29 Dec 2023

ANNUAL YEAR IN REVIEW – Pt. 1


January:

Siesta Key incorporation effort wins Delegation support


In opposing latest application for medical marijuana dispensary, Commissioner Moran raises concern about potential for state legalization of hallucinogenic drugs


Requirement for connecting roads in part of Fruitville Initiative planning area eliminated in what county commissioners call ‘common sense’ response


On 4-1 vote, City Commission approves land-use reclassification to make Bahia Vista Apartments project possible near Arlington Park


In February, county to begin publishing legal notices on its website


February:

Saying they were strengthening Sarasota County’s protections for Grand Trees, commissioners unanimously approve County Code changes


Court of Appeal rules against Siesta resident who has tried to halt installation of Avenue B and C stoplight


Mast collects $46,100 in January in her bid for District 1 County Commission seat in 2024 election


Icard Merrill land-use attorneys plead with County Commission for wider array of changes in county’s Coastal Setback Code


March:

 

Short-term vacation rental protections afforded by county ordinance could go away if Town of Siesta Key becomes reality


Seagrass in entirety of Sarasota Bay declines about 6% between 2020 and 2022, Southwest Florida Water Management District research shows


Company working with Sarasota Bay Estuary Program to test process found to kill red tide without harming sea life, similar to technology Mote Marine patented but apparently never tried out on large scale


FDEP has issued only one permit for Mote to test 2006 patented process for removing red tide


April:

 

Administrative law judge rules for Siesta resident in challenge involving Calle Miramar hotel plans


Commissioner Detert dies at her home on April 5


Sarasota Performing Arts Center Foundation wins extension for completion of ‘implementation agreement’ for new venue on The Bay


Tidal restoration initiative a potential solution to water circulation problems in Little Sarasota Bay, County Commission learns


After initially signaling they would oppose the measure, Vice Mayor Alpert and Commissioner Arroyo approve ordinance rescinding vote of approval for apartment complex close to SRQ Airport


May:

 

Siesta Key incorporation bill fails in Legislature


Indian Beach-Sapphire Shores becomes first neighborhood association in Sarasota to endorse proposed clean water amendment to Florida Constitution


Moye’s contract as next county attorney wins commission approval on unanimous vote


Development with as many as 171 homes planned next to county’s Celery Fields


County receives $201.5-million federal grant to address unmet needs in aftermath of Hurricane Ian’s strike


June:

 

15% increase approved as maximum for Sarasota County fire assessments beginning in 2024 fiscal year


With Sarasota County malaria case having been confirmed recently, health officials advising the public to take precautions against mosquito bites


Neighborhood Workshops can continue with virtual formats, County Commission majority decides


Rainford wins governor’s appointment to fill out Detert’s term on County Commission


Sheriff seeking to add 24 new positions in proposed $181-million budget for 2024 fiscal year


Opinion:


Cartoon of the Week