Public Meetings - Sarasota, Florida

This special meeting of the Sarasota City Commission focused on selecting a permanent city manager, approving an interim city manager agreement, and addressing the impact of the federal government shutdown on FEMA reimbursements for park projects. The meeting began at 1:00 PM and adjourned at 2:02 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - Peter Blanton (Sarasota resident) spoke in favor of finalist Chris Rodriguez, citing his prior residence in Sarasota, experience in diverse communities, and ability to work with the business community. He did not express opposition to other candidates. - Christine Robinson (on behalf of the Argus Foundation) commended the commission for the search process and offered general considerations for the new city manager: urban experience, transparency, strength against bullying, culture shift, integrity, and a balance of vision and fiscal responsibility. She did not give a specific recommendation. Discussion Items - City Manager Search Selection (Agenda Item II-1) – The Commission reviewed the five finalists. Each commissioner advocated for their preferred candidates: - Commissioner Alpert: Kari Friling (top pick). - Vice Mayor Ohlrich: Kari Friling. - Mayor Trice: Troy Anderson and Kari Friling. - Commissioner Ahearn-Koch: Kari Friling, Troy Anderson, and Chris Rodriguez. - Commissioner Battie: Kari Friling, Troy Anderson, and Chris Rodriguez. After discussion, Vice Mayor Ohlrich moved to make a conditional offer to Kari Friling and begin contract negotiations. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Alpert and passed unanimously (5-0). A subsequent motion by Commissioner Battie, seconded by Commissioner Alpert, directed the City Attorney to negotiate the employment agreement with Ms. Friling and return for final approval; this also passed 5-0. - Interim City Manager Agreement (Agenda Item II-2) – The Commission approved an employment agreement with Jennifer Jorgensen (current Director of Governmental Affairs) to serve as Interim City Manager, effective March 6, 2026, at 5:01 PM. The agreement remains in effect until the permanent city manager assumes the role. The motion by Commissioner Alpert, seconded by Vice Mayor Ohlrich, passed 5-0. - Other Matters – FEMA Reimbursement Pause (Agenda Item III) – Interim City Manager David Bullock reported that the partial federal government shutdown (specifically the Department of Homeland Security not being funded) has halted FEMA reimbursement processes. Staff paused construction at several parks to avoid jeopardizing future reimbursement. Affected parks include Bayfront Park, Sabrita Pier, Bird Key Park, Nora Patterson Bay Island Park, Indian Beach Park, Whitaker Park, and El Reswern Park. The total aggregate reimbursement risk is approximately $8 million. The Commission was informed that they could choose to proceed with construction at any time, accepting the risk of losing reimbursement. Staff will provide monthly updates. Commissioner Ahearn-Koch briefly explored using TIF funds for Whitaker Park but abandoned the idea upon learning the cost ($1.62 million). Commissioners expressed concerns about demobilization/remobilization costs and contractor availability. Key Outcomes - Conditional offer to Kari Friling for permanent City Manager position, with contract negotiations authorized (5-0 vote). - Approval of Interim City Manager Agreement for Jennifer Jorgensen, effective March 6, 2026, at 5:01 PM (5-0 vote). - Staff directed to pause FEMA-related park construction and provide monthly updates on the shutdown situation; the Commission retains the option to override the pause. - No action taken on the agenda item for retaining an acoustic consultant (Item III.1); it was not discussed during the meeting.

The Sarasota City Commission held a special meeting on February 24, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 5:34 PM, to conduct interviews with five finalists for the City Manager position. The meeting included public comment, a vote on interview procedures, and sequential interviews with each finalist. The Commission resolved to continue deliberations at a special meeting on February 27, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Martin Hyde (non-city resident) displayed a table comparing salary and total compensation costs for Sarasota County employees, arguing that the total cost to employ the County Administrator is approximately $400,000+ per year, not the listed salary. He urged the Commission to seek truthful information from candidates. - Steve Martinucci (city resident) discussed concerns with the city's noise ordinance, including confusion between decibel and plainly audible standards, limited availability of trained officers and approved meters, and enforcement challenges in court. He suggested using iPhone apps for sound level measurements and called for legal and judicial review of enforceability. Discussion Items - Interview Procedures Approval: The Commission unanimously approved (5-0) the "City Commission Interview Procedures" as distributed, establishing a standardized format for candidate interviews, including time limits, question guidelines, and prohibited topics. - Candidate Interviews: Five finalists were interviewed in the following order: Troy Anderson (11:16 AM – 12:08 PM), Karie Friling (1:16 PM – 2:11 PM), Harry Black (2:15 PM – 3:07 PM), Kemarr Brown (3:22 PM – 4:16 PM), and Chris Rodriguez (4:20 PM – 5:18 PM). Each candidate gave a three-minute opening statement, answered questions from each commissioner in 10-minute blocks, and delivered a five-minute closing statement. Questions focused on strategic planning, budget processes, controversial projects, employee morale, data-driven management, and fit for Sarasota. - Staff Feedback: The Commission discussed the possibility of gathering input from city staff who met with the candidates. Interim City Manager Bullock confirmed that the leadership team (directors and general managers) attended the candidate meetings and that a list of attendees would be provided via email. Commissioner Ahearn-Koch requested the list, and Commissioner Alpert suggested staff be invited to share their impressions with commissioners directly. Key Outcomes - Approved interview procedures (5-0). - Conducted public interviews of all five finalists. - The Commission reached consensus not to discuss the candidates during the February 24 meeting and to hold a deliberation at a special meeting on February 27, 2026. - The Commission agreed to prepare for the February 27 discussion by individually gathering input from staff and the community, and then deliberating together. Commissioner Alpert suggested each commissioner come prepared to discuss their top two or three candidates and the reasons. The Commission also considered a possible break after initial discussion to refine choices. - The interim city manager will provide a list of staff who attended candidate meetings via email. Note: No final decision on the City Manager appointment was made at this meeting.

The Sarasota City Commission held its Regular Meeting on February 17, 2026, convening at 9:00 AM and adjourning at 2:56 PM with a lunch recess. The agenda included presentations, citizen input, approvals of consent agendas, legislative and quasi-judicial public hearings, and discussions on financial reserves and stormwater management. Consent Calendar - Approved Consent Agenda No. 1 items (VI-1, VI-2, VI-4, VI-6): landscape bed maintenance, LED lighting services, right-of-way registration for Tillman FiberCo, and a sodium hypochlorite supply agreement. - Approved Item VI-3 (removed): Fundraising Agreement with Big Waters Land Trust for the Nature Park at Bobby Jones Golf Club ($3.5 million target). - Approved Item VI-5 (removed): Lift Station No. 2 Improvements contract with Sequoia Construction Group ($1,382,185.00). - Approved Consent Agenda No. 2 items (VII-1, VII-2, VII-3): budget resolutions for WCIND grants and a facility vehicle replacement. - Approved Item VII-4 (removed): Adopted Ordinance No. 26-5589 for the Boys & Girls Club rezoning and site plan. Public Comments & Testimony - Martin Hyde raised concerns about the HR Director's departure, the $600,000 cost of City Hall bathroom renovations, the interim City Manager turnover, and the City Manager executive search process. - Stephen Martin Nucci (noted as an anonymous speaker in the official minutes) requested stricter noise ordinance revisions, including extended residential quiet hours (10pm to 7am) and reduced plainly audible distance standards. - Henry Kahwaty detailed zoning barriers for home elevation projects, specifically addressing setbacks, daylight plane requirements, and building coverage restrictions on barrier islands. - Trevor Falk requested active enforcement of the vehicle noise ordinance, focusing on intentional engine and exhaust noise, and proposed establishing residential noise zones. - Camilla Cherry (noted as an anonymous speaker in the official minutes) addressed noise complaints in the Newtown community, disputing reports against a local establishment and defending weekend evening activities. - David Lowe questioned the fairness and process of potentially expanding the Downtown Improvement District (DID) tax assessment to residential properties. Discussion Items - Charter Official Evaluations: Commissioners deliberated on the completed evaluations, praising the self-assessment format. A primary point of discussion was the unique and expanded role of the City Auditor and Clerk, which combines duties not typically seen in other municipalities. Commissioners debated how to fairly evaluate compensation for this combined role. - Lightshare Lease (XII.1): The Third Addendum and Restated Lease was introduced to formally incorporate the newly approved building expansion. Commissioner Ahearn-Koch led a discussion on modernizing the document, specifically requesting the removal of gendered pronouns in the definition of the City Manager. - Natural Disaster Collection Reserve (XII.2): Staff presented the $5 million reserve proposal. Commissioners questioned the rationale for the amount, the timeline for building the reserve, activation triggers, the impact on ratepayers versus the general fund, and the mechanics of FEMA reimbursement. - Stormwater Management (XII.3): City and County staff delivered a joint presentation on the integrated stormwater system. Key points of discussion included the city-county interlocal agreement, basin-based watershed dynamics, the county's increased maintenance frequencies, dredging projects (Philippi Creek, Whitaker Bayou), the RainCheck rebate program, and the future of the interlocal agreement. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes from January 5 (Special), January 16 (Joint), and January 20, 2026 meetings. (Vote: 5-0) - Accepted the General Employees' Defined Benefit Pension Plan (GEPP) Board of Trustees Annual Report. (Vote: 5-0) - Adopted Resolution 26R-3369 (South Poinsettia Park street lighting assessment district) with an amendment to Section 3C. (Vote: 5-0) - Adopted Resolution 26R-3374 (St. Armands and Lido Key utility undergrounding assessment district). (Vote: 5-0) - Approved Lightshare's Site Plan (24-SP-17) and Major Conditional Use (24-CU-03) for a building addition adding 34 treatment beds. (Vote: 5-0) - Authorized execution of the Third Addendum and Restated Lease Agreement with Lightshare. (Vote: 5-0) - Adopted Resolution 26R-3372, establishing the $5 million Natural Disaster Collection (NDC) Reserve policy within the Solid Waste Fund. (Vote: 5-0) - Accepted the Stormwater Management presentation and the Annual Sarasota County Stormwater Environmental Utility Update. (Vote: 5-0) - Directed Human Resources to complete a compensation evaluation for the City Auditor and Clerk and report back with a recommendation. - Approved using the same evaluation format for Charter Officials in FY 2025-2026. - City Attorney Polzak formally requested Shade (Attorney-Client) meetings for three pending lawsuits to discuss litigation strategy and settlement. - Noted the withdrawal of City Manager finalist Mr. Gleason from the ongoing search.

Summary The Sarasota City Commission held a special meeting on February 10, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 3:19 PM to discuss and select six finalists for the city manager position from a pool of 38 semi-finalists. After extensive deliberation, including a straw poll, discussion of candidates, and ranked-choice voting, the commission narrowed the list to six finalists. They also approved funding for travel for finalists and a plus-one, and appointed an interim city manager. Public Comments & Testimony - Martin Hyde (non-city resident): Spoke twice. First, he criticized the city's $7.1 million land purchase made 20 months ago, stating it has cost the city $500,000 in lost interest income and is costing $25,000 per month. He displayed a stuffed camel as a "proverbial horse designed by committee" and urged the city to exit the development business. Second, he questioned why the commission would hire a new city manager when the former permanent city manager is still acting as an unofficial city manager, presenting text messages between commissioners and staff as evidence. He argued the former manager is still influencing decisions. Discussion Items - City Manager Semi-Finalist Candidates (Agenda Item II.1): - Warren Hutmacher of Sumter Local Government Consulting (the search firm) presented the process. He noted that 38 candidates were interviewed (4 withdrew from the original 42). The firm recommended six finalists but emphasized the commission's choice. Commissioners discussed the difficulty of narrowing from 38 to 6. - Commissioners shared their individual ranking processes. Some used tiers (e.g., group one/two/three), while others ranked by stars or gut instinct. Many expressed a desire for more direct interaction (phone/Zoom interviews) before finalizing the list. - Commissioner Ahearn-Koch proposed postponing the finalist selection to allow commissioners to arrange Zoom/telephone interviews with the 10 candidates remaining after an initial straw poll. This motion failed 2-3 (Mayor Trice, Vice Mayor Ohlrich, Commissioner Alpert voting no). - A motion to use a simple vote for six candidates (without ranking) died for lack of a second. Subsequently, a motion to use ranked-choice voting passed 4-1 (Commissioner Ahearn-Koch voting no). - Each commissioner verbally ranked their top six candidates. The tallies were compiled and announced. - Phase 4 and 5 Planning: Hutmacher outlined the schedule for in-person finalist interviews on February 23-24, 2026, including one-on-one commissioner interviews (up to 1 hour each), a leadership team session, a public open house (5:30-8:00 PM on Feb. 23), a city tour on Feb. 24, and a special commission meeting for finalist group interviews (starting at 11:00 AM on Feb. 24). The commission discussed allowing candidates to bring a spouse/partner. - Commissioner Ahearn-Koch expressed reluctance about paying for a plus-one but ultimately the motion to fund travel for finalists plus one passed 4-1 (Commissioner Ahearn-Koch voting no). - The commission unanimously approved Phase 4 and Phase 5 (selection, conditional offer, contract negotiation) with the discussed changes. - Other Matters (Agenda Item III): - Interim City Manager Appointment: Interim City Manager Dave Bullock recommended appointing Governmental Affairs Director Jennifer Jorgensen as Interim City Manager upon his departure on March 6, 2026. The commission unanimously approved the appointment and directed the City Attorney's office to draft a contract. - Condolences: Commissioner Battie acknowledged the passing of Cindy Shoffstall, wife of Carl Shoffstall, and extended condolences. Key Outcomes - Finalist Selection: The commission selected the following six candidates as finalists for the city manager position (approved 5-0): 1. Harry Black 2. Chris Rodriguez 3. Kemarr Brown 4. Troy Anderson 5. Tim Gleason 6. Kari Friling - Travel Funding: Approved funding for travel arrangements (airfare, hotel, meals) for the six finalists and a plus-one (spouse or partner) to visit Sarasota on February 23-24, 2026. (Motion passed 4-1) - Interview Schedule: Approved Phase 4 (In-Person Finalist Interviews) and Phase 5 (Selection, Conditional Offer, Contract Negotiation) as discussed, including a special meeting on February 27, 2026 to select the preferred candidate. (Motion passed 5-0) - Interim City Manager: Appointed Jennifer Jorgensen as Interim City Manager effective March 6, 2026, with a contract to be drafted by the City Attorney. (Motion passed 5-0) - Straw Poll Results (Pre-Ranked Choice): Initial straw poll tallies (before final ranked-choice) included: Harry Black (5 votes), Chris Rodriguez (5 after addition), Kamar Brown (4), Troy Anderson (4), Randy Robertson (4), Tim Gleason (3), Peter Scalera (3), Karie Friling (3), Emilie LaGrow (3), Tony Palermo (3). These were later narrowed via ranked-choice voting.

The Sarasota City Commission met on Monday, February 2, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 4:24 PM in City Hall Chambers. The agenda included approval of homeless outreach funding, a revised budget calendar, a land‑use change for the Marian Anderson Place Brownfield site, the Bobby Jones Golf Club clubhouse design, a comprehensive procurement code overhaul, new day‑dock fees at Bay Park, and direction on historic preservation for the Payne Park Auditorium. Public comment addressed noise ordinance reform, flood mitigation, special events scheduling, and historic designation of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Consent Calendar - Item VI‑1 – Homeless Outreach Team Beds: Removed from consent per Commissioner Ahearn‑Koch for a staff presentation. Authorized the Mayor and City Clerk to execute a $410,365 annual agreement with The Salvation Army for 25 beds (unanimous, 5‑0). Commissioner Alpert clarified that no fee is charged to clients; entry is via criminal diversion or outreach. Homelessness Response Coordinator Shellie Legarsky stated 361 individuals used the beds in 2025. The Commission voiced strong support for the program. - Item VI‑2 – 2026‑2027 Budget Calendar: Removed for discussion. Approved the calendar as proposed, with direction to add a second public workshop between July 28 and the September public hearings (5‑0). Financial Director Kelly Strickland presented; Vice Mayor Ohlrich suggested the additional workshop. Interim City Manager David Bullock stated staff would plan the workshop. - Items VI‑3 through VI‑7 (Ted Sperling Parking, cemetery maintenance, electrical services, architectural services, sewer manhole rehabilitation) approved collectively (5‑0). - Item VII‑1 – Budget Resolution 26R‑3375: Transfers $25,000 for Workday fees; approved (5‑0). Public Comments & Testimony - Citizens’ Input (Morning): - Steve Martinucci (City resident) requested residential noise zones with a 15‑ to 50‑foot plainly audible standard and elimination of the school noise exemption. Cited Orlando’s zoning as a model. - Henry Kowani (St. Armand’s resident) requested zoning code modifications to allow elevation of existing homes after Hurricane flooding. He described his goal to elevate 12 feet. - Jim Lampl (downtown resident) urged the Commission to be more accessible to the public and warned against censorship, citing a recent court case. - Ron Shapiro (City resident) opposed the proposed 1260 North Palm (Obsidian) project, detailing perceived non‑compliance with city regulations, including taking of public sidewalk for parking. He called on the Commission to deny the project. - David Lowe (President, DSCA) requested updates on the special events ordinance, the sound ordinance, the Ceravella project, and a strategic plan to guide the budget. - Lorrie Muldowney (Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation) announced the Florida Department of State found the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall potentially eligible for the National Register of Historic Places for architecture. - Ronnique Hawkins (City resident, NAACP representative) submitted loud‑car survey results from Newtown (2023) showing community demand for noise ordinance enforcement. - Public Hearing – Procurement Code (Item X‑1): - Martin Hyde (non‑city resident) criticized the proposed increase in the City Manager’s contract approval authority from $200,000 to $500,000 and alleged recent procurement failures (e.g., City Hall restroom renovations). He urged the Commission to reject what he called a “power grab.” - Public Hearing – Day Dock Fees (Item X‑2): No public speakers. - New Business – Payne Park Auditorium (Item XII‑1): - Katie Weiss (Board Chair, The Players, Inc.) opposed exterior historic designation, arguing lease‑based protections are sufficient and that designation would add future regulatory constraints. - Lorrie Muldowney and Dave Baber (Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation) supported exterior designation, stating it ensures long‑term protection and provides building‑code flexibility after disasters. - Pearlie Freiberg (City resident) questioned whether a community theater lease is permitted in the G‑zone; City Attorney Polzak and Economic Development Manager Applebee indicated the lease was vetted and is permissible. - Citizens’ Input (Afternoon): - Cullen Andrew (CMO, Guard Against Trafficking) offered partnership opportunities to combat human trafficking. - Shellie Freeland Eddie (attorney for Lashedra Lyons‑Cummings) reported her client was injured in a fall due to uncleared hurricane debris near Janie’s Garden and requested city attention to sidewalk safety. Discussion Items - Marian Anderson Place Land‑Use Change (Item IX‑1): Second reading of Ordinance 25‑5581, changing 9.22 acres from Community Commercial to Production Intensive Commercial. Manager of Long‑Range Planning David Smith and Economic Development Manager Wayne Applebee presented. Commissioner Ahearn‑Koch read the site‑specific limitation (no salvage/recycling outdoors). Commissioner Battie commended the developer, Newtown Gateway LLC. Adopted (5‑0). - Bobby Jones Clubhouse Third Amendment (Item IX‑2): Extended debate on whether to proceed with a one‑story design (staff recommendation) or revert to a two‑story design. After two failed motions (one to deny the one‑story and proceed with two‑story, 2‑3; one to bring back a conceptual two‑story with smaller footprint, 2‑3), the Commission approved the third amendment for $514,957 for one‑story design (3‑2). Mayor Trice, Vice Mayor Ohlrich, and Commissioner Ahearn‑Koch voted yes; Commissioners Alpert and Battie voted no. Key points raised: $4 million cost savings with one‑story vs. two‑story; potential revenue from restaurant; risk of further delays with redesign; impact on parks funding. - Budget Resolution 26R‑3376 for Bobby Jones Clubhouse (Item IX‑3): Established $1,179,006 expenditure budget. Approved (3‑2) with same vote split. - Procurement Code Overhaul (Item X‑1): Public hearing on Ordinance 26‑5588. Staff (Jennifer Jorgensen, Renee Hayes, attorney Robert Eschenfelder) presented major changes: increased thresholds, new exemptions, city manager authority to approve contracts up to $500,000, removal of some current exemptions, and addition of IT purchase exemption. Commission discussion focused on the city manager approval cap and local preference. Vice Mayor Ohlrich moved to amend the motion to: (1) rename “Administrative Procedures” to “Procurement Procedures” for Section 2‑370, (2) add Section 2‑348 (IT Exemptions), and (3) remove the local preference section. Amendment adopted (5‑0). Main motion as amended approved on first reading (5‑0). - Day Dock Fees at Bay Park (Item X‑2): Public hearing on Ordinance 26‑5591. Parking Manager Broxton Harvey presented $2/hour, 5‑hour maximum, $10 daily max, enforcement via mobile app, hours 8 AM – 8 PM. Commissioners discussed hours, enforcement, and data tracking. Approved on first reading (5‑0). - Payne Park Auditorium Historic Designation (Item XII‑1): Senior Planner Susan Dodd presented. After extensive discussion, Commissioner Ahearn‑Koch moved to: (1) direct the City Manager to consent to improvements per the January 16 joint letter, (2) revise the lease to protect eight historic elements, (3) allow The Players, Inc. to occupy, and (4) after the first performance season, pursue exterior historic designation. Seconded by Commissioner Battie. Passed (4‑1), with Commissioner Alpert dissenting (opposed exterior designation at any future date). The Commission expressed hope for continued collaboration between the Alliance and The Players. Key Outcomes - Homeless Outreach Beds: Approved contract with Salvation Army for $410,365 (5‑0). - Budget Calendar: Approved with addition of second public workshop (5‑0). - Marian Anderson Land‑Use: Adopted Ordinance 25‑5581 on second reading (5‑0). - Bobby Jones Clubhouse: Approved third amendment for one‑story design ($514,957) – 3‑2; approved budget resolution ($1,179,006) – 3‑2. - Procurement Code: Approved Ordinance 26‑5588 on first reading with amendments to remove local preference, add IT exemption, and rename section – (5‑0). - Day Dock Fees: Approved Ordinance 26‑5591 on first reading (5‑0). - Payne Park Auditorium: Directed City Manager to implement joint letter protections and pursue exterior historic designation after first season – (4‑1). - Future Agenda Items: Direction to staff to research modifying zoning for home elevation (Commissioner Alpert); request for disparity study (Commissioner Battie); request for presentation on Van Wezel next steps and FEMA reimbursement update (Vice Mayor Ohlrich); Mayor Trice noted invitation to Longboat Key and Venice Commissions for April 15 ethics class. - Staff Reports: City Attorney Polzak noted the Burns Square parking agreement was finalized; the Obsidian (1260 North Palm) matter will return for a quasi‑judicial hearing on May 4, 2026, after a FLUEDRA mediation process.

The Sarasota City Commission met on January 20, 2026, at 9:01 AM, adjourning at 11:35 AM. The meeting covered a proclamation, consent agendas, a quasi-judicial public hearing, a discussion on comprehensive plan updates, and citizen input. All votes were unanimous (5-0). Consent Calendar - Minutes of December 1, 2025 – Approved (5-0). - Consent Agenda No. 1 Items 1-3 – Approved (5-0): - Annual Investment Performance Review for FY 2025. - Master agreements for park and playground equipment (nine vendors). - Sanitary sewer main line lining & rehabilitation (two contractors; estimated annual amount $1,000,000). - Item Removed from Consent No. 1 (VI-4) – After discussion, approved unanimously (5-0): - Authorizing a purchase order of $1,461,421 with F.H. Paschen, S.N. Nielsen & Assoc. for lateral lining using a Sourcewell contract. Utilities staff presented the cured-in-place pipe lining process, explaining cost savings and reduced disruption. - Consent Agenda No. 2 (VII-1) – Adoption of Resolution No. 26R-3373, opposing offshore oil and gas drilling in the eastern Gulf of America. Approved unanimously (5-0) after brief presentation. Public Comments & Testimony - Citizens’ Input (III) – Two speakers: - Jim Lampl (city resident) read the First Amendment and the city’s Pledge of Public Conduct, asking for clarification on “personal attacks” and urging the Commission to foster open debate. - Andrea Ronchini (business owner, Donathan Bigel Cafe) reported a 50–60% loss of business due to construction on North Tamiami Trail, stating the family may have to close and lose immigration status. The Interim City Manager noted signs have been posted and a meeting was scheduled. - Quasi-Judicial Public Hearing (XI.1) – Citizens spoke in support of the Boys & Girls Club project: - Bill Sadlow (CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties) described the facility’s impact, including a larger kitchen for culinary training and a food pantry, and noted zero summer slide for club members. - Carolyn Mason (Newtown resident, housing authority board member) expressed strong community support, citing the club’s positive history. - William Russell (housing authority) highlighted the long partnership and the redevelopment of the entire campus. - Later Citizens’ Input (XIII) – Martin Hyde (former resident) commented on the Commission’s handling of First Amendment rights, urging respect for speakers and against premature gaveling. Discussion Items - Proclamation (I.1) – Recognized January 20, 2026 as “Jewish Family & Children’s Service of Suncoast (JFCS) 40th Anniversary Day.” Presented to Dr. Helene Lotman and Dr. Stacy Barrera. - Quasi-Judicial Public Hearing (XI.1) – Ordinance No. 26-5589 to rezone ±4.49 acres at 1790 21st Street from RMF-2 to Governmental (G), approve site plan (25-SP-02) for a new 21,760 sq. ft. multi-purpose building, covered play area, and athletic field, and affirm conditional use (25-CU-01) for community service uses. Applicant Joel Freedman (Boys & Girls Club) outlined the project: the existing 21,197 sq. ft. building will be demolished after new construction; the club will remain operational during construction. Staff planner Camden Jenkins confirmed compliance with all standards, noting 110 trees on site (36 removed, 1 grand tree removed due to poor health) and a community workshop with two attendees. Commission questions addressed site circulation, sidewalk improvements, and stormwater. The Planning Board’s condition (demolition only after TCO/CO) was incorporated. - New Business (XII.1) – Discussion of updates to various chapters of the Sarasota City Plan (Comprehensive Plan). Manager of Long-Range Planning David Smith presented a multi-year schedule: transportation chapter and population projections (2026), historic preservation, governmental coordination, recreation/open space (late 2026), utilities, housing, environment, coastal, schools, capital improvements, future land use, and neighborhood chapter (2027–2028). Staff will hold open houses and work with advisory boards. Commissioners expressed support for public involvement. - Commissioner Remarks (XIV) – - Commissioner Ahearn-Koch proposed a future agenda item to study tiny homes, container homes, and small homes for affordability. Consensus to have staff prepare a presentation. - Ahearn-Koch also raised parking concerns in Burns Court; Interim City Manager Bullock reported ongoing twice-daily vacancy counts, contact with two property owners, and a draft parking agreement under review. - Vice Mayor Ohlrich requested confirmation of the evaluation form for next year (to be addressed later). - Mayor Trice announced candidate forums by the League of Cities and thanked organizers of MLK events and a public art dedication. Key Outcomes - Approved unanimously (5-0): - Minutes of Dec 1, 2025. - Consent Agenda No. 1 Items 1-3. - Item VI-4 (lateral lining purchase order, $1,461,421). - Resolution No. 26R-3373 (opposing offshore drilling). - Reappointment of Joseph “Jody” Hudgins to the Police Officers’ Pension Fund Board. - Ordinance No. 26-5589 on first reading, Site Plan 25-SP-02, and Rezone 25-RE-02, with the condition that existing building removal follows issuance of TCO/CO. - Affirmation of Planning Board approval of Major Conditional Use 25-CU-01. - Direction to staff to begin preparing updates to the Comprehensive Plan chapters. - Future action: Staff will present on tiny/container homes; continue Burns Court parking analysis; provide stormwater system update (Feb. 17, 2026, with county participation).

The Sarasota City Commission held a special meeting on January 13, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:03 PM to discuss the city manager recruitment process. The primary focus was selecting semifinalist candidates and establishing the next steps for interviews and finalist selection. No public comments were made. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were presented. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak. Discussion Items - City Manager Recruitment Process Overview: Warren Hutmacher, Owner and Principal of Sumter Local Government Consulting (Sumter LGC), presented the recruitment process. He explained the scoring rubric used to evaluate candidates, which considered senior management experience, education, coastal and tourist community experience, and ICMA involvement. He recommended a list of 37 candidates to move forward as semifinalists, noting that a broader list at this stage reduces the risk of losing a potentially strong candidate. - Commissioner Questions and Input: Commissioners discussed the scoring methodology, the importance of soft skills, and the need for transparency regarding which candidates were sourced directly by Sumter LGC. Vice Mayor Ohlrich and Commissioner Ahearn-Koch raised questions about the scoring system and the firm's familiarity with certain candidates. Commissioner Ahearn-Koch shared her own evaluation and requested adding five candidates to the list. - Phase Details for Next Steps: The commission reviewed and refined the phases of the recruitment process: - Phase 2 (Semifinalist Interviews): Sumter LGC will conduct recorded video interviews with each semifinalist, provide interview notes and a media review, and send interviews to commissioners in batches as they are completed. The firm's professional recommendations regarding advancement (up to six finalists) will be provided by February 5, 2026, and included in the agenda for the February 10, 2026 special meeting. - Phase 4 (In-Person Finalist Interviews): The commission discussed the format for public engagement, including an opening statement from each candidate and a "speed dating" style meet-and-greet with the public. The City Auditor and Clerk, City Attorney, and Mr. Hutmacher will refine the details and present options at the February 10 meeting. - Phase 5 (Selection and Offer): A supermajority vote will be required to hire the preferred finalist. An open-source (tier one) background search will be conducted for all 37 semifinalists, while a full background check will be completed for the candidate(s) receiving an offer after the finalist interviews. - Other Matters: Commissioner Ahearn-Koch proposed scheduling a joint meeting with the School Board of Sarasota County to discuss mutual concerns. The commission agreed to have Interim City Manager Bullock meet with each commissioner, develop a proposed agenda, and then approach the school board. Interim City Manager Bullock also noted that staff is working with the county and Town of Longboat Key to schedule joint special meetings. Key Outcomes - Approval of Recruitment Process: A motion by Commissioner Battie, seconded by Vice Mayor Ohlrich, to approve the City Manager Recruitment Process with the comments and suggestions discussed carried unanimously (5-0). - Approval of Semifinalist Candidate List: A motion by Commissioner Alpert, seconded by Commissioner Ahearn-Koch, to approve the proposed recommended candidates list provided by Sumter LGC and include five additional candidates (Tony Palermo, Demetra McBride, Tanja McCoy, Jarvis Sims, and Stephen Menard) carried unanimously (5-0). - Next Steps: Sumter LGC will begin scheduling and conducting video interviews immediately. Commissioners will receive interviews in batches. The next special meeting is scheduled for February 10, 2026, to select finalists and finalize the in-person interview format.

The Sarasota City Commission held a special meeting on January 5, 2026, primarily to discuss settlement negotiations and strategy in the pending litigation Doneisha Stanley v. City of Sarasota. The meeting included a brief public comment period (no speakers), a closed attorney-client session, and a vote on a recommended settlement. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak during the citizens input period (Agenda Item I). Discussion Items - Closed Attorney-Client Session: The Commission recessed at 4:03 p.m. into an out-of-the-sunshine, attorney-client session (Room 109) to discuss settlement negotiations and strategy related to the litigation. The session lasted approximately 21 minutes (scheduled for 30 minutes) and concluded at 4:24 p.m. No votes were taken during the closed session. - Settlement Recommendation: Upon reconvening, City Attorney Joseph Polzak confirmed the closed session was concluded and that the Commission could make a motion based on the discussion. The Commission discussed a recommended settlement amount of $99,500 in the matter of Doneisha Stanley v. City of Sarasota (Case No. 2024 CA 003177). Key Outcomes - Motion and Vote: Commissioner Jen Ahearn-Koch moved to approve the recommended settlement offer of $99,500; seconded by Commissioner Kyle Scott Battie. The motion passed unanimously with a 5-0 vote (Mayor Debbie Trice, Vice Mayor Kathy Kelley Ohlrich, Commissioners Ahearn-Koch, Liz Alpert, and Battie all voting in favor). - Meeting Adjournment: The special meeting adjourned at 4:25 p.m., immediately following the vote.

The Sarasota Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Board met in special session on January 5, 2026, at approximately 9:59 AM in City Commission Chambers. The brief meeting covered approval of prior minutes and a report on a proposed public art mural at the Robert L. Taylor Community Center. All five members were present. The meeting adjourned at 10:11 AM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (Agenda Item CRA‑1): The minutes of the Special CRA Meeting of December 1, 2025 were approved unanimously by a 5‑0 vote (motion by Member Ahearn-Koch, second by Member Battie). Discussion Items - Report on Newtown CRA Advisory Board Recommendation for RL Taylor Public Art Mural (Agenda Item CRA‑2): Economic Development Manager Wayne Applebee and Business Relations Coordinator Rochelle Gallant presented the proposal. The mural is intended to celebrate the history, culture, and resilience of the Newtown community and would be installed on the west exterior wall of the Robert L. Taylor Community Center, visible from U.S. 301. The Newtown CRA Advisory Board had unanimously requested the City Commission (acting as the CRA) to approve the start of the public art process. Key discussion points included: - Square footage and cost: The draft call for artists used a rate of $30 per square foot; total square footage and final budget are yet to be determined. - Funding: The project would be jointly funded by the CRA and the City’s Public Art Program. The Public Art Committee would handle artist selection and maintenance costs. - Community engagement: A community paint day, modeled after the successful Arlington Park mural, would involve residents in painting portions of the mural. - Donations: Chair Trice asked about accepting community donations; staff indicated they would investigate the feasibility. - Chair Trice noted that the yellow wall shown is near the stage area and that a pipe‑and‑drape could cover the mural during events if needed. Key Outcomes - Unanimous vote (5‑0) to accept the Newtown CRA Advisory Board Report (motion by Member Battie, second by Member Ahearn-Koch). Acceptance of the report permits the CRA to proceed with the formal public art process, including application to the Public Art Committee for artist selection and funding.