Sarasota News Events
Siesta Key Update from https://www.protectsiestakey.org/
Do you want Siesta Key to look like the Miami Skyline?
Recent County Workshop on Voluntary Condo Rebuilds |
| The recent county workshop regarding the voluntary condo rebuilds has raised significant alarms with the board of Protect Siesta Key. County Commissioners made comments at this meeting that could lead to detrimental impacts on our beloved community, threatening the unique character. As your advocates, we are committed to championing the voices of residents and ensuring that any development reflects the needs and desires of our community, not just the interests of a few.
Bottom Line: Commissioner Mark Smith, our representative on the commission, has requested an exemption for certain high-density condominium structures from the policies outlined in our Comprehensive Plan. This exemption would allow these structures to voluntarily demolish older high-density condo buildings and construct taller and larger ones in their place. We are concerned about the intent behind this proposal. Our unease grew further when attorneys from the developer’s legal firm, Icard Merrill, attended the workshop, not only advocating for this exemption but also suggesting that it be expanded to include high-density structures in single-family districts on Siesta Key. The Board of Protect Siesta Key is united in actively opposing this proposed change to our Comprehensive Plan. What does the Condo voluntary rebuild mean? Siesta Key has the highest residential density per square mile of any area in unincorporated Sarasota County. This 2.3 square mile region contains 137 condominium buildings that exceed the density and height regulations allowed under current zoning laws, as many were constructed prior to the implementation of these regulations. As a result, these older condominium structures are classified as “nonconforming” to the existing zoning codes. Any new construction permitted today must adhere to all of the current code regulations, especially density and height limitations, while the nonconforming structures are considered ‘grandfathered in.’ Since 1989, the code has allowed nonconforming structures to be rebuilt if they suffer damage from a natural disaster, such as a hurricane. In these cases, they can be rebuilt to the same height and maintain the existing high density. However, if condo owners wish to voluntarily demolish their structures, they must comply with all current laws, including reducing the density to meet the maximum allowed. |
