Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/336863
Two weeks ago, the Sarasota County and North Port commissions voted unanimously to pick two top finalists in their search for a long-term plan to redevelop Warm Mineral Springs. This week, they couldn't agree on anything, reaching an impasse that will lead to the closure of the springs effective Sept. 1. Representatives from Jebco Ventures and National and State Park Concessions — the two companies selected as finalists by the county and city — presented the boards their visions for the 81-acre Springs property on Tuesday, June 24. The choice was stark: While Jebco is proposing long-term develop- ment that would include a hotel and maybe even condos, National's plan called for no new construction in the short term and only the replacement of existing structures in the future. T h e C o u n t y Commission unani- mously selected Jebco as its favorite, while the North Port board voted 4-1 in favor of National. Only Mayor Visitors and residents alike rave about the healing waters of Warm Mineral Springs. Photo courtesy Sarasota County 'A PARTNERSHIP THAT'S DEFECTIVE' WITH NO COUNTY-CITY COMPROMISE IN SIGHT, WARM MINERAL SPRINGS WILL CLOSE ONCE AGAIN We're back to the scenario where we were a year ago. We're just diametrically opposed. Charles Hines Chairman Sarasota County Commission By Cooper Levey-Baker Associate Editor