RUSKIN - Little Harbor's developer recently stopped managing the Ruskin property, but the resort hasn't fallen into disrepair, as some feared. Instead, a new management company has stepped in.

Robert Newhart worked for the developer, EarthMark, as Little Harbor's general manger since 2003. But after his contract expired at the end of April, he started his own company, South Shore Hospitality Management.

Newhart's title and office haven't changed, nor have the 120 employees, who were able to keep their jobs. Residents won't see many changes, he said.

Newhart has a month-to-month contract with EarthMark to manage the onsite restaurant. And he's got a yearlong contract with a court-appointed receiver to manage the Harborside Condominium.

The receiver was recently appointed on behalf of AmTrust Bank to manage the condo building. The bank, which began foreclosure proceedings on the developer-owned portions of the condo building, was concerned about the property losing value when EarthMark stopped managing the resort.

Newhart says he hopes to see Little Harbor through the tough economy. There is a marketing campaign in the works, and he's dedicated to spreading the word that Little Harbor has the best sunsets in the county.

"I believe the property will come back," he said.

Jessica Vander Velde can be reached at jvandervelde@sptimes.com or (813) 661-2443.