“Lens” Supporters Not Giving Up Yet, Will Hold Campaign Fundraiser July 12

According to a recent post on Facebook, it appears "The Lens" has begun its own "campaign," and is asking for donations.

In the face of increasing frustration by voters about the future of the St. Petersburg Pier, “Build the Lens” supporters are holding a “campaign fundraising event” July 12. The event begins 6 p.m. at the St. Petersburg Museum of History, only a few blocks from the now-abandoned Pier.

This event is to try to raise funds in support of the divisive issue, in advance of the Aug. 27 citywide referendum to decide the fate of Michael Maltzan's Lens concept. The money will be used for “yard signs, buttons, bumper stickers, T-shirts, etc.”

As for the Facebook post, one user questioned the need for a fundraiser, since the City has already spent nearly $3 million on the Lens design.

It has become apparent that "The Lens" supporters need to bolster the project’s profile in the community. In a survey by StPetePolls released June 17, a majority of residents are unhappy with the Lens. Nearly 63 percent of over 1500 registered voters surveyed opposed the construction, compared to almost 27 percent favoring the idea. Ten percent remains undecided.

The most common explanation of the opposition to "The Lens" is that the people did not get a voice.  More than 35 percent of respondents said it was because they did not have a vote on the future of the Pier.

The next biggest reason was the design, with 18 percent saying they just didn’t like how it looks.

The St. Petersburg Museum of History is located at 335 Second Ave. NE. Tickets are $25 and include appetizers, desserts and entertainment.

Also at the Museum is a view of the iconic inverted pyramid of the Pier, closed since June 1.