Bradenton Beach Commission Delays Action on City Attorney Allegations
The Bradenton Beach City Commission met on September 16 to discuss City Attorney Ricinda Perry’s performance following allegations that she identified a local business owner as the source of a complaint to state regulators. The session ended without formal action after concerns were raised about insufficient notice and fairness.
The meeting was prompted by claims that Perry said Drift-In owner Derek Williams filed a complaint with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) against the Anna Maria Oyster Bar for over-water tiki structures. Williams later obtained records from FDEP confirming no complaint had been filed, with officials reporting the violation was discovered during a routine inspection related to the city’s submerged land lease renewal.
Perry maintained she was given inadequate notice of the September 16 workshop, stating she did not have sufficient time to prepare a response. She argued the meeting notice, posted two business days earlier, fell short of standards set under Florida’s Sunshine Law. Perry retained attorney Michael Barfield, a Sunshine Law expert, who advised her that the meeting should not proceed under those conditions.
Attorney Robert Lincoln, who spoke for the city, countered that 72 hours’ notice has been deemed adequate in other cases but acknowledged Perry’s concerns could be subject to challenge. He recommended that any formal action be delayed to a future meeting.
Public comment reflected sharp divisions. Some residents and business owners, including Drift-In co-owner Helena Williams and Bungalow Beach Resort owner Gayle Luper, called for Perry’s termination, citing concerns over ethics and fairness. Others, including local business leaders and residents, expressed support for Perry, noting her long service and work following recent hurricanes.
Commissioners were generally in agreement that Perry should be allowed additional time to respond. Vice-Mayor Deborah Scaccianoce and Commissioner Scott Bear emphasized the importance of hearing both sides before reaching a decision. Mayor John Chappie also supported granting more time, noting that the issue had caused strain for both Perry and the city.
The commission agreed to revisit the matter at a later date, but no follow-up meeting has yet been scheduled.
