Photo courtesy of the City of St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach Commissioners heard a range of concerns Sept. 21, from a resident’s complaint about sheriff’s enforcement and questions about development density to a proposed process for city donations.
Resident Questions Sheriff’s Enforcement
Melanie Vandergrift, a resident, told Commissioners that people entered her property to reach the beach after moving a no trespassing sign and crossing a 6-foot fence.
Vandergrift said she contacted the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office and claimed a deputy later told her that the only law deputies were allowed to enforce was underage drinking.
Vandergrift also said the deputies were unfamiliar with beach rules involving dogs and alcohol.
The Commission asked the City Attorney to investigate the complaint.
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That’s not all that happened at the Sept. 21 St. Pete Beach Commission meeting. Read about Fiscal Year 2027 budget, and lift stations.
Density, Donations and Other Issues
Resident Phyllis Parker also questioned a proposed “density-trading tool” that could place a value on additional development rights.
“Zoning laws exist for reasons,” Parker said.
Parker warned that the proposal could create incentives that permanently increase density. She also promoted a proposed St. Pete Beach art trail, saying it could spread visitors throughout the city and support local businesses.
Commissioners also discussed creating a formal process for city donations. District 4 Commissioner Jon Maldonado said the City has $7,500 budgeted for donations and suggested contributions to the Sea Turtle Trackers, St. Pete Audubon Society, and Gulf Beaches Historical Museum.
Commissioners supported creating a formal nomination and review process for donations, but no new donations were approved at the meeting.
The meeting concluded with discussion of Corey Avenue improvements and preparations for the City’s upcoming 70th anniversary.
The next St. Pete Beach Commission meeting at Oct. 13 at 6 p.m.
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