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Hotelier prevails against county
Crystal Classic brings thousands back to Siesta Key
Judge’s order should pave the way to proceed with construction By ChrisAnn Allen
P
lans are looking up for Siesta Key hotelier Dave Balot. In an Oct. 24 order, Judge Hunter Carroll, in Sarasota County’s 12th Judicial Circuit Court, confirmed agreement with Balot’s assertion stating no need for a comprehensive plan amendment to proceed with his hotel project. “The Legislature has directed the answer,” Carroll’s order reads. “Because section 163.3215 provides the exclusive, and time-limited method to challenge inconsistency with a county’s comprehensive plan, the Developer will be entitled to final summary declaratory judgment that the County cannot now require the Developer
to obtain a Comprehensive Plan Amendment before the County will further process plans with respect to increased density and intensive of use for this Project at this specific Parcel.” Previously, Balot said the purpose of the declaratory action was to “resolve legal uncertainty,” rather than seek damages, so he can move forward with development of the hotel project which is planned to comprise six stories and 112 rooms on 2.15 acres at 5810 Midnight Pass Rd., previously a Wells Fargo bank location. On March 27, the island resident and businessman filed a declaratory
24 master sand sculptors celebrate the resilience of Siesta Key and the success of another Crystal Classic on the world’s best beach! More coverage on page 16-17. Photography by Carissa Warfield– Still Silve
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Local wildlife suffers hardships, but also benefits from storms By Hannah Wallace
A
s we finally emerge from the devastating 2024 hurricane season, Siesta Key and the surrounding areas are still reeling, even as we recover. Along with the toll taken on human residents, our area’s wildlife was battered by Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton, too. But our animal neighbors lucked out in many ways.
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rainfall. Then Helene was record storm surge, and Milton was a category 3 hurricane.” While winds can disrupt wildlife habitats and push high-flying bird species astray, it’s the flooding and storm surge that often cause the biggest problems—especially for animals that lay their eggs on the ground (sea turtles, black skimmers, and snowy plovers) and
And in the case of some species, the storms provided surprising benefits. “There are different impacts from different storms,” said Dr. Dave Tomasko, director of the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program. “This year, we’ve had in June the highest hourly rainfall amount on record. In August we had Debby, which brought us the highest 24-hour
Road resurfacing delay
those that live in the water (fish, crustaceans, and manatees).
The Nesting Toll
Siesta beachgoers no doubt worried about the many sea turtle nests hosted locally every summer. Every North American sea
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Farmers Market is Back
The Beach Beckons
Happiness is…Serving Joy At Abel's Ice Cream, they believe that ice cream isn't just a treat for kids—it's a universal joy. Their mission is to bring smiles to people of all ages with their delicious flavors and friendly service.
Flash (Refreshing and vibrant peppermint ice cream filled with peppermint candy.) or indulge in Egg Nog (Sweet and delicious egg nog ice cream. A seasonal favorite!)
As the holiday season approaches, there's no better time to find the perfect gift for the special people in your life. Whether you visit us in person or follow us on social media, you'll discover several gift ideas that will bring joy to everyone on your list.
Whether you're young or young at heart, Abel's Ice Cream has something special just for you. Come by their shop to experience the happiness that only a great scoop of ice cream can bring. Abel's Ice Cream is located at 1886 Stickney Point Road, Sarasota in the South Bridge Plaza. Open Sunday through Thursday from Noon-9:30 pm, and Friday and Saturday from Noon-10 pm. Learn more online at www.abelsicecream.com or connect with us on Facebook and Instagram.
And if you're stopping by in person, the folks at Abel’s are excited to offer seasonal favorites that are sure to warm your heart and add a festive touch to your celebrations. Dive into a cup or cone of Peppermint
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