Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/190797
Sarasota News Leader October 11, 2013 Page 67 of $62,500) and custom-made switchgear "just to turn the lights on," even if they remain (expected to cost $15,000), as those pur- on for only a short time. chases have "very, very long lead [times]." The memo also notes that after the new sysAccording to the Oct. 3 memo, "The purpose tem is installed, "The … operator will have of this project is to retrofit the existing light- the ability to segregate/adjust use to create ing system at Ed Smith Stadium," which is 25 the appropriate lighting levels required for years old and "at the end of its service life …" different events." None of the board members asked any questions of Calhoon. However, in an email to him on Oct. 7, Reid wrote that he understood Commissioner Christine Robinson had "requested you provide financial information Brown and Calhoon added in their memo that on the impact of this [funding] decision on the equipment had far exceeded the manufac- the CAPX agreement and [the] future mainteturer's expectations. nance [of the stadium]." "I have dealt with system failures over there myself, and I know David has," Calhoon said on Oct. 8, referring to David Rovine, vice president of the Orioles-Sarasota. Calhoon explained that spring training night games "are very, very important" because they put "Sarasota in prime time throughout the mid-Atlantic area." The games are carried on a Major League Baseball TV channel. Calhoon responded that he had received Robinson's request but that she had let him know it would be fine for him to provide the information prior to the public hearing on Oct. 23. Furthermore, Calhoon pointed out, the new lighting will make the stadium more marketable as a venue for community events when the Orioles are not in town. After the project is complete, he added, the county also would have more flexibility in its charges for nighttime use of the facility. Right now, Calhoon pointed out, the metering system makes it necessary for the county to charge $6,000 During the board's Sept. 6 workshop on its 2014 fiscal year budget, Robinson asked that staff apprise the commissioners of the impact of any funding decisions they make after the start of the new fiscal year, which began Oct. 1. She cited that measure as a means of trying to ensure the county does not continue deficit spending — drawing money from its economic uncertainty reserve fund. % Tonya Herschberger & Linda Keefe "After a terrible accident I required surgery. Tonya shared with me that Dr. Koval was responsible for her beautiful smile. She gave me hope and direction. I'm so grateful to Dr, Koval. Now I have a smile that I love to share with everyone." For a complimentary consultation call 941.923.5406 | Christine Koval, D.M.D. | www.askdrkoval.com