On Saturday, May 2, 2026, concerned residents and neighbors gathered at Englewood Beach to protest a proposed expansion of the Manasota Key Resort. People showed up with handmade signs, letting everyone know they’re worried about heavier traffic and what more development could mean for local wildlife and the community’s laid-back feel.
For many, this fight isn’t just about one new resort wing; it’s about protecting what makes Manasota Key special. This stretch of beach is more than a popular vacation spot. It’s an important habitat for endangered species, especially sea turtles that nest right here every year. The proposed 10-foot seawall, which would sit directly on top of nesting areas, has many residents alarmed. They argue it puts both wildlife and the beach’s natural beauty at serious risk.
The Charlotte County Planning and Zoning Board plans to discuss the expansion at their meeting on May 11. Leading up to that, concern is spreading fast. Karen Dega Martin, in a letter published by the Englewood REVIEW, called out the project as a threat to the “peace, sanctity, and safety” that Englewood is known for. She pointed out that the plan defies existing county laws meant to protect critical coastal areas and said the project goes against everything “Old Florida” stands for.
The proposal will go before the Planning and Zoning Commission for a vote. In her letter, Karen stated, “We intend to show up in strong numbers, which is what will hold a lot of weight with the commission, every month starting on May 11, at 1:30 p.m. at the Murdock location, 18500 Murdock Circle, Port Charlotte, FL.”
In addition to the protest on May 2nd, another protest is being held on May 9th, 12-2 p.m. at 776 and Beach Road saying, “NO TO THE REZONE.” Bring Your signs.
Karen urged fellow residents to make their voices heard: “Let the Citizens’ Voices echo that we do not want this change, and it’s AGAINST THE EXISTING LAWS created exactly to protect us from such devastating absurdity and reckless and endangering action. The citizens of Englewood’s peace, sanctity, and safety should and must come before any greedy business agendas.”
From the protests on the sand to the letters sent to local papers, one thing is clear: residents feel this isn’t just about a resort. It’s about standing up for the beaches, the turtles, and the unique character of Manasota Key. For now, the signs say it all: “SAY NO TO THE REZONE!” “SAVE OUR BEACHES!” “SAVE THE TURTLES!” “SAVE MANASOTA KEY!”
Click here to read Karen Dega Martin’s letter to the editor.
