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Manatee commissioners vote to reinstate pre-2023 wetlands language, rescind ordinance 2366
Summary
After months of debate and public testimony, the Board of County Commissioners voted 6–1 to void Ordinance No. 2366 (PA‑2306) and return to the prior comprehensive‑plan language governing wetland protections. The vote followed lengthy public comment and a motion brought by Vice Chairman Robert "Bob" McCann.
The Manatee County Board of County Commissioners voted 6–1 to rescind Ordinance No. 2366 (PA‑2306) and restore the comprehensive‑plan language that had been in effect before the 2023 amendment.
The measure, introduced by Vice Chairman Dr. Bob McCann as a motion to void the ordinance and reinstate the prior language, was seconded and debated at length. McCann framed the motion as a legal and policy restoration: “We are overturning the ordinance here. That's what we're doing. We're putting it back to the original ordinance,” he said during debate. Commissioners and members of the public debated legal risk, procedure and the county’s authority to act.
Public comment before the vote was substantial and largely in favor of reinstating stronger wetland protections. Several residents urged the board to move quickly, arguing that the 2023 changes had weakened protections and opened sensitive areas to development. Opponents and some commissioners urged a measured approach so staff and the county attorney could confirm the correct legal path.
After public comment, the board took the vote. The final tally was 6 in favor and 1 opposed (Commissioner Ron). County staff said the reinstatement requires a formal amendment process and legal steps that will be coordinated with the county attorney's office.
Why it matters: The county’s wetlands language affects how developers and staff evaluate land‑use proposals in areas with ecological value. Restoring the prior language resets the policy baseline for future comprehensive‑plan and land‑development decisions.
What’s next: Staff will prepare the formal amendments and follow the statutory process for revising the comprehensive plan and related code provisions. The county attorney’s office will review the motion and direct the drafting/filing steps.
Votes at a glance - Motion to void Ordinance No. 2366 (PA‑2306) and reinstate pre‑existing wetlands language: Mover — Dr. Bob McCann; Second — Commissioner Phelps; Outcome — approved 6–1 (Commissioner Ron opposed).
