The stars will soon shine on the Moose Lodge in Bradenton Beach, where outdoor dining and libations can be a favorite pastime.
The city commission took steps March 19 to ensure the tradition continues.
Commissioners unanimously approved a rezone petition and special exception for the Anna Maria Island Loyal Order of Moose Lodge No. 2188, which is renovating its approximately 45-year-old clubhouse, 110 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach.
The special exception allows for future rooftop dining, but it was the fate of picnic tables on the back porch/patio, overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, that generated headlines earlier this year.
The city planning and zoning board voted Feb. 18 to recommend the applications to the city commission. The question became whether to include those 96 outdoor seats in calculating parking spaces.
One of the five stipulations in the board’s 3-1 motion to recommend the special exception was that the beachfront picnic tables on the outdoor deck be replaced by benches and chairs.
Commissioners considered the P&Z’s recommendation March 19, but opted to allow the outdoor tables.
Commissioner Jan Vosburgh’s motion for the special exception included only two stipulations: the addition of two parking spaces and the height of a wall and railing. Anna Maria Island will have a beautiful new Moose Lodge, she said.
Commissioners agreed on retaining the picnic tables.
The lodge already had agreed to Vosburgh’s stipulations.
Commissioner Janie Robertson said she is impressed with how hard the lodge worked to ensure that its renovated facility did not impact its neighbors.
Vice Mayor Jack Clarke said he liked the plan.
Mayor Bill Shearon called the picnic tables “historical fixtures” in Bradenton Beach. A former P&Z board member, he said this is one time he would disagree with a P&Z recommendation.
The vote was good news for Moose Lodge administrator Ernie Casali Jr., who needed some. Lodge membership currently is about 7,000, including snowbirds. The lodge is popular spot and visitors take advantage of the low member fees for access to events, including entertainment, and the bar and dining room.
But the lodge is reporting about 1,100 lost members, due in part to the construction project. Revenue is down about $12,000 a week, according to Casali.
Made of recycled material, the picnic tables cost more than $10,000 and provide seating for up to 96 people.
“If you took the tables away, you are putting a nail in the coffin,” Casali said. “It’s that simple.”
Construction is expected to conclude in May, with the rooftop dining expected to start during the summer.
When the construction is complete, Casali said, “It’s going to be the only place to be on this beach.”