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News

Although some businesses, including Artisan Cheese Company, are already requiring the use of masks, new city regulations could mandate face coverings in all indoor settings when social distancing is not possible.
    By
  • David Conway
  • June 26, 2020
UPDATE: City set to discuss proposed mask requirements Monday

As COVID-19 cases rise locally, the commission will consider an ordinance mandating face coverings in indoor and outdoor settings.

  • Sarasota
  • News
Manatee County Administrator Cheri Coryea said her proposed budget includes a 7.1% increase in the property tax base. File photo.
    By
  • Pam Eubanks
  • June 26, 2020
Manatee County administrator presents $710.7 million budget to commissioners

More Manatee County Sheriff's Office deputies included in $710.7 million FY 2021 budget.

  • East County
  • News
The School District of Manatee County is planning to have elementary students fully return to school in the fall while middle and high schools will have hybrid classes.
    By
  • Liz Ramos
  • June 25, 2020
Manatee school district lays out recommended reopening plan

Elementary students to return fully to school while middle and high schools will have hybrid classes.

  • East County
  • News
Siesta Key residents worry the proposed mixed-use project will exacerbate traffic in the area.
    By
  • Brynn Mechem
  • June 25, 2020
Siesta Promenade appeal heard in 2nd District Court of Appeal

The plaintiff's attorney argued that Sarasota County commissioners did not follow the proper procedure when approving the project.

  • Sarasota
  • News
The 232-unit living site is proposed for on an 11-acre parcel in Palmer Rancn.
    By
  • Brynn Mechem
  • June 25, 2020
Proposed development on Honore causes concern for neighbors

The proposed development would bring 232 multifamily units for residents age 55 and older.

  • Sarasota
  • News
Residents of The Mark, which opened earlier this year, have expressed concerns about the potential impact of Tavern on Main Brewery, which plans to open early next year.
    By
  • David Conway
  • June 25, 2020
Noise concerns raise questions about downtown balance

A group of condo owners is worried about potential sound issues, but a city commissioner says the heart of the city was built for a mix of activity.

  • Sarasota
  • News
Miranda Prouty is an employee at Pixie Dust, a downtown store that requires masks for entry. Pixie Dust workers said they saw the masks as a step that helped ensure the safety of their customers.
    By
  • David Conway
  • June 25, 2020
Rising COVID-19 numbers draw response from Sarasota leaders

City officials are considering making masks mandatory, while county staff is relying on the public to exercise good judgment.

  • Sarasota
  • News
Kyle Van Frank and Will Luera pose on stage in a promotional image for FST Improv's Triple Play. One safety precaution taken: minimizing the number of people involved in the production. Photo courtesy Sarah Haley.
    By
  • David Conway
  • June 25, 2020
Reopening questions loom large for venues, attractions

As some local institutions welcome visitors back, others are working together on strategies for opening safely — whenever that's possible.

  • Sarasota
  • News
Based on the commission's input, City Manager Tom Barwin said he is revising his vision for an initiative focused on addressing major community issues.
    By
  • David Conway
  • June 25, 2020
City manager pitches community conversations

A skeptical City Commission asked for more details before moving forward with the concept.

  • Sarasota
  • News
Manatee County hurricane shelters will provide 60 square feet per person in 2020.
    By
  • Mark Bergin
  • June 24, 2020
Emergency chiefs urge shelter use as 'refuge of last resort'

Longboat Key leaders held a "Zoominar" to outline hurricane preparations.

  • Longboat Key
  • News
    By
  • Liz Ramos
  • June 24, 2020
Horsing around in East County

Camp participants spend time learning about horses, riding and doing arts and crafts.

  • East County
  • News
Traffic exits Interstate 75 southbound at University Parkway, because of a crash on the overpass in this FDOT traffic camera image.
    By
  • Pam Eubanks
  • June 24, 2020
Fatal crash blocks I-75 in Sarasota, Manatee counties

Florida Highway Patrol reroutes traffic for fatal I-75 crash in Manatee County.

  • East County
  • News
Although he never thought he would be an author, Central Park resident Bill Kopcsak publishes his first book. Now he's taking playwriting classes.
    By
  • Liz Ramos
  • June 24, 2020
Lakewood Ranch author treasures memories of 'Aunt Ruth'

Local writer publishes first book and starts writing plays.

  • East County
  • News
Manatee County Emergency Medical Services District Chief Mark Regis, Assistant Chief of Operations Larry Luh and paramedic Steven Wheler say the new station gives paramedics a place they can call "home" and space for training.
    By
  • Pam Eubanks
  • June 24, 2020
Hospitals surge to help EMS in Manatee County

Improved turnaround time at Manatee County hospitals lets ambulances get back into action.

  • East County
  • News
    By
  • Pam Eubanks
  • June 24, 2020
Growth still on the rise in Lakewood Ranch area

Interesting projects flood into Manatee County for permitting.

  • East County
  • News
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