December 12, 2025 Edition TOP STORIES: Protect Siesta Key files legal challenge of County Commission’s approval of Coastal Setback Variance to settle Holderness’ federal lawsuit regarding private Siesta beach property Staging underway for dredging of Phillippi Creek Thanks to county investment in Advanced Wastewater Treatment process and expansion, Bee Ridge Water Reclamation Facility drawing visitors from other countries Proposed Sperling Park Idle Speed zone hearing on County Commission agenda for Dec. 16 Use of new day dock slips in part of Bay Park to cost $2 per hour, City Commission decides Deputy county attorney continues to assert that Saba Sands II did not act in timely manner to file legal challenge of County Commission’s denial of Coastal Setback Variance ‘Bed tax’ revenue for October takes 52% jump Having applied for Sarasota County grants for stormwater initiatives, City of Sarasota launches website to keep residents informed 39-year-old North Port man charged with attempted burglary of occupied residence in Venice 46-year-old Sarasota man charged with five felony drug counts, including trafficking in cocaine OTHER NEWS (free): Dec. 13 the date for 39th Annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights ‘All the Beauty in the World’ the 2026 Sarasota County One Book selection 2025 ‘Shop with a Cop’ event to take place Dec. 13 with Sarasota Police Department officers Community Foundation of Sarasota County invests nearly $900,000 in strategic partnerships with key nonprofits Osprey Library and History Center extends hours Sarasota County Fire Department Fire Station Open Houses return in 2026 Sarasota Police Department Marine Patrol removes derelict vessel from Hudson Bayou
