Parking changes in effect

New parking areas and charges are in place in downtown Sarasota - click link for map and more info.

A Pulitzer Earned and Deserved

When you read a story by Paige St. John, who has been unearthing reams of data about the insurance industry's dubious business practices in Florida, you realize you're in the presence of a journalist who's extremely smart, persevering, and who has thoroughly done her homework.

Congratulations to St. John and to the Herald Tribune for her Pulitzer.

If the paper can get over its justifiable glee, it should do a detailed overview showing what St. John's work has revealed, not simply about this specific industry, but about the context and environment in which big business is conducted in Florida. Here's a story by St. John from only a few days ago, showing how receptive the highest levels of state government to egregious ways the insurers have perfected of taking Floridians to the cleaners.

And the most important thing is, what's next. If the paper manages to hang on to this reporter, it should back broader and deeper investigations that will expose a climate of corrupt or non-existent regulation that the current crew in Tallahassee is happy to support and expand.

The recognition of Paige St. John's work is best honored in its continuation.

Tablets for Sustainability

From a City of Sarasota Press Release:

Sarasota, FL: In an effort to enhance operational efficiencies while maintaining its focus on green initiatives, the City Commission will begin using iPads, the electronic tablet created by Apple . . ..

The majority of City Commissioners and all three Charter Officials will use the iPads. An application designed for City Commission agendas allows users to bookmark pages and even highlight and write notes on individual documents.

Each tablet cost $784 including accessories. It is estimated the City will accrue a savings of approximately $7,500 per year in paper and printing costs. One of the City Commission’s top five priorities is environmental sustainability.

Other governmental entities throughout Florida are implementing the new technology including Ormand Beach, Palm Coast and Sarasota County.

For more information, call City Auditor and Clerk Pamela Nadalini at 941-954-4169.

Advisory Board Applicants for City of Sarasota Needed

Sarasota, FL: The City of Sarasota is seeking individuals who are interested in their community to serve on City Commission Advisory Boards. The following positions are now open:

Board of Rules and Appeals:
- One seat for a mechanical contractor
- One seat for a fire alarm contractor

Bobby Jones Golf Course Advisory Board:
- One seat for an individual with a financial services background
- One seat for an individual with experience managing a recreational facility
- One seat for an active user of the Bobby Jones Golf Course facilities

Citizens With Disabilities Advisory Board:
- Two seats with no seat requirement

Civil Service/General Personnel Board:
- No seat requirement

Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Advisory Board:
- One seat for an individual involved in planning or design in the Downtown Redevelopment Area
- One seat for an individual involved in construction development in the Downtown Redevelopment Area
- One seat for a representative of the Economic Development Board
- One seat for an individual involved in finance or banking

Human Relations Board:
- One seat with no requirement

Newtown Community redevelopment Agency (CRA) Advisory Board:
- One seat for a representative of the Economic Development Board
- One seat for an individual involved in planning or design
- One seat for an individual involved in finance or banking

Nuisance Abatement Board:
- Two seats with no requirement

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Advisory Board:
- One seat for an individual who is a City resident

Preference is given to people who live or own property within the City of Sarasota. All positions are voluntary and are appointed by the City Commission of the City of Sarasota. To apply for an Advisory Board position, visit www.sarasotagov.com and click 'Citizen Advisory Boards' or visit the Office of the City Auditor & Clerk, 1565 First Street, during regular business hours.

For more information contact City Auditor and Clerk Pamela Nadalini:
941-954-4169.