Here’s a Jan. 30 press release from Save Siesta Key — the community group seeking incorporation for the island:
The Save Siesta Key organization would like to thank all those who helped support the incorporation initiative that was presented on January 4, 2022. Community support was demonstrated in so many ways – through donations, Town Halls, rallies, letter campaigns, phone calls, yard signs and volunteer hours. We thank you for your support and want you to know that the battle is not yet over!
While we were incredibly disappointed with the local delegation that denial our January 2022 initiative, we were encouraged that Siesta Key residents united around the cause and showed incredible involvement. We also believe that our community is resilient and determined to be heard. So, it is with renewed vigor that we ask for your continued support as SSK plans to re-submit an incorporation bill in August of 2022 for the 2023 Florida legislative session.
There was no logical reason to deny the incorporation initiative of the people. We met the state requirements for incorporation. Our consultants presented data to demonstrate that our incorporation proposal was reasonable and viable. Our community was united, vocal and informed. As we regroup and recommit our efforts toward a Fall 2022 incorporation bill, we offer the following update:
- Look for our petitions in both Davidson’s Drugs stating that you want the opportunity to vote on SK incorporation. We collected over 2,000 petitions for our last submission, which was an amazing show of support in our community. For our Fall 2022 proposal, we hope to gather closer to 3,500 petitions!
- City of Sarasota Mayor, Erik Arroyo has asked that leaders of Siesta Key meet with him and City Manager, Marlon Brown to discuss the possibility of Siesta Key being annexed into the City of Sarasota. Although we are somewhat skeptical this is viable alternative to forming our own “government lite ” town, out of courtesy, we have agreed to meet on February 16th. Two members of our Board will be joined by representatives from The Siesta Key Association, The Siesta Key Coalition and The Siesta Key Condominium Council. Stay tuned for an update on the details of this meeting.
In closing, we recognize that our supporters will have many additional questions. We are re-grouping and will communicate to you when details become available. The battle is not yet over. Hopefully, you will be encouraged to hold firm to our rally cry, “Hear our voice, let us vote!”
Thanks for everyone’s efforts.
The Board of Save Siesta Key
Author: Siesta Sand