This Week at the Beach

In the News this Week

• On July 4th, a 13-year-old boy, Jose “Gordie,“ went missing on St. Pete Beach. His family, who are visiting from Texas, are leading the search with the help of dozens of police. They are located between Trade Winds Resort and The Don Cesar Hotel. News source (with pictures): Twitter.

• Fox 13 hosts a 40-second clip of the Madeira Beach fireworks display, which took place on Wednesday, July 3rd.

• WFLA News quotes Treasure Island resident (and Citizen Beach columnist) Ginger Goepper in an article on the Audubon Society's efforts to protect shorebirds in St. Pete Beach.

• The 12th Annual St. Pete Beach Surf Festival is scheduled for July 13, 2024, at Upham Beach, from 8 am to 4 pm. Surfers for Autism is a 501(c)3, providing free surf sessions for children and adults with autism and other related developmental disabilities.

• News Channel 8 reports progress on renovating and opening the historic Beach Theatre in St. Pete Beach. “The historic cinema has switched hands multiple times since its shutdown in 2012. More than a decade after its closure work is underway to re-open the landmark.” Watch a 40-second clip on YouTube.

  

Eco Warrior Beach

Introducing St Pete Beach’s Beach Ambassadors

By Lisa Reich

I am beyond grateful that the City of St Pete Beach and Coastal Wildlife Advocacy Group have joined forces to implement a Beach Ambassador (BA) Program. This comes at a time when our beaches are more crowded than ever.  

What is a Beach Ambassador?

A Beach Ambassador is a friendly face on our beach that helps to improve the local beach culture one greeting at a time. Volunteers walk the beach with a primary mission to keep our beach clean and safe for beachgoers and our coastal wildlife.  BAs educate beachgoers about the city’s rules and ordinances. They are easily identified by wearing a blue or yellow vest and a Beach Ambassador Name Badge. BAs have positive attitudes and take a positive approach to protecting the beach and the value of beach tourism. Beach Ambassador training on YouTube.  

Interested? Want more information? How do you become a SPB Beach Ambassador? You must attend a mandatory training session and agree to walk the beach on a schedule that works best for you.   

Please contact Lisa, CEO & Founder of the Coastal Wildlife Advocacy Group. Email: [email protected] 

The Importance of Mangroves

By Ginger Goepper

This week, we encourage waterfront property owners to consider a natural approach to protect their properties from storm damage by planting mangroves. Here are several reasons why:

1. Erosion Protection: Mangroves stabilize shorelines by anchoring soil with their sturdy roots              

2. Water Quality: These resilient trees filter pollutants and trap sediments, maintaining water clarity and quality. 

3. Natural Defense: Mangroves slow down crashing waves during storms, protecting our seawalls and coastlines.

4. Habitat and Fisheries: Mangroves provide sheltered habitats for juvenile fish, crabs, and shrimp - 

   greatly enhancing fishing opportunities!

Planting mangroves is critical for the stability of our shores while promoting a flourishing marine life. 

So why aren't we planting mangroves on our private coastal property?

The Mangrove Trimming and Preservation Act (MTPA) aims to balance environmental protection and homeowners’ rights in Florida. 

Riparian Rights: The MTPA affirms waterfront property owners’ “riparian right of view.” This means homeowners have certain rights regarding mangroves on or adjacent to their property. 

• Trimming and Planting: Riparian property owners can trim mangroves on public lands fronting their property up to 75 feet from the trunk of the most landward mangrove tree, measured waterward and perpendicular to the shoreline. 

• Planting: The MTPA encourages voluntary mangrove maintenance, growth, and planting along shorelines.

In summary, while there are regulations, homeowners can take steps to maintain and even plant mangroves on their coastal property. 

• Source: Florida Bar

• Your Rights Under the Mangrove Trimming & Preservation Act

TI’s Adopt-a-Beach Post-Fireworks Cleanup

Carrie Auerbach — one of our Heroes of the Gulf Beaches — and her team of over 40 volunteers scoured the Treasure Island beaches. July 5th is typically the worst day of the year for trash left on the beach. But this year, thanks to the Treasure Island Adopt a Beach program — educating and distributing trash bags — the load of trash picked up this year was only 250 pounds (typical of a normal beach cleanup).

Didn’t get a chance to help on Friday? Fear not! Carrie is planning a great beach cleanup party tonight and on Sunday at Caddy’s in Treasure Island:

Rescue Beach

Profile: Monica Pugh, Citizen Beach Cat Rescue Writer

By Monica Pugh

I've lived in Madeira Beach since 2010. I’ve been fortunate to host over 500 cats/kittens at our home since 2014 when I joined Pinellas County Animal Services as a foster parent for orphaned kittens and adult cats dealing with health issues like amputations, enucleations, or trauma related to hoarding cases. I also volunteer as a cat photographer at the shelter.

I live with three permanent cats and my husband. I have no veterinary medicine training, nor do I have any training in cat behavior other than the experience of living with many cats in the last 10 years. Cats are my self-care; I'm happy spending time with them. I’m a staunch supporter of Trap-Neuter-Return to combat cat overpopulation. I wish a loving and safe home for all domestic cats and a loving and fun companionship for humans.

Thanks for the chance to share some cat stuff with our community 🐾

Lifestyle Beach

Pinellas County Sheriffs Remove Beachgoers Following Trade Winds Resort Complaint

By Dana Richardson and Carlos Miro

In a video posted on YouTube on June 26, Pinellas County Sheriffs are shown removing beachgoers from the area in front of the Trade Winds Resort. The officers, responding to a call from the Trade Winds, instructed the family to relocate their chairs and tent from the dry sand area above the wet sand line. You can watch the video here.

Trade Winds Resort Expansion Sparks Controversy

Joe Smith, the founder and CEO of South Florida-based 1754 Properties LLC, which owns the expansive Trade Winds Island Resort, is at the center of a controversial development. The St. Pete Beach Commission's approval of the $500 million expansion, despite a popular outcry by many residents, will see the addition of three towers with 629 hotel rooms, 68,000 square feet of restaurant and retail space, and several public amenities to the 25-acre site at 5500 Gulf Blvd.

Just a couple of months prior, on April 23, Mr. Smith provided reassuring statements to the City Commission, assuring that customary beach access would remain intact, with residents having access to 25,000 square feet of beach.

Navigating Beach Ownership in Florida

About 60% of the state’s beachfront is privately owned, while the rest is controlled by state, county, or city authorities. Understanding property lines is crucial; the Mean High-Water Line (MHWL) defines these boundaries in Florida. This line represents the average high tide elevation over a 19-year period and simplifies the "wet sand/dry sand" rule for beach access. This understanding is key to navigating Florida's complex landscape of beach ownership.

Customary Use

The concept of 'Customary Use' is a crucial one. It dates to a 1974 Florida Supreme Court ruling, which upheld public access to sandy areas adjacent to the mean high tide line if that use had been 'ancient, reasonable, without interruption and free from dispute.' In practical terms, this means that if people have been using a stretch of beach for 50 to 70 years, they should be allowed continued access.

Pinellas County’s Gulf beaches are renowned for their beauty, offering unique experiences south from St. Pete Beach, northwards through Treasure Island and including Madeira Beach. Enjoy and respect these natural treasures, knowing that your right to beach access is supported by the Florida Constitution and long-standing legal principles. Despite new laws, the public's right to Customary Use remains intact, ensuring we can continue to cherish and utilize these beautiful shores for years.

More to come on this topic in future editions of the Citizen Beach newsletter!

Good articles:

• Who Owns the Beach in Florida? And Why Does It Matter?

• Paul Renner, State House of Representatives, Speaks on New Law

• Ownership of the Beach Depends on State Law and Tide Lines 

City Beach

The Population of Our Cities is Declining – Why?

Between the 1990 and 2020 census, the population of our three cities has declined.

• In St. Pete Beach, the population has declined from a high of 10,175 in 1990 to the current population (as of the 2020 census) of 9,439. Over the course of those 30 years, the city’s population has declined by 736 people (approximately 7.2%).

• In Treasure Island, the population has declined from a high in 1990 of 7,021 to the current population of 6,584. The city’s population has declined by 437 people (approximately 6.2%).

• In Madeira Beach, the population has declined from a high of 4,287 in 1990 to 4,120. The city has shrunk by 167 people (approximately 3.9%).

Possible Explanations

Housing Costs: Coastal properties often have high real estate prices. Younger families and individuals might find it challenging to afford housing in these areas, leading them to seek more affordable options inland.

Between the two most recent censuses, median house prices have significantly increased in St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island, and Madeira Beach.

• St. Pete Beach: The median home value in St. Pete Beach has seen a substantial appreciation of 151.76% over the last decade. This translates to an average annual home appreciation rate of approximately 9.67%, putting the area among the top 10% nationally for real estate appreciation​ (Redfin)​​ (NeighborhoodScout).

• Treasure Island: The median home price has also increased, with recent data indicating a median listing price of $849,900. This represents a noticeable rise in home values over the years​ (Redfin).

• Madeira Beach: Similarly, Madeira Beach has witnessed a rise in median home prices, with the current median listing price at $879,450. This increase reflects the overall upward trend in property values in the region​ (Redfin).

Urbanization and Development: Residents seeking a quieter, less congested lifestyle may have been drawn away by the increased traffic congestion and the busier atmosphere often accompanying urban sprawl.

Infrastructure and Services: Florida faces two infrastructure needs. The first is the lack of adequate infrastructure and services for current residents. The second is the increased demand for infrastructure and services created by the influx of new residents to the State. If infrastructure and public services in our cities do not keep pace with resident needs or modern standards, people might choose to move to areas with better services, schools, and healthcare.

What Do You Think?

Do you have a different idea as to why we’re losing population? Do you agree or disagree with what I’ve written? Please email your comments to The Tortuga, and I’ll post the best next week. Thanks!

Are We Asking Too Little of Our Elected Officials?

In the cities of St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island, and Madeira Beach, our elected representatives play a pivotal role in shaping the future and well-being of our communities. More than just figures of authority, privilege, and honor. These elected officials are entrusted with the vital task of representing the interests of their constituents, making informed decisions, and steering our cities toward prosperity.

Why Formalize Expectations for Our City Representatives?

 At the heart of effective governance lies clarity and accountability. By clearly outlining the responsibilities of our elected representatives in City Hall, we — the constituents and voters — can ensure that our elected representatives understand the scope of their duties and the expectations placed upon them by those they serve – us, their tax-paying constituents. This list of five expectations helps define their role and sets a standard against which their performance can be measured when Election Day arrives.

 The Power of Metrics

Metrics, or measurable objectives, serve as our compass in navigating the success of our city’s elected officials. Metrics provide tangible criteria against which we can assess our commissioners’ performance objectively. Whether responding to resident concerns within a specified timeframe or achieving milestones in community engagement, these metrics offer transparency, which we can use to hold our municipal representatives accountable for their actions and decisions.

Here is a comprehensive framework for our elected officials in St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island, and Madeira Beach. It proposes their duties and responsibilities, emphasizing measurable objectives and performance-tracking metrics. This approach aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and constituent engagement while ensuring our elected representatives are focused on achieving clear goals and are accountable to, We the People.

Responsibilities and Expectations

With this list of five simple expectations, we hope to help establish a new standard for performance and accountability in our communities. What do you think? Feedback is always requested!

1. Solicit and Respond to Residents’ Concerns: As an elected official, your actions in soliciting and promptly responding to residents’ concerns and inquiries significantly impact our community. The value of these concerns cannot be overstated, as addressing them promptly ensures that they are heard and makes your constituents feel valued and integral to our community.

• Objective 1: Respond to at least 90% of residents’ concerns and inquiries within five business days – respond via email or text.

• Objective 2: Track the percentage of constituent concerns resolved within 30 days.

2. Stay Informed and Knowledgeable: Be aware of and possess factual knowledge of important issues that affect or may affect the community. Regularly asking residents to identify the issues they think need consideration is an important part of this responsibility.

• Objective 1: Attend at least four community events or meetings annually to stay updated on current issues and gather resident input.

• Objective 2: Maintain a list of issues brought forth by your constituents and seek the community’s feedback to prioritize the list accurately.

3. Frequent Communication and Engagement: Develop and maintain a comprehensive communication system to keep residents informed and engaged on important issues. This system should use a variety of channels, including:

• Objective 1: Publish a quarterly newsletter (or include comments for your constituents in the City’s newsletter) or update constituents via email or the city website, summarizing key issues, ideas, and recommendations.

• Objective 2: Establish and maintain a community bulletin board on the city website, updated monthly with new information and resident concerns.

• Objective 3: Support government transparency by tracking these metrics and publishing updates regularly.

4. Seek Community Input and Foster Leadership: Continually seek community input concerning important and pertinent issues through various channels, including surveys, meetings, and direct outreach.

• Objective 1: Conduct at least two community surveys annually to gather resident feedback on key issues.

• Objective 2: Foster active resident participation by organizing at least three annual leadership workshops or town hall meetings. These events will encourage residents to become involved in community affairs and develop leadership skills.

• Objective 3: Track constituent satisfaction through surveys and other feedback mechanisms, such as complaint forms and hotlines. Analyze the data collected to identify areas for improvement and ensure city services meet the community's needs. Regularly report these findings to the public to demonstrate transparency and accountability.

5. Research, Communicate, and Report: Identify and research issues—don’t wait until an hour before the public meeting to review the agenda and document. It’s useful to be informed prior to meetings to work with your constituents for feedback and to build consensus.

• Objective 1: For each major issue, prepare a comprehensive report within 30 days of its identification and distribute it to residents for feedback within 15 days.

• Objective 2: City Commissioners should schedule at least two open meetings annually, and Mayors should hold one open meeting in each city district annually, ensuring each district has an opportunity for direct dialogue.

• Objective 3: Develop and disseminate quarterly or biannual written reports describing all matters you have been involved with. Explain the challenges, your position, and recommendations based on your research, and detail whom you have consulted with regarding each issue.

Looking Ahead

As our cities continue to evolve and grow, the importance of clear expectations and metric tracking in governance cannot be overstated. These practices uphold the integrity of our local government, empower our representatives to make informed decisions, and build a stronger, more vibrant community together.

 In the weeks and months ahead, let us remain committed to transparency, accountability, and effective governance. Together, we can ensure that St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island, and Madeira Beach continue flourishing as places we proudly call home.

Community Beach

Building Our Beach Paradise: Why Community Matters in St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island, and Madeira Beach

Sunshine, sand, and the calming rhythm of the waves – life on our beautiful beaches is a dream for many. But beneath the postcard-perfect exterior, our coastal communities face challenges. Traffic crawls, costs climb, and the influx of tourists can sometimes feel overwhelming. It's easy to feel like we're all just passing through, adrift in a sea of unfamiliar faces.

Here's the secret weapon against that feeling: community!

It's not just about backyard barbecues or neighborhood watch programs (although those are great too). Building a strong community is about weaving a web of connections that strengthens our social fabric, making our beach towns more than just a collection of houses and hotels.

Why Community Matters

Think of community as the invisible lifeguard on duty. When a strong current threatens to pull us under – a financial hardship, a child's struggle, the isolation of aging – a supportive community throws us a lifeline.

• Helping Hands for Our Seniors: Our esteemed elders, who've helped build the foundations for our beach havens, often face social isolation and daily hurdles. A strong community ensures they have a helping hand with groceries, transportation, or simply a friendly chat, fostering their well-being and enriching their lives.

• Investing in Young Families: Our children are the future custodians of our coastal paradise. A connected community provides them with a safety net, offering support groups for parents, mentoring programs, and a sense of belonging that keeps them grounded and thriving.

• Building Bridges, Not Walls: Tourists are vital to our beach economy, but their transient presence can sometimes feel disruptive. A welcoming community creates a bridge between locals and visitors. Imagine tourists returning year after year, not just for the scenery but for the warmth and sense of community they experienced.

Building Our Beach Family

Here's the beauty of community – it's not a spectator sport. We all have a role to play!

• Start Small, Start Local: Attend (or set up) a neighborhood block party or introduce yourself to your neighbor. Small acts of kindness ripple outward, creating a more connected environment. For example, see what the LIFT program is accomplishing in Treasure Island.

• Support Local Businesses: Our neighbors often run charming shops and restaurants that define our beach towns. Choosing local over big-box chains injects money into the community and strengthens its economic core. See the Buy Beaches First site for lots of shop local ideas!

• Embrace Diversity: Our beach communities are a rich tapestry of cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. Celebrating this diversity creates a more vibrant and inclusive space for everyone.

Yes, building a strong community takes effort, but the rewards are immeasurable. We create a safety net for our most vulnerable, nurture the next generation, and transform our beach towns from a collection of houses to a place we truly belong. So, let's roll up our sleeves, embrace the spirit of collaboration, and build a beach paradise that's beautiful, strong, resilient, and truly a community for all.

Together, we can weather any storm, one friendly wave at a time.

Photo Beach