11-Year-Old Boy from Sarasota Proposes Storm Drain Fix That Catches City’s Eye | State

Key Information

• Subject: 11-year-old boy Matthew Kitts raises awareness after the tragic death of 5-year-old Zaria Miller.
• Location: Sarasota, Florida.
• Inspiration: Zaria Miller drowned in a storm drain during heavy rains.
• Matthew’s Background: He is autistic and was previously nonverbal.
• Action Taken: Matthew created sketches and a letter to propose safety solutions.
• City’s Response: Officials are reviewing his proposals, collaborating with Sarasota County’s Stormwater Engineering Division.
• Community Impact: Highlights the importance of children’s voices in public safety dialogues.

In Sarasota, an 11-year-old boy named Matthew Kitts is leveraging his voice and artistic talents to inspire change following the tragic death of 5-year-old Zaria Miller, who was swept away in a storm drain during intense rainfall.

Matthew, who has autism and was once nonverbal, found the incident particularly heartbreaking. His mother, Christine Kitts, noted, “When he heard about this story, it was instantly sad and heartfelt, and you could tell he was sincere.”

Driven by his emotions, Matthew channeled his concern into action, sketching out ideas he believed could prevent similar tragedies. “I felt sad because she passed away, and it gave me an idea to do this,” Matthew shared.

He composed a letter to the Miller family and developed sketches aimed at enhancing safety measures. With her son’s initiative, Christine reached out to city officials, which led to an unexpectedly positive response.

According to Christine, “The mayor actually reached out, saying she wanted to send him a personal letter.”

City officials are now evaluating Matthew’s proposals through the city manager and director of public works. “What started as a child’s drawing could spark real change. His mom says this moment is more than emotional; it’s monumental,” remarked Christine Kitts.

Matthew’s transition from silence to activism illustrates how impactful change can emerge from unexpected sources. His story has become part of the dialogue surrounding community safety.

WINK News reached out to the City of Sarasota for comments regarding Matthew’s initiative.

Provided below is the city’s response:

“Although this occurred outside the city limits, and Sarasota County, through an interlocal agreement, is responsible for the maintenance of the stormwater system, our Public Works staff received Matthew’s thoughtful drawings and suggestions this afternoon. His idea reflects sincere concern for public safety, and we commend both Matthew and his family for their initiative. We have shared Matthew’s submission with Sarasota County’s Stormwater Engineering Division. The County will be taking the lead on the technical evaluation of Matthew’s idea as part of a broader safety and infrastructure review. City Public Works staff are actively supporting this process and will continue coordinating with the County team. Matthew’s input will remain on file and is being considered as part of that evaluation. We’re grateful for Matthew’s compassion, and we appreciate his family for bringing forward a perspective that strengthens our shared commitment to community safety.”