SUMMER “DOG DAYS” ISSUE
LATE BREAKING NEWS:
In County Commission District 1 race, Hutchinson advocates for stricter controls on land development while incumbent Moran has taken in considerable amount of money from developers and real estate firms
Weeks after dredging began in Big Pass, FDEP finally posts compliance reports, following repeated Siesta Key Association requests for transparency
Total number of vote-by-mail ballots requested ahead of Aug. 18 Primary already about 30% higher than previous record, set for November 2018 General Election
Sarasota County voters urged to return vote-by-mail ballots promptly for the Aug. 18 Primary
Sarasota County Area Transit launches online survey
Supervisor of elections to voters: ‘Please consider voting early!’ for Aug. 18 Primary
TOP STORIES:
Suspect in vandalism at synagogues released on $45,000 bond
City Commission keeps millage rate at same level for 2021 fiscal year
Campaign finance reports detail backing for District 2 candidates in Sarasota City Commission race
County commissioners offer to take steps staff can suggest to speed up improvements to Bee Ridge Water Reclamation Facility
On split vote, City Commission accepts — but refuses to adopt — transportation master plan proposed by staff and consultant
Water rates for customers of Sarasota County Public Utilities to rise 1.5% starting Oct. 1 and another 2% in the 2022 fiscal year
With Commissioner Brody protesting the action, City Commission increases fines for noise violations
Proposals for two new Siesta Key hotels also call for changes in residential density calculations for Sarasota County’s barrier islands
39 arts and cultural organizations to benefit from about $1.7 million in county grants for the 2021 fiscal year
Site adjustment planned for Mote Science Education Aquarium at Benderson Park, with county administrator authorized to execute changes to county’s agreement with nonprofit
CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE (free):
Sarasota County staff seeking comments from local nonprofits regarding Coronavirus Relief Fund/CARES Act funds for which they may be eligible
Hines again seeks action regarding use of face coverings to help prevent spread of COVID-19
Mandatory mask ordinance in City of Sarasota amended to allow use of face shields, but proposal to require children under 18 to wear face coverings fails
Eight new COVID-19 cases reported among Sarasota County employees
OPINION (free):