Commission chooses new chair, vice chair

At its annual retreat, the Sarasota County commissioners chose a new chair and vice chair.

Alan Maio, who represents district 4, formerly vice chair, will be the new chair.

In an interview with the Sarasota Observer, Maio praised former commission chair Carolyn Mason for her equanimity, saying that the chair is responsible for leading the meetings, and that his or her demeanor can determine the demeanor of the crowd.

Paul Caragiulo is vice chair, and Charles Hines assumes chair pro tempore, and , who can assume the role temporarily in case, for example, the chair wishes to make a motion.

Commissioners also discussed strategies for the coming year and reviewed the current fiscal year budget.