City News: New Water Utility Billing System, Transportation Chapter Update, School Zone Reminder

City of Sarasota, Florida sent this bulletin at 08/15/2025 03:00 PM EDT

Aug. 15, 2025

Hello Everyone,

When you receive your water bill in the coming weeks, information will be included about a new water utility billing system that will go into effect in October.

The new system will offer many more payment options including PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo and text to pay.

For years, the City has absorbed credit/debit/app processing fees – until now. With the steady increase of digital payments, the City Commission unanimously approved a convenience fee for digital transactions. The City will save $400,000 a year in processing fees – dollars that could go toward water and wastewater infrastructure improvements. With that in mind, the new convenience fee is the financially responsible course of action for the City.

The vast majority of our water customers -- 68% -- make payments by check, cash or ACH (automated clearing house) e-check. Those payment options will remain free with no convenience fee.

With over a month before the City converts to the new billing system, there’s time to adjust and ask questions. Many questions are answered through these Frequently Asked Questions.

More information is in City News below.

Have a good weekend!

Regards,

Liz Alpert
Mayor

News and Updates

New Public Works Director: Nikesh Patel

Following an open nationwide search, our City Engineer Nikesh Patel has been selected as the next Public Works Director!

Nikesh Patel is a consummate professional in the Public Works field. Serving as Sarasota’s City Engineer since 2021, Nik previously held positions at the Florida Department of Transportation. During his time with the City, Nik has been instrumental in the implementation of the City’s Smart City Initiative, as well as the Lido Beach Sand Renourishment Project and the continued success of the City’s Transportation Planning division.

Nik holds a Professional Engineering license, a Professional Traffic Operations Engineer (PTOE) license, a Certified Planner (AICP) certification, and a Certified Public Manager (CPM) certification. He has demonstrated steadfast commitment to the City of Sarasota and consistently takes on complex projects to the great benefit of our community.

Nik’s new role will be effective Aug. 20 with a brief overlap with current Public Works Director Doug Jeffcoat who is set to retire Sept. 2 after a successful 30 year career with the City, including serving as Interim City Manager.

Thank you, Doug, for your commitment over the decades and congratulations Nik!

Transportation Chapter Update: Meeting Aug. 21

Interested in learning, discussing with staff, and giving your input on the future of transportation in Sarasota?

Join us from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 21 at the Selby Library for a public workshop regarding an update to the Transportation Chapter of the Sarasota City Plan.

Updating the Transportation Chapter will translate the City’s current Transportation Master Plan, Sarasota in Motion, and elements of the 2024 Engineering Design Criteria Manual, into formal City policy. The updated Transportation Chapter will provide increased focus on expanding mobility and accessibility options, designing for all travel modes, integrating land use and transportation, reducing traffic impacts, and addressing transportation safety issues.

You will have the opportunity to hear a presentation from Transportation Planning staff, participate in discussions with subject matter experts, explore display boards, and share feedback on this important update to the Sarasota City Plan.

Click here to learn more about the Transportation Chapter update. We hope you can join us!

FDOT: US 301 Improvements Meeting - Aug. 19

Good news! The Florida Department of Transportation plans to rehab, restore and resurface approximately one mile of US 301 from US 41 to south of 10^th Street.

In addition to milling, resurfacing and upgrading pavement markings/signage and pedestrian signals, the project will also include adding a new mid-block pedestrian crossing at South Payne Parkway.

FDOT will host a public meeting from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 19 at the Selby Library, 1331 First St., to present details and seek feedback.

The meeting also will be offered virtually. Attendees are asked to register in advance here.

For more information, visit the project website.

SPD: School Zone Reminder

Students are back in class and their safety is our top priority, especially during those busy drop-off and pick-up times. To help protect them, school zone speed cameras have been switched back on in the Sarasota city limits.

Here’s what that means for drivers: Slow down when approaching and driving through school zones. Depending on the location, speed limits may be 15 or 20 mph. Always check posted signs. At the start of each school zone, you’ll see a “Speed Limit Photo Enforced” sign as a reminder that cameras are watching.

Under Florida Statute 316.1896(c), these cameras will be active the entire school day, not just during the morning and afternoon. For example, if a school operates from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., photo enforcement will run the entire time students are on campus.

If a vehicle is caught speeding, the registered owner will receive a Notice of Violation in the mail. This notice will include the date, time, location and photographic evidence of the violation.

The goal isn’t to issue tickets, it’s to prevent dangerous driving in areas where children are present. Your attention and care behind the wheel can make a huge difference in keeping students safe.

As we start a new school year, let’s commit to protecting our kids from the moment the first bell rings to the time the last student heads home.

For more information about the school zone speed enforcement program, visit sarasotapd.org/virtual-front-desk/red-speed-psa.

Utilities: New Billing System

Starting Monday, Sept. 22, City of Sarasota water customers will be able to access the City’s new utility billing web portal at www.Sarasotafl.gov/PayMyUtilityBill You’re encouraged to become familiar with the new system where you’ll be able to access past and present bills and make payment.

Each year, more customers opt for digital payment with about one-third of customers currently paying that way. So, options have expanded and will now include Apple Pay, Google Pay, Pay Pal, Venmo as well as text to pay. Please note that a 2.95% convenience fee will now be applied by the electronic payment service provider, InvoiceCloud.

Payment options without a fee will still be available. You can pay by cash, check or ACH via electronic transfer of funds. 68% of customers use one of these free payment methods.

Special note for customers who use autopay: You must register in the new system to maintain your autopay account. You can do that starting Sept. 22 at www.Sarasotafl.gov/PayMyUtilityBill The 2.95% convenience fee will be applied to all autopay/recurring payments except ACH.

Learn more through this news release and check out the brief video below.

Questions? Visit the FAQ page or email UtilityBill@sarasotafl.gov

Video: New water utility billing system for City of Sarasota customers

Van Wezel: Comedy & 90s Hits Coming!

Just announced and on sale now: Trevor Wallace brings The Alpha Beta Male tour to the Van Wezel on Oct. 14! With 2.5 billion views and 16 million followers, Wallace is a standout in the comedy world. Known for his viral sketches and sharp stand-up, he’s appeared on Comedy Central, Netflix Is A Joke, and more. Don’t miss your chance to see him live in Sarasota this fall.

Get ready for a blast of holiday nostalgia with the Never Ending 90s Xmas Show on Nov. 29 at the Van Wezel! This newly announced concert is headlined by Ezra Ray Hart, and features 90s superstars including Mark McGrath (Sugar Ray), Kevin Griffin (Better Than Ezra), and Emerson Hart (Tonic). With hit songs like “Fly,” “Good,” and “If You Could Only See,” plus festive holiday twists, it’s a fun, feel good night for all ages.

Tickets are on sale now at Van Wezel.org.

Parks & Rec: Lawn Bowling

Whether you're a seasoned competitor or just looking to test your skills, lawn bowling is a great way to enjoy friendly competition and meet others who share your interest. Join fellow enthusiasts for leisurely afternoons of sport and social connection in a beautifully designed public space located just one-half mile south of the Bobby Jones Golf Club entrance at 951 Circus Blvd.

New to the game? Lessons are hosted by The Sarasota Lawn Bowling Club. “Learn to Lawn Bowl” includes 4 lessons, all equipment, trained instructors, and a one month free membership to the Sarasota Lawn Bowling Club!

For more information email SarasotaLawnBowlingClub@gmail.com

Learn more at the Sarasota Lawn Bowling Club