City leaders in St. Pete Beach are seeking innovative strategies to preserve two cherished landmarks heavily damaged by recent hurricanes: the historic Pass-a-Grille shuffleboard court building and the Merry Pier Bait Shack.

At a meeting on April 22, commissioners were briefed on the extent of the destruction caused by hurricanes Helene and Milton. Public Services Director Camden Mills said the shuffleboard building—listed as a historic landmark—was declared “substantially damaged” by inspectors.

“Preliminary replacement costs are around $176,000,” Mills noted. “So far, we’ve received nearly $83,000 from insurance, with a current replacement valuation set at $102,000. We’ve also received demolition quotes, the lowest being just over $8,000.”

The Merry Pier Bait Shack, built in 1979, lacks historic designation, though the pier itself holds that status. It too was deemed substantially damaged. Mills shared that repair costs are estimated at $96,000, while insurance has so far paid out just over $62,000.

“Demolishing the bait shack will be more complex and expensive—our lowest bid came in over $65,000—because it’s over water and requires extra care to avoid environmental harm,” he explained.

Both buildings currently pose safety risks, yet many locals have voiced strong support for their restoration.

The bait shack faces further complications due to its location in a velocity flood zone, meaning FEMA regulations would prevent rebuilding if it’s torn down. The shuffleboard building, by contrast, could be reconstructed.

“The community wants these structures rebuilt in some form if at all possible,” said Commissioner Joe Molholland, who proposed a new appraisal of Merry Pier and a potential reclassification as a working waterfront site.

Longtime resident Peter Kuhlmann highlighted the shuffleboard building’s historical significance, recalling that it was brought over from Gulfport by barge in the 1920s. “Some effort should be made to bring this building back to life,” he urged.

Historic Preservation Board member Bill Lowry, speaking as a citizen, asserted that the bait shack remains structurally sound. “People want it open now,” he said, calling it “the most symbolic thing Pass-a-Grille has.”

Commissioners Karen Marriott and Lisa Robinson emphasized the cultural value of the buildings. Marriott called them “prime examples of St. Pete Beach’s character,” while Robinson floated creative fundraising ideas, including a GoFundMe campaign.

City Manager Fran Robustelli pledged to return with a range of possible solutions.

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(Image credit: City of St. Pete Beach)

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