Patterson takes flak from SKVA

The Siesta Key Village Association met this morning and welcomed Sarasota County Commissioner Nora Patterson, who explained Sarasota County’s justification for delaying the Siesta Key Beach improvement project.

Members of SKVA, including Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce Chairman Mark Smith, took the opportunity to voice concerns about the progress of renovations planned for the main public beach. The enhancement is expected to cost $21.5 million and be completed in 2024, but the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce, which includes several SKVA members, sent an official letter to Patterson encouraging the county to expedite the funding allocation process and proceed with the project.

“I have not been an advocate to advance funding,” she explained. “We’re still running a deficit and I don’t think it would be appropriate (to do so).” She added she gets push back during commission meetings about favoritism towards Siesta Key.

Commissioner Joe Barbetta has also voiced support for shortening the time frame of the renovation to take advantage of low interest rates and construction costs. But, the other commissioners have leaned towards support of an upgrade to the emergency management communication system, which Patterson said is competing for funds from the same budget source.

Patterson used her attendance to highlight problems on private beach property on south Siesta. She has received complaints about security guards checking identification of beachgoers to assure they are paying customers at their respective resort or condominium. “The only place people can walk up and down on this gorgeous beach is down by the water,” she said. But there have been reports that landowners are barricading those areas with chairs and boats.

For more on private property and beach access pick up a copy of the July 5 issue of the Pelican Press.