Sarasota Livin'

I went to the required neighborhood meeting for adding 30 some parking spots to Morton's Market parking lot (by rezoning 2 residential lots, cutting down 40-50 trees, knocking down some houses, and putting in the parking). There were about 40 residents there. I didn't hear even one comment in favor of the project. To be fair many of the comments were directed to issues that exist with or without the proposed change.

Issues related to the parking include the loss of the trees, the "wildlife" habitat, night time lighting, noise and "lowering" of property values. A real sticking point was the fact that the parking would be for "customers" only. The neighbors have long complained about Mortons and the other "related" stores employees parking on the neighborhood streets. It was stated that none of the new parking was being thought of as for employee parking (who must now agree not to park in the lot as a condition of employment)...

Other issues revolved around the current dumpsters (which will not move) and the garbage trucks in the early morning.... and the rats!! (several people brought them up) and the noise of delivery trucks ... again to be fair most of this has existed for many many years..

Next week (July 21st @ 6:30 @ Waldemere Fire Station) we have another change being requested for a whole block bounded by Osprey Ave & Laurent Place, Hyde Park St and Hillview Ave. The requested zoning - Community Commercial - would allow "mixed use" at a much more intensive level than exists today.... (not sure where the parking for that will be...)