Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/264109
Under the new rules, no petition will be required for a three-day closure. However, anybody asking for a three-day closure would need to pay $500 to allow the city to notify nearby residents and businesses of a public hearing on the request. After the hearing, the commissioners would make the decision on a street closure instead of letting staffers han- dle that. A street closure permit is required as part of the package involving an application for a special event permit, no matter the dura- tion of the closure. Requiring the scheduling of a public hearing before the city commis- sion means Chalk Festival supporters must improve their coordination with the city. 'DESIGNER' DOPE In another matter on Feb. 18, the City Commission used a resolution to piggyback on a county ordinance banning the sale, marketing or possession of synthetically produced marijuana, methamphetamines, cocaine and opiates. Chemists working out of garages are producing thousands of packets of unknown substances to mimic the effects of banned drugs, according to information from the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office and the county's Department of Health and Human Services. "Users really have no idea what they are putting into their bodies," said Pamela Thomas with the Health and Human Services Department. "It's designed for popping, drink- ing, chewing, smoking." Sarasota Police Lt. Jim Reeser, who heads the Narcotics Division, said retailers — including convenience stores and smoke shops — are removing the colorful packets from public The City Commission sits in session on Feb. 18. Photo by Norman Schimmel Sarasota News Leader February 21, 2014 Page 44