Point Pleasant Resident Group Opposes Expansion

BRADENTON — On Wednesday, August 13, the Bradenton City Council is scheduled to vote on a series of zoning, land use ordinances, and a development agreement that would approve an expansion of Westminster Point Pleasant, a retirement and assisted living community located in the historic Point Pleasant neighborhood along the Manatee River. A non-profit organization is voicing its opposition.

The proposal would more than double the allowed residential density on the property—from 15 dwelling units per acre to 40—along with significantly expanded commercial development. Community advocates warn that studies show the area’s aging infrastructure, including roads, sewage, water supply, and water for fire protection, cannot support the scale of the proposed changes.

Protect the Point, Inc. is a nonprofit organization comprised of Point Pleasant residents, to preserve and protect the historic character and walkability of the Point Pleasant Neighborhood, and promoting responsible, compatible development that is consistent with the neighborhood's character. Its members are speaking out against the proposed changes.

“Protect the Point considers Westminster Point Pleasant a longstanding member of the Point, and we want it to stay and thrive,” said Constance Frazier, a board member of Protect the Point. “But this expansion puts not only the neighbors, but Westminster’s own current and future residents at risk.”

Protect the Point says it has retained legal counsel and expert consultants to contest the proposal and has not ruled out litigation if the ordinances are approved.

“Our roads can’t handle this kind of traffic. Our sewage system can’t handle it,” said Donna Mathias, another board member. “The city is studying the problems, but adequate infrastructure will take several years to build—meanwhile if approved the project would move forward.”

Ordinance 4035 would allow increased residential density in Coastal High Hazard Areas. Ordinance 4036 would enable Westminster to increase density from 15 to 40 units per acre on 15.8 acres of land and expand commercial development. Ordinance 4037 would amend zoning regulations to permit 12-story buildings (up from 6 stories), hotel development, and other high-intensity uses on the Westminster site.  

The group is urging concerned citizens to attend the Bradenton City Council hearing on Wednesday at City Hall to express their concerns. The meeting is scheduled for 8:30 a.m.  According to the agenda, the ordinances are listed as a time-certain item at 11 a.m.