ANNA MARIA – Ed Chiles is the City of Anna Maria’s 2018 Citizen of the Year.
Chiles owns the Sandbar restaurant, The Studio at Gulf and Pine and is a partner in the Pine Avenue Restoration Project that provides space for several Anna Maria businesses. His Chiles Group also owns the BeachHouse restaurant in Bradenton Beach and the Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub in Longboat Key.
City Commission Chair Brian Seymour presented Chiles the award during the Thursday, Jan. 24 commission meeting. Chiles was accompanied by his wife, Tina, his daughter, Ashley, and several well-wishers.
Before the presentation, Chiles shared his thoughts on the award.
“It’s an honor to join the group of people that have received this award and have made contributions to the City of Anna Maria. The city has given me and my family more than I could have ever given the city,” he said.
When presenting the award, Seymour thanked selection committee members Pat Copeland, Margaret Jenkins and Mary Seine for their efforts. He also recognized Barbara Murphy, Cindy Richmond and John Chambers as this year’s other nominees.
Seymour said Chiles received several nominations and he read aloud two of the nomination forms received, beginning with one submitted by local realtor Barbara Sato.
“I think it’s about time he’s awarded citizen of the year. He is constantly giving back to the community. He truly cares about our hometown. He is a great supporter of our school, our community center and anything that benefits our town. Over the years, many people have asked Ed for many things. Ed is always there, saying not just yes, but what else can I do? Not to mention the multiple events Ed does, from fireworks to fundraisers,” Sato wrote.
Seymour then read the nomination submitted by former Mayor Fran Barford and her husband, George.
“He uses his love of the City of Anna Maria and his resources to make it even better. Ed serves on boards and committees when asked and is always looking out for the well-being of our city. He actively supports education and never says no when asked to be involved. This involvement is not something new for him. He has been making positive things happen for many years in our city,” the Barfords wrote.
“The city has given me and my family more than I could have ever given the city.” – Ed Chiles, Anna Maria’s Citizen of the Year
Seymour also relayed a story on behalf of Mayor Dan Murphy, who was on vacation.
Seymour said Murphy appreciated the assistance Chiles provided when the red tide outbreak began affecting Anna Maria’s beaches. Murphy contacted Chiles about getting county assistance with the beach cleanup efforts.
“He enlisted your help and support and within 15 minutes it was taken care of – and I believe you were in Montana at the time,” Seymour said to Chiles.
“We appreciate it and congratulations. There is no one more deserving,” Seymour said before presenting Chiles with the award that contains a key to the city.
“I haven’t been in here in a while and I know you all appreciate that. I appreciate that. I spent a lot of time in this chamber over the years,” Chiles said, addressing those in attendance.
Chiles said he’s privileged that Anna Maria has always been a part of his life.
“I came here in utero when my mom (Rhea Chiles) was pregnant,” Chiles said.
His father, Lawton, was the governor of Florida from 1991 to 1998.
“Whatever little I’ve given, I’ve been given a lot more,” Chiles told the audience.
The award presentation was preceded by a reception in the commission chambers that featured bite-sized treats from Hometown Desserts and fruit punch that City Clerk LeAnne Addy concocted using her mom’s recipe.
