Eric Fleming
Outgoing chair reflects on hurricane recovery, collaboration
and the future of Siesta Key
You took office in January 2024 for a second term as chair. Just months later, Siesta Key was struck by three devastating hurricanes. What role did the chamber play in getting Siesta Key “back in business” so quickly?
When the storms hit, the chamber’s immediate focus was supporting businesses and residents. We mobilized quickly, working closely with county emergency management, local partners and our member businesses to ensure information was accurate, timely and accessible.
Our staff and volunteers were on the ground assessing damage, connecting businesses with resources and communicating updates daily. We helped coordinate cleanup needs, shared recovery assistance opportunities and maintained constant outreach so members never felt they were navigating the situation alone.
A strong symbol of recovery was our ability to host the 2024 Crystal Classic in November. In partnership with Sarasota County, our team worked hard to ensure the event could take place. Its success showed the community and the wider region that Siesta Key was open, accessible and ready to welcome people back.
Recovery is a long-term effort, and the chamber remains engaged. We continue working closely with local organizations to provide support and resources as needed. Siesta Key’s resilience — and the collaboration among businesses, officials and residents — allowed the island to move forward quickly, and the chamber is proud to have played a role in that effort.
One of your goals was strengthening ties with Sarasota County commissioners and Florida elected officials. Where do those relationships stand now?
Strengthening relationships with county and state officials has been a priority and will continue under the guidance of the incoming board chair. Over the past few years, we’ve increased communication, shared insights from our business community and actively participated in discussions affecting Siesta Key.
The board also formed a government affairs committee to provide ongoing focus and coordination. These relationships are built on collaboration, and the chamber works to ensure the community’s voice is heard at every level of government.
Those efforts have created a more unified voice for Siesta Key, allowing challenges to be addressed collaboratively and successes celebrated together. The trust and open dialogue we’ve built with officials help ensure the island’s unique needs are considered in decision-making.
Siesta Key has seen an influx of national retailers that appear to blend well with local businesses. What is the outlook for the business community?
The business landscape on Siesta Key is evolving in a positive way. When integrated thoughtfully, national retailers complement the character of local businesses rather than overshadow them. At the same time, locally owned businesses continue to thrive through authenticity, strong service and community ties.
This blend has created a dynamic retail environment appealing to both residents and visitors. The chamber encourages collaboration, shares best practices and promotes initiatives highlighting the Key’s diverse offerings. Looking ahead, we expect continued growth and innovation while preserving Siesta Key’s distinctive coastal charm.
What plans does the chamber have to continue strengthening tourism?
The chamber works closely with local and state tourism organizations to position Siesta Key as a premier destination. We collaborate with partners to share insights from our business community and support marketing efforts that highlight the island’s unique character.
Our goal is to serve as a connector — bringing stakeholders together, advocating for community needs and helping ensure Siesta Key remains accessible, vibrant and welcoming.
The chamber is also working with local stakeholders to beautify the island and ensure business districts reflect Siesta Key’s status as a world-class destination.
In the past two years, the chamber relocated offices and welcomed a new president and CEO. What issues lie ahead in 2026?
The past few years have been busy, but they’ve also laid the groundwork for new opportunities. Looking ahead, the chamber will continue focusing on supporting members, strengthening partnerships and advocating at the local and state levels.
Key priorities include business resilience, preserving the island’s character and accessibility, and addressing infrastructure, environmental concerns and visitor experience through collaboration.
We also hope to expand our reach, reminding businesses that they don’t need to be located on Siesta Key to partner with the chamber. With new leadership and offices in place, we’re building on a strong foundation and continuing our role as a resource, connector and voice for the community.
