Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/341318
Improvement District is considering a "piggy- back" contract with Diamond for increased security downtown. LAND USE, LAND USE, LAND USE The unfinished business section of the agenda will provide the opportunity for continued discussion of items commissioners sent back to staff for more work. One of those is the creation of a policy for the use of Island Park and the area around the bayfront — the sec- tion of highest visibility in the city. In the past, the city gave permission for the Season of Sculpture to place artwork along the bayfront as a type of outdoor gallery fea- turing new works every two years. And the Embracing Our Differences organization received permission to display original poster art in Island Park. Another ad hoc decision was permission for the Unconditional Surrender statue to remain on the bayfront for a decade. On Monday, the commissioners will receive a draft of a formal policy on how organizations can petition the city to use the high-visibil- ity property. An application must be filed 120 days before any proposed placement could be made. After staff evaluation, it would be presented to the City Commission for final approval. Applicants would assume liability for damages or injuries. The existing uses (Season of Sculpture, Embracing Our Differences and Unconditional Surrender) would be "vested" and not require further review. Any minor requests, such The City Commission will consider a policy for use of Island Park and the surrounding bayfront area, though Season of Sculpture will be one of the few 'grandfathered' uses. Photo by Norman Schimmel Sarasota News Leader July 4, 2014 Page 73