Town prepares for beach project

The town of Longboat Key is preparing its beachfront owners for its 2011-12 island-wide beach renourishment program. The beach project is expected to begin in November 2011.

In an e-mail sent to the Town Commission Tuesday, Aug. 10, town attorney David Persson explained he has crafted a new draft easement for all gulf front property owners who have not previously signed a permanent easement.

The easement allows sand to be placed from the Erosion Control Line landward upon private property to achieve a gradual contour from the sand being placed seaward of the ECL.

Below is the letter Persson crafted for property owners:

“The town of Longboat Key is preparing for another beach renourishment project, which is presently scheduled to begin in 2011. As it has done with both previous projects, the town will request temporary easements from all Gulf-front property owners who have not granted a permanent easement previously. Since you are (or you represent) a Gulf-front property owner, this letter and enclosed temporary easement are being sent to you.

"These easements are necessary because a portion of the sand to be deposited upon the beach may be placed upon your property on the landward side of the Erosion Control Line. The ECL is established by state law and separates private and public property. This easement conveys no right to the public for access or use of your private property. It allows sand to be placed upon your property near the water's edge. Generally, you may expect the sand to be placed up to the vegetation line or to the top of a seawall (if there is one) on your property.

"I have enclosed a temporary easement for your review and approval. It is for approximately 10 years. Some Gulf-front property owners have executed permanent easements to avoid the necessity of periodically renewing these temporary easements. This also reduces the costs incurred by the town. If you would prefer a permanent easement, please let me know and one will be drafted for you at no cost. Please remember that this is a legal document and requires your careful attention and consideration. The owner or owners of the property must sign it in the presence of a notary. Also, two people who do not have an interest in the property must witness it.”

Questions regarding the upcoming beach project should contact Public Works Director Juan Florensa at 316-1988.

Contact Kurt Schultheis at [email protected].