless dump trucks, bulldozers, soft and impossible to walk on sand, not to mention the equipment noise from dawn past dusk, is the insult of potential breakwaters and darker, coarser sand, all because we have the unenviable task of protecting the rest of the key from the conditions that endlessly plague us. Oh, and by the way, all this regular beach work is conveniently scheduled during the fall and winter right when we are here to use our condos.

Shame on those at the town who present themselves as our representatives and who subject us to both the insults of their actions and the lack of respect for our contribution to the rest of the Key. If I understand it correctly, the North end alone is to get inferior sand, but pay the same amount for it as if we had actually gotten the prime sand. Is this another way of thanking us for the sacrifice we make for everyone else?

I want to pay the same as everyone else, and I want to get the same sand as everyone else. In addition I want the people who think it is acceptable to split the island into residents who are treated better than others to resign from their positions and go back to wherever it is that it is acceptable to create class warfare, discrimination and indifference.

David Baughman
Longboat Key

Mr. Hershatter’s column dated June 25

To: Editor

You can imagine my surprise, and somewhat dismay, when I read Mr. Hershatter’s column in your June 25, 2010 edition. I would have thought that a distinguished Connecticut lawyer would have the good grace to advise me beforehand that he was going to quote me in a less-than-flattering fashion regarding remarks I have made in the past about the relative safety record of offshore drilling.

Being a lawyer, he naturally amends his case to exclude things that might injure his position. I call your attention to the third paragraph of my snail-mail letter (attached) in which I state, “I believe that in the PIC forum and the Kiwanis talk I admitted that there could be a spill related to drilling. We are all humans and human beings make mistakes, and we are working with machinery and machinery can fail.” That statement was basically the reason for my letter to Mr. Hershatter, and he conveniently left out those important disclaimers to drilling perfection.

I did not give the quote “trust BP drillers.” My trust in the civility of Connecticut lawyers is, regrettably, somewhat diminished. I object to being singled out as a buffoon in print, even though I certainly am a naive buffoon for ever trying to treat Mr. Hershatter as a gentleman.

Weldon G. Frost
Longboat Key

Fin de siècle

To: Richard Hershatter

Ideologues abound. The commission passed what they assure us is the beginning of the gilded age on Longboat. I expect to no longer need Internet shopping by the end of the year. I do wonder why the Fed Ex store on St. Armand’s closed today. The 7-Eleven closed last week. Thirty percent of the home purchases during the past 12 months have been foreclosure sales. I guess they didn’t know the panacea of all that is mercantile was about to be approved by the commission today. Perhaps they should have waited.

It may be a good thing for the island taxpayers that Loeb is going to foot the legal bills that may arise in the near future. I wonder if the commission, in their wondrous haste to press-on, thought about what another lost land-use litigation might mean to their grand development design for our community.

I have already received three calls from some meanies at Islandside who are pulling up stakes for quieter and more amenable communities. There goes the neighborhood. Who said busloads of discount package tourists cannot be just as classy as multi-millionaires? Especially if there are a lot more of them. I always say quantity over quality.

I remember living in Lahaina in the early seventies and remarking to a fellow resident about the first trickle of tour busses coming into our beautiful sleepy paradise. Of course I would not choose to live there today.

I say sit back and watch the Vision Plan transform a residential paradise into a tourist mecca. Who will be able to tell the difference? I expect the 250 available hotel units will now be snapped up so oil slick tourism can flourish in our midst.

Personally I plan to open a gas mask shop at the new Whitney Beach plaza and make a killing, excuse the dark pun pertaining the benzene fumes, off the tourists. The restaurants can dish up fish from foreign countries and the motels will employ hoards of off-island cheap labor to clean the oil film off the windows of the new tourists towers. Yum! Yum!

Gene Jaleski
Longboat Key

Effort on Key Club is appreciated

To: Commissioner Jim Brown

Compared to some of the recent meetings, last night’s was a relatively smooth process. This is in no small part to the manner in which you framed the more important issues and started the amendment process. While all commissioners and the mayor reached a higher standard last night, I believe you helped lead the way. Your effort is appreciated.

Terry Gans
Longboat Key

Key Club Proposal

To: Mayor George Spoll

As I have said before, I wouldn’t let Loeb build a pup tent and so think the compromise proposal goes too far; to think of adding to that is egregious. That they say that building on free land is not economically feasible is nonsense.

The town is making a huge mistake in allowing these short-term investors to turn our island home into just another over-crowded Florida destination. To those of us that love Longboat, this is very sad indeed.

Jim Sullivan
Longboat Key

Unfortunate commission caves

In a session that varied from comical to bizarre, the Town Commission voted in a five-hour session Monday night to amend the development ordinance to allow for the addition of five villas to the north parcel and the addition of one story to the eastern most villa on the lagoon. This will add a total of 34 residential dwelling units to the plan that was approved on first reading June 14.

The added villas, which are 54 feet in height, would not require code departures according to the Key Club. Simpson has not confirmed this assertion. She has also not made a recommendation on whether the amended plan should be approved or denied.

While presenting a lower profile, the villas would occupy virtually all of the available open space on the north parcel and would, according to testimony by IPOC attorney Robert Lincoln, not allow adequate open space as required by Town Code.

The meeting was characterized by several suggestions to redesign the project from the dais, including the possibility of reverting to one of the previously presented plans; a suggestion that Commissioner Brown doggedly pursued. Mayor Spoll and the town attorney had to repeatedly explain what motions they were voting on to a couple of commissioners who had difficulty following the proceedings. Comments from the audience compared the proceedings to watching sausage being made, others to an event commonly held in the venue of a tent containing three rings.

Following the approval of the amendment, there was discussion on several of the conditions to be attached to approval of the ordinance. The most significant of these conditions was the payment to the town for the loss of open space. Town policy provides that when a developer receives a ‘gift’ from the town, in the form of a change in zoning to permit a higher value of land use, that the town should be compensated for this gift of increased land value. No matter that the open space lost is in the GPD and the proceeds from the compensation will be used elsewhere—a community center or improvements to Bayfront Park for example (fairness is apparently an irrelevant consideration). The important point is that the town gets something for the residents to demonstrate what a great deal they have extracted from the club for the benefit of the community. Cynics might call this redistribution of assets.

Despite the modest amount of compensation expected, the club complained that it was excessive, with the result that the commission promptly knocked $1 million off the total, reducing the payment from $4 million to $3 million. Considering that the change approved last night added 34 residential units to the previously approved plan, thus increasing the likely profit to the Loeb organization by something in the $50 million neighborhood, the open space payment hardly seems anything to whine about.

In the proceedings Commissioner Larson’s comments confirmed her reputation in the eyes of many. This time she toed the pro-development line by supporting all of the club’s requested changes. Commissioner Brown commented and voted in accordance with his established persona and history after spending a great deal of time arguing for a prior plan that nobody wanted, including the club—a fact that was pointed out to him several times before he finally “got it” and switched to supporting the plan submitted last Friday. Commissioner Lenobel reinforced his reputation as a maverick, but seemed more concerned about the amount of the open space payment (he voted to reduce it) than serious evaluation of the merits of the plan amendment. His oft expressed concerns over the loss of the driving range were nowhere in evidence.

Posing the most cogent comments were Commissioner Siekmann and Mayor Spoll. Siekmann, however, was the only commissioner that expressed any hint of concern for the impact of the project on the residents of Islandside. He voted against amending the plan. Brenner appeared to be thoughtful and concerned, but ultimately voted the club line. Younger was unusually quiet, asking few questions and offering few comments. Ultimately he voted in favor of the amended plan.

Turnout was excellent and it was the most heavily attended meeting in months on both sides of the Temple. During the public comment period, seven people spoke in opposition to the project and five in support.

The hearing was recessed until 9 a.m. Wednesday, at which time it is virtually certain that the commission will approve the club’s amended application. The club will have 30 days to accept or reject the approval and conditions, however the Town Commission may extend this time to 120 days. I have summarized the amended plan at the end of this email.

It is unfortunate that the commission caved in to the club’s request for the additional residential units. The coalition supported the ordinance that was originally approved, but does not support the amended version. We believe that, despite their contentions to the contrary, these units are in excess of what is needed for financing the project and will only provide profits for Loeb Partners and their investors. They will add little net benefit to the town, will contribute to the overbuilt nature of the project and eliminate much of the remaining open space on either of the two parcels of land to be developed. A windfall for Loeb; a sad day for the residents of Islandside, the Key and the integrity of the zoning code, upon which reliance can no longer be counted.

Bob White, president
Islandside Property Owners Coalition, LLC
Longboat Key

Tags: beach, BP, cell towers, Condor Airlines, Key Club, lawsuit, Lighthouse Point, litigation, Longboat Key, Michael Welly, renourishment, roundabout, sand, Sarasota, Sign Code, signs, The Perfect Assassin, Town Commission

Longboat Key Letters – July 2010

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