Special taxing district idea progresses

Manatee County commissioners Jan. 23 voted 6-1 to consider creating a special taxing district impacting homeowners of the Braden Woods and River Club communities.

A hearing has been set for March 6.

The proposed municipal services taxing unit, called an MSTU, would fund the purchase of a 32-acre property at the end of Clubhouse Drive, between Braden Woods and River Club. The property is slated for development, but could be purchased and saved from development for about $3 million. The deadline for such a purchase expires March 31.

Results from a county-initiated poll of both neighborhoods showed 674 of 1,442 homeowners in support of the MSTU, 455 opposed and 311 who did not respond. Staff recommended the county ascertain a 50% threshold for approval, or 721 votes, but proponents of the park submitted 66 notarized substitute ballots board members considered.

“We did this (poll) to try to get a feel for whether there’s support,” Commissioner Betsy Benac said. “From what I hear, there is support for it.”

The board will hear from the public and likely vote on whether to create the MSTU at its regular March 6 meeting.