I grew up in this region. I raised my family here. I built a business here. I answered a call to serve this community. And my mission is to protect it.
I work to defend the families who call this place home. I work for the businesses that power our economy. I work to champion the natural treasures that make our region so special, and Rattlesnake Key, the Knott-Cowen tract and the surrounding properties are key among them.
Rattlesnake Key is a low stretch of mangroves whose roots anchor the island in place. The native plants not only maintain the island’s shape; they also serve as home to fish, small mammals and shorebirds. Anyone who has motored, sailed or paddled by the quiet key has surely caught a glimpse of pelicans and osprey, or found snook, redfish and snapper in the shallow waters.
Rattlesnake Key was first discovered by early Spanish explorers. They named it not for its wildlife, but for the shape of the island because it resembles a snake with open jaws. For generations, we have been blessed to enjoy it as they first saw it: wild, quiet and largely untouched.
The future of Rattlesnake Key, Knott-Cowen and the surrounding properties, however, is now at risk.
The new owner of the key has disclosed plans to transform this treasure into a tourist trap. Renderings reveal a dock, tiki bar and white sand beaches crowded with cruise patrons. The vision is a far cry from my hope for this island and one that cannot be undone if fully realized.
Rattlesnake Key and its surrounding wetlands are some of the last remaining undeveloped coastal lands in Tampa Bay. That’s why it has been my mission to preserve and protect this island.
In 2022, in partnership with Representative Will Robinson, I secured $23 million in state funding with the goal of purchasing Rattlesnake Key for conservation. Buying the property would forever prevent development, ensuring its protection for generations to come.
Unfortunately, leadership at the Florida Department of Environmental Protection at the time declined to move forward with the purchase, despite legislative action to authorize the sale.
In 2024, we tried again. This time, we secured approximately $8 million, with Manatee County prepared to contribute additional local funds toward protecting the property. Again, negotiations fell apart, and the property was later sold to a private entity – the very owner now planning to build a private cruise destination on this precious land.
Though the option to buy Rattlesnake Key no longer exists, my mission to save the island has not wavered. The wetlands, estuaries and coastlines of Tampa Bay are the heart of our community. The health of these ecosystems is inseparable from our quality of life, our economy and the legacy we leave for future generations.
Preserving Rattlesnake Key, Knott-Cowen and the surrounding properties is a critical mission. And I’m going to do everything I can to protect it.
Jim Boyd is the President-Designate of the Florida Senate. He currently serves as Senate Majority Leader, representing District 20, which includes parts of Manatee and Hillsborough counties.
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rayfusco68
Nice self aggrandizing article. A lot of fluff trying to pretend that he and Will Robinson (not the lost in space character) aren't part of the developer problem in Manatee County. By voting out the developer supporters from the County Commission in the last election we are on the right track. Now we need to vote Senator Boyd and Will Robinson who have been carrying the water for the developers in Tallahassee.
Friday, January 30 Report this
graumli22
Perhaps Jim Boyd should have thought about Manatee County and its eco-sensitive areas when he voted for HB 180! At a recent Q&A he tried to say he had no idea residents had such opposition to the bill. Well, his office heard from me via email and by phone. And our community encouraged our residents to contact his office to voice their opposition to the Bill's approval. Clearly, he's posturing for the upcoming election. If only someone would step up as an opposing candidate!
Friday, January 30 Report this
Islandman
I sincerely hope that Jim Boyd is preaching his cause with deep sincerity.!
Whether it is Jim Boyd, Will Robinson, or an act of God, this Cruise port CANNOT become a reality!
Aliso, a shout out to Carol Ann Felts, you are doing exactly what you were elected to do, protect the little bit of sanctity and serenity we have left!
Friday, January 30 Report this
Lktinsanfran
Just one question - why didn't Jim Boyd fight to purchase Rattlesnake Key? The money was allotted but then the powers that be declined the purchase. If Mr. Boyd truly wanted what was best for our community he would have purchased a haven such as Rattlesnake Key one way or another. Not only will the new development plan destroy the island itself, think about all the trash that will be dumped on the island as well as the surrounding area. It's disgusting.
Friday, January 30 Report this
pattybeenutty
I only hope he means it. Does he live near this area?
He does not care about women's rights and their bodies, how about the destruction of our public schools?
Friday, January 30 Report this
THarte
Yes - I agree this is a lot of “fluff” on the part of Senator Boyd! We have to ask - how did this Legislature let slip away such a pristine place as Rattle Snake Key - yet that same Legislature let DeSantis use Florida’s Forever Funds to buy 4 acres of sand in Destin - between 2 Condos - for $83 MILLION DOLLARS! Really? what Boyd is saying is definitely a lot of “Fluff”! Get real and protect the “Real Florida”! Rattle Snake Key is our last strong hold for Tampa Bay - Hey Senator Boyd - show us what you are made of and do the right thing by Tampa Bay - as you say - it’s your home and mine an all of ours!
Friday, January 30 Report this
san.gander
Don't want this coast to replicate Florida east coast... no, keep cruise ships east coast! Keep west coast natural. Quit chasing "Almighty Dollar"!
Saturday, January 31 Report this