Longboat Key Town Commission rejects land offer

Longboat Key town commissioners yesterday declined to pursue the purchase of more than 2 acres of vacant land on Gulf of Mexico Drive.

The Mote Scientific Foundation, which was established by William R. Mote in 1963, offered a plot of vacant land at the intersection of Gulf of Mexico Drive and Jungle Queen Way to the town last month. The land was last assessed at $1.1 million, according to the Manatee County property appraiser’s website.

“Even though this is a nice chunk of property, and it’s a little bit tempting, I’m not inclined to go with it,” said Commissioner Phill Younger.

Planning, Zoning and Building Director Alaina Ray said that while the parcel does have canal access, the recreational opportunities for the site are minimal since it is two blocks from Joan Durante Park.

If the town had chosen to purchase the land, it would have about $2.7 million available in its land acquisition fund, which is designated for the purchase, expansion and improvement of parks and open space. The Longboat Observer highlighted the growing fund in a June 15 article.

“I agree with Commissioner Younger,” said Vice Mayor Terry Gans. “And then some.”

Commissioners cited the burgeoning town center partnership with Ringling College of Art and Design, which will require money from that fund for site work, as well as the need for more beach accesses as potential priorities for that money.

“I think there are other properties that are significantly more important to us right in in terms of future assessment and evaluation,” said Mayor Jack Duncan.

Further, if the town bought the property, it would become tax exempt. 

“I don't think we need any more properties off the tax roll,” Younger said.