Bradenton council approves Tropicana parcel sale and Riverwalk half marathon permits

The Bradenton City Council on May 13 authorized the sale of a surplus parcel related to the Tropicana property and approved a Riverwalk Half Marathon permit, both by 5–0 votes.

City staff described the Tropicana transaction as the sale of a roughly 4-acre piece carved from a 32-acre acquisition. The city paid about $4.85 million for the whole tract; staff said the parcel under contract for sale was valued at about $2.15 million. Council discussion noted the value of an on-site advertising sign, existing contracts tied to the property and a buyer contingency tied to approval of a digital sign. Staff said proceeds will be returned to the funds that paid for the original purchase in proportion (enterprise accounts and general fund) and dedicated to building Public Works and other capital projects.

Claire Kelly Thomas, event review coordinator, told the council the proposed Riverwalk Half Marathon would require FDOT and Palmetto approvals because it would close a bridge; organizers expect roughly 270 participants. Vice Mayor Coker moved approval of the marathon permit and the motion carried 5–0.

Councilman Kemp Schuessler (second) and others had no substantive objections during roll call votes. The mayor instructed staff to complete due diligence and authorized execution of documents required to finalize the Tropicana parcel sale.

Next steps: the city’s real-estate and finance teams will complete the sale paperwork, track the fund allocations and report back with final accounting. The marathon organizer will coordinate FDOT and Palmetto approvals as required.