Treasure Island seeks mangrove protection

Treasure Island commissioners directed staff earlier this month to draft deed restrictions for Elnor Island, a 14-acre mangrove property located east of John's Pass. The goal is to permanently prohibit new construction on the land while maintaining public access for water users.

The city has owned the parcel since 1984. It currently holds no buildings and serves as a habitat for brown pelicans, great blue herons, and white ibis. Boaters, kayakers, and paddleboarders regularly traverse the narrow waterways beneath the tree canopy.

City floodplain manager Jesse Miller stated that the restrictions align with the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Community Rating System. This program awards points to municipalities that exceed minimum floodplain management requirements. Higher scores translate to lower flood insurance premiums for residents.

Treasure Island currently holds a Class 6 rating, which provides a 20 percent discount on eligible policies. Miller indicated that the city could qualify for a Class 4 rating, offering a 30 percent discount, if the new restrictions are adopted. Deed-restricted properties can earn a maximum of 50 points under the program. The final rating will depend on the outcome of a broader review of the city's flood management practices.

Commissioners proposed three specific provisions for the deed. The language would ban new buildings, bind future property owners, and require court approval for any changes based on just cause. The city's comprehensive plan already designates the island for natural preservation, but the deed restrictions would add a specific legal barrier against development.

During the workshop, residents expressed concern that restrictions might block the water passage used by nonmotorized craft. Commissioners decided to direct staff to proceed without restricting nonmotorized use of the waterway. Miller wrote that officials do not anticipate the restrictions will affect public access, as the primary intent is to stop future development.

The city is also considering language that would allow for modest improvements, such as boardwalks or small kayak docks, if commissioners pursue them later. Environmental groups and city officials have worked on the island for decades. A 2007 contract, backed by a $14,000 grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, funded the removal of invasive Brazilian pepper trees. Tampa Bay Watch later installed oyster shell bars to reduce erosion, and the Southwest Florida Water Management District approved seagrass restoration in 2012.