Developer to build homes, give away Teslas

MANATEE — The Manatee County Commission approved plans for a new community in Cortez called Hunters Point Resort and Marina.

The plans were presented at a land use meeting Jan. 11. The project can now move forward, with 86 homes to be built by Pearl Homes and 62 lodge-style properties designed for extended-stay rentals.

The homes will have 500 square feet of under-air living space and 1,450 square feet of total usable space, with rooftop and exterior decks. The lodges will have 800 square feet of interior living space and waterfront porches. According to a press release, each Hunters Point property comes with a new electric-powered Tesla vehicle — highlighting the community's focus on energy efficiency.

Marshall Gobuty is the principal and founder of Pearl Homes. He also developed Mirabella in Bradenton, which has been recognized by the U.S. Green Building Council for its environmentally friendly features. Gobuty discussed the Hunters Point project in more detail in an article in the Business Observer in May.

The Hunters Point homes will also have rooftop solar panels and electric car charging stations. They will be designed to reflect a modern interpretation of Florida's cracker cottages of the early 20th century.

Gobuty says in a statement, "Hunters Point will be the model community for sustainable design across the country."