Businesses in Sarasota anticipate a normal fall and winter season following recovery from the devastating 2024 hurricane season. Merchants in popular areas such as St. Armands Circle and Siesta Village report that shops and restaurants are open and busy, signaling optimism for a return to seasonal tourism and normalcy despite lingering infrastructure damage from the hurricanes.

Hermitage Artist Retreat Agreement: The Sarasota County Commission has proposed a lump sum payment of $250,000 to help the Hermitage Artist Retreat with hurricane restoration costs, under the condition that the retreat assumes all future repair costs for its buildings. This deal is part of a broader plan to manage the retreat's future operations without transferring ownership.

Environmental Group Sues Over Sarasota Bay Pollution: The Suncoast Waterkeeper environmental group announced its intent to sue U.S. Recycling Company, alleging the concrete recycling plant is violating the Clean Water Act by allowing polluted stormwater runoff into Hog Creek and, ultimately, Sarasota Bay. Elevated levels of aluminum and iron have been detected, which can harm wildlife and degrade water quality. The group is seeking compliance through corrective measures before pursuing federal litigation.

Federal Permit Secured for Phillippi Creek Dredging: Sarasota has obtained a federal permit to dredge Phillippi Creek, a significant step towards reducing flood risks. The project is expected to begin soon, pending finalization of contracts and disposal site agreements.

Relief After Hurricane Milton: Although Hurricane Milton made landfall as a powerful Category 3 hurricane, residents of Sarasota are relieved that the damage was not catastrophic. The storm brought significant winds and flooding but did not cause extensive structural damage.

Local woman, 36, found dead; ex arrested in overnight shooting — A tragic incident where a woman was found dead and her ex-partner was arrested in connection with the shooting.

Impact and aftermath of Hurricane Milton, which made landfall near Lido and Siesta Keys late on October 9 as a Category 3 storm. The hurricane caused significant damage, power outages affecting over half a million customers, and a notable tornado outbreak across Florida, including Sarasota.

Hurricane Milton's Impact: Hurricane Milton made landfall near Sarasota late Wednesday, causing widespread damage with 100 mph winds, power outages affecting over 500,000 customers, and a significant tornado outbreak in Florida. The storm surge warnings were among the most severe in decades, and rescue efforts, including the Florida Highway Patrol saving a dog tied to a pole, have been reported.

Recap from the most recent Sarasota County Commissioners meeting

Recap from the most recent Sarasota County Commissioners meeting