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county did host this year's World Environment D a y, a U n i t e d N a t i o n s E n v i r o n m e n t Programme dedicated to the threat sea level rise poses to small island nations, a threat not unlike the one facing Longboat. The county's comprehensive plan includes the prediction that the sea level is expected to rise between 1.3 and 2.1 feet by 2100, and it discusses the effect of such a change on the county's beaches, without mentioning spe- cific remedies. The county is finalizing a draft of its Post Disaster Redevelopment Plan, with a section on how a rising Gulf will affect different types of shoreline and land. Rethinking redevelop- ment is a key part of Longboat's approach. Federal Emergency Management Agency rules already dictate that new buildings in flood zones such as Longboat must be built a certain height off the ground. Town rules adopted years ago dictate that new construc- tion must be a foot higher than even that. As new construction takes the place of old build- ings or existing structures are updated, how can the town ensure the island is ready for higher water? "If we can't come up with methods for main- taining the integrity of the island itself, there is nowhere to go," Ray says. "The island becomes uninhabitable." When put like that, it's no wonder the island is taking sea level rise seriously. Ross says a shift in the media narrative has pushed the issue forward, too. The focus is no longer on the "fight" over the impact humans are having on the climate. "Whatever the cause is," Ross says, "things are happening. The sea level is rising." % Dave Bullock is the town manager of Longboat Key. Photo by Norman Schimmel Neal Schafers E N H A N C E Y O U R S M I L E . E N H A N C E Y O U R L I F E . For a complimentary consultation call 941.923.5406 To view our extensive smile gallery, visit askdrkoval.com My interest in photography reminded me about how my smile made me unhappy. A childhood accident caused my permanent teeth to come in askew. I had seen how Dr. Koval restored the smile of a friend's father. With Dr. Koval, we discovered I also had cracked fillings and a shifted jaw – all which she corrected. I am 100% satisfied with Dr. Koval's meticulous work and sincere care to make my smile look natural and picture-perfect. Christine Koval, D.M.D. Awarded 20 Gold Medals for Smile Makeovers by the Florida Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Sarasota News Leader August 8 & 15, 2014 Page 18