SKVA discusses outdoor displays, upcoming events

With concern for code enforcement, the Siesta Key Village Association discussed the recent passing of the amendment to the Overlay District zoning code to allow outdoor displays in the Village.

The Sarasota County Planning Commission passed the amendment at the Aug. 14 meeting. The change would allow businesses in the Village to obtain a $25 annual permit to display their goods outside their storefronts to attract costumers. The amendment specifies the size and kind of displays allowed.

Businesses had previously approached SKVA asking for the change, because they wanted to entice customers to buy their goods.

“It’s a good, collaborative attempt to give businesses on Siesta Key a better opportunity of succeeding,” said Commissioner John Ask at the meeting.

The change will go before the Sarasota County Commission at its Sept. 24 meeting.

SKVA supported the amendment, but members still have doubts about the county enforcing the stipulations of the code change.

Michael Shay, a member of the Siesta Key Association, told the SKVA he spoke with Commissioner Nora Patterson on the issue.

“She agrees it needs enforcement, agrees there’s no such thing as self-enforcement … that’s not a reality here,” Shay said.

The organization agreed to create a packet for Village businesses to help them understand the ordinances and the new changes.

SKVA also discussed upcoming events on the Key:

• 24th Annual Sandfest: The Siesta Key Chamber dinner/dance will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday Nov. 4. This year’s theme is a “Siesta Key Hoedown” at the Siesta Key Beach Pavilion. Cost: $25.
• 2014 Siesta Key Crystal Classic Master Sandsculpting Competition: The event added another day this year, running Friday, Nov. 14 through Tuesday, Nov. 18. The competition itself will end Sunday, Nov. 16. Cost: $5/day or $10/five day pass.
• Light up the Village Annual Parade: The Village Christmas parade will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29 in the Village. Cost: Free.