2022-’24: A state and county effort is underway to acquire Rattlesnake Key or conservation but negotiations fail due to disputes over evaluations.
November 2025: Rattlesnake Key is purchased for $18 million by Rattlesnake Key Preservation Co. LLC, a subsidiary affiliated with SSA Marine.
January 2025: Developers float a concept for a cruise ship terminal south of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge on the 328-acre Knott-Cowen tract near Rattlesnake. The proposal is advanced by SSA Marine in connection with Tampa-based Slip Knott LLC. Developers also submit a pre-application request to Manatee County, allowing staff to provide preliminary feedback.
Jan. 27, 2025: County Commissioner Mike Rahn, chair of the Seaport Manatee Port Authority, says the public port had no involvement in the proposed cruise ship terminal and shares concerns about navigation, dredging and environmental impacts.
Feb. 4, 2025: County administrator Charlie Bishop issues a letter citing harassment and threats directed at county employees and their families related to the cruise terminal debate.
Feb. 5, 2025: Terra Ceia area residents speak against the prop[osal at a county planning commission, urging officials to uphold land-use protections and maintain the integrity of the county’s comprehensive plan.
— Robert Anderson
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