Commission moves forward with red-light cameras

The Sarasota City Commission approved an ordinance to allow red-light cameras within city limits on first reading. Drivers caught running red lights by cameras face a $158 fine. The cameras must comply with Florida Department of Transportation guidelines, which will be published later this year.

Also at its meeting, the commission:

Approved:
• A revised Community Redevelopment Agency policy adding the word “future” to existing language about Tax Increment Financing for Downtown and Newtown redevelopment areas.

• The 2010-11 Neighborhood Grant Program, giving 12 neighborhood associations a total of $32,445.26 for various projects.

• Revised guidelines for the State Housing Incentive Partnership program to eliminate new construction and limit assistance to the purchase and renovation of existing vacant homes.

• A motion authorizing the mayor and city auditor and clerk to execute the third extension of an agreement for plumbing, installation, maintenance and repair services between the city of Sarasota and Aqua Services Inc. for an additional six-month period.

• A quitclaim deed to the city of Sarasota for the Cocoanut Avenue right-of-way to clarify that portion of Lots 1, 2 and 3 of Block 32 as dedicated for use as a public right-of-way.

Adopted
• An ordinance allowing the Southwest Florida Water Management District to declare water shortages or water-shortage emergencies and to restrict water usage according to its Water Shortage Plan.

Directed to public hearing:
• Discussion of a major conditional use for 16 wet slips on Whitaker Bayou as an accessory use to a hotel to be constructed at 1701-1715 N. Tamiami Trail.

For more information, pick up the Oct. 21 edition of The Sarasota Observer.

Contact Robin Hartill at [email protected].