Public Meetings - Sarasota, Florida

A special meeting was held on September 16, 2025, at 1:00 PM, primarily to discuss settlement negotiations and strategy in the case Adrian Langford IV v. City of Sarasota, et al., Consolidated Case No. 2020 CA 004688 NC. After a closed attorney-client session, the Commission reconvened and voted unanimously to authorize a settlement. Public Comments & Testimony No members of the public signed up to speak. Discussion Items - The meeting began with an invocation and pledge of allegiance. City Attorney Joseph Polzak announced that the Commission would recess into a closed attorney-client session in accordance with Florida Statutes Section 286.011(8) to discuss settlement strategy for the Langford case. The session was held in Room 109 at City Hall from approximately 1:04 PM to 1:37 PM, with the Mayor, Vice Mayor, Commissioners, Interim City Manager, City Attorney, Deputy City Attorney, outside attorney Andrew Douberly of Dickinson & Gibbons, P.A., and a certified court reporter present. - Upon reconvening at 1:37 PM, City Attorney Polzak confirmed that no votes were taken during the closed session. Key Outcomes - Commissioner Kathy Kelley Ohlrich made a motion, seconded by Vice Mayor Debbie Trice, to direct the City Attorney's Office to settle the case for $150,000. - The motion carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote. - The meeting was adjourned at 1:38 PM.

The Sarasota City Commission met on September 15, 2025, at 9:00 AM. The meeting included approval of routine consent items, legislative public hearings, a quasi-judicial hearing for a Habitat for Humanity townhome development, an appeal of the Planning Board's Selby Botanical Gardens decision, presentation of annual intersection and school zone safety reports, and discussions on state legislative priorities and the strategic planning process. Consent Calendar - Items on Consent Agenda No. 1 (Items VI.3–VI.6) were approved 5-0: First Amendment to Hostetler Lawncare agreement, Level 3 Communications/TelCove renewal, Ajax Paving contract, and utilities easement with BPOZ 1991 Main. - Items on Consent Agenda No. 2 (Resolutions 25R-3352, 25R-3353, 25R-3354) were approved 5-0: budget amendments for law enforcement trust fund ($135,000), donations fund ($6,250), and drone replacement program ($50,000). - Two items were pulled from Consent Agenda No. 1: Item VI.1 (opioid settlement) and Item VI.2 (Sarasota Bay Estuary Program lease extension); both were approved 5-0 after presentations. - Item VII.4 (Smart City Initiative Resolution 25R-3355) was pulled and approved 5-0 after clarification of $1 million grant with city match. Public Comments & Testimony - Citizens' Input (Morning): Kelly Brown, representing the Coalition of City Neighborhood Associations (CCNA), spoke in support of the pending sound ordinance update and urged the Commission to expedite the process. - Selby Garden Appeal: Appellant Kelly Franklin testified for 15 minutes arguing that the site plan violates the city's grand tree ordinance and that she would suffer greater harm than the general public due to her daily kayaking and bird photography adjacent to the site. Catherine Antunes supported the appeal, stating that Selby must comply with the grand tree ordinance and that the planning board lacked the former arborist's report. Morgan Bentley, a Selby trustee, argued that the standing test is strict and that Franklin did not meet it. Discussion Items - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the August 11, 2025 Special Meeting and August 18, 2025 Regular Meeting were approved 5-0. Commissioner Ahearn-Koch noted a discrepancy in the wording of a motion from the August 18 meeting regarding the Purple Ribbon Committee, emphasizing the need for clear motions. - Legislative Public Hearings: - Resolution 25R-3346 (Sarasota County Agricultural Fairgrounds public purpose) was adopted 5-0 without debate. - Ordinance 25-5578 (Table of Organization for FY 2025-2026) was adopted 5-0 after a citizen comment objected to the removal of "Neighborhood" from department names. Commissioner Ahearn-Koch expressed concern that the chart does not clearly show Charter Officials report to the Commission and that Sustainability, Historic Preservation, and the City Arborist should not be under Planning. - Quasi-Judicial Public Hearing (Habitat for Humanity): Ordinance 25-5580 to rezone 1.35 acres at 351 N. Rhodes Ave. from Office Regional District to Urban Mixed-Use 1, and site plan for 17 single-family attached townhomes, was approved 5-0. Final Subdivision Plat was also approved 5-0. The project will provide affordable housing with deed restrictions for owner occupancy. Commissioners discussed drainage, tree preservation (removing 150 trees with mitigation), and design. - New Business – State Legislative Report: Todd Jasko (Ballard Partners) and Jennifer Jorgensen presented the 2025 end-of-session report and draft 2026 priorities. Highlights included $7 million in state appropriations (citywide coastal resilience and Van Wezel), concerns over SB 180's broad interpretation impacting local land-use, and property tax reform. The Commission discussed sovereign immunity caps, local business tax, and affordable housing. No action taken; priorities will be finalized at a future meeting. - New Business – Selby Gardens Appeal: The Commission held a hearing to determine if appellant Kelly Franklin qualified as an aggrieved person (as defined in Section 2-201 of the city code) to appeal the Planning Board's approval of Site Plan 25-SP-09. After arguments, a motion to deny aggrieved person status passed 4-1 (Commissioner Ahearn-Koch voting no). The Commission majority found that Franklin did not demonstrate she would suffer an adverse effect to a legally protected interest to a greater degree than the general public. The appeal was dismissed. - New Business – Strategic Planning Process: Vice Mayor Trice led a discussion on the need for a formal strategic plan with SMART goals, possibly facilitated by an expert. The consensus was to schedule a workshop with the current facilitator to refine the project list and re-engage the process. Interim City Manager Bullock noted the timing is ideal with a new city manager arriving. - New Business – Intersection Safety Program 2024 Annual Report: Presented by SPD Crime Analyst Monica Galeano-Bush and Commander John Lake. Statistics: 25,861 violations issued, 67 contested (60 upheld), $1.73 million to state, $1.56 million to city. Report accepted 5-0. - New Business – School Zone Safety Program 2024 Annual Report: Presented by SPD. Program started January 6, 2025; 23,459 violations issued, 52 contested (22 upheld). Red light camera violations down 34%; school zone speed violations down 60%. Report accepted 5-0. - Remarks of Commissioners: Topics included: (Ohlrich) Update on sound ordinance – City Attorney Polzak will bring an acoustic expert for evidence-based revision; concern about "neighborhood" being removed from city documents; discussion on Alderman Oaks rezone pull due to traffic study ambiguity. (Ahearn-Koch) Update on Tourist Development Council (25% of county bed tax from city); Sarasota Bay Estuary Program – new executive director selected, seagrass up 19% (80 million new fish); Newtown CRA events; Park East neighborhood meeting low attendance; suggestion to encourage construction notices. (Vice Mayor Trice) Noted difficulties with Sunshine Law when multiple commissioners attend neighborhood meetings and urged clarity. (Battie) Update on Newtown corridor revitalization – stakeholder meetings underway, 3D renderings being developed, potential for mixed-use development with attainable housing. (Mayor Alpert) Raised safety concerns on US 41 (Boulevard of the Arts to 10th Street) and suggested FDOT coordination; announced passing of Booker High School Coach Fred Gilmore. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved (Special 8/11/25 and Regular 8/18/25) – 5-0 each. - Consent Agenda items (except those pulled) approved 5-0. - Item VI.1 (Opioid settlements) approved 5-0. - Item VI.2 (Sarasota Bay Estuary Program lease) approved 5-0. - Resolution 25R-3352, 3353, 3354 approved 5-0 (budget amendments). - Resolution 25R-3355 (Smart City Initiative) approved 5-0. - Resolution 25R-3346 (Fairgrounds public purpose) adopted 5-0 on first reading. - Ordinance 25-5578 (Table of Organization) adopted 5-0 on first reading. - Ordinance 25-5580 (Rezone and site plan for Habitat townhomes) adopted 5-0; Final Subdivision Plat approved 5-0. - Appeal (Selby Gardens): Motion to deny aggrieved person status passed 4-1 (Ahearn-Koch opposed); appeal dismissed. - Intersection Safety Program report accepted 5-0. - School Zone Safety Program report accepted 5-0. - Strategic Planning: Staff directed to schedule a workshop with facilitator to refine project list. - City Attorney will bring forward: Procurement Code revision, Lido Beach ordinance report, sound ordinance with expert analysis, and development application code revisions. - City Auditor and Clerk reminded Commission of upcoming meetings: Special Meeting at 5:30 PM today, Robert's Rules workshop on October 14, and Special Meeting on September 16 at 1:00 PM.

This special meeting of the Sarasota City Commission on September 15, 2025, was convened at 5:29 PM and adjourned at 5:49 PM. The sole purpose was to conduct the second (final) public hearings on six proposed resolutions certifying millage rates and adopting budgets for the City of Sarasota, the Golden Gate Point Streetscape Special District, and the Downtown Improvement District for fiscal year beginning October 1, 2025. All six resolutions passed unanimously (5-0). One member of the public provided testimony. Public Comments & Testimony - John Mercer, a City resident, expressed concern that the Commission does not practice performance budgeting. He submitted a handout and stated that the proposed budget lacks performance measures (e.g., street light repair response times) and that staff later inserts such measures into the adopted budget solely to qualify for an award from the Government Finance Officers Association. He concluded by saying "See you next year." Discussion Items - Staff Presentation: Financial Administration Director Kelly Strickland, joined by Budget Manager Tyler Harris, presented a PowerPoint overview of the six resolutions. She noted that the total proposed City budget is $303,575,000, a $2.1 million decrease from the previous year, and that the first public hearing was held on September 3, 2025. - Commissioner Ahearn-Koch briefly thanked staff for their work and expressed interest in further discussion on performance measurables, referencing the public comment. Key Outcomes All six resolutions were adopted on second reading by unanimous votes (5-0): 1. Resolution No. 25R-3339 – City of Sarasota millage rates. (Note: The agenda and the reading of the title at the meeting set the General Fund operating millage at 3.2730 and the aggregate increase above the rolled-back rate at 12.95%. The meeting minutes, however, record the operating millage as 3.3000 and the increase as 13.87%, a discrepancy.) 2. Resolution No. 25R-3340 – City of Sarasota budget appropriation. 3. Resolution No. 25R-3341 – Golden Gate Point Streetscape Special District millage rates. 4. Resolution No. 25R-3342 – Golden Gate Point Streetscape Special District budget appropriation. 5. Resolution No. 25R-3343 – Downtown Improvement District millage rates (operating millage at 2.0000). 6. Resolution No. 25R-3344 – Downtown Improvement District budget appropriation.

The Sarasota City Commission held a special meeting on September 9, 2025, from 10:02 A.M. to 1:26 P.M. to interview two finalist firms for the city manager executive search: MGT Impact Solutions (MGT) and Sumter Local Government Consulting (Sumter LGC). After presentations, Q&A, and deliberation, the Commission voted 4-1 to direct staff to hire Sumter LGC for the search. Public Comments & Testimony - Martin Hyde (citizen) spoke during Citizens’ Input, criticizing the city’s budget process. He stated that 70% of the general fund is wages and that staff deliberately excluded the cost of a 4% cost-of-living raise, which he calculated would create a nearly $3 million shortfall. He accused staff of obfuscation and called for accountability, saying “heads need to roll.” - During public comment after the presentations, Martin Hyde again urged the Commission to hire MGT, citing their proposal as stronger and noting the experience of MGT’s Jim Dineen as a former Volusia County manager (population 600,000). He criticized Sumter’s presentation as “a little desperate” and questioned their lack of familiarity with Sarasota. Discussion Items - Presentation and Q&A with MGT Impact Solutions (10:08 A.M. – 11:07 A.M.) - Presenters: Charlene Stevens (Vice President of Human Capital) and Charlie Dineen (Principal, former county manager with 45 years in public sector). - MGT outlined a six-step recruitment process, emphasizing national reach (1,500+ recruitments, 45 states) and a dedicated team of 36 recruiters. They proposed a fee of $37,000 plus up to $4,000 in expenses and $3,000 estimated travel, totaling $45,000. They offered a one-year guarantee (3% failure rate). - MGT committed to providing all applicant materials to the Commission and public as required by Florida Sunshine Law. They advised against overly public processes (e.g., town halls) to avoid deterring employed candidates, but would facilitate such events if desired. - Charlie Dineen stressed the importance of cultural fit and chemistry, noting he would conduct in-person interviews with each commissioner. He also stated that MGT does not actively solicit placed candidates for five years. - Commissioners asked about candidate sourcing, Florida experience, and transparency. Dineen highlighted his 20 years in Florida and extensive network. - Presentation and Q&A with Sumter Local Government Consulting (11:21 A.M. – 12:28 P.M.) - Presenter: Warren Hutmacher (Owner and Principal, former city manager of 15+ years). - Sumter emphasized a customizable, transparent approach. Fee: $18,000 flat fee plus advertising and travel expenses at cost. They offered a two-year guarantee. - Hutmacher described an innovative process: a live applicant portal for commissioners, a detailed objective scoring matrix for initial screening, and 45-minute two-way video interviews (not one-way). He proposed community engagement options and background checks that include visiting candidates’ previous communities. - Hutmacher stated that Sumter would prioritize Sarasota as its only Florida city manager search at that time. He highlighted his firm’s hunger and flexibility, saying “the size of the city is insignificant” to the process. - Commissioners expressed concern about the low fee and whether it would affect effort. Hutmacher responded that the fee is “inconsequential” and that the firm’s motivation is to build reputation in Florida. - Hutmacher listed qualities for a city manager: thick skin, courage, integrity, ability to read the room, and a passion for public service. Key Outcomes - After deliberation, the Commission voted 4-1 to hire Sumter Local Government Consulting for the city manager search, with Vice Mayor Trice voting no. - Prior to the final vote, two motions occurred: 1. Vice Mayor Trice moved to hire MGT, seconded by Commissioner Battie. After discussion, Commissioner Battie withdrew his second, and the motion died. 2. Vice Mayor Trice again moved to hire MGT, but it died for lack of a second. 3. Commissioner Ohlrich moved to hire Sumter, seconded by Commissioner Ahearn-Koch. The motion carried 4-1 (Trice opposed). - Mayor Alpert directed staff to convey the Commission’s sincere appreciation to MGT for their presentation. - Staff were directed to proceed with engaging Sumter LGC under the terms of their proposal ($18,000 flat fee plus expenses).

This special meeting of the Sarasota City Commission, held on September 3, 2025, at 5:30 PM in City Hall, focused on the first public hearing for the Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget and millage rates. The Commission considered six resolutions covering the city's general fund millage, debt service millage, and budgets for the city, the Golden Gate Point Streetscape Special District, and the Downtown Improvement District. Commissioner Kathy Kelley Ohlrich was absent. The meeting adjourned at 6:02 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - Martin Hyde (resident): Criticized the proposed budget and tax increase, citing examples of city spending such as a "one-stop center" costing millions, a $900,000 fountain, a $80,000/year consultant, and a planned trip to Delray Beach. He argued that government expansion reduces liberty and that the budget is incomplete, noting that staff raises are not included. He urged the Commission to reject the higher millage rate. Discussion Items - Budget Presentation (5:35 PM - 5:45 PM): Financial Administration Director Kelly Strickland and Budget Manager Tyler Harris presented the proposed budget. The total proposed city budget is $303.5 million, with a general fund expenditure budget of $108 million. The overall city budget decreased by $2.1 million. Proposed millage rates were: general fund operating at 3.3000 mills (current 3.0000), citywide debt service at 0.1348 mills (current 0.1436), Golden Gate Point Streetscape operating at 0.6148 mills and debt service at 0.5899 mills (down from 0.6979), and Downtown Improvement District operating at 2.0000 mills (unchanged). Strickland noted that the Golden Gate operating millage requires a 4-0 vote due to increased assessed values. - Commissioner Questions (5:45 PM - 5:56 PM): - Vice Mayor Trice asked if any unforeseen circumstances justify the higher 3.3000 millage over the previously discussed 3.2730. Interim City Manager Bullock responded that no new developments warrant the higher rate. She also asked about funding for staff raises (still in negotiation) and Fruitville Road improvements (minimal $10,000 in CIP). - Commissioner Ahearn-Koch clarified that the majority of any staff raise costs would come from the general fund (approximately 70% general fund, 30% enterprise funds). - Commissioner Battie asked about fund balance levels. With the 3.3000 millage, the fund balance would be 20.4%; with 3.2730, 20.0%; at the current 3.0000, it would be 13.9% starting and 15.6% ending. The staff recommended a higher millage to maintain a safer fund balance above 20% given hurricane risk. Key Outcomes - Vote on General Fund Operating Millage (Resolution 25R-3339): A motion to adopt the proposed 3.3000 millage failed by a 2-2 vote (Vice Mayor Trice and Commissioner Battie voting no, Mayor Alpert and Commissioner Ahearn-Koch voting yes). A subsequent motion by Vice Mayor Trice to adopt a millage of 3.2730 was seconded by Commissioner Battie and passed 4-0. This set the general fund operating millage at 3.2730 mills. - Vote on City Budget (Resolution 25R-3340): Motion by Commissioner Ahearn-Koch, seconded by Vice Mayor Trice, passed 4-0. - Vote on Golden Gate Point Streetscape Special District Millage (Resolution 25R-3341): Motion by Commissioner Ahearn-Koch, seconded by Commissioner Battie, passed 4-0. - Vote on Golden Gate Point Streetscape Special District Budget (Resolution 25R-3342): Motion by Commissioner Ahearn-Koch, seconded by Commissioner Battie, passed 4-0. - Vote on Downtown Improvement District Millage (Resolution 25R-3343): Motion by Commissioner Ahearn-Koch, seconded by Vice Mayor Trice, passed 4-0. - Vote on Downtown Improvement District Budget (Resolution 25R-3344): Motion by Commissioner Ahearn-Koch, seconded by Commissioner Battie, passed 4-0. - Other Matters: City Auditor and Clerk Griggs announced that Slavin Management Consultants withdrew from the city manager search firm interview process and will not present at the September 9, 2025 special meeting.

The Sarasota City Commission met on September 2, 2025, at 9:00 AM to address a range of topics including presentations, approvals, and major decisions on capital improvement projects. The meeting featured significant debate over the School Avenue Greenway Extension, a vote to move forward with the Main Street Complete Streets visioning, and the designation of a historic property. Key votes and outcomes are detailed below. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Minutes of the Special Meeting of July 29, 2025, and Regular Meeting of August 4, 2025, approved unanimously (5-0). - Consent Agenda No. 1: Approved 5-0, including: - Interlocal agreement on mutual aid for building inspections (Cities of Sarasota, Venice, North Port, Punta Gorda; Charlotte and Sarasota Counties; Town of Longboat Key). - Municipal services pre-annexation agreement for 2945 Arlington Street. - Liability insurance renewal (total $620,572.24, 0.54% increase). - Purchase order for WWTP EPS Reuse Pump Replacement ($436,346.00) with Wastewater Solutions, LLC. - Purchase order for Seawater Intake Pier Repairs ($408,203.15) with Apollo Construction & Engineering Services Inc. - Consent Agenda No. 2 (Items VII-1 and VII-4): Approved 5-0: - Resolution 25R-3348: Annual assessment for St. Armands Key parking garage. - Resolution 25R-3351: Budget amendment to transfer $82,477 for effluent pump replacement. - Item VII-2 (Bobby Jones Nature Park Budget): Removed from consent; after presentation, approved 5-0. Resolution 25R-3349 establishes a $1,670,000 budget from Parks Impact Fees for improvements including boardwalk, overlooks, micro-forest, and pavilions. - Item VII-3 (St. Armands Parking Fund Loan): Removed from consent; after discussion, approved 5-0. Resolution 25R-3350 advances $400,000 from General Fund to St. Armands Paid Parking Area Fund as a loan at the city's blended investment portfolio rate. - Item VII-5 (10th Street Vacation): Removed for separate vote; approved 5-0. Ordinance 24-5546 vacates approximately 1.403+/- acres of platted right-of-way for The Bay Park. Public Comments & Testimony School Avenue Greenway (Item IX-1): - Helen Magill, City resident: Opposed the project, citing flooding and safety concerns. - Flo Entler, President of Arlington Park Neighborhood Association: Representing the neighborhood, stated that of 29 comment cards received at workshops, 23 neighbors do not want the multi-use recreational trail (MURT). Highlighted drainage and flood zone issues. - Katri Fiero, City resident: Expressed concerns about safety for schoolchildren, narrow sidewalks, and stormwater drainage. - Danny Williams, City resident: Supported the project, showing video of the existing greenway and citing safe access to Aldi. - Tracy Robinson, City resident: Opposed, citing flooding risks, endangered species, and speeding issues; noted that 93% of survey respondents use the greenway “rarely.” - Rob Grant, City resident: Argued connectivity benefits are limited; path ends in a neighborhood unfriendly to bicyclists/pedestrians; urged funds be used elsewhere (e.g., Circus Trail). - Others (Joan Kellett, Carol Butera via Ashley Jansen) voiced opposition over flooding, maintenance, lighting, and tree loss. Main Street Complete Streets (Item IX-2): - Lance Thomas, City resident, representing Sarasota Mobility Alliance: Expressed strong support for wider sidewalks, flush curbs, enhanced crosswalks, and wayfinding technology. - Danny Williams (scheduled but left). Citizens’ Input (General): - Norman Schimmel, City resident: Announced the 14th annual 9/11 Memorial Ceremony at the new County Emergency Services Fire Administration Building on September 11, 2025, at 9:30 AM. - Stephen Gaffanti (not city resident): Urged creation of a policy preventing police from blocking elected precinct representatives from taking their seats, alleging a police state incident. - Ted Wilson (Bobby Jones item): Opposed using $1.67M for nature park, arguing Big Water Land Trust should fund improvements; suggested money be used for clubhouse. - Unidentified speaker (after main agenda): Criticized commissioners’ planned trip to Delray Beach, warning of Sunshine Law violations. Discussion Items IX-1: Direction Re: School Avenue Greenway Feasibility - Staff (Alvimarie Corales, Corinne Arriaga, Katie Habgood of PGA) presented the feasibility study for extending the existing 0.36-mile greenway from Weber Street to Daytura (0.44 miles). The study began in 2024 and included public engagement; 62% of survey respondents preferred paved or boardwalk concepts (Concept 1 or 2). Staff recommended Concept 1 (paved surface with pervious options, preserving tree canopy). Key concerns: drainage/flooding (85 crashes on parallel US 41 segment in five years, two fatalities), tree removal, lighting, and maintenance. Estimated construction costs exceed the $1 million allocated in CIP. Commissioner Ohlrich moved to reallocate funds to the Circus Trail extension; Vice Mayor Trice and Mayor Alpert opposed due to lack of information, and Commissioner Battie also voted no. Motion failed 2-3. Second motion to continue the item for staff to return with information on the second alternative (Circus Trail) passed 5-0. IX-2: Direction Re: Main Street Complete Streets Visioning - Staff presented a two-year visioning process resulting in a plan to widen sidewalks, convert some angled parking to parallel, add trees, and enhance pedestrian amenities from US 41 to School Avenue (1.2 miles). The plan retains angled parking on some segments (e.g., Gulfstream to Pineapple) but modifies from Pineapple to Orange due to high crash rates (250+ parking-related crashes in five years). Parking analyses showed garages at 45-55% occupancy during peak season. Commissioner Ohlrich moved to continue into planning and design phase; passed 4-1, with Commissioner Ahearn-Koch voting no citing merchant concerns over parking removal. Commissioner Battie emphasized need for better retail and foot traffic. IX-3: Discussion Re: City Manager Search Update - City Auditor and Clerk Griggs reminded commissioners to submit interview questions; two had not responded. Deadline extended to end of day. No action taken. X-1: Legislative Public Hearing – Infrastructure Sales Surtax - Resolution 25R-3347 amending the Penny Sales Tax project list (Phase 3) for FY 2024-25 capital improvements. No public speakers. Adopted 5-0. XI-1: Quasi-Judicial Public Hearing – Historic Designation of 1874 Wisteria Street - Ordinance 25-5575 designates the Stickney/Kimbrough residence (house, casita, garage, street wall) as a structure of historic significance. Property owner Catherine Duffy presented history; no opposition. Passed 5-0 on first reading. Additional Commissioner Remarks - Commissioner Ohlrich: Discussed state-mandated removal of painted sidewalk markings; Interim City Manager Bullock confirmed compliance by Sept. 4 to avoid withholding $67 million in state funds. Also requested recurring budget town hall meetings and thanked Norman Schimmel for 9/11 memorial efforts. - Commissioner Ahearn-Koch: Clarified her vote on the Purple Ribbon Committee report—stated she did not accept it despite voting to accept. Requested a draft resolution to ask the state legislature to reconsider sidewalk art policy, and proposed regular joint meetings with county, Longboat Key, school board, and airport authority. - Mayor Alpert: Added an agenda item for Sept. 15 to discuss a strategic planning process. - City Attorney Polzak: Announced a settlement offer ($50,000) in a trip-and-fall case and requested a shade meeting. - Deputy City Manager Robinson: Reported that the manhole cover issue raised by Tracy Robinson was resolved; addressed a citizen complaint about police being investigated and found not a policy violation. Key Outcomes - School Avenue Greenway motion to reallocate funds to another multimodal project failed 2-3; continuation motion for staff to return with alternative recommendation passed 5-0. - Main Street Complete Streets visioning approved to move into planning and design phase with Kimley-Horn (4-1). - Historic designation of 1874 Wisteria Street approved 5-0. - Infrastructure sales surtax resolution adopted 5-0. - Consent items all approved as noted. - City manager search update: No formal action; deadline for interview questions extended. - Sidewalk art policy: Commissioner Ahearn-Koch’s suggestion to submit to Florida League of Cities’ Transportation Committee received consensus support. - Shade meeting requested for litigation settlement discussions (case number 58-2024-CA-001468).

The Sarasota City Commission held a special meeting on August 26, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 10:53 AM, to discuss proposals from three executive search firms for the recruitment of a new city manager. The commission reviewed submissions from MGT Impact Solutions (MGT), Slavin Management Consultants (Slavin), and Sumter Local Government Consulting (Sumter), heard a public comment, and deliberated on the firms’ qualifications, experience, and fees. The commission reached consensus to interview all three firms via Zoom with a structured question format to expedite the selection process. Public Comments & Testimony - Martin Hyde, a resident, expressed concern that two of the three bids ($18,000) were unrealistically low for the scope of work involved. He stated that a thorough national search should cost between $50,000 and $60,000 and warned that selecting a firm based on lowest price would likely result in an unsuccessful search, forcing the city to repeat the process. He emphasized the importance of hiring a “best-in-class” firm. Discussion Items - Commissioner Ahearn-Koch spoke first, noting that she read all proposals and had concerns about transparency: both MGT and Slavin proposed to narrow down resumes before presenting them to the commission. After clarification from the city attorney, she confirmed that all resumes would be submitted directly to the commission. She favored MGT and Slavin based on their extensive experience, retention rates, and positive references from other cities. She commended MGT’s team and its lead’s 12 years as a Florida county manager, and Slavin’s 95% retention rate and two-year guarantee. - Commissioner Ohlrich praised the city’s request for proposals and highlighted MGT’s large nationwide network and headquarters in Tampa as assets. She found Sumter’s proposal well-organized and noted that its lower fee ($18,000) might reflect its newness in the industry, but she considered its team highly qualified. She favored MGT and Sumter. She also recommended that the commission have an official person contact municipalities that used each firm’s services to obtain official statements for the record. - Vice Mayor Trice questioned the comparability of fee structures, noting that Slavin’s base number covered only personnel costs. She expressed doubts about Sumter’s ability to handle a search for a city of Sarasota’s size, given that its completed searches were for significantly smaller municipalities. She favored MGT and Slavin, though she remarked that Slavin’s proposal was dense and less polished. - Commissioner Battie found MGT’s proposal the most thorough and comprehensive, citing the firm’s 51-year history, work in 45 states, and retention of 94–95% of placements. He commended MGT’s presentation of client communities by population size. He also noted Sumter’s strong proposal despite its youth, and Slavin’s solid experience. He favored MGT and Sumter. - Mayor Alpert stated that MGT appeared superior in experience and understanding of Florida politics, and noted its database of candidates. She agreed with the public comment suggesting low fees were concerning. She pointed out that Slavin’s less polished proposal might not present a professional face to candidates. - The commission discussed interview logistics: whether to conduct them in person or via Zoom, and whether to use standard questions or spontaneous questions. Commissioners agreed to use Zoom for all firms to ensure equal treatment and save travel costs. They decided that the City Auditor and Clerk would collect proposed standard questions from each commissioner, compile them, and share them with the firms in advance, so the firms could address them in their presentations. Commissioners would then ask any follow-up questions in real time. The goal is to schedule the interviews as soon as possible, possibly using the September 9 workshop date. Key Outcomes - The commission reached consensus to advance to interviews with all three search firms: MGT, Slavin Management Consultants, and Sumter Local Government Consulting. - All interviews will be conducted via Zoom as publicly noticed Commission-related meetings. - The City Auditor and Clerk will gather standard questions from commissioners and provide them to the firms ahead of time; firms will answer them during their presentations, allowing spontaneous follow-up questions. - The city will aim to schedule the interviews in September 2025, potentially utilizing the September 9 workshop slot, to expedite the city manager hiring process. - Interim City Manager David Bullock affirmed that securing a permanent city manager is the highest priority.

The Sarasota City Commission held a regular meeting on August 18, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 2:38 PM. The meeting covered a wide range of topics including the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall report, Newtown CRA initiatives, capital improvement program, city manager search, and a proposal for a justice center on a city-owned parking lot. All votes were recorded with specific tallies. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the July 21, 2025, regular meeting were approved unanimously (5-0). - Consent Agenda No. 1: Item VI.1 (painting and pressure washing contract) was pulled for discussion but later approved unanimously (5-0). - Consent Agenda No. 2: Items VII.2 and VII.3 (budget amendments) were approved unanimously (5-0). Items VII.1, VII.4, and VII.5 were pulled for discussion and also approved unanimously (5-0 each). Public Comments & Testimony - Citizens' Input (Morning Session): Reginald Powell alleged mistreatment by city officials and police. Martin Hyde criticized the city's budget, claimed staff misrepresented financial facts, and warned of a state audit. - Van Wezel Public Hearing: Speakers included: - Selma Golker-Wilson (PRC member): Questioned the report's process, noting the prologue was not voted on. - Brian Hirsch (Arts and Cultural Alliance): Emphasized the arts sector's $342 million annual economic impact. - Martin Hyde: Called the committee's conclusions predictable and argued for a public referendum on a new performing arts center. - Lori Muldowney (Historic Preservation): Urged submitting a National Register eligibility questionnaire. - Aaron DeFazio (Historic Preservation): Advocated for storm-hardening the Van Wezel and pursuing historic designation. - City Manager Search: Martin Hyde urged selecting a manager who prioritizes commission policy direction over staff autonomy. - Capital Improvement Program: Hyde criticized funding allocations, noting less than 1% of the $207 million plan was directed to Newtown. - Citizens' Input (Afternoon Session): David Lowe suggested exploring revenue from the Federal Building and considering AI's impact on space needs. Discussion Items - Van Wezel Purple Ribbon Committee Report: - Presenters: Charles Cosier (Chair) and Jim Shirley (Facilitator) presented a 12-recommendation report. Key findings: floodproofing is needed, the building is obsolete for modern Broadway shows, and no reuse proposal met conditions. The committee unanimously recommended accelerating a new performing arts center. - Commission debate: Commissioner Ahearn-Koch noted inconsistencies (e.g., closure duration as 2, 3, or 4 months) and questioned the authority of the prologue. Chair Cosier and Shirley confirmed the report's recommendations were unanimously approved, though the prologue may not have been formally read and voted on. Commissioner Battie expressed skepticism about historic designation efforts, calling them a late attempt to circumvent the engineering report. Mayor Alpert and others praised the committee's work. - Outcomes: Two motions passed unanimously (5-0): (1) thank the committee and accept the report; (2) direct the interim city manager to review recommendations 1–10 and develop an action plan for commission consideration. - Newtown Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA): - Presentation by Alex Chow (CRA Chair) and Rochelle Gallant (Business Relations Coordinator) on the new branding and communications plan. The Newtown Business Council's Mary Butler presented the "Newtown Thriving Community Action Plan" with five pillars (health, arts, business, youth, safety). Commissioner Battie highlighted a corridor redevelopment project using air rights for affordable housing. - Outcome: The commission unanimously accepted the CRA advisory board report. - Capital Improvement Program (CIP): - Presentation by Public Works Director Doug Jeffcoat: The 5-year plan (FY2026-2030) totals $207 million, with $42 million requested for FY2025-2026. The plan includes a new project for Hurricane Helene/Milton repairs. - Discussion: Commissioners questioned funding sources, dollar amounts, and project prioritization. Commissioner Ahearn-Koch suggested reallocating funds from undecided projects (e.g., Bobby Jones clubhouse, Performing Arts Center) to urgent needs. Commissioner Ohlrich asked about the balance between needs and potential grant funding. Vice Mayor Trice inquired about Fruitville Road funding. Commissioner Battie noted Newtown's low allocation. No action was taken; the CIP will be considered at the September budget hearing. - City Manager Search Update: - City Auditor and Clerk Griggs reported that all three selected firms submitted proposals on August 15. Staff will provide the proposals to commissioners. A special meeting on August 26 or 28, 2025, is proposed to discuss and potentially select a firm. No action taken. - October 20, 2025 Meeting Start Time: - Commissioner Ahearn-Koch requested a 1:00 PM start to avoid conflict with an MPO board meeting. The commission agreed to a limited agenda and a dinner break if needed. A motion to start at 1:00 PM passed unanimously. - Ringling Surface Lot Justice Center Proposal: - Deputy City Manager Robinson explained that the county inquired about using the city-owned surface lot at 2050 Ringling Boulevard (old police department site) for a criminal justice center. The city currently generates revenue from the lot. Commissioners expressed mixed views: Vice Mayor Trice opposed selling the land, Mayor Alpert and Commissioner Ohlrich favored engaging in discussions, and Commissioner Ahearn-Koch wanted more information on revenue and long-term needs. A motion to direct staff to enter discussions with the county passed 4-0 (Commissioner Battie was absent during the vote). - Remarks of Commissioners: - Commissioner Ohlrich recommended the city manager develop an AI policy. Interim City Manager Bullock noted the IT department is already investigating AI use and security. - Commissioner Ahearn-Koch reported on the Florida League of Cities conference, including property tax advocacy, a potential statewide tree ordinance template, and legislative concerns. - Vice Mayor Trice shared FLC takeaways: "Take Two Tuesdays" videos, Altamonte Springs autonomous vehicles, and micro-mobility options for seniors and disabled. - Mayor Alpert also attended the FLC conference. - Interim City Manager Bullock publicly thanked Doug Jeffcoat for his service (retiring). - Deputy City Manager Robinson clarified the Federal Building is fully occupied and not available for lease. - City Attorney Polzak announced a request for a shade meeting in the case of Adrian Langford v. City of Sarasota and a settlement offer of $160,000 in Denisha Stanley v. City of Sarasota (not recommended for settlement). Key Outcomes - Van Wezel Report: Accepted report (5-0); directed city manager to develop action plan (5-0). - Newtown CRA Report: Accepted (5-0). - Consent Items: All unanimous (5-0). - October Meeting Start Time: Approved 1:00 PM start (5-0). - Ringling Lot Discussion: Directed staff to engage with county (4-0; Commissioner Battie absent). - No decisions on CIP, City Manager Search, or AI policy.

The Sarasota Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Board met in special session on August 18, 2025, beginning at 10:55 AM, to approve prior meeting minutes and receive a report from the Newtown CRA Advisory Board. The board unanimously approved both agenda items. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (CRA.1): The board approved the minutes of the Special CRA Meeting of April 21, 2025, by a 5-0 vote. Motion by CRA Member Ohlrich, seconded by Vice Chair Trice. No public comments were permitted on this item. Discussion Items - Newtown CRA Advisory Board Report (CRA.2): Rochelle Gallant (Business Relations Coordinator) and Alexandra Chau, Chair of the Newtown CRA Advisory Board (NCRAAB), presented an update on the board's marketing and communications strategy. Key highlights included: finalized branding reflecting Newtown's heritage and energy; launch of the first dedicated website (NewtownCRA.org); social media mock-ups and branded materials (t-shirts, swag bags) to build community visibility and pride. The next steps involve a full rollout including monthly e-newsletters and expanded social media presence. - Mary Butler, Chair of the Newtown Business Council, presented the "Newtown Thriving Community Action Plan," which stems from a two-year process supported by the Economic Development Administration (EDA). The plan is built on five community-identified priorities: health/wellness, arts/culture, business/finance, youth education/mentorship, and community safety/security. The NCRAAB voted on May 8, 2025 to formally support the plan and partner with the Business Council. Ms. Butler noted the plan's tagline "Newtown Thriving" was chosen by community vote to emphasize ongoing growth. Commissioner Battie highlighted efforts to redevelop MLK corridor parcels using air rights to preserve generational wealth and create mixed-use spaces with commercial and attainable affordable housing, working with consultants and architects. Vice Chair Trice asked about coordination between the CRA Advisory Board and the Business Council; Ms. Chau explained they ensure the plan aligns with the CRA's redevelopment plan, and staff regularly attend each other's meetings. Public Comments & Testimony - No separate public comment period was held; the meeting consisted entirely of agenda items with presentations and board discussion. Several board members expressed strong support: Commissioner Ohlrich spoke in favor, Commissioner Ahearn-Koch commended the outreach and noted high community attendance at workshops, Vice Chair Trice praised forward progress, and Chair Alpert expressed excitement about the momentum. Key Outcomes - Motion to accept the Newtown CRA Advisory Board Report (CRA.2): Vice Chair Trice moved, seconded by CRA Member Battie, to accept the report as presented. The motion carried 5-0 unanimously. This acceptance includes the marketing and communications strategy and the Newtown Thriving Community Action Plan, along with the board's partnership with the Newtown Business Council. - No further directives or referrals were made; the board expressed continued support and encouraged engagement with Sarasota County and other partners.