This Week in Local Government On Monday, the Sarasota City Commission will discuss 2026 transportation project priorities. On Tuesday, Tal Siddique will chair his first meeting of the Manatee County Commission and deliver the ‘State of the Chair’ presentation. The Sarasota school superintendent will update board members on the ‘Future Focused Initiative’. Read Article »
Suncoast Searchlight: Gambling dens prey on low-income customers Just 18 inspectors try to rein in hundreds of illegal businesses in Florida. Read Article »
This Week in Local Government On Tuesday, New College will present its updated campus master plan. On Wednesday, Sarasota city planners will review the ‘Saravela’ twin tower project. Read Article »
Committee’s recommendation: Keep the Van Wezel running, but just for now City-appointed climate and preservation experts have made their decision regarding the fate of the ‘purple people-seater.’ Read Article »
North Port city commission explores public-private funding partnerships The move comes amid slowing property tax growth, and after voters said ‘no’ to additional borrowing. Read Article »
Suncoast Searchlight: County public works director defends 2024 storm prep and response Suncoast Searchlight and Florida Trident address Spencer Anderson’s claims. Read Article »
Sarasota-based Planned Parenthood merges with other Florida affiliate There will be no senior leadership layoffs or health center closures, but maybe moving, says the new CEO. Read Article »
Suncoast Searchlight: Sarasota County spending outpaces revenue growth As property values dip, Sheriff’s and other budget boosts will become unsustainable. Read Article »
Sarasota County redirects tourism marketing money to fund sports arena construction In a unanimous vote, county commissioners take a $20 million step towards building an indoor sports venue at Benderson Park. Read Article »
Flood ‘czar’ takes the helm of Sarasota’s new stormwater department Skipping a full search process, the county finds the right man less than a week after creating the department. Read Article »
Developer wants to build an 18-story condo tower in 10-story zone Florida Live Local Act may cut out the city commission from a final say on the Adagio. Read Article »
Sarasota City Commission starts over hiring process for next city manager First order: Searching for a search firm. Read Article »
Immigration information this Wednesday July 9 on Peace & Justice This Wednesday, July 9 at 9am, Tom will talk to Maria Lara, President of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) in Charlotte Harbor and a member of the Immigration Justice Coalition of Southwest Florida. Read Article »