County commission to discuss funding for Harvest House

Sarasota County commissioners will discuss a one-time payment of $255,266 to the Housing and Community Development Fund at a regular meeting Tuesday.

Commissioners received a request from Harvest House last month asking for $400,000 to help fund a homeless families housing project. The organization had raised enough money to purchase nine duplexes and a single-family home on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way, however it needs additional money to renovate the units.

County Administrator Tom Harmer is asking commissioners to consider giving the organization $200,000 to renovate the units.

Harvest House also asked the city to give $150,000 toward the project.

The city commission refused the request at a special meeting Sept. 9. Mayor Willie Shaw said the city would be focusing on other efforts to address the homelessness issue.

The city’s reaction to the organization’s request provoked a reaction from the county.

“They weren’t very kind to Harvest House during that meeting,” County Commissioner Christine Robinson said of the city’s response.

“They go into attack mode on whoever tries to assist,” Robinson said. “They’re not willing to discuss it.”

At the Sept. 23 meeting, the board requested county administration to look into possible funding for Harvest House and ask the organization what it could accomplish with less than the original amount it had requested.

Commissioners will also hold the second public hearing about a zoning code amendment to allow outdoor displays in Siesta Key Village. The board considered the amendment at its Sept. 24 meeting, when it decided the amendment should have a one year sunset date and more specific size and item regulations. Staff is recommending approval of the amendment.

IF YOU GO
What: Sarasota County Commission meeting.
When: 9 a.m., Tuesday Oct. 20.
Where: Commission Chambers, Administration Building, 1660 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota