September 24, 2026 - Joint Meeting with the Longboat Key Town Commission

The Manatee County Board of County Commissioners held a joint meeting with the Longboat Key Town Commission on September 24, 2026, focusing on several infrastructure and community support projects. Key procurement-related discussions included updates on the Longboat Key roundabout project, which has expanded in scope and cost, with FDOT deferring construction bids to July 2027 and committing to fund and administer the project. The meeting also covered a multi-party partnership framework involving Manatee County, Longboat Key, and local organizations to support a community center, with a proposed three-year funding commitment totaling $825,000, contingent on budget amendments and pending final agreements. Additionally, the Longboat Key subaqueous force main project was highlighted, involving over two miles of new sewer pipe installation with secured external funding exceeding $24.6 million, including $15 million in grants. Discussions also addressed traffic congestion mitigation strategies, potential sidewalk and trail improvements tied to bridge projects, and concerns about future FEMA storm recovery funding, emphasizing the uncertainty of federal reimbursements and the need for local preparedness. Action items included staff coordination on a joint letter opposing the highest bridge height option, exploring pilot traffic management solutions at Coina Beach parking, and continued collaboration on emergency operations and infrastructure funding agreements.