July was an incredible month on Siesta Key.
We kicked things off with our annual Fourth of July celebration, and if you missed the fireworks, you truly missed out. This year’s event was especially meaningful as we celebrated America’s 250th birthday. Our fireworks committee worked tirelessly to make the show even more spectacular than usual—and they certainly delivered.
Here’s a local tip for next year: Instead of sitting in traffic immediately after the fireworks, stop by one of the Key’s restaurants or bars, enjoy a little more island time, and let the traffic clear before heading home.
Speaking of local restaurants, I recently had dinner at the newly reimagined Beach Club, and I absolutely love the new concept. The restaurant describes itself as a Southern Coastal Kitchen, and the barbecue is outstanding. The ribs and jalapeño cornbread are favorites. During August, the Beach Club is also offering a two-for-one special, making it the perfect time to experience the redesigned space and explore the new menu.
July also marked an important milestone for Siesta Key with the inaugural meeting of the Siesta Key Task Force. Seven members were appointed to serve: Bob Luckner, who was elected chair; yours truly, elected vice chair; Rick Monroe; Tina Landry; Barb Lancer; Mason Tush; and Rebecca Keiver. Sarasota County Commissioner Matt Osterhoudt will serve as the county’s liaison to the task force.
Our group has already begun discussing a number of exciting ideas, and I’m looking forward to working with my fellow members to help shape Siesta Key’s future. For me, some of the highest priorities include continuing to address stormwater challenges, preparing for future storms and improving safety throughout the island. One example is the need to explore additional bicycle infrastructure.
I’d also like to see improvements to our trolley stops, including designated pull-off areas that could enhance safety while helping traffic flow more efficiently. Thoughtful landscaping and streetscape enhancements are also important priorities, as is continuing to improve both of Siesta Key’s villages so they reflect the world-class destination our island has become.
Community participation is essential, and we want to hear your ideas. Our next Task Force meeting will be held at 1 p.m. Aug. 14 at Siesta Key Chapel. I encourage you to attend, get involved and be part of the conversation about Siesta Key’s future.
If you have ideas or suggestions, please feel free to email me at my Sarasota County advisory email, Natalie.Gutwein@sarasotaadvisory.net.
There is a great deal of work ahead, but I’m excited to get started. I’m encouraged by the enthusiasm, commitment and thoughtful ideas already being shared, and I look forward to working together to make Siesta Key an even better place to live, work and visit.
As always,
Stay Sunny, Siesta!
Natalie Gutwein, your Siesta Key real estate expert
Host, Siesta Sand Live! Podcast
Board member, Siesta Key & Beautification Alliance,
Spokesperson
Siesta Key Association
Siesta Key Chamber
Siesta Key Village Maintenance Corp.
