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Letter: Island Plan Has Hidden Agenda

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We were all surprised at the recent suggestion by Representative Will Robinson to introduce legislation to allow the county to approve its own building permits, overriding city restrictions, for the construction of a multilevel parking structure at the public beach. Robinson had unanimous support from both state senators and representatives. If introduced and passed, such a measure would essentially erase home rule. What is going on here?

What is going on here is that our county and state elected officials want to turn Anna Maria Island into a high-rise island community, similar to Longboat Key, Daytona Beach, and Miami. Don’t be fooled. Once the height restriction is removed, by state fiat, we will then become a high-rise island.

So, it’s not only about a parking garage and beach demand parking. Its about beach access for all the folks moving to the area. Those that live off island can park in the new multilevel garage. But, a better way to provide beach access to many is to increase the housing density on the island. The best way to do that with limited available land is to go vertical with high-rise construction. That is the goal.

Apparently, county, and now state officials seem to think they know best how to manage our island. I think not. Now is the time to contact our elected officials and express your opinion. If you want a high-rise community then give Robinson, et al, your support. If you want to maintain our height restriction and keep our island the jewel of the gulf, then please let your county and state elected officials know your disagreement with their plan.

Dan Diggins
Commissioner, City of Holmes Beach

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