Dear Neighbor,
          In February we asked neighbors in Sarasota County to participate in a survey.  Our sincere thanks go to all those who provided their opinions and feedback.  We found the results very informative, with a few unexpected revelations along the way! 

The survey included a question about overall priorities, vision statements for each priority, and potential resources for achieving those visions.  The top two neighborhood priorities among respondents were Neighborhood Safety and Neighborhood Natural Environment, with an emphasis on:
  • Residents taking an active role in preventing neighborhood crimes;
  • Neighborhood preparations to sustain itself in case of disaster;
  • Thriving native habitats and
  • Better water quality in neighborhood ponds or drainage areas.
With a major commitment by our Neighborhood Services team to host an engaging and informative Florida Neighborhoods Conference in October, we're working diligently to make sure the interests above are represented among workshops (deadline for  Workshop Proposals is April 15)  and exhibitors .  If you can identify any businesses or organizations who have helped your neighborhood to achieve these visions, please help promote their good work by sharing the  Sponsorship Packet with them.

We're also in the process of celebrating National County Government Month with the theme of "Safe and Secure Counties."  We'll be promoting the role Sarasota County government plays in keeping our community safe and secure, with daily posts to our Facebook page and a series of visits to farmers markets.  Stop by our table to pick up informational materials on Sarasota County programs and resources, or just to enjoy a neighborly chat.
  • Wednesday, April 13: Phillippi Farmhouse Market, 9am-2p
  • Thursday, April 21: Englewood Farmers Market, 9am-2pm
  • Friday, April 29: North Port Farmers Market, 9am-1pm
Quick Links



Sarasota County's Public Safety Communications team (read: 911) is always looking for customer service-oriented professionals who are quick on their feet and ready to answer the call.  Do you know someone who would make a great community hero?  Visit the Communications Job Fair on April 12 or April 16 to learn more.

It's a two-in-one celebration of Seagrass!  Seagrass beds play a vital role in maintaining our water quality, and providing food & habitat to a wide variety of marine life.  Be a scientist for the day (and get a free t-shirt and lunch!) by volunteering to assist with the 2nd Annual Sarasota County Seagrass Survey.  Then stick around for some hands-on activities, live music, educational booths and more at the FUN and FREE SeagrassFest!  The combined events will be held April 30 at Ken Thompson Park.


Money may not grow on trees - but energy can!  The Arbor Day Foundation has partnered with utility companies across the country to encourage strategic tree-planting in efforts to reduce energy consumption.  Visit the Energy-Saving Trees website to determine a viable location and plant species for an energy-saving tree in your yard! 
Neighbors Ask:
Will the county consider assisting my neighborhood to improve our roads or street lights?

Sarasota County offers Public Improvement Districts for both streets and street lighting.  These special assessment districts aim to supplement infrastructure improvements in the county.  They do require proof of neighborhood support and a Public Hearing.  Funds for approved projects are generated from annual tax notices to property owners in the neighborhood.
Until we Connect again,
Your Neighborhood Services Team

Jane Grogg, Manager
Miranda Lansdale, Community Outreach Specialist
Megan Lui, Neighborhood Planner

Neighborhood Services | Sarasota County | 941-861-5000 | neighbor@scgov.net 
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