Sand Key Shoppes Zoning Update March 25, 2008

From: Cynthia L. Remley, Esq."

Dear Concerned Neighbors of Sand Key and fellow Save Our Neighborhood (“SON”) of Sand Key Committee members: This is a periodic update based on the best information I have concerning issues that impact Legg Mason’s attempts to build a hotel at 1590 Gulf Blvd.:

SOS (Save Our Shoppes) Opposition to Tourist Zone Application: On March 20th the City Council voted 4-1 to deny an application that requested that the Shoppes of Sand Key be zoned as “Tourist.” Previously, the Marriott Hotel had joined in on that application with the owner, Bennett. This was a victory, but there is still a lot of work to be done to get the type of Commercial Zone applied that will retain the Shoppes.
More Hotel Rooms on Sand Key and at 1590 Gulf Blvd.: Just before the hearing on March 20th, the City Council deferred a hearing until April 17th on the proposal to adopt the Pinellas Planning Council’s (PPC’s) increased hotel density code. Despite the deferral, Legg Mason’s attorney specifically asked the City Council to adopt PPC code. As you may recall, October 2007, the Pinellas Planning Council (PPC) adopted an increased hotel density code that would apply to both “Tourist” and “Commercial” zones, and the Cabana Club Restaurant site is a “C” zone. If adopted, Legg Mason might submit plans to build a hotel of 60-66 rooms. Up to 3,000 hotel rooms might be added to the entire island. Mayor Hibbard has indicated that he does not believe Sand Key residents are opposed to more hotel rooms and the PPC being adopted to apply to Sand Key. It is important that you let him and other City Council members know your concerns. Contact information and suggested message points will be distributed later this week in another status email.
Legg Mason’s Plans: As of this date, we are not aware of any plans of Legg Mason being on file with the City Planning Department. Because of their push for a code that would allow more hotel rooms, this is not surprising. Petitions that oppose a structure which seeks variances have been left in the lobbies of some condominium lobbies. In the upcoming week you may be contacted for access to your building to supply/collect these petitions or to request signatures of residents.

We thank you for your support and for forwarding this information to your fellow Sand Key neighbors, condo association boards and condominium residents.

Cynthia L. Remley
The Harbour
Direct (727) 215-9711
e-mail: Cynthia@ProRemLaw.com