Snook Haven Park Concession Services

Sarasota County is soliciting an Invitation to Negotiate (ITN) for comprehensive concession services at Snook Haven Park, seeking a qualified local, regional, or national food services operator to provide food, beverage, entertainment, and recreational activities including eco-tourism tours and excursions. The contract will coincide with a significant capital improvement project that includes constructing a new ADA-compliant food service facility, large accessible pavilion, bandshell, and fishing pier, with an estimated project commencement in May 2025 and a 13-month construction timeline. Qualified respondents must provide a revenue sharing proposal that includes a monthly flat fee and percentage of gross sales, with a minimum capital contribution requirement of $500,000. The successful vendor will be expected to comply with sustainability considerations, such as using Green Seal Certified chemicals and implementing eco-friendly practices like alternative utensil ware and reducing single-use plastics. The contract term is anticipated to be five years with potential renewal options, and historically, the current concession service has generated gross sales exceeding $2 million annually. Comprehensive insurance requirements include Workers' Compensation, Commercial General Liability, Business Automobile Liability, Liquor Liability, and Marine Liability, with Sarasota County to be named as an additional insured on several policies.

While no specific set-aside designations are explicitly mentioned, the solicitation appears open to various business types with demonstrated food service and recreational experience. The current incumbent is Venice Pier Group, Inc., which has operated the concession under a contract set to expire on April 30, 2025. The existing infrastructure includes a 2.5-acre property with a restaurant, band shell, and various buildings, which will be significantly upgraded through the ongoing capital improvement project. The new facility will feature a modern kitchen with over 50 pieces of commercial equipment, designed by Sweet Sparkman Architects & Interiors and supported by multiple engineering firms. Potential vendors should note the comprehensive design considers coastal environmental conditions, including specific flood elevation specifications and resilient building materials. While no precise budget is specified, the detailed architectural plans and minimum $500,000 capital contribution suggest a substantial investment opportunity. The successful respondent will have the option to serve beer, wine, and liquor, and will be expected to integrate seamlessly with the park's ecological and recreational mission.