Officials in Sarasota County seek dialogue with their counterparts in the city regarding a parcel of land owned by the city as a possible new site for its Criminal Justice Center.
The existing building, which accommodates the state attorney’s office, the public defender, and several record departments at the northwest corner of Ringling Boulevard and East Avenue, will ultimately need to be demolished to allow for an expansion of the Sarasota County Jail.
The county is interested in exploring options to either lease or purchase a city-owned parking lot across Ringling, next to the county courthouse, which was previously the location of the Sarasota Police Department headquarters.
During its meeting on Aug. 18, the Sarasota City Commission unanimously voted to approve Deputy City Manager Patrick Robinson’s request to initiate discussions with the county and report back on the outcome.
“The county is seeking either a thumbs up or thumbs down from us regarding city staff engaging in dialogue about the potential for a building on that lot,” Robinson explained. “If there’s no interest from our side, they want to know early so they can pursue other alternatives.”
An alternative site mentioned is a surface parking lot at the southwest corner of Ringling and South School Avenue, which is less ideal as it is further from the courthouse.
The specifics of any potential agreement remain unclear. Robinson indicated it could involve a collaboration between the two governmental entities, a sale, or potentially a land lease.
At this time, the city’s parking lot is primarily used for paid parking. Commissioner Jen Ahearn-Koch inquired about the revenue generated by the lot.
“Some,” responded Robinson, his tone implying the amount may not be substantial. Although she voted to proceed with discussions, Ahearn-Koch expressed her reluctance to consider selling more city land at this time.
“As a growing city, our needs are expanding,” she stated. “It is essential to think strategically about our assets, our future, and how we can best utilize what we have.”
Vice Mayor Debbie Trice remarked that she feels the city tends to buy land at a high price and sell at a low price, advocating for negotiations to avoid outright sale.
Regardless of the initial discussions, Robinson noted that any decisions would be made well down the line.
“I think it makes sense to consider this option,” stated Mayor Liz Alpert, who is also an attorney. “We shouldn’t restrict the discussion possibilities. They should be allowed to explore whether it’s a sale or lease—whatever it may be. We can choose not to agree, but as someone who uses the courthouse and Justice Center, I believe it’s a prime location being right next to the courthouse.”
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