BELLEAIR – Remaining questions regarding the future of the Belleview Biltmore Resort may, at last, be put to rest with a few tantalizing revelations regarding the new owner’s plan for the fabled White Queen of the Gulf.
With little more than general speculation fueling rumors regarding the outcome of the proposed sale and what it may signal for the future of the historic property, a few select glimpses into the design process were revealed this week as representatives of Legg Mason Real Estate Investors, in town while the sale is being finalized, met privately with Belleair commissioners.
What those meetings disclosed remains the primary topic of discussion at the epicenter of this spectacle as residents, preservationists and well-wishers alike await details regarding the new owner’s plans for restoration of the hotel to its former glory.
During Tuesday night’s Town Commission meeting, as officials discussed budget cutting proposals, accepted a bid on retired town equipment, approved the purchase of a new administrative police vehicle and passed a resolution challenging the county’s decision to alter the flow (accounting) of funds for water and sewer service, the topic of the Biltmore sale suddenly entered the agenda and, for a brief moment, captured the spotlight.
Commissioner Karla Rettstatt had a meeting Tuesday with Joseph Penner, LMREI managing director, during which, she said, “I saw preliminary plans for the renovation, however there was no schedule discussed. The owners want to make a presentation of the plans to the public soon.”
Asked after the meeting for details of the plans she had been shown, Rettstatt said that the building would remain intact.
“They are not taking anything down, except the pagoda is gone,” she said, referring to the often criticized discontinuous architectural style of the steel and glass structure erected over the hotel’s entrance by previous owners. Rettstatt said she saw renderings of the pool area, which were beautiful.
She added that it was apparent they intend to restore the hotel, in Belleview Biltmore grand style, replete with signature green roof.
