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:
