As businesses along the beaches of Treasure Island begin to reopen following the devastating hurricanes, the community is organizing events to draw people back to the area.

The “Back to the Beach: Sand & Kites & Coastal Delights” festival has been announced, set for March 8th and 9th from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day.

New Dates for Canceled Events

The Treasure Island Fire Rescue Chili Cook-Off is scheduled for February 21 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tickets are priced at $10, and the event will take place on the fifth floor of City Hall. Everyone is welcome to enter their chili in the competition.

Reinvesting in the Community

Funds raised from the Chili Cook-Off will support the Treasure Island Fire Association, aiding the fire department which, like the police department, lost its facilities due to the hurricanes.

City officials acknowledge that while these events aim to restore a sense of normalcy, many residents are still struggling.

Treasure Island Mayor Beisel commented, “I understand the concerns of residents about bringing visitors to the island when they can’t even return to their own homes. However, our police department has been protecting the island since the storms and will continue to do so. We can manage multiple priorities.”

He added, “Our primary concern is our residents, their well-being, and getting them back into their homes. That’s our top priority, and we’re working tirelessly on it.”

Beisel also emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses to help them survive, “Most businesses are reopening where possible, and we need people here in Treasure Island. We’re aware that many are still displaced, waiting on permits, but bringing visitors back is crucial for our recovery.”

How to Get a Permit

Starting Monday, Treasure Island will implement a new, streamlined permitting process. Beisel explained, “When residents apply for a permit, they’ll deal with every aspect of the process in one go, from building officials to floodplain management. We aim to ensure all necessary information is gathered on the day of the application, preventing the back-and-forth that has been frustrating for many.”

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(Image credit: WTVT)