Study Reveals Unlikely Consolidation of Anna Maria Island Cities
The consolidation of the three Anna Maria Island cities appears improbable following a recent report and letter shared by State Representative Will Robinson Jr. and Senator Jim Boyd. The report, prepared by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA), analyzed the potential benefits of merging services or governance among Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach. While the study outlines possible restructuring options, it emphasizes the challenges of maintaining the Island’s unique character and governance autonomy.
Key Findings of the OPPAGA Report
The 25-page report, requested by the Florida Legislature, begins by noting the Island’s significant demographic changes. Between 2007 and 2023, the permanent population decreased by 42%, from 8,449 residents to 4,915, while 66% of new vacation rental properties in Manatee County during this period were developed on Anna Maria Island.
The report highlights opportunities to streamline municipal services through interlocal agreements, contracts, or government reorganization, potentially reducing costs for residents. Currently, all three cities provide overlapping services such as administration, public works, building and planning, code enforcement, and emergency management. Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach operate their own police departments, while Anna Maria contracts with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office for law enforcement.
The report also outlines four potential restructuring options:
Maintaining the current governance structure.
Combining the three cities into a single new city.
Incorporating the cities into unincorporated Manatee County.
Merging the cities with the city of Bradenton.
Each option carries implications. While consolidation could produce cost savings through economies of scale, it would also require eliminating existing city charters, ordinances, and comprehensive plans. Maintaining the status quo avoids disruption but retains duplicate services and associated costs.
Mayoral Responses and Next Steps
The study was accompanied by a letter from Robinson and Boyd urging the Island mayors to explore ways to streamline services and lower taxes. Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth expressed appreciation for the study, noting its importance in guiding collaboration between city and state leaders. Titsworth also welcomed the assurance that the threat of forced consolidation or elimination of the cities has passed.
Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short acknowledged the report but questioned the accuracy of some financial data and pledged to issue a formal response. He emphasized the collaborative effort among the island cities and their residents to oppose consolidation. Similarly, Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie expressed skepticism over specific figures in the study but recognized its value as a tool to address cost-cutting concerns.
Looking Ahead
The report and accompanying letter are expected to guide discussions as the Island’s leadership works to address state legislators’ concerns about efficiency and tax reductions. Robinson and Boyd have requested feedback from the mayors by February 13, ahead of the 2025 Legislative Session.
While consolidation may remain a theoretical possibility, the study reinforces the importance of preserving Anna Maria Island’s distinct identity and governance, ensuring residents can continue to enjoy their community’s unique character.