Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/190797
Sarasota News Leader October 11, 2013 Page 115 Siesta Seen However, in a follow-up email to Shay, he reported, "The system is to be equipped with an auxiliary/emergency power connection to enable the use of a portable generator, if needed." The project was conceived to minimize those "No Swimming" advisories, she pointed out. While she originally thought it would be "a boon to drainage" issues on Beach Road, she added, that would have proven to be a much more expensive undertaking. During the discussion, SKA Director Deet Jonker indicated a back-up system "seems to Before those pollution incidents in the Gulf of make perfect sense … since we get a lot of Mexico became a problem, Jonker concurred, "There was talk" that the stormwater project electricity outages on the key." would improve the drainage. In response to another question raised at the meeting, Boudreau also noted in his email "It is what it is," Patterson said. "It apparto Shay, "The new stormwater system is ently would cost a great deal more" if the project dealt with that, the flooding, as well, designed to adequately treat stormwater withshe reiterated. out the need for artificial aeration. Aerators can always be installed later, if needed." "I actually think [the pollution issue] is more urgent than occasionally having a flooded When discussion zeroed in on whether the Beach Road," she added, noting that the road project would help eliminate flooding on is close to the gulf on an island with a high Beach Road during periods of heavy rain or water table. storm surge events, Patterson explained the history of the initiative. Several years ago, she "I would say you are absolutely right," Jonker said, the county Health Department, which told her. Nonetheless, he pointed out, segoperates under the aegis of the state Health ments of Beach Road were closed almost daily Department, began more stringent testing of in September because of all the rain "and that the water quality in the Gulf of Mexico. High was not a 20-year or a 100-year storm." levels of fecal coliform bacteria, emanating Patterson replied, "My computer was full from wildlife such as seagulls and raccoons, of messages about flooded roads all over led to several instances of "no swimming" Sarasota County for three weeks. To say [the advisories at Siesta Public Beach, she said. county has] the financial means to go out and "We get a beach closure; then, you have fix all that is just unrealistic." signs up and down the beach saying, 'Health Department warns, Don't Swim; Swim at Your Peril' … It is the worst possible message you could give to your visitors, to your residents." In response to a question about whether a fence would surround the new stormwater pond to discourage people from swimming in it, Boudreau said no fencing is planned. "Why