Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/233139
Sarasota News Leader December 27, 2013 Page 37 Merrill was working to develop a "model CRA ordinance" that could be used in other places in the county. County Commissioner Joe Barbetta suggested Merrill resign, and no other commissioner rose to Merrill's defense because the county does not want any more diversion of its property taxes into CRAs. Sweeping all other factors aside, that is what is at stake — an estimated $528 million. That is the "cargo" for our figurative airplane. When the city and county commissioners eventually meet to consider writing another 30-year agreement, that will be the center of attention. Merrill was replaced by Andy Dorr, and the entire committee acted chastened, tamping down its vision for the CRA's future. Over subsequent months, the members agreed to recommend extending the CRA for another 30 years, with continued use of 1986 as the "base year." One member calculated that since 1986, the CRA has raised nearly $100 million. And in the next 30 years, it would bring in more than $500 million. THE FINAL DETAILS Other details were decided at the committee's Dec. 10 meeting, including a recommendation stripping the City Commission's sole and absolute authority to govern how the CRA money is spent. Instead, the committee decided to establish a new governing structure with two city commissioners, two county commissioners and three city citizens selected by the City Commission. Andy Dorr is the extension committee chairman. Photo by Norman Schimmel