Sarasota City Commission sets maximum citywide property millage rate at 3.3 mills for fiscal year 2026 to rebuild the depleted general fund balance following costs from the 2024 hurricane season. This increase from the previous 3.0 mills aims to gradually replenish the fund to cover operational costs for emergencies.

Sarasota City's Hurricane Recovery Strains Finances: The city's general fund balance has been significantly depleted by nearly $20 million spent on hurricane recovery from recent tropical storms and hurricanes. Despite a $7.7 million FEMA advance, the city faces a reduced emergency fund far below its policy target, with ongoing uncertainty about future federal reimbursements.

Operation Sarasota S.U.R.G.E. III results: Nearly 40 people were arrested, and law enforcement seized dozens of guns (including illegal ones) and pounds of illegal drugs during this joint operation with the ATF in Sarasota.

Millions in federal funding have been secured for the Lido Key beach renourishment project, an important environmental and community enhancement initiative for the area.

The Sarasota Paradise soccer team ended their historic 2025 season in USL League Two with a loss to Fort Lauderdale United FC but are preparing to move to the fully professional USL League One in 2026. This season saw notable milestones like a strong 9-1-2 record, South Florida Division repeat championship, and average attendance exceeding 1,200 fans for home matches.

The city has granted approval for the Sarasota Yacht Club to move forward with its planned expansion, marking a significant development for the local waterfront community.

Man Arrested for Animal Abuse: A Sarasota man was arrested following an investigation that began when a veterinarian contacted police about suspected animal abuse.

End of a Historic Soccer Season: The Sarasota Paradise's impressive 2025 USL League Two campaign ended Sunday with a 2-1 loss to Fort Lauderdale United FC in the Southern Conference Semifinal. The team, which will move to professional USL League One in 2026, achieved a 9-1-2 season record and set new benchmarks for local soccer, including averaging over 1,200 fans per home match.

Operation Sarasota S.U.R.G.E. III: Sarasota police, along with the ATF, conducted a joint operation that resulted in nearly 40 arrests, seizure of illegal guns and drugs.

Authorities have charged a man already serving a murder sentence in connection with the 2017 double murder at Longboat Key’s Zota Beach Resort, marking a significant development in this long-standing case.