Business & Real Estate: Don Pedro and Manasota Key up for renourishment

July 17, 2026 - 04:02

Charlotte County officials will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, July 22 to discuss a proposed tax increase aimed at funding beach renourishment for Don Pedro and Knight Island, part of the Manasota Key area. The hearing comes as the county seeks to address ongoing erosion that threatens both shoreline property and public access.

The proposed tax would apply to property owners within the designated beach improvement district. If approved, the revenue would be used to pump sand onto the beaches, rebuilding dunes and widening the shoreline. Similar projects have been carried out in other parts of the county, but this one targets two specific stretches that have seen significant sand loss in recent years.

County officials say the renourishment is critical for storm protection and for maintaining the area's tourism appeal. Without the work, they warn, the beaches could narrow further, putting homes and businesses at greater risk during hurricanes.

The hearing is open to the public, and residents are encouraged to voice their opinions before the county commission makes a final decision. The exact tax rate has not been set, but early estimates suggest it would add a modest amount to annual property tax bills for those in the affected zone.

If the measure passes, work could begin as early as next year, pending permits and contractor availability. The project is expected to take several months to complete.