Deer Island moves closer to commercial development
Biloxi opened the door to the possibility of commercial development on Deer Island Tuesday, but some city officials said ever seeing the project come to fruition is a long shot. The reason is that the condo-hotel project must go through the Mississippi Secretary of State’s office.
At Tuesday’s meeting, the council approved changing eight privately owned acres of Deer Island from agricultural to waterfront. However, the city made it a layover district, which prohibits casinos.
Land owner Larry Mitrenga said he has no interest in a casino or in flipping the property. The Oasis at Deer Island is Mitrenga’s dream. The development includes eight three-story buildings, of which two will be condos. The plans includes a free ferry to take passengers back and forth from the Kuhn Street pier.
“You’ve got the pavilion. You’ve got a place to eat. You’ve got other amenities that make it bearable to do the tour through Deer Island,” said Mitrenga.
WLOX
4/17/12
Magnolia Tribune
