News Briefs: Longboat Key 12.24.15

New rating will decrease flood insurance bills

Longboaters will see decreases in their flood insurance bills in the coming year, thanks to a new rating recommendation for the town.

Public Works Project Manager James Linkogle announced Nov. 25 that Insurance Services Office Inc. recommended the town for an upgraded Class 5 Community status for the next year, which will provide an additional 5% discount for Longboat Key property owners with National Flood Insurance Program policies. The new rating provides Longboaters with a maximum 25% total discount on their policies. The previous maximum discount was 20%.

The classification is based on six categories: open space preservation, higher regulatory standards, drainage maintenance and flood warning and response, among other categories.

Longboat Key Fire Rescue presents annual awards

Longboat Key Fire Rescue Chief Paul Dezzi presented the department’s annual awards Dec. 16.

Firefighter/paramedic Jeff Bullock received Firefighter of the Year honors for his continued work improving the Fire Rescue marine unit. Bullock is a member of the department’s safety and quality assurance committees, a field training officer and a U.S. Coast Guard boat captain.

Lt. Brian Carr was named Officer of the Year for his leadership and dedication to the new employee orientation program. He is a member of the training committee, president of the Firefighters Association and a shift training officer.

Fire Marshal Lou Gagliardi received the Chief’s Award for his continued efforts in making the town safe through his knowledge in prevention and code requirements. Gagliardi has 41 years of fire department service.

Holiday garbage collection and closing information

Because Christmas Day and New Year’s Day both fall on Fridays, Longboaters will see no changes to their trash, yard waste or recycling pickups during the holiday weeks.

Longboat Key Town Hall and its various departments will be closed Dec. 24, Dec. 25 and Jan. 1 for the holidays.

Correction

The Longboat Observer incorrectly identified Simon Glatz, who died Dec. 10. He was 79.

Meetings

• Town Commission Regular Meeting — 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 4

• Code Enforcement Board Regular Meeting — 9 a.m. Monday, Jan. 11

• Planning and Zoning Board Regular Meeting — 9 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19

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