Jul 25, 2025 SUMMER VACATION MULTI-ISSUE TOP STORIES: Interim Sarasota city manager recommends slight increase in millage rate for 2026 fiscal year to build up reserves in aftermath of dealing with 2024 storm expenses Violent crime down nearly 63% in Sarasota County from 2009 to 2024, sheriff reports to County Commission Colson Hotel plans call for transformation of historic structure into ‘space for community and ideas,’ with focus on young people Griggs removes request for salary boost from July 21 City Commission agenda Demolition of dam in Phillippi Creek among projects to be delayed after County Commission agrees to $10-million budget amendment to pay for immediate stormwater maintenance needs After request regarding Siesta stormwater maintenance, following May 12 flooding, county Public Works staff provides Siesta Key Beautification Alliance leader more than 900 pages of reports 2nd robbery with similar suspect and circumstances occurs July 18 at USF Credit Union on Clark Road Thanks to Beach Club employee’s 911 call about smelling smoke, Lobster Pot ends up with minor fire damage With tweaks to questions and criteria for new manager, Sarasota City Commission approves materials to be sent to three firms vying to handle city manager search Office of County Attorney opinion calls for Sheriff’s Office expansion and renovations project to be handled by County Commission-controlled department Registered sex offender in city of Sarasota charged with new counts related to incidents involving victim under age of 16 Contractor’s crew breaks sewer force main near Lorraine Road-Bee Ridge Road intersection, leading to spill of 7,000 gallons of sewage An estimated 3,000 to 4,000 gallons of sewage spills on Beachwalk Drive in Englewood after lift station equipment problem occurs Gulf Coast Community Foundation releases refreshed Water Quality Playbook (free) Sarasota city residents encouraged to participate in transportation survey, with Aug. 10 deadline set (free) OTHER NEWS (free): Sarasota Memorial campuses recognized as role model for lifesaving stroke and heart care Selby Gardens announces details of 45th Annual Juried Photo Exhibition ‘Early bird’ tickets on sale for Big Waters’ Party in Paradise Deputy Binkley named community affairs manager for Sheriff’s Office Early childhood mental health specialist with Children First selected for Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce 2026 Adult Leadership Class
