Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/157038
Sarasota News Leader August 23, 2013 (The County Commission is scheduled to vote Aug. 27 on a resolution making that policy change official, Steve Botelho, the county's director of financial planning, pointed out. See the related story in this issue.) Page 16 Nonetheless, Patterson agreed to amend her motion but noted the board might deviate somewhat from Marbut's final recommendation in how it chooses to spend the funds. "It's a step in the right direction," Patterson Her view, Patterson continued, was to take said. "We'll see what happens." the money from reserves. "And I thank you for that," Barbetta respondBarbetta seconded the motion. However, he ed, adding, "I think the City [Commission] suggested amending it to make certain the needs to listen to this discussion and a couple money would not be spent until the county of 'em need to put aside egos and address the had documentation of a formal proposal on problem straight up." how the funds should be allocated. Barbetta also pointed out that Marbut had "That's the intent," Patterson said. "If we're suggested during his visit to Sarasota several going to build a facility, a half a million [dol- weeks ago that "the bulk of the [homelesslars] isn't going to do it." ness] problem seems to be [in North County]," so that area will be addressed first. However, "Well, it may," Barbetta responded. Barbetta said, a second phase of the initiative Some of the funds could end up being used for will tackle problems in the cities of Venice and counseling, for example, Patterson told him. North Port. A group of homeless people gathers outside Selby Library one evening in April. Photo by Norman Schimmel