Commission chooses sand, structures

The Longboat Key Town Commission will ask voters two separate questions on the March 8 ballot.

Voters will decide whether to fund a $6.2 million project to stop erosion on the north end of the island as well as a $36 million island-wide beach project.

In total, the projects are expected to cost between $35.2 million and $43.2 million. The cost of the project will be closer to $35 million if the town receives a $5 million reimbursement from natural gas pipeline company Port Dolphin LLC.

Furthermore, the commission has the option of performing the beach project in either 2011 or 2012. The structures can be constructed, at the earliest, in 2012.

Also at its regular workshop, the Longboat Key Town Commission:

Forwarded to its Monday, Jan. 3, regular meeting for first reading:
• An ordinance that codifies ordinances adopted by the commission through Dec. 6.

Approved a request by the town manager:
• To purchase tasers for all patrol officers through funding from the Law Enforcement Trust Fund.

Forwarded to its Monday, Jan. 3, regular meeting for formal action:
• A proposed revision to the 2011 Town Commission meeting calendar.

Provide direction to the town manager:
• To postpone both a review of the revised Vision Plan and a final report submitted by the Organizational Review subcommittee.

• To reduce Key resident Joe Wolfer’s weeds and grass violation he has since brought into compliance to a $500 fine.

• To proceed with joining the Manatee County Economic Development Corporation and commit $5,000 to its organization for Longboat Key to have an official seat on its board.

Contact Kurt Schultheis at [email protected].