Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/223368
Sarasota News Leader December 6, 2013 Page 20 previously serene environment in the area of and microphones for performers are being Phillippi Creek just east of the Trail when we pointed to patrons at those tables. are trying to sleep." Regarding the county code, she continued, "I McWhorter also referenced the complaints really do expect [staff] to interpret this in a Bob's Boathouse generated when it was fashion that makes common sense, and if we located on Little Sarasota Bay, off Stickney do that, then I think the neighborhood would Point Road. It was the regular focal point of be much better protected. … In my mind, this frustrations aired at Siesta Key Association particular operator … needs to be made to meetings, he pointed out. follow the codes very strictly." Commissioner Nora Patterson brought up Barbetta pointed out the restaurant is closer all the recent email complaints during the to the adjacent South Trail Church of Christ board's Nov. 20 regular meeting in Sarasota. than the distance the county code allows for an establishment with a liquor license. He The list of problems cited, she pointed out, had visited the site, he told his colleagues. "[is] really pretty extensive and expresses just Although the sidewalk for Bob's is more than a lack of general consideration for the neigh873 feet from the church, he said, "It's ludibors. That's big." crous the way that sidewalk goes. … The For one thing, she continued, she believed driveway's right in the center of the property," the county zoning code forbids commercial but the sidewalk meanders to maintain the establishments from shining lights on res- mandatory distance for Bob's Boathouse to idential areas. Second, the ordinance does comply with the code. not allow outdoor food and drink service If the sidewalk followed the driveway, after a certain time, she said. Third, after 10 Barbetta continued, it would be only about p.m., she recalled, the ordinance says live 500 feet from the church at its greatest disentertainment may be offered, but only in a tance from the church property line. completely enclosed building. While doors and windows obviously are regular features in "I don't think it follows the spirit of the ordistructures, Patterson pointed out, "Anybody nance," Barbetta said. who reads English and sees the words 'comBecause the property where Bob's is located pletely enclosed building' doesn't expect the was zoned for that type of business, the matter completely enclosed building to have open never came before the County Commission windows and open doors." for approval, Barbetta pointed out. The locaCounty Attorney Stephen DeMarsh reviewed tion of the church should have prevented the ordinance and concurred: "One must Bob's Boathouse from obtaining a liquor close the windows at 10 p.m." license, he added, but "staff says otherwise." Patterson said she understood the design When Patterson asked for her colleagues' supof Bob's Boathouse incorporates numer- port on action "to bring this down to a level of ous openings facing an outdoor dining area, enforcement," Commissioner Robinson asked