Getting things done in the current marketplace can be expensive and running a city is no exception.
Bradenton Beach commissioners Nov. 3 discussed costs associated with multiple projects, including reclamation of city rights of way, insurance claims and a holdup on a revised agreement with Manatee County for policing the beach.
Public works director Tom Woodard addressed commissioners about an email from residents in the 2500 block of Gulf Drive North requesting the city’s help in clearing an alley of foliage and debris.
The residents said they have difficulty backing out of parking spaces because of obstacles.
Woodard said there is no funding in the 2022-23 budget for the work. No cost was provided.
“I think it’s important that eventually we try to get back our alleyways,” Mayor John Chappie said. “It’s public land. It’s not private land.”
“My concern is that it is a public right of way,” city attorney Ricinda Perry said. “Anything else that has been put in the right of way, it is the responsibility of the individual who owns that property to remove those encroachments from our public right of way.”
Perry said the city should issue a demand letter instructing businesses to clear the alley.
The commission reached a consensus for Woodard to survey the alleys and determine where work is needed.
Commissioners also authorized Chappie and the code enforcement department to work to remove encroachments in alleys.
Commissioners also reviewed a request from Police Chief John Cosby regarding the cost to repair a BBPD vehicle that was damaged in a crash.
In September, Officer Stephen Masi’s vehicle was hit by another motorist, damaging the front end of the cruiser.
The Florida League of Cities, the city’s insurer, paid $9,000 but the repair estimate is $16,197.75. Commissioners accepted a bid for repairs and authorized Perry to seek reimbursement from the other driver for $7,197.75.
Meanwhile, Cosby said the city is waiting for Manatee County on an updated interlocal agreement for policing Coquina Beach, including details about what the county intends to pay Bradenton Beach for law enforcement services at the county-run park.
Commissioners also approved a motion to pay $3,900 for a structural evaluation of city hall.
The building has evidence of spalling — the breakdown of concrete due to weathering — and saltwater intrusion into the rebar.
Although the project was not budgeted, the public works department has funding for the evaluation in its building repair and maintenance funds.
Commissioner Jan Vosburgh made a motion to approve the $3,900 evaluation, which was seconded by Ralph Cole. It was approved unanimously.
The commission also approved the following payments:
$3031.88 to Civic Plus for website hosting;
$18,953.75 to M.T. Causley for planning;
$25,067.70 to Perry for legal services;
$2,455 to LaPensee Plumbing for sewer-line jetting/lining at city hall.
The next commission meeting will be at noon Thursday, Nov. 17, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.