Bight Board approves two long-term leases, rejects FY27 budget draft; Planning Board clears aquarium deck project
The Key West Bight Management District Board approved two long-term lease renewals at its July 15 meeting, including a 15-year extension for Boat House Key West, LLC, while rejecting a draft budget for the upcoming fiscal year. The Planning Board, meeting the following day, approved a development plan for over-water decking at 1 Whitehead Street and three variances at other properties.
Key West Bight Management District Board — July 15
The board approved a 15-year lease renewal with Boat House Key West, LLC for the property at #1 231 Margaret Street. The vote was 4-0, with one recusal.
It also approved a 10-year lease with David Bernsen dba Shrimp Boat Sound Key West, LLC for the former recording studio on Lazy Way. That vote was 4-1.
The draft FY 2026-2027 Account 405 budget was rejected on a 2-3 vote, with two members absent.
The agenda and the June 10, 2026 minutes were each approved unanimously.
Planning Board — July 16
The board approved a Minor Development Plan and Conditional Use for 1 Whitehead Street, allowing over-water decking and a wave attenuator. The vote was 5 yes, 1 recuse, 1 absent.
Two variances were also approved:
- 522 Front Street — Yes 6, Absent 1
- 1107 Fleming Street — Yes 6, Absent 1
Each variance was subject to staff-recommended conditions.
Three additional variance requests were postponed to August 20, 2026: 624 United Street, 3206 Eagle Avenue, and 1013 Grinnell Street.
The agenda was approved unanimously as amended, and the June 18, 2026 minutes were approved unanimously with an amendment.
Bahama Village Redevelopment Advisory Committee — July 13
The committee unanimously approved its amended agenda and the minutes from its May 11, 2026 meeting.
The Black Educators History Museum schedule update and the CRA Manager's report were received and filed. FY27 budget items and a consultant hiring were discussed, but no formal decisions were made.
Art in Public Places Advisory Board — July 15
The board unanimously approved its agenda and prior meeting minutes.
The 91607 Caroline Street Project presentation and the Public Art Administrator's July 2026 Report were received and filed. No other actions were taken.
Coming up
No upcoming meetings are listed in the next 14 days, according to the available agenda data.