The 12th Make a Difference Day, an annual day of community service for volunteers of all ages, was held in the City of Venice on Saturday, Oct. 25. According to organizers, 471 volunteers participated.
Volunteers landscaped, mulched, raked, trimmed, planted, cleaned and collected litter at over 25 City parks, beaches, and public spaces, and also spread mulch at the Venice Housing Authority. This effort saves the City thousands of dollars each year and benefits our local environment. More than 240 plants were installed on W. Venice Ave., and 4,950 bags and 240 yards of bulk mulch were spread!
Mayor Nick Pachota Vice Mayor Jim Boldt
Rachel Frank Rick Howard
Kevin Engelke
Ron Smith
Charter Officers
City
City Attorney Kelly Fernandez Public Safety Chiefs
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Important Phone Numbers
City Hall: 941-486-2626
Code Enforcement: 941-882-7545
Non-emergency: 941-486-2444
Emergency: 911
THE LATEST
Make a Difference Day
Jim Foubister (in top left photo in orange) is the chief organizer of the MADD event, with assistance from City Public Works staff. Volunteers enjoyed a complimentary hamburger and hot dog lunch following the event at West Blalock Park, sponsored by One Christ Won City and Together We Can.
A heartfelt thank you to the hundreds of volunteers who rolled up their sleeves and got to work! Your time and effort show what can be accomplished when we come together for a common cause.
Pictured are MADD efforts Oct. 25 along West Venice Avenue, at City Hall, in Legacy, West Blalock, Fred Albee, Prentiss French, Ponce de Leon, Heritage, Hecksher and Fountain parks, and registration at the Venice Community Center. More photos, page 3-4
Venice Police Chief Andy Leisenring Venice Fire Chief Frank Giddens
Make a Difference Day
Make a Difference Day
Jon Kramer named City Engineer
Following an extensive nationwide search, Venice’s own Acting City Engineer, Jonathan Kramer, has been selected as the next City Engineer.
Jon started with the City of Venice in June 2019 as Assistant City Engineer. He has led numerous projects of significant benefit to our community, including the Capri Isles Bridge Replacement, Tarpon Center Drive Seawall project, the addition of Hecksher Park’s pickleball courts, Venice Municipal Fishing Pier T-section repair, and currently, Northeast Venice Park being constructed on Laurel Road.
Jon was named Acting City Engineer after former City Engineer Kathleen Weeden’s retirement in May. He leads a staff of six in the City’s project planning and design; construction management; public infrastructure maintenance; permit plan review and inspection; stormwater and environmental management; Community Rating System (CRS); and mobility including bicycle/pedestrian efforts and ADA compliance.
Jon’s family moved to Venice when he was an infant so his father could start a medical practice here. He grew up on the island, about a half-mile from City Hall. He graduated from Pine View School, has a BS in Civil Engineering from the University of Florida, and an MBA from the University of South Florida. He has been a Florida-licensed Professional Engineer since 2004.
Jon has previously worked for Sarasota County, the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD), and private engineering consulting firms.
“Public sector civil engineering allows me an opportunity to provide a positive societal impact by building essential infrastructure,” Jon said. As City Engineer, he emphasized, “I hope to continue to improve the quality of life for City residents.”
Said City Manager James Clinch, “Working with Jon over the past six years has been a privilege, and I am thrilled to see him step into the role of City Engineer. Jon's unwavering dedication to our community and his steadfast commitment to carrying out critical projects ensure that our city remains safe, resilient, and an exceptional place to live.”
Jon and his wife Jenny have been married for 21 years. They have a daughter, Lexie, a sophomore at Florida State University, and a son, Blake, a senior at Riverview High School. When he’s not working, Jon enjoys spending time with family, playing guitar, and watching football.
Teens take the helm during Student Government Day
On Oct. 21, students from Venice High School were welcomed at City Hall, where they learned firsthand how local government works and how decisions that shape our community are made.
VHS students took part in a mock City Council meeting, stepping into the roles of Mayor and Council members, charter officers and staff. Agenda "presentations" ranged from redesigning Legacy Park, to extending the Venice Fishing Pier length to 1,546 feet, to purchasing office power nap pods, to a request for a robot assistants pilot program, to customizing potable water with flavors (in a “proposed” program given the moniker of “POUF” — Point of Use Flavor.) The "Council" asked some pretty tough questions of "staff" — everyone was impressed! Recently retired former city manager Ed Lavallee even put in an appearance in public comment, as did City Council Member Lloyd Weed. Watch the mock Council meeting here.
It's always inspiring to see our future leaders engage in civic life with such enthusiasm. Thank you to everyone who made this educational day a success!
Below, students at, from left,
Venice Airport with Airport Manager Nick Dumas, City Hall with Controller Rattana Wongsa and Finance Director Linda Senne, the Water Plant lab with Hans Ferjuste, and Fire Station 51. More photos, page 7
Student Government Day
Going up: Fire Rescue Station 52
Construction progress at the site of the new Fire Rescue Station 52 at 1545 E. Venice Ave., next to the Police Department, is pictured below in these Oct. 24 photos. This forward-looking facility will serve as the home for Fire Administration, Fire Operations, Emergency Medical Services, Fire Prevention, and support the City's Emergency Operations Center (rendering at bottom right). Station 52 will feature five apparatus bays, administrative offices, living and sleeping quarters, a fitness area, kitchen, conference room, and vital support spaces. Public parking and secure access for fire crews will ensure the station is ready to serve at a moment's notice. The current VFR Station 52 is located on N. Grove St. in a flood zone. With this project, the City affirms its commitment to public safety, emergency preparedness, and the brave professionals who protect our community every day. Project completion is anticipated for early 2027, pending weather delays.
THE LATEST: FLORIDA CITY WEEK
Congratulations to Venice Elementary School fourth-grader Isla Mullery and fifth-grader Harper Shroyer, who won the City of Venice's annual Florida City Week poster contest at their school. Under the guidance of Art Teacher Heather Young, students drew to the theme, "My City, I'm Part of It, I'm Proud of It."
Isla and Harper won a pizza party for their classes on Oct 22, and received framed certificates from City Public Information Officer Lorraine Anderson. Their family members were also on hand to surprise them, and their artwork will be installed at City Hall.
Well done Isla and Harper!
THE LATEST: FLORIDA CITY WEEK
Congratulations to Epiphany Cathedral School fifth-grader Luke Holderness, who won the City of Venice's annual Florida City Week poster contest at Epiphany.
Under the guidance of Art Teacher Stacey Berkow, students drew or painted to the theme, "My City, I'm Part of It, I'm Proud of It."
Luke won a pizza party for his class Oct 23, and received a framed certificate from City Public Information Officer Lorraine Anderson Luke's family was also on hand to surprise him, and his drawing of downtown will be installed at City Hall
Mayor Nick Pachota recognizes Oct 14, 2025, as the Centennial Anniversary of the Venice Area Chamber of Commerce with a proclamation presented to Kathy Lehner, Chamber President/CEO, and her team during the Oct 14 City Council meeting
Cybersecurity Awareness Month proclamation
Mayor Pachota recognized October 2025 as National Cybersecurity Awareness Month with a proclamation presented Oct 14 to City Security Analyst Joelle Gurk and IT staff, including Help Desk Techs Anthony Garofalo and Jeff Tower and IT Director Roger Navarro. City Manager James Clinch and Vice Mayor Boldt look on
Vice Mayor Jim Boldt reads a proclamation during the Oct 14 Council meeting recognizing October 2025 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, presented to Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC) Victim Advocate Mirna Marcia, as VPD Detective Seth Kenny, Detective Sgt Sam Montes, and Mayor Pachota look on
Florida City Week proclamation
Vice Mayor Boldt reads a proclamation Oct 14 recognizing October 20-26, 2025, as Florida City Government Week, presented to City Manager Clinch as Mayor Pachota looks on. Florida City Week is sponsored by the Florida League of Cities.
New Police Sergeant sworn in
VPD Master Police Officer Benjamin Neff is promoted to Sergeant during the Oct. 28 City Council meeting, sworn in by Deputy City Clerk Mercedes Barcia as Mayor Nick Pachota assists. Then Ben's wife Julia pinned on his badge. Sgt. Neff was also joined by his children, Oren, Olivia and baby Onyx
New Fire Rescue Lieutenant sworn in
VFR Firefighter/Paramedic Barry Spinweber is promoted to Lieutenant during the Oct. 28 Council meeting, sworn in by Deputy City Clerk Barcia with an assist from Mayor Pachota. Then Assistant Fire Chief Kyle Hartley pinned on Barry's badge.
AAUW Venice Branch 50 Anniversary proclamation th
Vice Mayor Jim Boldt recognizes October 2025 as the 50th Anniversary of the American Association of University Women, Venice Branch, with a proclamation presented to Joyce Mikulski and AAUW members during the Oct. 28 Council meeting, as Mayor Pachota looks on.
Geography Awareness Week, GIS Day proclamation
Mayor Pachota recognizes Nov 14-21, 2025, as Geography Awareness Week and Nov 19, 2025, as GIS Day, with proclamations presented Oct. 28 to GIS Administrator Don Hubbard, Stormwater Engineering Manager Steven Berens, GIS Analyst Will Smith, CRS (Community Rating System) Coordinator Christina Rimes and Planning/ GIS Analyst Kelsey Shope
UPDATES & ACTIONS
Oct. 14 Council Meeting Recap
The following actions were taken by Venice City Council at their Oct. 14 regular meeting (Council Member Howard absent):
Approved on Consent Agenda:
City Manager: Approve 1,000 Miglia Race Special Event at Centennial Park on Feb. 21, 2026.
Approve Venice Crescendo Special Event at the Airport Festival Grounds on April 25 and 26, 2026.
Engineering: Authorize the Mayor to Execute Amendment No. 3 to Agreement No. 22SRP76 Between Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the City of Venice for the Tarpon Center Drive Nature Based Flood Mitigation Pilot Project.
Authorize the Mayor to Accept the Utility Easement from Willow Chase Community Association, Inc., for the Utilities New Water Booster Pump Station.
Finance: Accounts Receivable Write-Offs.
Human Resources: Collective Bargaining Agreement Between the City of Venice and the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) for the Period of Oct. 1, 2025, through Sept. 30, 2028.
Utilities: Agreement Regarding Clearing of Brush and Landscaping Reimbursement with Willow Chase Community Association for the Utilities Water Booster Pump Station.
Watch the complete Oct. 14 Council meeting here and the Oct. 28 meeting here. Venice City Council meets at City Hall, 401 W. Venice Ave., at 9 a.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month. However, in November Council will only meet on Nov. 18. Council meeting minutes and video recordings are typically available within 48 hours of each meeting date
Approved 6-0 on First Reading: Ordinance 2025-34 Amending the Official Zoning Atlas of the City of Venice, Pursuant to Zoning Map Amendment Petition No. 25-42RZ, to Change the Zoning Designation for the Properties Generally Located at 2100 and 2413 Knights Trail Road from Commercial General (CG) and Commercial Intensive (CI) to Knights Trail Mixed Use (KT); Providing for Repeal of All Ordinances in Conflict Herewith and Providing for Severability (Quasi-Judicial).
Ordinance 2025-35 of the City of Venice, Amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 87, Land Development Code, by Amending Table 1.1., Summary of Decision Authority by Application Types, Table 1.2., Summary of Application Types with Administrative Approvals, Section 1.2., Common Review Procedures, Section 1.10., Subdivisions, Deleting Section 1.10.2., Final Plat, and Adding Section 1.15.5., Final Plat and Replats, Pursuant to Text Amendment Petition No. 25-50AM, Revising the Plat Process to Comply with the Requirements of Section 177.071, Florida Statutes, as Amended in the 2025 Legislative Session by Senate Bill 784; Providing for Repeal of All Ordinances in Conflict Herewith; and Providing for Severability.
Approved 6-0 on Final Reading: Ordinance 2025-33 of the City of Venice, Providing for Placement of the Structure Located at 500 Nassau St. S. on the Local Register of Historical Resources Pursuant to Chapter 87, Historic and Architectural Preservation, Section 7.7, Local Register and Landmarks, of the City of Venice Code of Ordinances; Providing for Conflicts; and Providing for Severability.
In Other Action, Council: Approved 6-0 to direct staff to amend the City Code to reflect that a Venice MainStreet member is a preference, not a requirement, for one of the Historic and Architectural Preservation Board seats, and repost the vacancy following the code change.
Approved 4-2 (Smith and Engelke dissenting) to appoint Donna Boldt to the Venice Housing Authority to fill the unexpired term of James Kraut from Oct. 14, 2025, to Sept. 30, 2026.
UPDATES & ACTIONS
Oct. 28 Council Meeting recap
The following actions were taken by Council at their Oct. 28 regular meeting:
Approved on Consent Agenda:
City Manager: Respect First Responders (R1R) 5K Special Event at Legacy Park on Jan. 31, 2026.
Better Together Block Party Centennial Special Event at West Blalock Park
on March 14, 2026.
Utilities: Authorize the Mayor to Execute the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) State Revolving Fund (SRF) Loan Application WW580470 for the Utilities Water Reclamation Flow Equalization (EQ) Tank Project.
Approved 7-0: Engagement Agreement with C.J. Wilson Law, P.A. to Assist With Matters Relating to the Venice Municipal Airport on an As-Needed Basis
Authorize the Mayor to Execute the Purchase and Sale Agreement Between the City of Venice and Edmund and Debbie Campbell for a Drainage Easement.
Approved 7-0 on Final Reading: Ordinance 2025-34 Amending the Official Zoning Atlas of the City of Venice, Pursuant to Zoning Map Amendment Petition No. 25-42RZ, to Change the Zoning Designation for the Properties Generally Located at 2100 and 2413 Knights Trail Road from Commercial General (CG) and Commercial Intensive (CI) to Knights Trail Mixed Use (KT); Providing for Repeal of All Ordinances in Conflict Herewith; and Providing for Severability (QuasiJudicial).
Ordinance 2025-35 of the City of Venice, Amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 87, Land Development Code, by Amending Table 1.1., Summary of Decision Authority by Application Types, Table 1.2., Summary of Application Types with Administrative Approvals, Section 1.2., Common Review Procedures, Section 1.10., Subdivisions, Deleting Section 1.10.2., Final Plat, and Adding Section 1.15.5., Final Plat and Replats, Pursuant to Text Amendment Petition No. 25-50AM, Revising the Plat Process to Comply with the Requirements of Section 177.071, Florida Statutes, as Amended in the 2025 Legislative Session by Senate Bill 784; Providing for Repeal of All Ordinances in Conflict Herewith; and Providing for Severability.
Approved 7-0 on First Reading: Ordinance 2025-41 of the City of Venice, Amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 88, Building Regulations, by Adding Section 7, Milestone Inspections, for Condominiums and Cooperative Buildings Three Stories or More in Height, to Comply With the Requirements of Section 553.899, Florida Statutes, as Amended in the 2025 Legislative Session by House Bill 913; Providing for Repeal of All Ordinances in Conflict Herewith; and Providing for Severability.
Approved 7-0: Resolution 2025-25 of the City of Venice, Reducing the Fee Surcharge of 15 Percent for the Collection of Program Recyclables to 10 Percent; Superseding Resolution No. 2023-23.
Resolution 2025-26 of the City of Venice, Approving Amendment No. 3 to the Public Transportation Grant Agreement for Project Number 452977-1-94-01 by and Between the State of Florida Department of Transportation and the City of Venice, Florida for the Venice Municipal Airport Master Plan Update; Authorizing Appropriate City Officials to Execute it.
Resolution 2025-27 of the City of Venice, Relating to the State Revolving Fund Loan Program; Making Findings; Authorizing the Loan Application; Authorizing the Loan Agreement; Establishing Pledged Revenues; Designating Authorized Representatives; and Providing Assurances.
Intracoastal Second Force Main Project - November Update
Project overview: The Utilities Intracoastal Second Force Main Project primarily involves the construction of a redundant wastewater force main and gravity sewer system to safely convey all wastewater flows from Venice island to the City’s mainland facilities.
Currently, the City only has one wastewater force main located south of the E. Venice Ave. bridge that transfers all of the island’s wastewater flow under the Intracoastal to the mainland, and ultimately to the City’s Water Reclamation Facility (WRF) via Lift Station LS-07.
Should the existing wastewater force main fail or require maintenance, the City’s public sewer system located on the island would be fully cut off from the WRF. Consequently, the proposed redundant force main project and other associated work will greatly improve the reliability and resiliency of the City’s sewer system and better protect the water quality of our local waterways.
Project schedule: The contractor has installed the remaining section of the force main east of the Intracoastal Waterway. They will also install the remaining 24-inch gravity sewer main on N. Warfield Ave. into the intersection of E. Venice Ave. Access to N. Warfield Ave. will be restricted and E. Venice Ave. eastbound and westbound lanes will both be reduced to one-lane traffic. Work duration of this phase is expected through Nov. 24 but is subject to change if unforeseen conflicts are uncovered. See map at right. Traffic pattern updates will be posted as necessary on the City's website, venicegov.com, on the home page under the News tab. Large equipment and machinery will be within the road right-of-way. Please drive slowly, use caution and watch out for pedestrians and workers. Motorists are to follow all posted traffic control signs.
Funding: A substantial portion of this project is funded by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Loan Program.
The Utilities Department appreciates your patience as the City’s infrastructure is updated to improve the safety and quality of life within our community for years to come. For more information, visit venicegov.com/government/utilities/projects. For information specific to your property, contact Cynthia Fitzpatrick, Utilities Project Coordinator, at 941-882-7290.
UPDATES & ACTIONS
VPD announces arrest through Florida Drug-Induced Homicide Law
After a nine-month investigation, the Venice Police Department arrested Justin Companion, 41, of Venice, on Oct. 6 in connection with the distribution of heroin that resulted in the death of James Harrington III, of Venice on Jan. 17, 2025.
The arrest was made by Venice Police Department’s Special Investigations Unit with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Apprehension Unit and Sarasota County Sheriff's Office. Following a comprehensive investigation by the Venice Police Department, detectives determined that the heroin distributed by Companion directly caused Harrington’s fatal overdose.
Companion is being charged with second-degree homicide under Florida Statute 782.04(2), the Florida Drug-Induced Homicide Law, which allows prosecutors to hold drug distributors criminally responsible when the sale or delivery of a controlled substance results in death. Additional charges include sale of a schedule I narcotic (heroin) and the criminal use of a two-way communication device. Companion is currently being held without bond at the Sarasota County Jail. The case will be prosecuted by the 12th Judicial Circuit.
Anyone with information related to illegal drug activity is encouraged to contact the Venice Police Department at 941-4862444 or submit an anonymous tip through Sarasota County Crime Stoppers by calling 941-366-8477
Applicants needed for CRS Committee vacancies
The City of Venice CRS (Community Rating System) Committee has 2 vacancies. Among other tasks, volunteer members assess local flood hazards and flooding problems, set goals, and draft an action plan, provide opportunities for public input, and coordinate with other agencies.
This committee is comprised of eight members. Five shall be members from the public, meeting at least one of the following criteria: a City resident, business owner, property owner, or tenant located within the special flood hazard area; a stakeholder within the community such as an emergency/disaster responder, member of the Chamber of Commerce or other business group; a representative of a utility company, real estate office, insurance agency, developer/contractor, civic group, environmental organization, academia, nonprofit organization, or major local employer; or staff from other governmental agencies such as the local housing authority, Natural Resources Conservation Service, or the National Weather Service. There shall be one representative from each of the following City departments: Planning and Zoning, Building, and Engineering. The City Engineer shall appoint all members and determine terms of office. The committee meets quarterly.
More information on the committee, including an application, can be found online here. You can also contact CRS Coordinator Christina Rimes at crimes@venicefl.gov or 941-882-7412.
All Aboard the Centennial!
Holiday Parade Saturday, Nov. 29
We’re counting down to the City’s Centennial kickoff with the annual Venice Holiday Parade on Saturday, Nov. 29. This year’s theme, “All Aboard the Centennial,” pays tribute to those who built, rode, and welcomed the train that brought visitors and residents to make Venice the “City on the Gulf.”
Early chair set-up can begin after 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 26. Arrive early on parade day to cheer on the Elf Dash, enjoy performances by the Venice Gondoliers barbershop quartet at the Centennial Park Gazebo, music and snow at the 100 Block Party, caricature artists, face painters and balloon twisters along the parade route, and dance performances by the Starz Choice Dance Academy. Don’t forget to bring a canned food item to help stock the South County Food Pantry Coalition! For all parade information, visit https://www.venicegov.com/things-to-do/events/centennial-celebration.
Up next:
Community Update
2 p.m., Friday, Nov. 7
City Hall Council Chambers
Get Involved Sponsor
Sign up to volunteer are City or community partner Centennial events, click here. Apply for a Centennial partnership to use the Centennial logo, request a new Centennial event on public property, install permanent art or features and more, click here.
As part of Venice’s Centennial celebrations, the Venice Museum has a seasonal exhibit on display: “Venice Turns 100! Celebrating the City on the Gulf’s Centennial.”
The exhibit which runs through Aug. 26, 2026, offers a glimpse into Venice’s transformation throughout the decades. See how the City has grown from a plan laid out by renowned city planner John Nolen to the thriving community it is today.
The Venice Museum is located inside the historic Triangle Inn, listed in both the Venice Register of Historical Resources and the National Registers of Historic Places. The museum is open Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and the first and third Saturdays in October through April from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
For more information about the exhibit, contact the museum at 941-4862487 or visit venicemuseum.org.
HISTORY LESSON
Nov. 11 is Veterans Day!
The United States military and Venice history have been intertwined for years. Of course, the Venice Army Air Base comes to mind, as well as the Kentucky Military Institute. To honor veterans, Venice first installed a monument in Veterans Memorial Park circa 1950. The memorial remains in place today near the kiosk in what is now Centennial Park.
In 1956, locals gathered in Veterans Memorial Park to honor members of the military who had lost their lives while serving our country. Speaker Capt. C.N. Stevens answered the question: Did they die in vain? His answer “We only have to look around to see that we are reaping the harvest of what they left. We should remember them every day we wake up in a free country.”
On Memorial Day 1977, City administrators and the public gathered in Veterans Memorial Park before proceeding down W. Venice Ave. toward the beach for the official dedication of a new veterans memorial. This monument was constructed at the far west end of the extra-wide median known then as Linear Park.
In 1988, City Council made some city park changes. Linear Park was renamed Heritage Park and Veterans Memorial Park became Centennial Park.
Top, at right: A special plaque honoring Venice High School graduate Clyde E Lassen stands in Veterans Court: “Commander, U S Navy, 1942-1994, Navy Medal of Honor For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as pilot and aircraft commander of a search-and-rescue helicopter operation against enemy forces in North Vietnam, Lt. Clyde E. Lassen was officially awarded the Medal of Honor on 16 January 1969. Lassen was a 1960 graduate of Venice High School.” Above, the Veterans Court monument at the west end of W. Venice Ave in Heritage Park includes insignias for all five military branches, and a plaque that reads: “July 4, 1976 – Dedicated to all veterans of all wars. The disabled and those who gave their lives in the hope their children would never need to fight or give their lives to keep our country strong and free, but especially dedicated with the knowledge that if called, they will emulate their parents in upholding the honor of these United States.” At left: Kentucky Military Institute cadets on parade near the veterans memorial wall in Veterans Memorial Park, circa 1955. Center: The original veterans memorial as it appears today in Centennial Park with plaques inscribed: “In memory of those who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of their country. Presented by No-Vel Post 159 – American Legion – May 1954. This monument ... will be maintained in honored dignity forever – Venice City Council - July 4, 1976.”
HISTORY LESSON
DID YOU KNOW
. . .
Originally, John Nolen’s 1926 plan did not call for a park in Block 51 (today’s Centennial Park.) Instead, Nolen divided Block 51 into 40 lots, with 27 narrow lots fronting Venice Ave. designated for businesses. The remaining 13 lots were wider and fronted Tampa Ave. as residential lots.
In the 1940s, Finn Caspersen and 14 other owners generously donated their Block 51 parcels to the City of Venice to be used as a community park. A number of the deeds transferring title included specific language calling for the parcel to be returned to the grantor if the property was not used as a city park.
Fast forward to the 1960s, when downtown merchants needed more customer parking and proposed Block 51 be turned into a parking lot. This met with the approval of some of the former lot owners, except for former Venice City Clerk Helga Siede, who had gifted two lots to the City and included the special language in her deed.
In a 1968 letter to Mayor Smyth Brohard and the Venice Gondolier newspaper, Mrs. Siede wrote, “In a past issue of the Gondolier I noticed a proposed plan for development of Block 51 (Venice Memorial Park) as a parking lot. In addition to being a rather shabby treatment of what was to be a memorial to War Veterans, I consider the development of Block 51 as a parking lot a violation of the trust the previous property owners had in the City Administration and an abandonment of the original purpose for which the land was acquired — namely, the creation of a beautiful park for public recreation. This letter is to protest the abandonment of the purpose for which the land was acquired and to suggest that an amount be included in the 1969 city budget, sufficient to pay for services of a qualified landscape architect to draw up a plan for a beautiful park to serve as a real memorial to be of use to all the public for esthetic enjoyment rest and recreation; and, that for the next several years an amount be included in the budget each year to cover development of the park.”
Mrs. Siede’s letter produced a compromise. The following year, downtown merchants presented a plan to City Council calling for parking spaces, waiting areas, covered benches, trees, flowers, and a fountain, all limited to the southern half of Block 51.
City planner John Nolen designated the orange lots for business and the yellow for residential.
Looking west on W. Venice Ave. Block 51 is indicated in the yellow box; circa 1960s.
THROUGH OUR LENS
Sun Fiesta Fun: Bed Races
The annual Bed Races were held Oct 18 during the Women’s Sertoma Club of Venice Sun Fiesta Congrats to 1st Place Champions Pop's Sunset Grill! A huge thank you to all the participants – from the spirited teams with their creative bed themes, to the hard-working volunteers, to the cheering crowd that lined W. Venice Ave. Your energy and community spirit on a perfect sunny fall day in Venice made this annual tradition one to remember!
THROUGH OUR LENS
Sun Fiesta Fun
Above left, congratulations to Eden Hurley, crowned Miss Sun Fiesta 2025 on Oct 19 Anicie Joseph was named 1st Runner-Up and Marissa Cook, 2nd Runner-Up. Above right, The Boogiemen get ready to hit the stage Oct. 18. Below left, VPD Officers Kenite Webb and Erin Skaggs work Sun Fiesta detail Oct. 17. Below right, City Manager James Clinch was first up in the dunk tank Oct. 17.
SEASONAL REMINDERS
SEASONAL REMINDERS
SEASONAL REMINDERS
SEASONAL REMINDERS
SEASONAL REMINDERS
Looking for more to do?
Visit the City’s 35 parks
Bicycle around Venice island
Stop by the Venice Museum
View the City’s Event calendar
Join a City Advisory Board
Volunteer with VABI
Find more events with community partners:
Venice Area Chamber of Commerce
Venice Art Center
Venice Community Center
Venice Performing Arts Center
Venice MainStreet Inc
Venice Symphony
Venice Theatre
Visit Sarasota County
Sarasota County Government
Counting Down!
Veterans in Venice Festival - Sat., Nov. 8
Veterans Day Ceremony - Tues., Nov. 11
Night Market & Music - Sat., Nov. 15
Turkey Trot for the Twig - Sat., Nov. 22
Venice Holiday Parade - Sat., Nov. 29
Mayor’s Hometown Christmas - Fri., Nov. 28
Holiday Lights on in West Blalock Park - Sat., Nov. 29
Christmas Boat Parade - Sat., Dec. 6
Venice Museum Holiday Open House - Sat , Dec 13
Glow Ride - Sat Dec 13
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
GIS event, raffle set for Nov. 19 at City Hall
Citizens and visitors alike can get to know the City of Venice GIS (Geographic Information System) team and their cool contributions to the community during a GIS Day event on Wednesday, Nov. 19 at Venice City Hall, 401 W. Venice Ave.
GIS data is a powerhouse tool that lets the City observe real-time info to help make real-world decisions. Staff can track stormwater, plan for water and wastewater utilities, parks, and green spaces, and keep tabs on building and development.
On Nov. 19, City GIS staff will be in the lobby of City Hall from 8 a.m. to noon. Stop by each of the tables and learn a little about how each of the team utilizes GIS for the City. Find out about the life of John Nolen, flood zones and evacuation levels, beach outfalls, utilities dashboards, imagery created from drone photos, and more.
When you stop by each table, staff will give you a ticket to enter in a raffle drawing that will take place at the end of the event (one ticket per table per person). You do not need to be present for the drawing. Raffle prizes include a $50 gift card to Sharky’s/Fins, donated by Mayor Nick Pachota; a coffee basket with Venice Centennial coffee mug, donated by Brian Mahoney; and a $25 gift card to Venice Avenue Creamery, donated by GIS staff.
Additionally, on Monday, Nov. 17, Venice GIS staff will be in North Port at the Shannon Staub Library, 4675 Career Lane, joining the City of North Port, Sarasota County and Charlotte County staff to celebrate GIS Day from 1-4 p.m.
Lord-Higel’s Coffee House, coming soon!
Managed by Black Gold Coffee Roasters out of Venice, the historic LordHigel House is getting closer to opening to the public. It is currently an active construction site as Black Gold works to finalize the interior and landscaping. Please stay off the porch and lawn, and do not attempt to access the building. Visit the Lord-Higel’s Coffee House Facebook page for official updates.
WEW! Women Empowering Women
The annual Women Empowering Women Summit, hosted and organized by the Venice Area Chamber of Commerce, was held Oct. 3. City Public Information Officer Lorraine Anderson participated on a panel, “The Power of Her Voice,” in one of the day’s keynote addresses. Also in attendance were staff from the City Clerk’s Office, Venice Police Department, Engineering, Planning and Zoning, and the City Manager’s Office: Mercedes Barcia, Caroline Moriarty, Christina Rimes, Cordy Crane, Lisa Olson, Rebecca Paul and Brianne Lorenz
Teen Reading Week lauded at VHS with proclamation
On Oct. 16, Mayor Nick Pachota, accompanied by City Manager James Clinch, recognized Oct. 13-17, 2025, as Teen Reading Week with a proclamation presented to Venice High School
A ribbon cutting was also held for four Little Free Libraries that students built to place around VHS in order to make books more accessible for everyone
AROUND TOWN
Did you know? Airplane art can trace its roots back to World War I, when flight crews and pilots began decorating their military aircraft with colorful designs.
You may recall seeing the art either on the nose or tail of vintage military aircraft On any given day at Venice Municipal Airport, you can still find some creative and absolute works of art adorned on the sides of aircraft
A few examples above include tropical tail art, and a full aircraft painted masterpiece.
Thank you to everyone who dropped off their expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs on DEA National Drug Take Back Day Oct. 25 at the Venice Police Department. Thanks also to Walgreens for partnering with us VPD collected over 157 pounds of meds
AROUND TOWN
In early October, members of the Venice Fire Rescue and Venice Police Dive Team took a deep dive into training to keep their skills sharp and response times quick when duty calls, at right. Regular training helps ensure the team stays ready for whatever lies beneath the surface.
Grace Preschool celebrated fire safety and the letter F on Oct. 10 with a visit from Venice Fire Rescue. Firefighters showed young students the trucks and equipment, and explained what they do to help our community.
Three years after the devastation of Hurricane Ian, Venice Theatre’s rebuild topped out Oct 16 with a joyful morning ceremony, placing a pink crepe myrtle tree on the final beam and hoisting it to the highest point of the mainstage Jervey Theatre under construction, symbolizing VT's resilience and progress. Pictured are VT Executive Director Kristofer Geddie, above right, Interim Artistic Director Murray Chase, below left, and Mayor Nick Pachota, below right The theatre, a mainstay in the community since its first production in 1950, has raised 80% of the $25 million needed to rebuild No donation is too small! Learn more about playing your part here: https://venicetheatre.org/donate/.
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Venice Area Beautification Inc.’s Team KVB (Keep Venice Beautiful) cleaned, planted, and mulched at the Venice Beach pavilion in preparation for the Venice MainStreet Beach Party Sept. 27. Back row: Kathy Short, Corky Dalton, George Wolman, Colleen Dilmore, Ali Williamson, David Rasp, Karen DeJarnet, Pete Walker, Ken Altreuter, Brian Solliday, Ron Albenese, Larry Luber, Greg Short, Drew Altreuter; front row: Edgar St.Pierre, Linda Booth, Rose Altreuter, Betsy Stickles, Carrie Luber, Colleen Sweeney, Donna Dellefave, Susanne Doughty and Becky St.Pierre. Team KVB also instituted some roaming pruners who drove around downtown via golf cart Pictured below are Ali Williamson and Becky St.Pierre.
Thank you to members of the Venice-Nokomis Woman's Club who came by the Old Betsy Museum Oct. 18 to help clean and spiff up the City’s restored 1926 LaFrance firetruck in preparation for the annual Venice Holiday Parade. VNWC members will ride on Old Betsy as the parade's Grand Marshals Nov. 29, honoring the Club’s 100th anniversary Thanks ladies, for all you do!
Graduation for the Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Leadership Venice Class, which included Venice Airport Manager Nick Dumas (2 from left in top photo) was Oct. 10 at the Venice Yacht Club. nd
The Leadership class’s project was a new 6-hole disc golf course at the Loveland Center Class participants were inspired to do their community service project at Loveland after touring there during one of their Leadership Days. A recent ribbon cutting for the disc golf course was attended by many of the happy participants at the Loveland Center, who have been playing games during their athletic club on Saturdays. It's been a great way to get outside, make new friends and play with loved ones when they come to visit.
This program shows the beauty of the great work being done in this community and the connections and impact we can make when we come together. Want to learn more about the Loveland Center? Visit https://lovelandcenter.org/
Above: Thank you to all the volunteer divers, kayakers and topside helpers who participated in the Suncoast Reef Rovers’ underwater cleanup at the Venice Fishing Pier Oct. 18. Venice Police and Fire Rescue marine units were also on hand to support the participants.
Left: On Oct. 25, VFR units were dispatched along with the Sarasota County Fire Department to a reported structure fire on the 100 block of Medici Terrace Firefighters arrived on scene and found a singlefamily residential home with heavy flames coming from the garage area The blaze was called under control shortly before 8:30 p m and out at 8:36 p m No injuries were reported The homeowners stated they had plugged in their golf cart to charge; 10 minutes later they smelled something burning in the garage and found the golf cart fully involved. The Venice Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate. The fire was determined to be accidental, with point of origin in the vicinity of the charging golf cart. Right and below: Members of VFR participated in apparatus operations classes in October, hosted by the Nokomis Volunteer Fire Department.
Above: Congratulations to the Jeromins! Their home at 500 Nassau St. S. has become the 14th property in the Venice Register of Historical Resources. Want to learn more about the local register? Visit www.venicegov.com/government/historical-resources/local-register-of-historical-resources.
Left: An open house was held Oct. 18 at the Old Betsy Museum with Earl Midlam, caretaker of the City's 1926 American LaFrance fire engine.
Above: The Venice Museum's first Saturday opening of the season was Oct 4 Along with the Museum, citizens could also visit the Julia Cousins Laning and Dale Laning Archives & Research Center for its Archives Open House, and caretakers Earl and Karen Midlam were also at the Old Betsy Museum It was a full day of activities with the City’s Historical Resources Division
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At left, Venice Municipal Airport Office Assistant Penny Elie, Airport Community Outreach Manager David Surwilo and Airport Manager Nick Dumas; and at right, Historical Resources Manager Harry Klinkhamer representing the Venice Museum at the Venice Chamber Community Expo Oct. 15 at the Venice Community Center.
Austin Fargo, Dustin Little, Kevin Freeman and Chad Armstrong with the City Utilities Department make a sewer line repair at Bella Costa on Oct. 27.
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Northeast Venice Park construction continues at 3560 Laurel Road, near the intersection of Laurel Road and Knights Trail. Shade structure installation is currently in progress. Grading is being completed, with concrete to follow on the south end
With the 5-acre park's completion anticipated for spring 2026, it will feature eight pickleball courts, a dog park, fitness equipment, two shaded playgrounds, a wide walking and running path, and more (rendering at bottom).
Above, the “Witches of City Hall” made their annual appearance on Oct. 31. Below, from left, Public Works Parks Crew Leader Brandon Jones leads John, Bobby, Josh and Lionel in the 200 block of W. Venice Ave. on Oct. 23, augering holes, unloading bushes and prepping for a median makeover prior to Make a Difference Day on Oct 25; VPD Officer Colin Stalker stopped to help change a senior resident’s tire Oct 14; City Special Events and Mobilty Coordinator Darlene Culpepper leads the monthly City Bicycle Ride on Oct 9
A snapshot of the Venice MainStreet and Venice Lions Club annual Halloween Strut downtown on Oct 31 See more photos here
BULLETIN BOARD
Next bike ride is Thursday, Nov. 13!
To apply, visit https://www.sarasotacountyparks.com/i-wantto/support-parks/volunteer-opportunities
