The Sebastian City Council will meet on Wednesday, May 25, 2022, at 6:00 pm in City Hall Chambers to discuss the in-depth engineering report of Fisherman’s Landing where Crab E Bills is a tenant.
They will discuss the most recent engineer’s report for Fisherman’s Landing and decide how to move forward.
No one from the council wants to see Crab E Bills fail, and they have stated that repeatedly. In addition, they also hope to save the building at Fisherman’s Landing as long as there are no safety issues that could result in people getting hurt.
However, the seafood market decided to sell orange hats that read “Save Crab E Bills,” hoping the public would wear them to show their support. In addition, Crab E Bills has hired a lawyer, and as a result, all communication has to go through the City Attorney and not the City staff.
History of Building at Fisherman’s Landing
The building is almost 100 years old. It sat empty as a warehouse for several decades before it was an auto garage and a restaurant before it suffered severe damage from Hurricanes Frances and Jeanne in 2004. As a result, the building had to go through several repairs.
Then it sat empty for many years until the City of Sebastian purchased it approximately ten years ago. The Fisherman’s Landing building was never a seafood market until 2014.
Why Did The City of Sebastian Buy Fisherman’s Landing?
The City of Sebastian purchased the property to prevent commercial developers from buying up the waterfront. Councilman Jim Hill made the push to preserve the property.
Then, the City received a grant to promote fishing on the property. Next, the building went through more repairs, and Crab E Bills moved in as the tenant for Fisherman’s Landing in 2014.
Crab E Bills pays low rent, far below market value, and it’s been a great partnership between them and the City. But now, the building is still deteriorating because of its age and structural damage.
It’s Not Historic
Many people have told stories about the building and think it’s historic. Unfortunately, Fisherman’s Landing is not a landmark. There are no state records indicating that the building is historic.
As the building ages, the City has been very concerned with safety. If someone gets hurt, it could cost the taxpayers. So, the City had the establishment thoroughly inspected behind walls, under floorboards, and ceilings. In addition, the rear of the building at Fisherman’s Landing has been closed by the City for safety reasons.
You can watch our interview with Mayor Jim Hill on what options may be forthcoming for the building.
Sebastian Daily will keep you updated on what the City plans to do with the building.
