News Briefs

+ Alaina Ray named PZ&B director
Town Manager Dave Bullock has removed the interim title from Alaina Ray’s post and officially named her as the town’s new Planning, Zoning, and Building Director Jan. 8.

Ray, a former planner with the department, was named the interim PZ&B director in September after former Planning, Zoning and Building Director Robin Meyer resigned effective immediately Sept. 24. 

Meyer received three months severance pay at Bullock’s discretion. Bullock described Meyer’s departure as a resignation but said he determined severance “was appropriate in this situation.”

Meyer earned an annual salary of $95,804.80.

Ray was instrumental in guiding the town’s Urban Land Institute process, as well as reviewing applications such as the Longboat Key Hilton Beachfront Resort.

Ray’s salary has risen from $80,017.60 to $88,379.20. 

In an email to commissioners on Wednesday, Bullock said Ray “earned the title over these past three months.”

“I appreciate her energy, expertise, and innovation in moving the objectives of the Town forward,” Bullock wrote. “We all have high expectation of her in the coming years. The workload is and will continue to be heavy for her area, but I know she is up to the job.”

Commissioners praised Bullock’s decision in emails Jan. 8.

“I am so pleased about Alaina Ray’s appointment and believe we are fortunate to have her to head our Planning Department,” wrote Commissioner Pat Zunz. 

+ Martin Luther King Jr. holiday closings
The town of Longboat Key and its various departments will be closed Monday, Jan. 20 in observance of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. There will be no change in garbage and recycling pickup on Jan. 20.

Meetings & agendas
Planning & Zoning Board Regular Meeting — 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 21.

Town Commission Regular Workshop — 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 21.

Firefighters Retirement System Special Meeting — 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 23.

Town Commission Regular Meeting — 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 3.

All meetings take place at Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road, unless otherwise noted.