Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/118445
Sarasota News Leader March 29, 2013 Page 33 Moulton wrote in a memo that investigation of the existing 10-year-old fixtures shows "extensive corrosion" and their life is limited. She proposes — at no cost to the city — to install 72 "seaworthy, marine-grade light fixtures" with energy-efficient LED blue bulbs. She estimates the energy savings will be $7,944 per year and the donation by Roadrunner and Evolucia volunteers would amount to $86,120. The Florida Department of Transportation regional manager "has enthusiastically embraced the concept of the changing of the lighting," Moulton wrote. "What started as a single-purpose project has metamorphosed into something that can make Sarasota and its iconic Ringling Causeway even more symbolic of our community." The North Trail Overlay District, which offers flexibility to developers in regard to a number of design features, will come before the City Commission April 1. Image courtesy City of Sarasota The district would eliminate site plan review by the Planning board and City Commission, substituting "administrative review" by city staffers. This is seen as expediting development proposals. A builder, however, would The commission vote on the blue-bulb issue be required to hold a "community workshop" will come late in the evening session under before asking for staff approval. new business. The overlay would tweak maximum heights in certain areas, set urban frontage standards SOMETHING HOPEFUL and provide some flexibility for parking. The The sole public hearing in the evening could eventual compromises were many, and most prove to be lengthy. Regular readers will rec- of the parties walked away believing them ognize the topic — NTOD. The North Trail workable. Overlay District goes before the City Commission for approval after two visits to the The public debate has been spirited. Not one of the five recognized and organized neighborPlanning Board. hoods under the NTOD umbrella has formally The Planning Board approved the NTOD with endorsed it. And as the split Planning Board a 3-2 vote; Vald Svekis and Chris Gallagher vote displays, even after hours of study, queswere in the minority. tions and deliberation, the five members could not reach a consensus on forwarding it to the The overlay district is the product of three City Commission. years of collaboration among business owners in the area, five nearby neighborhoods, prop- Expect more public comment at the public erty owners, the city and outside interests. hearing Monday evening.