By Dale White
BRADENTON — Negotiations are underway between Manatee County and a local developer who is interested in converting the vacant jail in downtown Bradenton into a complex of rental apartments.
On Monday, a three-employee committee appointed by Manatee County Administrator Ed Hunzeker told developer Bernard Croghan that they found his initial proposal met the criteria of the county’s “invitation to negotiate” with companies interested in redeveloping the former jail into affordable housing.
To comply with public meeting rules, Property Management Director Charlie Bishop said he, county planning official John Osborne and Budget Division Manager Debbie Underwood had not discussed Croghan’s submission with each other until the publicly advertised meeting with Croghan.
“We’re excited about this, Mr. Croghan,” Bishop told him. “We find your proposal responsive.”
Croghan, a developer of commercial properties in Manatee for 35 years, wants to partner with an experienced apartment developer to convert the six-and-a-half story jail into roughly 110 apartments.
He thinks the downtown location will especially appeal to young professionals who want to live within walking distance of jobs, dining and entertainment.
He estimated the renovations could cost about $9 million but emphasizes that he will require more detailed inspections of the property to get a better handle on that expense. He foresees a combination of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments renting for $600 to $900 per month.
