Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/121369
Sarasota News Leader April 12, 2013 Page 28 mission on April 9 unanimously voted to give Suncoast Charities $79,200 out of a fund designated for tourism promotion, so the organization could afford to hold the Grand Prix. That fund is made up of county tourist development tax (TDT) revenue. The City Commission on March 4 approved $36,582 in in-kind services for the events this summer, a $5,175 increase over 2012, the release added. The press release noted the Sarasota County Sports Commission also had given Suncoast Charities $15,000 as a sports The commission rescinded a March 19 grant marketing grant. of $10,000 out of its general fund. However, it Commissioner Charles Hines raised the issue also indicated a willingness to cover the sanc- of the Grand Prix funding during the Comtioning fee in future budget years. mission Reports part of the board's regular In a press release sent out April 9, Nicandri wrote, "This Festival and Race have been a tradition in this community for 28 years, and we are extremely grateful to both the County and City Commission for their support in our efforts to sustain it as an annual event …." meeting on April 9 in Venice. He asked first whether staff could make a presentation at an upcoming meeting on money being allocated out of TDT revenue for the race, adding that that revenue has been coming in higher than projected so far this fiscal year. The public is able to get a close-up look at the Grand Prix boats each year at Centennial Park in Sarasota. Photo by Norman Schimmel