Unicorp is back with plan for 102 condos and 166-room hotel. Height dropped to 65 feet. Commission to decide.

“If we were ever put into a legal battle in a courtroom, you are out there. You have expanded and enlarged and are giving more rights to a non-conformity.”

It is a classic legislative bait and switch. Voters were sold the idea of allowing the reconstruction of an existing building. But now, 10 years later, the push is to forever make all of the existing units “conforming” in new zoning districts and then set new redevelopment parameters.

It is the low density, the reduced size and scale of the island that makes Longboat unique and a tranquil oasis in a state that generally assumes the position of ladorsis when developers approach.

“I’m not sure we’ve thought through the ramifications,” said Commissioner Randy Clair.

The stakes could not be higher. The future look of the island, the evolution of property values and the protection of development rights all intersect.

It is clear from the last three referendum votes that residents on Longboat Key no longer wish to have more hotel/motel rooms in their community.

I hope the commission slows down and makes a concerted effort to get input from the greater community before forging ahead. Especially since they have been shown to be almost completely out of touch with their constituents when it comes to increased density.

The biggest challenge confronting our community is minimizing negative impacts of the rebuilding process on neighborhoods and preserving the low profile charm that makes our island so desirable.

“Why 80-feet? Was that just pulled out of the air?”