Sarasota City Commission

Since 2013, the division has received at least $3.9 million in subsidies and loans from the city’s general fund and still owes more than $1.6 million — more than the parking fund’s entire projected balance for the coming year.

The city will now revert to its former parking hours and hourly rates — with free parking on Sundays and paid parking ending at 8 p.m. during the week – while the increased charges for citations will stay in effect.

The city will focus on modernizing the mechanical and electrical equipment at its 12th Street facility. Three electrical buildings will be torn down and consolidated into one, with a new backup generator.

National polling shows a favorable political environment for Democrats in 2026. That could extend all the way down-ballot to a county commission race.

The long-discussed rowing facility has evolved into a proposed 100,000-square-foot recreation complex expected to cost as much as $70 million, with Sarasota County already committing $20 million in tourist tax dollars.

Mayor Debbie Trice twice interrupted speakers during the public input portion of the commission’s Jan. 5 meeting, warning them that they could not make “personal attacks” or refer to commissioners by name.

The item drew criticism over its timing, lack of comparative salary data and the optics of awarding such a large raise as the city considers tax hikes and a pay freeze for most employees.

If Sarasota city commissioners approve the condo, Bay Plaza residents say they’ll take the fight to circuit court — a move that could push their costs far higher and prolong the battle for years.

At an April 4 city commission meeting, the proposed partnership with the Van Wezel Foundation was approved 3-2. Opponents say there are aspects in the plan they don’t understand.

Business owners and community members complain that the homeless and panhandlers are harassing visitors downtown.

A goal to create an African American Art Center and History Museum in Sarasota is getting closer to reality. This fall, a historic home will be moved to the city's Newtown neighborhood as a starter facility.

The Sarasota City Commission this week debated if it needs an ordinance beefing up oversight of vacation rentals.