2026.03 Citizen Newsletter FINAL

NEWS VENICE CITY E

John Nolen statue unveiled in Centennial Park

On Feb. 18, in partnership with Venice Area Beautification Inc. and the Venice Area Historical Society, the visionary planner who helped shape our beautiful city, John Nolen, was honored with a statue/bench and interpretive panel unveiling in Centennial Park.

Nolen's relatives traveled from across the United States and Canada to attend this special Centennial event and unveil the statue, including his grandson, greatgrandchildren, and greatgreat-grandchild, pictured at right.

Following a performance by the Venice High School Marching Band, speakers included Mayor Nick Pachota; Bob Vedder, leader of VABI’s Bloom Team; Frank Wright, president of VAHS, Nolen biographer Bruce Stephenson; Jon Thaxton of Gulf Coast Community Foundation, and local philanthropist Dr. William H. Jervey Jr. The statue was originally envisioned by Vedder.

Charter Officers

CityManager JamesClinch CityClerk KellyMichaels

CityAttorney KellyFernandez

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Public Safety Chiefs

VenicePoliceChief AndyLeisenring VeniceFireChief FrankGiddens

Nolen was commissioned in 1925 to design what was then a small Gulf Coast town - Venice, Fla. More than a century later, residents and visitors continue to enjoy Nolen’s original urban design, which is widely recognized for its thoughtful parks, landscaped streets, and traditional neighborhood planning that still define the character of Venice today.

Venice in the Know, official City of Venice Podcast

The bronze statue is located in Centennial Park at the corner of Nokomis Ave. N. and W. Venice Ave. It depicts Nolen seated on a bench holding his city plan of Venice. Major funding for the project was provided by Dr. William Jervey, Bob and Sue Vedder, the Cousins Laning Historical Fund at Gulf Coast Community Foundation, VABI, VAHS, and numerous individual donors. This permanent addition to Centennial Park is a fitting tribute as the City of Venice celebrates its 100th anniversary. More photos, page 3

Nolen statue unveiled

Citywide Burn Ban remains in effect, dry conditions persist

Thecitywiderecreationalburnban issuedonOct.11,2025,byVeniceFire RescueChiefFrankGiddensremainsin placeduetocontinueddryweather conditionsthatposeincreasedriskfor potentialwildfires.

Thecitywideburnbanprohibitsall outdoorburningthathasnotbeen specificallypermittedbytheFlorida ForestServiceburningsuchasbonfires, firepits,cookingpits,campfires,andthe burningofyarddebris.

Outdoorcookingfiresinapprovedgrills suchasgasorcharcoalBBQgrillsare permitted;however,extremecautionis urgedwiththesedevicesaswell. Remembertonotleaveagrill unattendedandmakesurecoalsare completelycooledbeforedisposing.

Theburnbanwillautomaticallylift aftertheKeetch-ByramDroughtIndex (KBDI)fallsbelow500for sevenconsecutivedays.

Weaskallresidentstostayvigilant duringthesedryconditions Shoulda wildfireerupt,nearbyresidentsare urgedtofollowdirectionsfrom authorities.Thismayinclude evacuationsoflocalizedareas.

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Venice man charged with murder in 2024 missing person case

The Venice Police Department, in coordination with the Bradenton Police Department and FBI, arrested Ronald Chester Racki on a homicide charge Feb. 20, stemming from a 2024 missing person case.

Laikyn Marie West, 24, of Bradenton, was reported missing on Sept. 16, 2024, after last being seen on Sept. 13, 2024. As the investigation progressed, evidence indicated that the last known location where she was alive was in the City of Venice. Venice Police began assisting the Bradenton Police Department with follow-up investigative steps.

As additional evidence developed indicating this case was a homicide, and because critical investigative events occurred within the City's jurisdiction, VPD assumed primary investigative responsibility.

At 5:43 a.m. Feb. 20, Racki, 75, of Venice, was taken into custody and charged with second-degree murder in the case. There is evidence that West and Racki were known to each other and had arranged to meet, and Racki was the last person to see her alive.

West has not yet been located. However, Florida law allows law enforcement and prosecutors to move forward when the evidence supports that a homicide occurred and identifies the responsible party, even when remains have not been recovered.

This decision was made in consultation with the Office of the State Attorney for the 12th Judicial Circuit after careful review of the evidence in this investigation.

“After months of careful and coordinated investigative work, the evidence developed in this case supports this arrest and charge,” said Venice Police Chief Andy Leisenring. “We remain committed to seeking justice for Laikyn West and to bringing answers to her family.”

Racki remains at the Sarasota County Jail without bond.

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Government Finance Professionals Week is March 16-20

March 16-20, 2026, the Florida Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) is sponsoring Government Finance Professionals Week to recognize government finance professionals and the vital services they provide for local government and the community in which they serve. In advance of this week, here’s a Q&A with City Finance Director Linda Senne.

What functions/services does Finance provide for the City of Venice?

The Finance Department is responsible for the City’s cash and treasury management, investment portfolio, debt management (municipal bond financings and state revolving funds), budgeting, accounting (financial reporting), miscellaneous receivables and utility billing, payroll, accounts payable, procurement, pursuing and accounting for federal and state grants for city assets, capital improvement plan, customer service/Cashier’s Office (collection of all payments), compliance with laws and regulations, and preparing the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR).

Which of the above are the most challenging?

As in every local governmental organization – establishing priorities, balancing increased expenditures (including personnel costs) and service demands with decreased revenues, the costs of unfunded state and federal mandates, and the cost of infrastructure and associated costs.

What are the specific functions of Procurement?

Linda

Kendra Arce, Sabrina Diaz-Gonzalez, Jessica

Brenda Westlake, Rattana Wongsa, Melissa Mosser, Debra Schlake, Nancy

and Victoria Sanadi.

The main purpose of the Procurement Division within Finance is to be proactive in meeting the City’s needs by providing quality procurement services in an efficient, economical, and professional manner. To achieve these goals requires continuous improvement of the procurement function. This is achieved through creativity, teamwork, and a commitment to the success of City departments.

Procurement is responsible for the purchase of and contracting for all commodities and services requested by city departments, under competitive bidding or by contractual negotiation. The division also plans and coordinates purchases in volume, negotiates, and executes purchasing agreements and contracts; establishes standards and specifications for commodities acquired under blanket purchase orders; prescribes forms necessary for efficient procurement practices; and ensures commodities meet city standards and specifications.

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What is the City’s bond rating and why is that important?

Three major rating institutions (Standard & Poor’s, Moody’s Investor Services, and Fitch Ratings) evaluate the City’s financial management, economic conditions, and administrative practices. The City’s bond ratings reflect investment quality, as shown below:

The bond rating is important because the rating provides information for investors as to the quality and stability of the bonds. Investors in municipal bonds use credit ratings to assess creditworthiness, or the ability and willingness of the state or local government issuing the bonds to pay investors their money back, plus interest. The rating influences the investment appetite, interest rate the city pays on the bonds, and bond pricing.

What is the most recent big project your team has completed, and what is next?

Everything the City does involves Finance in some way. Recent big projects include obtaining financing via a Capital Improvement Revenue Bond, Series 2025, for construction of the new Fire Station 52; and the purchase of a 36,000-square-foot facility on a 5-acre site to serve as the new headquarters for the solid waste, recycling, and fleet maintenance divisions. Next: Work together with Public Works to gradually bring fleet maintenance operations inhouse, and to put the interlocal parks agreement into action. Continue to abide with the City’s financial management policies showing fiscal constraint and maintaining a balanced budget without the use of reserve funds. Perform a rating surveillance with the three rating agencies to maintain the City’s bond ratings at AA+. Provide information to Council so that they can make decisions that are in the best interest of the City.

The COV Finance Department has won the GFOA Financial Reporting Award 36 years in a row. What is the significance of this achievement?

To be awarded a Certificate of Achievement, the City had to publish an easily readable and efficiently organized Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) that satisfies both generally accepted accounting principles and applicable legal requirements. The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management. In addition, the City has received the Triple Crown Award from GFOA for receiving all 3 GFOA Awards for Fiscal Year 2024 (the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting Award, Distinguished Budget Presentation Award, and Popular Annual Financial Reporting Award). The City expects to receive the Triple Crown Award for FY2025.

Characterize the COV Finance team for citizens.

The Finance team is enthusiastic and functions very well under pressure with constant deadlines. All Finance Department personnel are leaders who look for new ways to improve processes/procedures and have the diligence and discipline to finish the job. What makes it outstanding? Ethics, standards of conduct, hard work, dedication, collaboration, communication, and commitment to serve the community.

Tell us something about your department you would like others to know.

The Finance team has individuals with specialized expertise and complementary skills who collaborate, innovate, and produce consistently superior results. The Finance Department’s knowledge, productivity, integrity, and dedication ensures that funds entrusted to the City are properly budgeted, disbursed and accounted for.

Free admission to the Venice Museum and Old Betsy Museum

Open10a.m.to4p.m.onMondays, Tuesdays,andWednesdays,theVenice Museumfeaturesrotatingseasonal exhibits,aglimpseintothelifeofDr FredAlbeeandfamedcityplannerJohn Nolen,thestoryofaKentuckyMilitary Institutecadet,andmore.

Onyourwayout,visittheOldBetsy MuseumtoseetheCity’s1926 LaFrancefireengineondisplay.

TheVeniceMuseum,at351NassauSt. S.,isalsoopen11a.m.to3p.m.onthe firstandthirdSaturdaysofthemonth, OctoberthroughApril.

Can’tmakeitinperson? Explorethe museum ’sonlinearchivesfromyour smartphoneorcomputer,featuring historicalphotosandoldnewspapers.

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Resident recognized for pickleball court support

On Feb. 17, resident Jenny Heussner, pictured at left, was lauded with a bench plaque at Hecksher Park for her efforts to bring pickleball to the island, in partnership with City Council and the Engineering and Public Works departments. The pickleball courts opened in September 2025 at Hecksher.

The plaque reads: "In recognition of Jenny Heussner for her unwavering spirit and support for Hecksher Park's pickleball courts."

sailboater

OnFeb.22,VeniceFireRescueBoat 51wasdispatchedtoassistan18footsailboatindistressdueto deterioratingweatherconditions Thevesselhadlostitssail,andone occupantremainedonboard.

Duetoroughseas,SeaTow determineditwasunsafetotowthe sailboatbackintotheIntracoastal Waterwaywithoutasignificantrisk ofcapsizing.Withassistancefrom BeachPatrol’sSki23,crewssafely transferredtheoccupanttoRescue Boat51.Thesailboatwassecured andleftonscene,andtheoccupant wastransportedsafelytoshore withoutinjury

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Airport Day set for March 7 at Skyport Aviation

TheCityofVeniceinvitesresidentsand visitorstoattendVeniceAirportDayfrom 9a.m.to3p.m.Saturday,March7at SkyportAviationatVeniceMunicipal Airport(VNC).

Thisfree,family-friendlyeventoffersthe publicanopportunitytoexperiencethe airportfirsthandandlearnmoreabout aviationintheVenicecommunity.

VeniceAirportDaywillfeatureaircraft, drone,andremote-controlaircraft displays;aviationeducationactivities; localvendors;andfoodoptions.The eventisdesignedtoengageattendeesof allageswhilehighlightingtheAirport’s roleasacommunityassetandeconomic driver.

TheeventissponsoredbytheVenice AviationSociety(VASI),VeniceMunicipal Airport,SkyportAviation,Altivation AircraftSales,FloridaFlightTraining Center,SarasotaAvionics,Alpha CompanyAviation,andAvSkyCharters.

Aviation-basedorganizationsand businessesfromtheVeniceareawillbe onsitetoshareinformationandinteract withthepublic.SkyportAviationis locatedat400AirportAve.E.

Admissionisfree,andallmembersofthe communityareencouragedtoattend.

CITY COUNCIL

How to watch City Council and Advisory Board Metings

VeniceCityCouncilmeetsatCityHall, 401W.VeniceAve.,at9a.m.generally onthesecondandfourthTuesdaysof eachmonth.Councilmeetingminutes andvideorecordingsaretypically availablewithin48hoursofeach meetingdate.WatchCityCouncil meetingsandrecordingsandviewfull meetingagendasandminutesonline here.

Advisory Boards

CitizenAdvisoryBoard(CAB)

CitizenTaxOversightCommittee

CommunityRatingSystem(CRS) Committee

FirePensionBoardofTrustees

HistoricandArchitectural

PreservationBoard(HAPB)

PlanningCommission

PolicePensionBoardofTrustees

VeniceHousingAuthority

Feb. 10 Council Meeting Recap

ThefollowingactionsweretakenbyVeniceCityCouncilattheirFeb 10regularmeeting:

Recognitions:KevinBarrett,Engineering/StormwaterTechII,receivedhis35-yearServiceAward;and2025EmployeeoftheYear MattTomer,FireRescueLogisticsDivisionChief,wasrecognized.Seerelatedphotos,page22

ConsentAgenda:AllitemsundertheFeb 10CityCouncil ConsentAgendawereapprovedby7-0vote

Ordinances,FirstReading:Counciltookactiononthe followingordinancesOrd.No.2025-37,Ord.No.2025-38,Ord.No.2025-39, andOrd No 2026-01,approved7-0onfirstreading andscheduledforfinalreading

Ordinances,FinalReading:Counciltookactiononthe followingordinancesOrd.No.2026-02,Ord.No. 2026-03,Ord.No.2026-04 andOrd No 2026-05,approved7-0andadopted

Resolutions:Counciltookactiononthefollowing resolutions-

Res.No.2026-04andRes.No.2026-05,approved7-0 andadopted

Otherbusinessandactions:

CityCouncilapprovedthePre-AnnexationAgreement BetweentheCityofVeniceandiHeartmediaand Entertainment,Inc.fortheChaletsatVeniceProject

CouncilappointedHelenMooretotheHistoricand ArchitecturalPreservationBoardtoserveatermfrom Feb.10,2026,toAug.31,2028

Council directedstafftokeeptheapplicationperiod openforbothpositionsonthePlanningCommissionfor onemorecycle

CouncilagreedtoallowtheMayortowritealetterof supportfortheLorraineRoadExtensionprojecttothe StateLegislatureonbehalfofSarasotaCounty

Emergency Contacts

Emergency:911

Policenon-emergency:941-486-2444

CityHall:941-486-2626

CodeEnforcement:941-882-7545

Water/sewerlinebreak:941-486-2770

Reportillicitdischarge:941-882-7413

CITY COUNCIL

Feb. 24 Council Meeting Recap

ThefollowingactionsweretakenbyVeniceCityCouncilattheirFeb 24regularmeeting:

Here at the City of Venice, we’re currently hiring for:

ITAdministrativeAssistant

UtilitiesFieldOperationsTech

HeavyEquipmentOperator(CDLreq.)

Firefighter/EMT(multiple)

Firefighter/Paramedic(multiple)

Police-sworn(FLLEOoroutofstate)

StormwaterCrewLeader(CDL req.)

TreeCrewLeader(CDLreq.)

UtilitiesFieldOperationsTechnician

PublicInformationIntern(unpaid)

Apply today at: governmentjobs.com/careers/venicegov

TheCityofVeniceispartofthe

FloridaRetirementSystemandoffers on-the-jobtrainingforselect positions, tuitionreimbursement, opportunitiesforadvancement,and robustmedical,dental,vision,and lifeinsurancebenefits.

Stay in the Know

Followusonsocialmedia,register foremergencyalerts,seephotos fromaroundtown,findupcoming events,meetings,andmore!

Recognitions: LorraineAnderson,PublicInformationOfficer,receivedher10-yearServiceAward.MayorNickPachotaproclaimedthe weekofFeb 22-28,2026,asEngineersWeek,presentedtoCityManagerJamesClinch,CityEngineerJonKramer,Stormwater EngineeringManagerStevenBerens,andAssistantUtilitiesDirectorPatienceAnastasio;theweekofMarch9-15,2026,asFlood AwarenessWeek,presentedtoCRSCoordinatorChristinaRimesandBuildingOfficialDerekApplegate;andthemonthofMarchas ProcurementMonthandMarch11asProfessionalBuyer'sDay,presentedtoProcurementManagerPeterBoersandProcurement SpecialistSabrinaDiaz-Gonzalez.Seerelatedphotos,page23

ConsentAgenda:AllitemsundertheFeb.24CityCouncil ConsentAgendawereapprovedby7-0vote

Ordinances,FinalReading:Counciltookactiononthe followingordinances-

Ord.No.2025-37,Ord.No.2025-38,Ord.No.2025-39, andOrd No 2026-01,approved7-0andadopted

Ordinances,FirstReading:Counciltookactiononthe followingordinanceOrd No 2026-11,approved7-0onfirstreadingand scheduledforfinalreading

Resolutions:Counciltookactiononthefollowing resolution-

Res.No.2026-03,approved7-0andadopted

Otherbusinessandactions:

CityCouncilagreedtoallowtheMayortocommunicate(in

allforms)supportinrelationtofundingneedsforhurricane damagerepairsatHumphrisParkandtheSouthJetty

Council approvedtheCentennialParkRededicationPlaque aspresented.

Council directedstafftoscheduleajointmeetingwith SarasotaCountyCommissioners andcoordinatewiththe CountyAdministratortodevelopamutuallybeneficial agendafocusedonregionaltopicsforCouncil's consideration.

CouncilappointedKaitlynPanfilandPhillipEllistothe CitizenAdvisoryBoard,toservetermsfrom March1,2026,to Feb.28,2029.

Councildirectedstafftoresearchbringingposting requirementsforpublichearingsinlinewithSarasotaCounty government.

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Intracoastal Second Force Main Project – March update

WORK WEST OF ICWW

Projectoverview:TheUtilitiesIntracoastalSecond ForceMainProjectprimarilyinvolvestheconstruction

WORK EAST OF ICWW

ofaredundantwastewaterforcemainandgravitysewersystemtosafelyconveyallwastewaterflowsfromVeniceIslandtotheCity’smainlandfacilities.Currently,theCityonly hasonewastewaterforcemainlocatedsouthoftheE.VeniceAve.bridgethattransfersalltheisland’swastewaterflowundertheIntracoastalWaterwaytothemainland,and ultimatelytotheCity’sWaterReclamationFacility(WRF)viaLiftStationLS-07.

Shouldtheexistingwastewaterforcemainfailorrequiremaintenance,theCity’spublicsewersystemlocatedontheislandwouldbefullycutofffromtheWRF.Consequently, theproposedredundantforcemainprojectandotherassociatedworkwillgreatlyimprovethereliabilityandresiliencyoftheCity’ssewersystemandbetterprotectthewater qualityofourlocalwaterways.

Projectschedule:Thismonth,thecontractorisexpectedtofinalizeinstallationoftheGrinderManholeSystemforLiftStationNo.7,replaceLSNo.7Lid&Hatch,andinstallMH-3 alongCalledeToro;makefinalconnectionofthenewforcemainatAmericanLegionWayandE.VeniceAve.;andreplacetheexistingtappingsleevealongtheone-way, westboundE.VeniceAve.serviceroad.Temporaryandfulllaneclosureswillbenecessaryfortheforcemainconnectionandtappingsleevereplacementwork,whichwill requirea5-dayroadclosureanddetourthatwillimpacttheMarinaParkandVeniceTrainDepotvehicularaccess.Finalpaving,restoration,andprojectcompletionisexpected bytheendofMay2026.TrafficpatternupdateswillbepostedasnecessaryontheCity'swebsite,venicegov.com,onthehomepageundertheNewstab.Largeequipmentand machinerywillbewithintheroadright-of-way.Pleasedriveslowly,usecaution,andwatchoutforpedestriansandworkers.Motoristsaretofollowallpostedtrafficcontrol signs.

Funding:ConstructionofupgradesandimprovementsforthisProjectarefinancedbytheCleanWaterStateRevolvingFund(CWSRF).TheCWSRFprogramisadministeredbythe FloridaDepartmentofEnvironmentalProtectionwithjointfundingfromtheU.S.EnvironmentalProtectionAgencyandstateofFlorida.CWSRFprogramsoperatearoundthe countrytoprovidestatesandcommunitiestheresourcesnecessarytomaintainandimprovetheinfrastructurethatprotectsourvaluablewaterresourcesnationwide.

TheUtilitiesDepartmentappreciatesyourpatienceastheCity’sinfrastructureisupdatedtoimprovethesafetyandqualityoflifewithinourcommunityforyearstocome.For moreinformation,visitvenicegov.com/government/utilities/projects.Formoreinformationaboutthisproject,contactCynthiaFitzpatrick,UtilitiesProjectCoordinator,at 941-882-7290.

Mondays at City Hall

VeniceAreaToastmastersClub5486

Gainconfidenceandbecomeabetter communicator!

CallVPMembershipBernard at941-220-3407oremail officers-5486@toastmastersclubs.org forinformation.

ThegroupmeetsMondaymornings atCityHallfrom7:15a.m. to 8:35a.m. inpersonandonZoom.

Saturdays at City Hall

VeniceFloridaFarmersMarket

EverySaturday,year-round,from 8a.m.to1p.m.atCityHall.

Enjoylocalandorganicfreshproduce, bakedgoods,meats,microgreens, seafood,dairy,plants,herbs,honey, syrups,sauces,salsa,handmadesoaps, preparedfoods,andmore!

CityHallislocatedat401W.VeniceAve.

THE LATEST

Northeast Park update

WorkonNortheastParkcontinues! Theplayground cranestructureiscompletedandprogressisbeing madeontherestoftheplaygroundequipment, includingaturtleandclimbingstructures,with syntheticturfandsunshadesgoinginsoon.

Locatedat3560LaurelRoadE.,NortheastParkis expectedtoopeninspring2026,pendingweatheror materialdelays.

Parkfeatures: 4.8acres

8outdoorpickleballcourts

Fitnesstrailwithequipment

Walkingpath

2-to-5and5-to-12-year-oldplaygrounds

Largeandsmalldogparkareas

Shadestructures

Stormwaterretention

Restrooms

Pavedparking

Projecthistory:CityCouncilapprovedpurchasingland forNortheastParkin2021andapprovedtheparkplan in2023.GroundwasbrokeninApril2025.

Projectcost:Theanticipatedcostfortheparkis$6.4 million,whichincludesdesignandconstruction.The projectisfundedthroughparkimpactfees.

Didyouknow?In2021,theCityofVenicelauncheda publicinputsurveytohelpidentifythewantsandneeds foramenitiesatthisfutureparksite.Overwhelmingly, pickleballandwalkingtrailswereidentifiedby residentsandvisitors.

CENTENNIAL SPOTLIGHT

City Hall Centennial Mural comes to life!

TheCentennialmuraliscomingtolifeat CityHall,withfinaldetailsbeingadded overthenextfewweeks.

Morethan50staffmembersfromvarious Citydepartmentshavemadetheirmark, eachpaintingasmallpieceofourshared history.

Locatednearthemainentrance,the muralisdesignedtoserveasawelcoming featureandfuturephotospotfor residentsandvisitors.

Thedesignshowcasestheofficial Centenniallogo,createdbylocalresident andbusinessownerStuartBaileyand adoptedbyCityCouncilin2024,andwill alsofeaturehibiscusflowersandorange blossomsthatreflectVenice’shistory, citrusroots,andcoastalsettingonthe Gulf.

Themuralcostapproximately$500in materials,withnolaborcostsandno overtimepaid.Theprojectisbeing overseenbyDeputyPublicInformation OfficerBrianneLorenz.

Staytunedasthefinishingtouchescome together!

Celebrating 100 Years! Get Involved

Sign up to volunteer for City or community partner Centennial events, click here.

Apply for a Centennial partnership to use the Centennial logo, request a new Centennial event on public property, install permanent art or features and more, click here.

Learn more about the City of Venice Centennial at venicegov.com

Lord-Higel’s Coffee House

Adaptivereuseofoneoftheoldest homesinVeniceoperatedby BlackGoldCoffeeRoasters

Open7a.m.to7p.m.Mondaythrough Thursday,7a.m.to9p.m.Fridayand Saturday,and7a.m.to1p.m.Sunday. ClosedonCity-observedholidays.

Located at409GrenadaAve.across fromVeniceCityHall.

Explore Venice History

JuliaCousinsLaningandDaleLaning Archives&ResearchCenter

Exploremorethan30,000items inthe Veniceareahistorycollectioninperson byappointmentoronlineat: venicemuseum.org/collections

Startyourresearchtodaybycalling 941-882-7229oremailing archives@venicefl.gov

HISTORY LESSON

The ‘Not Prentiss French House’

By Harry Klinkhamer, Historical Resources Division Manager

Thisfall,theCityofVeniceaddedits14 propertytothe LocalRegisterofHistoricalResources.Foryears,thehome at500NassauSt.S.wentbythenamePrentissFrench House.Butalittlesleuthingduringthenomination researchhasproventhatheneverlivedthere. th

Itallstartedwithasimplequestion:Whobuiltthehouse? AprominentindividualsuchasPrentissFrench,landscape architectforJohnNolen,wouldmostlikelyhaveastoryin the Venice News abouthishomebeingbuilt.Thereare severalstoriesaboutbuildingsgoingupinVeniceatthe time,includingwhobuiltit,whodesignedit,andwho livedinitorhadtheirbusinessinit.ButforFrenchthere wasnothing.

WhenhefirststartedworkinginVenice,Frenchandfellow landscapearchitectHaroldHellerlivedinahomeat218 PoconoTrl.inNokomis.Thoughaltered,thathomestill stands.Inlate1927,thenewspaperreportedthatFrench leftforMassachusettstomarryarchitectHelenDouglass. Aftertheirhoneymoontheytookupwinterresidenceat thehomeofMr.andMrs.FrankWarreninVenice.

Thisbringsusbacktothosenewspaperarticlesabout homesbuiltforprominentpeopleinVenice. This Week in Venice reportedonthebuildingoftheWarrenresidencein Julyof1926.Thearticlenotedthatthehomewasbuilton thecornerofNassauandSalerno.Whatwasconsidered thePrentissFrenchHousesitsonthecornerofNassau andSorrento.

TheFrencheslivedthereforlessthantwoyears.By1930, theywerelivinginSarasota,workingforanarchitectural firm.ButtherealPrentissFrenchHouseisat429Nassau St.S.

SEASONAL REMINDERS

SEASONAL REMINDERS

Water restrictions

in Venice City limits

TheCityofVenicefollowsyear-round waterrestrictionssetbytheSouthwest FloridaWaterManagementDistrict

Even-numberedaddressesmayuse irrigationsystemsonTuesdays

Odd-numberedaddressesmayuse irrigationsystemsonThursdays

Irrigation&sprinklersareonly allowedbefore8a.m.orafter6p.m.

Hand-watering&dripirrigation areallowedanyday,atanytime

Vehicles&boatsmaybewashed onceperweekonthesame assigneddayasirrigation

AROUND TOWN

Newlawnsmaybewateredontheday ofinstallationatanytimeandforthe first60daysonanyday,butonlyduring therestrictedhours

Theserestrictionsapplytoallwater sources,includingprivatewellsand surfacewater. Moreinformationisavailableat swfwmd.state.fl.us.

Dorothy Korwek with Venice Heritage Inc. and City Historical Resources Manager Harry Klinkhamer participate in History Day in the Park at Phillippi Mansion Feb. 7.

Mayor Nick Pachota reads a proclamation recognizing the week of Feb. 1 as Venice Holocaust Education Week during an event presented by the Chabad of Venice at the Venice Community Center Feb. 4. Auschwitz survivor Sora Vigorito spoke about being subjected to the cruel experiments of Dr. Josef Mengele because she was a Jewish child and a twin. Rabbi Sholom Schmerling is also pictured.

When the crews are out on a call, the job doesn’t stop. Fire Chief Giddens, right, and Battalion Chief Eaton grabbed the squeegees and stepped in to clean the fire bay floors on Feb. 13 because around here, no one is above the ground work!

AROUND TOWN

The 12th VPD Citizens Police Academy got underway Feb. 4. Twentytwo community members will get an immersive 10-week journey into policing. Participants will learn about patrol and marine operations, criminal and crime scene investigations, community outreach, equipment and more.

On Feb. 11, CPA began with a classroom session covering firearm safety and an overview of the 4th Amendment, focusing on search and seizure laws. Participants then headed to Total Impact Guns & Indoor Range for hands-on experience at the shooting range. Great job to this group for their focus and engagement!

Construction continues at the site of the new Fire Rescue Station 52 at 1545 E. Venice Ave., next to the Venice Police Department, as shown in these March 2 photos. Project completion is anticipated for early 2027, pending weather delays.

The Feb. 12 Monthly City Bicycle Ride had over 20 participants, led by Special Events & Mobility Coordinator Darlene Culpepper.The next bike ride will be March 12. Rides are held at 10 a.m. the second Thursday of the month, October through April. Bring your bicycle and a helmet, and meet in the west parking lot of City Hall, 401 W. Venice Ave. RSVP by emailing Darlene at dculpepper@ venicefl.gov.

Left, City Manager James Clinch presents Fire Rescue Logistics Division Chief Matt Tomer with the 2025 City of Venice Employee of the Year Award during the Feb. 10 City Council meeting. Matt was lauded for his leadership on the Fire Station 52 construction project, meeting with residents, contractors, and stakeholders, and remaining a calm presence when disaster strikes. He has been with the City for 19 years.

Above, City Manager Clinch presents Engineering/Stormwater Tech Kevin Barrett with a 35-year Service Award during the Feb. 10 Council meeting. Kevin has lived in the area since he was 2. After high school, he became a firefighter for the Nokomis Volunteer Fire Department. He then joined Public Works in February 1991 as a truck driver and worked his way up to Stormwater Crew Leader. Kevin played a key role in the reconstruction of the former Venice Police Station, leading its successful conversion into the Public Works facility. Now as an engineering/ stormwater technician in the Engineering Department, he monitors the construction of private developments and public projects that are located mostly on the island. He’s involved with construction projects from “start to finish." Kevin is also pictured with City Engineer Jon Kramer, Stormwater Engineering Manager Steven Berens, and Assistant Public Works Director Ashlee Castle.

Left, Planning and Zoning Director Roger Clark presents Planning Commission Chair Barry Snyder with a recognition award Feb. 10 for serving 19 years on the volunteer board, as City Manager Clinch looks on. The award states, "In appreciation for your visionary leadership, guidance, countless hours, and exceptional dedication to the City of Venice." Barry has served six terms on the Planning Commission.

AROUND TOWN

Right, Mayor Nick Pachota reads a proclamation recognizing the week of March 9-15, 2026, as Flood Awareness Week, presented to CRS (Community Rating System) Coordinator Christina Rimes and Building Official Derek Applegate, as City Manager James Clinch looks on during the Feb. 24 City Council meeting.

Above, Mayor Pachota reads a proclamation at the Feb. 24 Council meeting recognizing the week of Feb. 22-28, 2026, as National Engineers Week, presented to City Manager Clinch, City Engineer Jon Kramer, Stormwater Engineering Manager Steven Berens, and Assistant Utilities Director Patience Anastasio. Below, Mayor Pachota reads a proclamation recognizing the month of March as Procurement Month and March 11 as Professional Buyer's Day, presented to City Procurement Manager Peter Boers and Procurement Specialist Sabrina DiazGonzalez.

City officials participated in Venice High School’s Celebrity READ IN Jan. 30 for Literacy Week, organized by English Department Chair Beth Donofrio. Reading from books and passages that left an impact on them were Mayor Nick Pachota, Council Members Kevin Engelke and Lloyd Weed, and City Manager James Clinch.

Council Member Engelke read selections of Aesop's Fables; Council Member Weed read from "First You Have to Row a Little Boat" by Richard Bode; Mayor Pachota, "Politics" by Ed Koch; and City Manager Clinch, "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee.

Clockwise from above left, the 1,000 Miglia Race returned to Centennial Park on Feb. 21 with the Venice Antique Automobile Club of America; the Venice Chorale Big Sing performance Feb. 22 at the Venice Performing Arts Center, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the City of Venice and 250th anniversary of the United States, included the world premiere of the official song for the Venice Centennial, "Venice, Forever Home," and a proclamation by Mayor Nick Pachota; a Venice Gondoliers barbershop quartet surprise Administrative Support Specialist Rachelle Smolenski at the City Hall Information Desk with a singing Valentine Feb. 13; local photographer Cindy Desmond captured this image of an osprey pair on a light post above Hecksher Park Feb. 22.

AROUND TOWN

The City of Venice partnered with Venice Florida Tours on Feb. 17 to offer a free Centennial History Bicycle Tour with 26 participants. City Special Events and Mobility Coordinator Darlene Culpepper hosted the leisurely paced, 8-mile bicycle ride with Ronnie Fernandez of the local history tour company as part of Venice’s Centennial Celebration. Stops included the old Hotel Venice (now The Pavillion, an assisted living facility), Publix shopping center (once the site of a country club, hence Country Club Estates), the Italian American Club of Venice/Circus Bridge/old circus arena property, Venice Presbyterian Church, Venice Museum, Harbor Drive/Nolen Green, and one of the first houses in Venice at 241 S. Harbor Dr.

Below, Fire Chief Frank Giddens speaks at a wildfire press conference Feb. 13 in Sarasota to share vital safety information and emphasize to our community the need for preparation.

Above 3 photos: The weekend of Feb. 21, Venice Police and Sarasota County Sheriff’s marine units responded to a report of a manatee in distress in Hatchett Creek. Upon arrival, officers located an injured manatee exhibiting signs of cold stress lesions and visible scarring along its tail. Florida Fish and Wildlife biologists were notified and responded alongside staff from Mote Marine Laboratory to assist with the rescue. With support from Sea Tow Venice, marine units safely removed the manatee, which was then transported by Mote to ZooTampa at Lowry Park for specialized rehabilitation and recovery.

Far right, Scott Gorski, Lad Trcak, Scott “Boots” Marra, Chris Choisne and Tony Rosen with Public Works install the bronze statue/bench of Venice city planner John Nolen on Feb. 17, prior to the statue’s unveiling in Centennial Park.

AROUND TOWN

VolunteerswithVeniceArea Beautification,Inc.'sTeamKVB(Keep VeniceBeautiful)werehardatwork recentlyattheVenetianWaterwayPark trail,trimminginvasiveBrazilian pepper.Twenty-fourmembers participated.Withassistancefrom SarasotaCounty,24truckloadsof debriswerehauledaway,alongwitha bagoflitter.

TheCityofVeniceisgratefulforthese wonderfulvolunteerstirelesslycutting back,removinginvasives,trimming, weeding,delitteringandreplantingin ourpublicspaces.

Clockwise from top left, Team KVB wins this tug-of-war with Brian Solliday, Larry Luber, and Suzanne Havrilla doing the pulling and Linda Serbay and others providing encouragement; Ali Williamson provides an impromptu botany lesson for Karen DeJardins and Ellen Garbrielli; Greg Short and Drew Altreuter lead the way for KVB to take down Brazilian pepper along the VWP trail near Venice Airport; Greg and Suzanne do some improvisational sweeping using palm fronds.

Photos provided by Team KVB

Upcoming Events

March7-8MegalodonChallenge Weekend,Shark’sTooth10KandShark Fin5K,AirportFestivalGrounds

March15AVetteTogetherCarShow, CentennialPark

March20-22VeniceBlues,Rock, Reggae&BBQFestival,AirportFestival Grounds

March27-28VeniceBookFair&Writers Festival,VeniceLibrary/WestBlalock Park

March29AACACarShow,Centennial Park

April15CentennialParkrededication

April18Fire&PolicePublicSafetyDay, VeniceCommunityCenter

Looking for more to do?

Checkonlineformoreeventsand activitiesbyourcommunitypartners:

BicyclearoundVeniceisland

VisittheMuseum&Archives

VisittheLord-HigelHouse

VeniceAreaBeautificationInc.

VeniceAreaChamberof Commerce

VeniceArtCenter

VeniceCommunityCenter

VenicePerformingArtsCenter

VeniceMainStreetInc.

VeniceSymphony

VeniceTheatre

VisitSarasotaCounty

SarasotaCountyGovernment

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Celebrate Florida Bike Month with the annual Bike Ride with the Mayor at 9 a.m. Thursday, March 5!

Take a leisurely 6-mile ride with City Special Events and Mobility Coordinator Darlene Culpepper, Mayor Nick Pachota, and Venice Police and Fire Rescue, starting and ending at Sharky’s on the Pier, 1600 Harbor Dr. S., with refreshments and a discussion session with Mayor Pachota.

Bring your bike and a helmet. Last year's Bike Ride with the Mayor event saw over 35 participants.

RSVP to Darlene at dculpepper@venicefl.gov

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Venice Area Quilters Guild Show set for March 14-15

For the members of the Venice Area Quilters Guild, it’s fun, fabric, art and heart. This month also adds hard-working to the VAQG as their biennial quilt show, Quilting by the Gulf XXI, is set for March 14-15 at the Venice Community Center. This wonderful group of quilters has been gathering, piecing and quilting, donating and creating for the last 43 years, though the quilts for the show must have been created in the last two years. While the word “quilt” might take your mind to the quilts of your grandmothers (which we treasure!) they come in all shapes and sizes, all levels of accomplishment from beginner to professional, and all interests, varying as much as possible in their fabrics, colors, piecing and quilting choices. With a show of over 150 entries to be enjoyed, there is also a boutique of over 2,000 handmade items, a show-stopping quilt raffle, silent auctions for quilts and baskets filled with treasures, scissor sharpening, a café and plenty of vendors.

For quilters the fun is not just in the creating of the quilts, but in the gathering. VAQG meets monthly during season for a presentation at the Venice Community Center, a sharing of fabric and resources, and pieces accomplished. The fabric and art of each member are dynamic. While we all cherish our quilts of yesteryear, the fabrics and designs of quilt-making over the last 20 years have really gone next-level.

For VAQG, the size of the heart involved in quilting is huge, and it goes beyond the love and passion of spending hours working on pieces. The heart of the guild is the involvement and dedication in serving others with their talents and gifts. While membership ranges from Sarasota to Englewood, as a Venice nonprofit their focus is supporting other nonprofits in the greater Venice area. Last year, VAQG made and donated 380 quilts to Children First in Venice and 159 quilts were donated to Hospice, with specific quilts gifted to veterans both there and at the Venice Senior Center. The guild’s love for the Venice community is extended to those battling breast cancer, with pillows and cushioned seat belt covers donated to the SMH Breast Health Center. Twice a year, love and support goes to the South County Food Pantry in the form of financial donations raised though a Christmas teacup raffle and sales and auctions at the quilt show. It’s not just about fabric, but heart.

The VAQG biennial quilt show, Quilting by the Gulf XXI - Sun, Sand, Sea and Quilts, is set for 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, March 14 and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 15. Admission is $10. A morning or afternoon spent among the quilts might inspire you to join this wonderful guild. Get more information at vaqg.org. – Provided by Sandy Wilson, Venice Area Quilters Guild

Next ride is March 12!

To apply, visit https://www.sarasotacountyparks.com/i-wantto/support-parks/volunteer-opportunities