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Hurricane Debby flooding near Bahia Vista St./Conrad Ave. (Aug. 5, 2024)
Hello Everyone,
Hurricane Debby was a storm like no other in Sarasota. Approximately 100 single family homes in the Bellevue Terrace neighborhood and 80 mobile homes in SaraLake estates were severely impacted with as much as 4-5 feet of flood waters from Phillippi Creek. Multiple first responder agencies from the region, including the Sarasota Police Department, Florida Urban Search and Rescue Task Force Six, North Port Police and Fire Departments, Charlotte County Fire Department, Englewood Fire Department, Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office and Sarasota County Emergency descended on the area, and with high-water rescue vehicles safely evacuated hundreds to higher ground. We are immensely grateful for their selfless response to help our community.
We have many updates to share regarding storm recovery:
Community Meeting
Within days of the storm, City personnel hosted a community meeting last Saturday to share with affected homeowners the next steps and how to safely return to their flood damaged homes. Representatives from our Building and Permitting divisions, and Public Works and Utilities departments answered questions and shared information about processes. Building permit fees will be waived for all Hurricane Debby-related damage.
Guidance for affected individuals in SaraLake Estates will be different due to it being a commercial property. Our Emergency Management team is in contact with the property manager and establishing a recovery path for that area.
FEMA Assistance
FEMA approved a major disaster declaration for ten counties in Florida, including Sarasota. This means individual assistance will be available. The assistance could help with temporary housing, basic homes repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs. Affected individuals can start the application process now by visiting www.DisasterAssistance.gov, calling 800-621-3362 from 7a.m. to 11 p.m. daily or via the FEMA mobile app. We anticipate FEMA will open an in-person Disaster Recovery Center in Sarasota soon and we will share that information as soon as it’s announced including on social media and our alerts page at www.Sarasotafl.gov/Alerts
Debris Collection
Pickup started just three days after the storm. To have structure flooded storm debris picked up, city residents should call 941-263-6170. Vegetative debris should be prepared according to the City’s regular yard waste requirements.
Unlicensed Contractors
Be vigilant when hiring contractors. We encourage you to protect yourself and verify all contractors have a license. Unlicensed contractors should be reported to the Department of Business & Professional Regulation at 866-532-1440 or email ULA@myfloridalicense.com
Through an interlocal agreement, Sarasota County handles all stormwater management for the City. We’re very concerned and anxious to learn more from the County about how the drainage system responded to the historic rainfall, the current state of the stormwater system and flood mitigation measures that will be implemented.
Look for the next edition of City News on Friday, Sept. 13.
Have a good weekend!
Regards,
 Liz Alpert
Mayor
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After serving the City of Sarasota with excellence and pride for the past 15 years, City Manager Marlon Brown announced to employees yesterday afternoon he plans to leave employment with the City in mid-October or possibly beyond that time until the City Commission appoints a successor.
Mr. Brown stated, “I have been in government service for over 31 years and in those 31 years I have delivered with excellence wherever I have been including my 15 years with the City of Sarasota. This is solely my decision and no one else’s. Now after 31 years, I can pause, and I am going to take advantage of this time to reflect on my past and to map out my future. This is now a time of discovery for me to explore the next chapter in my professional career.”
Mr. Brown will continue his regular responsibilities at least until Oct. 15, including participating in the Florida League of Cities annual conference which he currently is attending in Hollywood. He will be back at City Hall Monday for the City Commission meeting and is expected to share comments then about his announcement.
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 Public artists, are you looking to improve your resume or book of work? We’re here to help! The final installment of the 2024 Public Art Summer Learning Series will be held Wednesday, Aug. 28 in the SRQ Media Studio at 6 p.m. and features in-depth conversation and insight on resumes, portfolio builders and more.
Attendees will have the opportunity to look over professional portfolios and resumes to learn how a noticeable book of work can bring their public art submittals to the next level.
This final session features speakers Mary Davis Wallace, City of Sarasota Public Art Manager and Christina Fraser, Operations Director at Embracing our Differences. Attendees can expect to gain valuable insight on how portfolios and resumes impact public art selection processes.
We hope you can join us!
We’re seeking input on how to improve the City’s website www.Sarasotafl.gov and make it the best resource and user-friendly tool it can be. How easy or difficult is it to find what you’re looking for on the website? What information are you looking for when you go there?
 We hope you’ll spend just a few minutes answering a brief online survey. Your answers will help inform decisions as we redesign the website with an eye on improved interface and engagement. Thank you in advance! The survey will be open through Sept. 3.
The Sarasota Police Department's Emergency Response Team (ERT) is a specialized unit of twelve dedicated officers and a team leader trained to handle various situations. From responding to natural disasters to locating missing persons, the ERT is always ready to serve the City of Sarasota.
In the wake of Hurricane Debby, the ERT demonstrated its unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of Sarasota residents. The team swiftly mobilized as the hurricane made landfall and brought heavy rain and floodwaters to inland areas. Their ability to respond quickly and effectively in such challenging conditions is a testament to their training and dedication.
Some ERT members took it upon themselves to bring personal watercrafts to early rescue efforts, ensuring they could access flooded areas that were otherwise unreachable. This resourcefulness allowed officers to reach residents sheltering in their homes, providing assistance and reassurance during the storm.
Throughout the days-long rescue efforts, ERT officers navigated flooded neighborhoods by foot, in Jon boats and airboats, and in Humvees and high-water rescue vehicles. Upon arriving in neighborhoods, they encountered residents coming out of their homes, seeking assistance. Their approach was proactive and compassionate. Officers thoroughly searched affected areas, offering help wherever needed.
The specialty units at the Sarasota Police Department train year-round, so they are always ready to be activated. Their actions during Hurricane Debby were not just about responding to a crisis—they were about caring for our community. These officers embody the spirit of service, going above and beyond to ensure the safety and security of the residents they serve. Their bravery, resourcefulness, and dedication have left a lasting impact on all those they helped during this challenging time.
In moments of need, the ERT's actions remind us of our first responders' essential role in keeping our community safe. We are proud to have such a capable and compassionate team ready to protect and assist whenever they are called upon.
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Join us at the Van Wezel for Shrek the Musical live on stage! Education Director, Justin Gomlak, brings his Broadway expertise as a former dance captain and male swing in the original production of Shrek the Musical. Make the most of your experience by dancing before the show! His skills are showcased in our exclusive Masterclasses, available right here at the Van Wezel. There's still time to register—use the link to sign up.
The adventure begins with, “Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek…” This Tony Award®-winning musical, adapted from the beloved DreamWorks film, features memorable melodies by Jeanine Tesori and a delightful script by Pulitzer Prize winner David Lindsay-Abaire. USA Today calls it “altogether irresistible!”—and you’ll soon see why.
Don’t miss out on this Broadway sensation! Mark your calendars for September 24-25th and secure your seats today at the Van Wezel.org.
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We're looking for qualified candidates for a Landscape Maintenance Technician II position!
Many other employment opportunities are available with the City of Sarasota. Check out a complete list and apply online here.
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Monday, Aug. 19 | 9 a.m.
City Hall | Commission Chambers
Agenda
Tuesday, Aug. 20 | 5:30 p.m.
City Hall | Commission Chambers
Agenda
Wednesday, Aug. 21 | 9 a.m.
City Hall | Commission Chambers
Agenda
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"Sarasota Scene"
Norm Schimmel
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