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Manatee County approves up to $2M in TDT funds for Anna Maria pier rebuild despite ferry‑landing uncertainty

Manatee County Board of County Commissioners · February 10, 2026

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Summary

The commission approved an interlocal agreement authorizing up to $2 million in Tourist Development Tax funds to help rebuild the Anna Maria City Pier; commissioners debated whether the restored pier could accommodate the county ferry landing or whether the county will need to build a separate landing. The vote passed 6–1.

The Manatee County Board approved an interlocal agreement on Feb. 10 that authorizes up to $2 million in Tourist Development Tax (TDT) proceeds to assist the City of Anna Maria in rebuilding its century‑old pier. The Tourist Development Council had previously recommended the project, and staff said the allocation would not exceed $2 million and would be an eligible use of tourism tax proceeds (SEG 2550–2572).

Elliot (TDC staff) told the board the state has approved $1.2 million and FEMA has indicated support; the county contribution would be part of a partnership that includes city equity and other grant sources (SEG 2562–2572). Mayor Mark Short of Anna Maria described permitting constraints: the Army Corps and DEP required reconstruction within the pier’s prior footprint, which limits the county’s ability to bolt a permanent ferry landing directly onto the rebuilt pier (SEG 2846–2861). Commissioners discussed options for a separate landing or adjacent landing area and the potential county cost to establish a landing that meets ferry needs; staff said the pier construction is on schedule and the county is coordinating to find a landing spot.

Commissioner Amanda Ballard recorded substantial concern that the rebuilt pier may not accommodate the ferry and that the county could need a separate multimillion‑dollar landing; she voted against the motion. Chair Tal Sadiq and Commissioner George Cruz emphasized partnership and tourism benefits, noting high annual ferry ridership and potential economic value for island businesses.

The motion to execute the interlocal agreement passed 6–1 with Commissioner Ballard opposed. Staff will continue coordination with the city and TDC on landing options and return if additional county investments are requested.