BB takes steps to criticize mobile home park, referencing FEMA standards.

In a tense and emotionally charged meeting held at Bradenton Beach City Hall on October 17, city commissioners confronted the pressing need to condemn the Pines Trailer Park. This discussion arose amid the city’s ongoing struggles to recover from the devastating impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

Hurricane Helene, which passed about 150 miles off Anna Maria Island on September 26, caused significant flooding throughout the region. The state’s community emergency response team assessed that 90-95% of Bradenton Beach was effectively destroyed, with storm surge reaching over three feet in certain areas, flooding low-lying properties and leaving six feet of sand on roadways.

The Pines Trailer Park at 103 Church Ave. and the Sandpiper Resort at 2601 Gulf Drive N. were among the hardest-hit properties. Both communities suffered severe flooding due to surge from Helene, further exacerbated by Hurricane Milton, which struck on October 9 in nearby Siesta Key, bringing winds exceeding 110 mph and compounding existing damage.

City building official Darin Cushing reported that many manufactured homes within the Pines Trailer Park are classified as “substantially damaged” according to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) guidelines. This classification indicates that the cost to return these homes to their pre-damaged condition is at least 50% of their market value.

During the meeting, Cushing addressed a packed chamber, emphasizing the importance of informed decisions regarding the future of the community. “In accordance with FEMA’s damage assessment guide,” he explained, “there are different degrees of damage for manufactured homes.” While damage to the Pines is extensive, other properties, such as the Sandpiper, have also been impacted, with water intrusion reported in living spaces.

Property owners were advised to review the city’s flood ordinances available at Municode.com. Cushing noted, “A manufactured home that has incurred substantial damage due to flooding must be elevated to at least that the bottom of the frame is at or above the base flood elevation, plus 3 feet.” This base flood elevation, set at 9 feet, presents a significant challenge as the current ground elevation of the park is merely 1 to 2 feet.

This means many homes may need to be elevated by 7 to 12 feet to meet new safety regulations, a daunting task that could result in the destruction of many long-standing homes. This information devastated many residents, some of whom have lived in the Pines for generations. “Are you going to go door to door?” asked resident Elayne Arm-aniaco, expressing anger and sadness over the situation.

Resident Victor Armaniaco, a retired firefighter, conveyed anxiety over the future of his family’s investment in the community. “What happens now? Is everything we bought just gone?” he pondered, highlighting the uncertainty that hung in the air for many property owners.

City attorney Ricinda Perry stressed the necessity of these measures as a public safety concern, outlining the severe risks associated with mold, rodents, and debris. “We need to accommodate you to pack up your belongings,” she stated, while conceding that the timeline for condemnation remains uncertain.

Amid the troubling announcements, a sense of community persisted; many shared their commitment to finding solutions. “Today may end in this meeting, but this meeting is not over,” Armaniaco emphasized, urging the city officials for ongoing guidance.

Bill Wisotake, associated with Sandpiper Mobile Resort, also voiced his concern, noting that out of 166 units, around 150 had water intrusion during the storms. “It’s a sad, sad story, but you must stand tall and survive. Somewhere we will find some light,” he encouraged fellow residents.

Important Details Regarding the Future of the Pines Trailer Park:

• The Pines Trailer Park faces condemnation due to substantial storm damage.
• Hurricane Helene caused severe coastal flooding, affecting 90-95% of Bradenton Beach.
• The city must comply with FEMA flood elevation guidelines, requiring homes to be raised significantly.
• Residents face financial uncertainties over properties that may be deemed unsalvageable.
• City officials emphasize public safety and aim to assist residents during the transition.
• The Pines Trailer Park sold for $16.25 million in May 2023 under restrictive financing conditions.