WHAT'S HAPPENING | Week of Sept. 3

Developer proposes major South Trail  project

Developers this month will ask the county to build up to 130 residential units and a large commercial center at the the site of what public officials have called the most beautiful land in Sarasota County.

Attorney Brenda Patten requested a pre-application meeting regarding two proposed projects under the title "Cassia Cay" at 7914 Tamiami Trail, and on a parcel located just south of Holiday Drive in the same area.

Developers are proposing a commercial property and a residential property. They will request some ordinance changes to amend the binding development concept plan submitted to and approved by the county in 2006 by a different developer. Exceptions and ordinance changes to be proposed include a special exception to increase the maximum height for two of the  buildings to 51 feet, and allowance to build two multifamily buildings on a property zoned “commercial general.”

Of the 18.27 acres, the proposed development would preserve approximately 11.63 acres as open space, with the remainder being used for buildings.

The applications were submitted earlier this month and the meeting with county staff to discuss the projects is scheduled for Sept. 3.

What's the buzz?

Sarasota County remains a powerhouse in local fundraising, as an ambitious initiative with a short timeline ended Tuesday with more than $3.8 million in donations.

The 2015 Giving Challenge generated a total of $6.6 million — which included matching funds from the Patterson Foundation — that will pour into hundreds of nonprofit organizations.

Meetings & Agendas

Regular City Commission meeting — 2:30 and 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8, Commission Chambers, City Hall, 1565 First St., Sarasota

Sarasota County Commission meeting — 9 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 9, Commission Chambers, Administration Building, 1660 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota