CORTEZ, Fla. ( WWSB ) - A concrete lot that once housed a local seafood shack has become the center of debate over future development plans in Cortez, with residents expressing concerns about potential boat ramp construction.

Mark Silagy, a member of the coalition of concerned citizens of Cortez, said the group opposes boat ramp development that could bring trailer traffic to their neighborhoods.

“Manatee county is growing and of course we want to be able to grow with it. But we have to do it wisely. And intelligent and careful. But what we are opposed to is development that causes direct harm on a particular area, or the residents of it and that’s exactly what will happen if boat ramps are part of the development,” Silagy said.

Manatee County Commissioner Tal Siddique said no formal

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