Opinion

Matt Walsh
March 20, 2024

A tough, 50-year decision

No matter what, the commissioners are intent on moving forward as quickly as possible with the construction of an 8,000-square-foot public library branch on Town Center Green.

Longboat Key
Opinion

Jay Heater
March 14, 2024

Golf continues to thrive in Lakewood Ranch area

East County has become a mecca of the one-ailing sport.

East County
Opinion

Adrian Moore
March 13, 2024

Sarasota’s own answer to crime reduction

The most intractable problem of crime is that of repeat offenders. Solving that is no easy task, but in Sarasota, an impressive nonprofit called Project 180 is showing it can be done.

Sarasota
Opinion

Matt Walsh
March 13, 2024

Biden’s fantasia vs. Florida’s fiscal responsibleness

What a contrast — the Biden proposed budget and the historical federal deficits versus the Florida budget for 2024-2025.

Sarasota
Opinion

Jay Heater
March 7, 2024

Are Manatee County commissioners really interested in the environment?

Crooked River Ranch acquisition is a step in the right direction for the county.

East County
Opinion

Matt Walsh
March 7, 2024

New College plan makes no sense for taxpayers

New College of Florida’s new president, Richard Corcoran, and the DeSantis board appointees have an ambitious plan. But when you analyze the economics, you can’t justify the $400 million-plus cost to taxpayers.

Sarasota
Opinion

Matt Walsh
March 6, 2024

Here is what LBK needs

Sure, Longboat residents would like all three venues — a community center, a dedicated education center and a library branch. The county has the cash for all three.

Longboat Key
Opinion

Jay Heater
February 29, 2024

Director gears up for 2024 LECOM Suncoast Classic

Justin Kristich says increasing the seating is a priority for the Lakewood Ranch event.

East County
Opinion

Emily Walsh
February 28, 2024

Start spreading the news

Out with the old, in the with the new. The Observer may be the only newspaper company in the country installing new news racks.

Sarasota
Opinion

Jay Heater
February 22, 2024

No money, but Manatee County plans for new Palmetto park?

Premier project drags, but $30 million will be spent on a veterans' memorial park.

East County
Opinion

By Letter to the Editor
February 21, 2024

Don’t stop. Complete Longboat Key library project now.

Longboat's mayor writes to urge on progress for the library project at the Town Center Green.

Longboat Key
Opinion

Matt Walsh
February 21, 2024

Clash of merit vs. politics

After 11 years as Manatee’s supervisor of elections, Mike Bennett is retiring March 1. He has recommended an obvious choice: his chief of staff. But a surprise candidate has also applied: Commissioner James Satcher.