Mangrove Protection: Treasure Island Seeks Permanent Deed Restrictions for Elnor Island

Property owners in Treasure Island could see their flood insurance premiums drop further if city officials succeed in placing permanent legal limits on a 14-acre mangrove island. The city of Treasure Island is moving to restrict development on Elnor Island, a patch of wetlands located just east of John’s Pass. This action is designed to preserve the natural habitat while helping the city qualify for better ratings under a federal flood insurance program.

The city holds a Class 6 rating in the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Community Rating System, which currently provides a 20% discount on eligible flood insurance premiums. Jesse Miller, the city’s floodplain manager, stated that deed-restricted properties can earn up to 50 points in this system. He believes the city could qualify for a Class 4 rating, which would increase the discount to 30%. The final rating depends on an ongoing review of the city’s flood management practices.

Commissioners agreed during a workshop in October to pursue these deed restrictions. The proposed provisions would prohibit the construction of new buildings on the island. These restrictions would remain binding on future property owners and could only be changed or removed with court approval upon a showing of just cause. The city’s comprehensive plan already calls for preserving the island in its natural state, but the deed restrictions would add a specific legal safeguard against future development.

Residents and commissioners raised concerns about public access during the workshop. Local paddlers and kayakers frequently use a narrow passage beneath the mangrove canopy to travel between sections of the island. Some feared that strict restrictions might eventually block this route or limit access to nearby recreational areas. Commissioners directed staff to proceed with the plan without restricting nonmotorized use of the waterway. Miller wrote that the city does not anticipate any restrictions that would affect public access, as the primary intent is to prohibit future development.

The city is also considering language that would allow for modest improvements in the future. These could include boardwalks, timber catwalks, or small kayak docks. Staff are currently reviewing the property’s title and preparing proposed restrictions for future consideration. Nothing has been adopted yet, but the city aims to finalize the terms that balance environmental protection with resident recreation.

Elnor Island has a long history of environmental stewardship. The city acquired the approximately 14.18-acre parcel in 1984. A 2003 inspection found invasive vegetation, including Brazilian pepper trees, which prompted cleanup efforts. In 2007, the city approved a contract backed by a $14,000 grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to remove these invasive plants. Tampa Bay Watch later installed oyster shell bars along the shoreline to reduce erosion and improve water quality.

The Southwest Florida Water Management District approved seagrass restoration work in the area in 2012. A project proposal by Tampa Bay Watch identified several bird species in the area, including brown pelicans, great blue herons, and white ibis. City officials are also discussing a Critical Wildlife Area designation through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, which could bring additional protections for the sensitive habitat. Any related restrictions on recreational activities would require separate consideration.