Pines Trailer Park Closure Announced Following Hurricane Damage and Compliance Challenges

BRADENTON BEACH – Residents of Pines Trailer Park, who recently received city approval to repair their hurricane-damaged mobile homes, were notified on Jan. 4 that the park will be closed. The notification came in a letter from Pines Park Investors LLC, managed by Shawn Kaleta, citing financial difficulties, safety concerns, and regulatory challenges as reasons for the closure.

The decision follows months of uncertainty after Hurricane Helene caused significant water intrusion into the 86-unit park on Sept. 26. City building officials had initially classified the damage as "major," requiring substantial updates to meet FEMA floodplain compliance, including elevating the homes to a height of 12 feet. However, on Dec. 9, the city allowed 83 residents to proceed with repairs without elevation requirements after further inspections and value assessments.

Despite this clearance, many residents hesitated to begin repairs due to lingering uncertainties about the park's long-term future. The park’s ownership has now clarified that the property will be closed, though there may be an option for continued month-to-month tenancy for some residents, pending city approval, with a timeline extending potentially up to two years.

The letter outlined key factors leading to the decision, including high delinquency rates, significant financial challenges, and costly regulatory compliance. The park has also faced recurring storm damage, ongoing safety issues, and difficulties meeting fire code requirements. Management cited the inability to sustain operations under current conditions as the primary reason for the closure.

In recent weeks, the parking lot for Pines Trailer Park residents was converted into a public paid parking lot. Previously, residents had paid an annual fee for parking, but as of Dec. 31, this arrangement ended with the introduction of a pay-by-plate system.

Formal notices with legal details and guidance will be distributed to residents in the coming weeks. Management has indicated plans to offer support and resources to assist residents through the transition process.