Protect Siesta Key opposes any changes to the Comprehensive Plan that would endanger the decades-old regulations protecting all barrier islands. We also oppose any changes to the zoning code that conflict with our Comprehensive Plan.
The Sarasota County Commission will conduct a public hearing on September 11, 2024, to review proposed changes to our Comprehensive Plan. These changes will increase the size of multifamily buildings (condos, timeshares, apartments) in the Residential Multi-family Districts on Siesta Key.
The proposal suggests allowing decades-old multifamily structures, which already exceed the maximum permitted densities and heights in the current zoning regulations, to become even larger. The Siesta Key Condominium Council is leading the opposition to this change. The Sarasota Planning Commission board previously rejected the proposed change to the Comprehensive Plan with an 8-0 vote a few weeks ago.
Many multifamily structures were platted or constructed prior to the implementation of current zoning regulations. Since 1975, the maximum height for structures in the residential multifamily districts (RMF) has been 35 feet for RMF Districts 1 and 2, and 45 feet for RMF District 3. Presently, approximately 137 structures on Siesta Key exceed these height limits as they were built before the adoption of these regulations. While the zoning regulations allow these structures to be rebuilt in the event of destruction by a disaster, if they are to be demolished voluntarily, they must adhere to the current zoning regulations regarding size including height.
The proposed change to our Comprehensive Plan would allow these tall structures to be rebuilt with parking underneath the residences, potentially increasing their height. For example, an 8-story building could become 10 stories or more. Additionally, this change would reduce the side yard and rear yard setbacks, resulting in wider, more massive buildings.
There are concerns that the proposed new regulations may mark just the beginning, becoming a Trojan horse for developers to add floors or density to our already crowded island.
Please take the time to read the attached PSK memo and the letter from Attorney Richard Grosso.
Protect Siesta Key Memo to the County Commission (link)
PSK's Memo Exhibits (link)
Attorney Richard Grosso Letter on proposed changes (link)
If you wish to voice your concerns, please send an email to the County Commission before Tuesday, September 10, to have your input included in the official record.
Email our County Commission (cut and paste into your email): Mhsmith@scgov.net, Jneunder@scgov.net, rcutsinger@scgov.net, nrainford@scgov.net, mmoran@scgov.net
Copy the staff: Planner@scgov.net, Efarrell@scgov.net
Let them know you agree with Protect Siesta Key, Inc. that the County should not amend the laws of our Comprehensive Plan!
Public Hearing information
Wednesday, Sept 11 Meeting time: starts at 9 am Location: County Commission Chambers Address: 1660 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota
Thank you for your support of our efforts to protect our Siesta Key!
Sincerely, Lourdes | 
