Holmes Beach Planning Commission Explores Dock Code Updates

The Holmes Beach Planning Commission reconvened on Dec. 4 after a hiatus since August, with all members and alternates in attendance. Chaired by Gale Tedhams, the commission addressed ongoing discussions regarding amendments to the city’s dock provisions in the municipal code.

Development Services Director Chad Minor and City Clerk Stacey Johnston joined the meeting to provide input. Proposed updates to the dock provisions include defining key terms such as “boathouse,” “dock,” “finger dock,” “watercraft,” “mooring area,” and “mean high water line.” While setback requirements and dock extension limits remain unchanged, Minor emphasized the importance of clarity for individually-platted mooring areas, particularly those in city canals.

Individually-platted mooring areas, typically 10 feet wide and 25 feet long, often do not align with adjacent residential properties. Minor proposed regulating dock installations in these areas to ensure they do not exceed 25 feet into waterways or extend beyond neighboring property boundaries. Building permits would be required for new docks or lifts.

Johnston highlighted the need to streamline the eviction process for city-owned dock lessees and reduce the waiting list period to avoid prolonged vacancies.

City-owned boat slips, leased annually, are located at Marina Drive T-ends and Sunrise Boat Basin. Annual fees range from $425 to $600. The city reported no current vacancies for these slips.

The commission plans to revisit the proposed dock code updates, along with potential seawall provisions, at their next meeting on Jan. 15.

In other business, members debated meeting times to better align with city staff availability and members’ work schedules. The commission decided to hold the Jan. 15 meeting at 3:30 p.m. instead of the usual 5 p.m. time slot.