Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/140592
Sarasota News Leader June 28, 2013 Page 49 tion that the funds could never cover more staff employ the words "innovative" or "crethan half the cost of the project. ative" instead of "new" for events and facilities. While the focus initially was on new projects, Haley continued, later discussion had cen- Patterson told Haley, "I guess I lean towards tered on whether the program should cover the capital projects rather than the events, just renovations or expansions of existing facil- because the capital projects give you a permaities. For example, Haley said, the county nent capacity. So I don't think we should box provided funds to improve the Selby Aquatic ourselves in." Center at the YMCA on Potter Park Drive, to After further discussion, the TDC members enable it to host the Pan-Am competitions and gave their consensus to Haley to include bid for future events. events in the planning for the program. Asheville had one good example of how TDC member Norman Schimmel of Sarasota renovating a facility had enabled it to boost suggested the application process award more tourism, Haley said. The lobby of a popular points to an activity that would occur, or faclub-type venue was remodeled to expand the cility that would be used, at times when the facility's seating capacity by 20 percent. county had few tourism-related events taking "I would support the expansion of existing [fa- place. cilities]," said TDC Vice Chairman John Ryan. Haley told the TDC members that after the Before she takes the concept to the County revised concept — with their suggestions — Commission in September for its comments, is presented to the County Commission in Haley said, it appeared a number of refine- September, she would incorporate the latter ments in the program guidelines would be board's ideas and bring the plan back to the necessary, including clear definitions of "new." TDC for further discussion. TDC member David Brenner, a Longboat Key The County Commission will be responsible town commissioner, suggested Haley and her for final approval of the program. % I am so incredibly pleased, with my beautiful smile and my comfortable and natural bite. - Barbara Lee For a complimentary consultation call 941.923.5406 | Christine Koval, D.M.D. | www.askdrkoval.com