The fight that the group Oppose Manasota Beach Rd. and Kelly Bauman have taken on keeps gaining momentum, not just among people who want a say in their own neighborhood, but also among those who wish they’d be quiet.
The grassroots effort isn’t backing down. Last we checked in, they scored a massive win: their David-and-Goliath battle wasn’t dismissed. It’s moving forward to a formal administrative hearing in September 2026.
Residents have been out on the streets for months now, pushing for transparency and forcing the hands of powerful developers. Kelly’s petition didn’t just make noise; it demanded real accountability. She’s fighting to protect wetlands, wildlife, and neighborhood safety from a wave of overdevelopment.
Still, as of June 25, 2026, the opposition made its next move. They filed two motions to dismiss, a standard play. Kelly was ready for it. “We heard from the judge and her assistant, and they’re setting dates to review the motion to dismiss,” Kelly said. “The Economic Stimulus Working Group filed one, too. We’ll regroup and answer those.” The judge scheduled a hearing for July 16, 2-4 p.m. The details are still coming together, but Kelly wants supporters on standby. “We’ll figure out the rest soon, so mark your calendars,” she said.
The Economic Stimulus Working Group is an 18-year-old consortium of real estate developers and executives led by billionaire homebuilder and former Florida State Senator Pat Neal.
The meeting will occur via Zoom. Kelly plans to keep her evidence front and center, with charts about flooding, the environmental damage, all of it. She’ll be alone on camera, but she’s hoping for community support. “They have to decide that day whether we move forward. I want as many people as possible showing support,” she said. “We’re just regular citizens. What’s the problem? Why won’t they listen? If this process is for citizens, why are they shutting us out?”
To strengthen their case, Kelly’s looking for another expert hydrologist and environmental specialist for September. She believes the judge will hear them out; she says the judge seems fair and focused on facts. “After all, what are they so worried about? A couple of residents, with over 4,000 signatures on their petition.”
The strong backing from the community fuels Kelly day to day. She shared a voicemail that stuck with her: “Hello, good morning. Just wanted to let you know that the community sees you guys, the community hears you guys, and we stand behind you guys 100%. I am a local business owner that sees the struggle you guys are fighting against the new communities and Pat Neal, and it’s a godsend. Thank you, and continue the fight, and we will continue donating. Now, only you guys can save the beautiful side of Florida, which those developers are trying to destroy. Thank you, because the corruption in their pockets has been bought by the lobbyists and the most corrupt in this state. Thank you very, very much.”
Kelly says people have been reaching out from everywhere: Iowa, Connecticut, Georgia, Ohio, and plenty of folks from Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch. Kelly’s trying to keep up with all the messages. People appreciate the fight for Englewood, for the beach, for nature. It matters.
The group is holding a rally Tuesday, June 30, 2026, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. at Manasota Beach Road and 776. Park at the retention pond, and if you can’t walk, they’ll get you there. Or just honk when you pass, let them know they’re not alone. For information on this rally, click here.
This fight isn’t over, and the Englewood REVIEW will keep covering the story as it unfolds.
Click here for a link to the Oppose Manasota Beach Rd. Petition.
Click here to go to their GoFundMe page.
