Bradenton Unveils Citywide Shift for Westminster Point Pleasant Expansion

Bradenton City Council Approves Expansion of Senior Living Facility Despite Community Concerns

The Bradenton City Council recently approved a set of land use changes that will allow a waterfront senior living facility to expand its footprint, despite significant opposition from residents in the historic Point Pleasant neighborhood. The decision came after an extended meeting filled with public comments from both supporters and critics of the zoning and comprehensive plan amendments.

Councilwoman Lisa Gonzalez Moore was the only one to vote against two of the proposed ordinances. The changes would increase the number of allowable units at Westminster's properties by 137 and permit the construction of up to 12 stories, including 10 habitable floors above two levels of parking. This expansion has raised concerns among local residents about the potential impact on the neighborhood’s infrastructure and historic character.

Westminster Communities of Florida is a non-profit organization that provides independent and assisted living services. Its Point Pleasant community, located at 1533 Fourth Ave W., spans nearly 16 acres. The first ordinance involved an amendment to the city’s comprehensive plan, allowing for increased density in the Coastal High Hazard Area (CHHA), which covers approximately 28% of Bradenton. The other two ordinances specifically targeted Westminster, changing its zoning from residential to the Urban Core Business District, which includes high-density, multi-family residential areas and commercial development.

Residents who live near the facility are worried about how the expansion might affect the historic Point Pleasant neighborhood. The area is zoned as the Point Pleasant Neighborhood Conservation District, and many residents fear that the increased density could strain existing infrastructure and alter the neighborhood’s aesthetic appeal.

“This looks like the city is playing favorites with Westminster,” said Constance Frazier, a resident of the neighborhood. “They’re getting a free pass at the cost of a historic neighborhood and a special downtown area.”

Some of the homes in Point Pleasant date back to the 1890s and early 1900s, including the former home of a past Bradenton mayor. Clare Ward, who owns one of the oldest homes in the area, expressed concern about the potential damage from nearby construction. She emphasized that her 127-year-old home, with its original wooden windows and door frames, may not withstand the vibrations from heavy machinery.

Another major concern is the impact on the city’s aging wastewater system. Lift Station 8, located near the neighborhood, is part of a $16 million “Face it, Fix it” plan aimed at addressing infrastructure issues. However, residents argue that the current system cannot handle the existing population, let alone the increased density that the expansion would bring.

Residents have formed a nonprofit called “Protect the Point” to advocate for the preservation of the neighborhood’s history. Jane Graham, an attorney representing the group, criticized the city’s decision, stating that it was inappropriate to focus on a single developer and that there was insufficient information provided during the process.

City Administrator Rob Perry addressed these concerns, noting that it would be impractical to complete infrastructure upgrades before the expansion. He explained that the city’s development agreement with Westminster requires the applicant to demonstrate that proper infrastructure is in place to support the project. If upgrades are needed, the developer must either make improvements or contribute to city-initiated projects.

Despite the concerns, the council ultimately approved the three ordinances. Councilwoman Jayne Kocher praised Westminster as a “jewel in our community.” The first ordinance, which affects over 4,000 parcels across the city, allows for increased density in the CHHA. The other two ordinances relate specifically to Westminster’s property, adjusting its zoning and land-use designation.

Councilwoman Lisa Gonzalez Moore suggested that the city explore alternative solutions, such as creating a special district for Westminster rather than permanently altering its land use. While she commended the organization’s work, she expressed concerns about what might happen if the property changes hands in the future.

The Planning Commission had previously reached a tie vote on the two ordinances, a point that Moore highlighted. However, the final vote resulted in a 4-1 approval, with Moore dissenting. The decision marks a significant shift in the city’s approach to development in the historic district, raising questions about the balance between growth and preservation.