News Briefs

+ Commission to discuss community center
The Longboat Key Town Commission will discuss a proposed community center at Bayfront Park Recreation Center and the results of the wireless communications study conducted by TE Connectivity Networks Inc. at its regular workshop scheduled for 2 p.m. Thursday, April 19, at Longboat Key Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road.

Town staff has prepared a two-phase development plan for Bayfront Park as directed by the commission at last month’s workshop.

The first phase retains the site’s current building while making various park-site improvements at an estimated cost of $1,781,594.20.

The second phase involves the demolition of the existing building and construction of a new community center, along with the relocation of the park’s internal drive and parking to provide additional waterfront green space. The estimated cost for this phase is $5,394.557.34.

Also at Thursday’s workshop, TE Connectivity will present information, including suggested solutions and cost estimates, related to island-wide wireless communication.

+ Town receives 10 board applications
Edward Krepela and Andrew Aitken have applied for seats on the town’s Planning & Zoning Board. Aitken, a Zoning Board of Adjustment member, has indicated that the ZBA seat is his second choice. Current P&Z Board members Phineas Alpers, Leonard Garner and John Wild have submitted applications for reappointment.

Code Enforcement Board Chairman Robert Krosney Jr., who also serves on the Citizens Oversight Tax Committee, has submitted applications for re-appointment to both groups. Burt Rosenfield has also submitted an application for re-appointment to the Citizens Oversight Tax Committee.

ZBA members Gaele Barthold and Thomas Bijou are also seeking re-appointment.

Board applications are due by 5 p.m. Monday, April 23, at the Town Clerk’s Office at Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road.

+ Kyle promoted to deputy chief
Longboat Key Fire Rescue Lt. David Kyle has been promoted to the position of deputy chief. Kyle has been a firefighter paramedic for 10 years and received the 2009 Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key Firefighter of the Year award, in part for his efforts in overseeing the distribution of File of Life magnets. He joined the Longboat Key department in 2004. The deputy chief position became available following the retirement of Skip Falcone, who retired in March after 18 years with the department.

Meetings & agendas
• Town Commission regular workshop — 2 p.m. Thursday, April 19
• Planning & Zoning Board meeting — 9 a.m. Tuesday, May 1
• Town Commission regular meeting — 7 p.m. Monday, May 7
• Zoning Board of Adjustment — 9:30 a.m. Thursday, May 10