City Council Members
Edmund Campbell named Mayor’s Pillar of the Community
Mayor Nick Pachota presented the Pillar of the Community Award to local philanthropist Edmund Campbell during the Nov. 18 City Council meeting.
Dec. 9 Jan. 13
Campbell donated land on Mango Avenue that made the first Habitat for Humanity home in City limits possible. He has also donated to Venice Theatre, the Venice Symphony, and the music department at State College of Florida.
“There’s so many wonderful things I could say about Mr. Campbell,” Mayor Pachota said during the presentation. “Besides being a veteran of the U.S. Army, and having a very generous and contributing family – the time and energy they put into this community and make it such a wonderful place to live.”
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Mayor Nick Pachota Vice Mayor Jim Boldt
Rachel Frank
Rick Howard
Kevin Engelke
Ron Smith
City
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The Mayor listed off the organizations Campbell has been involved with, saying, “What that does inside this community to make sure our students have the ability to go to school, become better people, that our community has the ability to participate in different programs and events. It’s an honor and a pleasure to be up here with Mr. Campbell today presenting him with the Mayor’s Pillar of the Community Award. He’s more than deserving, and thank you for everything you do for us.”
Said Campbell, “It’s been my pleasure to help this community in the ways we can. The organizations in this town that we have supported have all had really excellent CEOs, really excellent staff members, and very conscientious people who run those various organizations. ... It’s not people like myself who give support, it’s the people on the staff of these (groups) that really do the grunt work and make them the fine organizations they are.”
At far left, Mayor Pachota speaks about Ed Campbell’s contributions to the community; at left, Campbell with his family; below, Campbell helps break ground in November 2024 at the site of the first Habitat house to be built in Venice City limits, for the Tchorbadjiev family
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The City of Venice Utilities Department is pleased to announce the activation of the new Water Booster Pump Station located near Gene Green Road. This new booster station in Northeast Venice will result in measurable improvements in the level of service of the potable water system throughout the City. This infrastructure upgrade is part of the City’s long-term strategy to enhance water service reliability and support the growing water demands in Venice.
The new booster station has stabilized water pressure across the northern part of the city, and some customers may also notice a slight increase in pressure. Prior to activation, residents east of Interstate 75 experienced daytime pressures ranging from 42 to 46 psi. Since the new station came online, consistent readings between 48 and 51 psi have been recorded, with limited fluctuations throughout the day. The new booster station also provides enhanced fire protection by boosting the flow capacity of the fire hydrants during an emergency.
The new Water Booster Station is the primary component of a larger project that includes a 2 million-gallon finished water storage tank, an emergency operations building, and a fixed solar array to support sustainable energy use. Construction updates and technical details are available on the City’s dedicated project website: venicewaterboosterstation.com. For more information, residents can contact the Utilities Department at 941-480-3333 or visit the City’s website here.
Booster Pump Station to improve potable water system level of service
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Coast Guard rescues 8 from disabled boat with VPD assistance
On Saturday, Nov. 15, Venice Police officers responded to the Marina Park Boat Ramp on Venice Avenue regarding an overdue vessel. It was reported that the operator of the 26foot Sailfish had departed the ramp on Nov. 14 at approximately 9 a.m. with seven passengers for a fishing trip and had not returned.
While officers were on scene, a family member arrived and confirmed the concern, providing additional information to assist in the investigation. Initial attempts to locate the operator’s cell phone were unsuccessful. VPD Marine Officer Brett Woodworth initially reported the overdue vessel to Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg watchstanders at 1:44 p.m. that Saturday.
During the investigation, a U.S. Coast Guard fixed-wing aircraft located the inoperable vessel approximately 36 nautical miles southwest of Venice Inlet and roughly 30 miles west of Boca Grande at 10:35 p.m. Nov. 15. Following the aerial sighting, a USCG rescue boat arrived at the vessel (pictured at right), accounted for all passengers, and confirmed no medical issues.
A significant lead came from a social media video showing the vessel leaving the Venice Inlet. A visible compass bearing, along with information that the operator typically maintains a steady course after exiting the inlet, helped narrow the search area and guide air assets to the vessel. Get more information on the rescue efforts here.
Beware of fake emails!
Staff has been made aware of an email scam impersonating the City of Venice. If you receive an unexpected message asking for personal information, payment or urgent action, please use caution. The City of Venice will NEVER ask you to "wire" funds to pay for services. Remember: All official City of Venice emails end with “venicefl.gov.” If it’s not from that address, it’s not us.
Here are a few ways to spot email scams:
Check the sender address. If it doesn’t match our official email, it’s not legitimate. Look for spelling or grammar mistakes. Many scams contain unusual wording or errors. Be cautious of urgent or threatening language. Scammers often pressure you to act quickly. Don’t click unexpected links or attachments. These can lead to malicious sites or install malware. Verify before responding. When in doubt, contact the City directly by calling the VPD non-emergency number at 941-486-2444.
Going up: Fire Rescue Station 52
ConstructionprogressatthesiteofthenewFireRescueStation52at1545E.VeniceAve.,nexttothePoliceDepartment, ispicturedbelowintheseNov.20dronephotosfromWillisSmithConstruction.Thisforward-lookingfacilitywillserveas thehomeforFireAdministration,FireOperations,EmergencyMedicalServices,FirePrevention,andsupporttheCity's EmergencyOperationsCenter(renderingatbottomright).Station52willfeaturefiveapparatusbays,administrative offices,livingandsleepingquarters,afitnessarea,kitchen,conferenceroom,andvitalsupportspaces.
Publicparkingandsecureaccessforfirecrewswillensurethe stationisreadytoserveatamoment'snotice.ThecurrentVFR Station52islocatedonN.GroveSt.inafloodzone.
Withthisproject,theCityaffirmsitscommitmenttopublic safety,emergencypreparedness,andthebraveprofessionals whoprotectourcommunityeveryday.Projectcompletionis anticipatedforearly2027,pendingweatherdelays.
Wellfield Park conveyance marks new chapter for regional sports complex
In a continued partnership, the City of Venice and Sarasota County finalized the conveyance of Wellfield Park on Oct. 30, paving the way for its transformation into a regional sports complex at 1300 Ridgewood Ave.
Named for the site of the City’s first drinking water wells, Wellfield Park features several athletic amenities, including baseball fields, croquet courts, a football field, multipurpose fields, soccer fields and softball fields. With numerous athletic fields, a picnic shelter and a playground, the property is a popular location for athletes and families.
“The conveyance of Wellfield Park represents a shared investment in our community’s future. Transforming it into a regional sports complex reflects our commitment to creating welcoming spaces where residents can stay active, enjoy a variety of sports and support their favorite teams. We are excited about partnering with the community at large and the City of Venice to enhance this great amenity,” said Sarasota County Administrator Jonathan Lewis.
Following the closing and conveyance of Wellfield Park, all operations, maintenance, repair and replacement will become the responsibility of Sarasota County. Redevelopment plans for the property include enhancements to amenities and improving the park’s infrastructure. This project is receiving funding from both the city and the county.
“The Wellfield Park property conveyance is a big win for Venice and for the region,” said Venice City Manager James Clinch. “I want to thank our City Council for their unwavering support, and Sarasota County for their investment to make Wellfield Park a high-quality regional sports complex. This milestone reflects what is possible when local governments work together with a shared commitment to serving the community.”
Wellfield Park marks the fourth regional sports complex in Sarasota County, joining 17 Street Park, Englewood Sports Complex and Twin Lakes Park. These multi-sport complexes, with versatile designs, host a wide range of athletic events - from local competitions to major tournamentsenhancing community engagement and attracting visitors to Sarasota County.
For more information on Wellfield Park, please visit SarasotaCountyParks.com.
Mote Marine reports record sea turtle nesting numbers
Mote Marine Laboratory’s Sea Turtle Conservation and Research Program documented a historic nesting season in 2025, with 5,735 total nests recorded along 35 miles of Sarasota County beaches, from Longboat Key to Venice. This marks the highest number of nests ever recorded in Mote’s 43-year monitoring history, far surpassing 2024’s 4,369 nests. In Venice, 684 nests were recorded for the season.
Loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta), a threatened species protected under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, made up the vast majority of nests (5,384), followed by green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas), which accounted for 351 nests. Sarasota County occasionally hosts rare nests from Kemp’s ridley and leatherback turtles as well.
Unfortunately, the unprecedented number of nests is not the only trend STCRP’s data revealed. This year also marked the highest number of disorientations ever documented by Mote (716 events). Disorientations occur when artificial lighting along the shoreline misleads hatchlings or returning nesting females away from the ocean, often resulting in exhaustion, dehydration, or death.
“This year’s record numbers show that Mote’s conservation measures are working,” said Dr. Jake Lasala, Manager of Mote’s Sea Turtle Conservation and Research Program. “However, we’re seeing new challenges emerge, such as the rise in disorientations. It’s more important than ever for our community to turn off or shield beachfront lights, remove beach furniture at night, and keep nesting areas clear to give every hatchling the best possible chance at survival.”
Mote’s STCRP has monitored and protected sea turtle nesting activity since 1982, collecting long-term data essential to understanding population trends, reproductive success, and how environmental and human factors affect nesting behavior. The program’s dataset represents one of the longest continuous sea turtle monitoring efforts in the U.S.
The dedicated individuals of Mote’s Sea Turtle Patrol are at the heart of this mission. Comprising STCRP staff, interns, and more than 300 volunteers, the Sea Turtle Patrol conducts daily surveys from April 15 through Oct. 31, documenting every crawl, nest, and hatchling emergence. In an uncommon occurrence, this season is still showing nests incubating into November. STCRP’s careful monitoring helps ensure each nest is properly marked and protected.
STCRP scientists use the data they collect to study phenological shifts (changes in the timing of nesting), nest density, hatching success, and the influence of environmental factors, work that supports management decisions by local, state, and federal conservation partners.
To learn more about joining Mote’s Sea Turtle Patrol or doing your part to keep sea turtles safe on our beaches, visit mote.org/seaturtles. – Provided by Kathryn Gentile/Mote Marine
VFR holds aircraft familiarization training at Venice Airport
Venice Fire Rescue partnered with the Venice Municipal Airport, the Florida Flight Training Center, and the Sarasota County Fire Department to conduct airport and aircraft familiarization training Nov. 4-6.
Surpassing 100,000 flights for the first time this year, the Venice Airport presents unique challenges for responders, from the complexity of aircraft systems and hazardous jet fuel to the potential for multiple patients in confined spaces.
The exercise included one donated aircraft and two operational planes used to simulate an aircraft collision scenario involving eight patients with a mix of live actors and medical mannequins. Crews practiced triage, patient care, and extrication techniques under realistic conditions, utilizing a dedicated training radio channel with dispatch to provide real-time coordination across all responding units.
A simulated fuel leak added a hazardous materials component, prompting crews to deploy specialized firefighting foam designed to smother volatile jet fuel vapors and prevent ignition, while maintaining scene safety and containment.
This hands-on training helps ensure Venice Fire Rescue and our partners are ready to respond safely and effectively to high-risk aviation emergencies. Training side by side allows our agencies to refine how we communicate, coordinate, and operate under pressure creating a more streamlined and effective response if a real incident occurs. Thank you to the Venice Municipal Airport, Skyport Aviation, the “victims,” and the Florida Flight Training Center, which volunteered their aircraft for this critical training. More photos, page 9
Fire training at
Venice Airport
Donate to VPD Blue Santa through Dec. 17
’Tis the season to spread cheer and gratitude! Venice Police Department Blue Santa Donation Boxes are now available at 13 locations throughout the City and surrounding areas until Dec. 17. Your generosity helps VPD’s Blue Santa Program support more than 115 local families and 250–400 children each year with food, clothing, toys, toiletries, and more.
Families are identified through local Venice-area schools and are often facing food insecurity or other hardships during the holiday season. In addition to toys, each family receives a gift card from Detwiler’s Farm Market to purchase Christmas breakfast or dinner. All families are vetted, kept confidential, and connected through Venice-area schools. Gifts and gift cards are then picked up from a designated City facility on event day.
Donation boxes are available now until Dec. 17, at the following locations:
1. Venice Police Department lobby, 1575 E. Venice Ave.
2. City Hall lobby, 401 W. Venice Ave.
3. Driftwood Kennels, 800 Laurel Rd E.
4. Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave.
5. American Imports Automotive, 548 E. Venice Ave.
6. Venetian Golf and River Club, 502 Veneto Blvd.
7. Venice Yacht Club, 1330 Tarpon Center Dr.
8. Venice Pier Group, 205 Base Ave. E.
9. Sharky’s on the Pier, 1600 Harbor Dr. S.
10. Gemini Apparel, 105 Triple Diamond Blvd, Suite 103
11. Sallapudi Orthodontics, 140 Indian Ave.
12. Made in Italy, 117 W. Venice Ave.
13. Dockside Waterfront Grill, 509 N. Tamiami Trail
VPD’s Blue Santa Program began in 1985, when a small group of Venice police officers and their families noticed that some households they encountered on calls were unable to provide gifts for their children on Christmas Day. Wanting to help, officers purchased, wrapped, and personally delivered toys to families in need. Today, that tradition has grown into a cherished community effort, one that helps local families and ensures every child can experience a joyful, magical holiday!
UPDATES & ACTIONS
Nov. 18 Council Meeting Recap
The following actions were taken by Venice City Council at their Nov. 18 regular meeting (Vice Mayor Boldt participated remotely):
Approved on Consent Agenda: City Attorney: Approval of Settlement Agreement for Unsafe Building at 287 Outer Dr.
City Manager: Authorize the Mayor to Execute the Real Estate Donation Agreement Between the City of Venice and Warfield Grove, LLC.
Engineering: Authorize the Mayor to Accept a Utility Easement from Waterford Master Owners Association Inc., for a Water Main Associated with the Hawthorn Hollows Utility Turnover
Approved 6-0 (Boldt did not vote due to tech issues): Authorize the Mayor to Execute Cooperation Agreement Between the United States of America and the City of Venice and the Certification of Lands to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, for the Venice Segment of the Sarasota County Shore Protection Project.
Approved 4-3 on First Reading (Pachota, Frank and Smith dissenting): Ordinance 2025-36 Amending the Official Zoning Atlas of the City of Venice, Pursuant to Zoning Map Amendment Petition No. 25-46RZ, to Change the Zoning Designation of the Property Generally Located at 2001 Laurel Road from Commercial General (CG) to Laurel West (LW); Providing for Repeal of All Ordinances in Conflict Herewith; and Providing for Severability (Quasi-Judicial).
Watch the complete Nov. 18 Council 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. Council meeting minutes and video recordings are typically available within 48 hours of each meeting date.
Approved 5-2 on First Reading (Smith and Weed dissenting): Ordinance 2025-40 of the City of Venice, Submitting to the Electors of Venice a Proposed Amendment to the City Charter to Provide for the Annual Selection of the Vice Mayor; Providing Instructions to the City Clerk; Establishing a Ballot Title and Question; Providing for Conflicts and Severability.
Approved 7-0: Ordinance 2025-43 of the City of Venice, Providing an Annual Update of the Five-Year Capital Improvement Schedule for Fiscal Years 2026-2030 Including a Long-Range Schedule of Capital Improvements for Years 2031-2035 Contained in the Appendix of the City of Venice 2017-2027 Comprehensive Plan; Providing for Repeal of All Ordinances in Conflict Herewith; and Providing for Severability.
Approved 7-0 on Final Reading: Ordinance 2025-14 of the City of Venice, Amending the 2017-2027 Comprehensive Plan Pursuant to Petition No. 24-35CP to Comply with the Seven Year Evaluation and Appraisal Process Resulting in the Update of Data, Maps, and Text as Required by Florida Statutes; Providing for Repeal of all Ordinances in Conflict Herewith to the Extent of Such Conflict; and Providing for Severability.
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 on First Reading: Ordinance 2025-42 of the City of Venice, Amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 50, Personnel, Article III, Pensions and Retirement, Division 3, Municipal Police Officers' Pension Trust Fund, by Amending Section 50-161, Share Plan; Use Of Chapter 185 Premium Tax Revenues, to Allow Use of Chapter 185 Premium Tax Revenues; Providing for Repeal of All Ordinances in Conflict Herewith; and Providing For Severability.
UPDATES & ACTIONS
Nov. 18 Council Meeting Recap continued
Ordinance 2025-44 Amending City of Venice Ordinance No. 2025-32, Which Adopted the Official Budget of the City of Venice for the Fiscal Year Beginning Oct. 1, 2025 and Ending Sept. 30, 2026; by Increasing the Total Revenue by $935,168 and Total Expenditures by $935,168.
Approved 6-0 (Boldt absent): Resolution 2025-28 of the City of Venice, Approving Amendment No. 2 to the Public Transportation Grant Agreement for Project Number 456529-1-94-01 by and Between the State of Florida Department of Transportation and the City of Venice for the Venice Municipal Airport Runway 5-23 Precision Approach Path Indicators (PAPIs) Replacement; and Authorizing Appropriate City Officials to Execute it.
Resolution 2025-29 of the City of Venice, Creating a Technical Advisory Panel and a Citizens Advisory Panel for the Venice Municipal Airport’s Master Plan Update.
Resolution 2025-30 of the City of Venice, Accepting Utilities and Improvements Installed by P3 LAF Hawthorn Hollows LP, and Accepting a One Year Developers Maintenance Bond and Bill of Sale (Hawthorn Hollows, FKA Curry Lane Townhomes).
Northeast Park progress
Northeast Venice Park construction continues at 3560 Laurel Road, near the intersection of Laurel Road and Knights Trail. 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 w
Approved 7-0: Resolution 2025-31 of the City of Venice, Approving a Revised Prospectus for the Venice Municipal Mobile Home Park; Approving Revised Rules and Regulations for the Venice Municipal Mobile Home Park; Authorizing Appropriate City Staff to File the Revised Prospectus for the Venice Municipal Mobile Home Park with the State of Florida; Superseding Resolution No. 2025-21 and all Resolutions in Conflict Herewith; and Providing for Severability.
In Other Business, Council Approved: The 2026 Council Liaison Appointments as presented.
The 2026 Meeting Schedule, with two changes – canceling the Jan. 27, 2026, City Council meeting, and moving the April 2, 2026, Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Workshop to April 8, 2026.
Renaming the Centennial Park Gazebo to the Robert and Susan Vedder Gazebo, with appropriate signage.
Formalizing the Halloween Parade as an annual City-sponsored event.
Intracoastal Second Force Main Project - December 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 will install the remaining 16-inch sewer force main under the East Venice Avenue bridge on the west side of the Intracoastal Waterway within American Legion Way, and properly abandon existing utilities that will no longer be needed. Roads will be temporally patched, with final milling and overlay of all asphalt for roadways will occur at the end of the project (likely in March 2026). 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.
Up next:
Together Through Time, Venice at 100 - Dinner, Music and Dancing
Jan, 21, 2026 | Venice Community Center | $100 per person
Be a part of history and dine with past City Mayors, Council Members and Venice Area Chamber of Commerce presidents and staff, enjoy food and drink of the times, music through the decades, historic art, commemorative favors, and more! Smart/dressy casual.
Get Involved
Sign up to volunteer for 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.
Tickets/Sponsorships
Be a part of history and attend and/or sponsor the Together Through Time, Venice at 100 dinner with past City Mayors and Chamber presidents on Jan. 21. Tickets are available now! Questions? Email Cara Coté: ccote@venicechamber.com
Click here for tickets and sponsorship opportunities
FROM HISTORICAL RESOURCES
Holiday Open House returns to Venice Museum
We're bringing back the Holiday Open House at the Venice Museum! Two years of hurricane shenanigans couldn't stop us or Venice Area Beautification Inc. from bringing back this special night. Join us on Saturday, Dec. 13 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 351 Nassau St. S. and across the street at West Blalock Park. Escape the hustle and bustle of the holidays with this low-key event put on by neighbors, for neighbors.
Visit the museum at night and enjoy the many exhibits. See the Monty Andrews Arboretum all lit up in its glory, with a special lighting by the Mayor. Marvel at Old Betsy and her home, as the 1926 firetruck will still be decorated from the Holiday Parade. St. Mark's Episcopal Church will have their choir performing in the park gazebo, and there will be crafts for the kids to do.
Our friends at Venice Heritage Inc. will be serving cookies and drinks. Additionally, get some holiday shopping done in the museum gift shop, with local authors available for book signings.
This year the museum will also be collecting items for The Twig, in support of the community’s children in foster care. Items needed include new and unwrapped hoodies, sneakers, and board games.
For more information, email the Venice Museum at venicemuseum@venicefl.gov or call 941-486-2487.
HISTORY LESSON
THROUGH OUR LENS
City of Venice Holiday Parade: All Aboard the Centennial
The 49th Annual Venice Holiday Parade, themed “All Aboard the Centennial,” kicked off the City’s 100-year anniversary celebration on Nov. 29. It was Venice’s second biggest parade with over 3,350 participating and nearly 100 units, including Grand Marshal Venice-Nokomis Woman’s Club. Thank you to longtime parade organizers Bob and Sue Hebert, Kathy Lehner and the Venice Chamber, Kara Morgan and Venice MainStreet, Nick Sperry and Daisy Does It Events and Festivals, and all the volunteers whose hard work and dedication made the night amazing More photos, page 18
THROUGH OUR LENS
Holiday Parade: All Aboard the C t i l
SEASONAL REMINDERS
Citywide recreational burn ban remains in effect, dry conditions persist
The citywide recreational burn ban issued on Oct. 11 by Venice Fire Rescue Chief Frank Giddens remains in place due to continued dry weather conditions that pose increased risk for potential wildfires.
The citywide burn ban prohibits all outdoor burning that has not been specifically permitted by the Florida Foresburning such as bonfires, fire pits, cooking pits, campfires, and the burning of yard debris.
Outdoor cooking fires in approved grills such as gas or charcoal BBQ grills are permitted; however, extreme caution is urged with these devices as well. Remember to not leave a grill unattended and make sure coals are completely cooled before disposing.
The burn ban will automatically lift after the KeetchByram Drought Index (KBDI) falls below 500 for seven consecutive days.
We ask all residents to stay vigilant during these dry condition. Should a wildfire erupt, nearby residents are urged to follow directions from authorities. This may include evacuations of localized areas.
Above: As temperatures cool, remember to give your space heaters room. Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from all heating equipment to prevent fires and keep your home safe. Below: Candles provide warmth but can be a fire risk. Opt for flameless, battery-powered candles for safety. If using real ones, place them on a sturdy, non-flammable surface and never leave them unattended.
SEASONAL REMINDERS
SEASONAL REMINDERS
SEASONAL REMINDERS
SEASONAL REMINDERS
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Venice Christmas Boat Parade is Dec. 6
th
The 37 Annual Venice Christmas Boat Parade sets sail Saturday, Dec. 6 in the Intracoastal Waterway. Boats get underway at 6 p.m.
The parade starts just north of the Albee Road Bridge, then continues south down the Intracoastal, around Snake Island, in front of the Venice Yacht Club docks, and proceeds south passing under the North/KMI Bridge, continuing under the W. Venice Ave. Bridge, and ending just before Circus Bridge at MarineMax.
Viewing is available from behind Venice High School ($10 parking is available at VHS; see attached flyer), Marina Park, Legacy Park, along the Venetian Waterway Park trail, and along the Legacy Trail. Parade turn-around is beforethe Circus Bridge (see parade route map at right).
The Boat Parade travels between 3 to 5 knots. It can take between 45 to 60 minutes for boats to get from the starting point to the North/KMI Bridge, another 10 to 15 minutes to get from the North/KMI Bridge to the W. Venice Ave. Bridge, and another 15 to 30 minutes to get to the parade’s endpoint.
Boats do not make a second trip along the parade route.
Once the parade ends at its terminus, boats will travel back to their launch or slip locations. This is not considered part of the parade; when the vessels travel back northbound; their lights will be turned off.
As a reminder, unlike the Holiday Parade downtown, early chair setup is prohibited prior to the day of the Boat Parade. Chairs, blankets, and other items may be placed in viewing areas beginning at noon Saturday, Dec. 6. Please adhere to posted signage and restrictions. Sarasota County and the City of Venice are not responsible for items left unattended before, during or after the Boat Parade. No chairs, blankets, and other items can be placed in the area of the Marina Park Boat Ramp until 5 p.m. the night of the parade, ANY ITEMS PLACED IN THIS AREA PRIOR TO 5 P.M. DEC. 6 WILL BE DISPOSED OF.
The Circus Bridge remains locked down for vehicle traffic only traveling on and off Venice island. The North/KMI Bridge and the W. Venice Avenue Bridge will be locked in the up/open position as the parade approaches and for any returning vessels going back north. Bridges will remain open to allow returning boat traffic to pass through. Leave early, plan ahead, and anticipate additional traffic and detours. Your patience is appreciated.
The annual Christmas Boat Parade is a private event hosted by volunteer residents who donate their time, vessels, and fuel to put on this free community event. For more information, please visit venicechristmasboatparade.net or contact event organizer Joe Zgrzepski at joezgrzepski@gmail.com or 941-718-8644.
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!
Downtown Christmas Walk - Thurs , Dec. 4
Christmas Boat Parade - Sat , Dec 6
Ukrainian Christmas Festival - Sat., Dec. 6
AACA Swap Meet - Sat., Dec. 6
Venice Museum Holiday Open House - Sat., Dec. 13
Glow Ride - Sat., Dec. 13
Chanukah Festival - Sun., Dec. 21
Sharky’s New Year’s Eve Beach Bash - Wed., Dec. 31
Venice-Nokomis Rotary Fine Arts Festival - Fri.-Sun., Jan. 16-18
Together Through Time City/Chamber Dinner - Wed., Jan. 21
Respect for First Responders 5K - Sat., Jan. 31
AROUND TOWN
Lord-Higel’s Coffee House, now open!
Congratulations to Black Gold Coffee Roasters, the City’s concessionaire at the new Lord Higel’s Coffee House at 409 Granada Ave , on a successful soft opening Nov. 22! For now, it will be open 4-9 p m Thursdays, 4-10 p m Fridays, and 7 a m -10 p m Saturdays as staff fine-tunes operations. Get updates on the Coffee House Facebook page here
At left, the City's contractor completed installing the crosswalk near the Granada Avenue and Ave Des Parques intersection on Nov. 12. Always use designated crosswalks, make eye contact with drivers before stepping out, and stay alert when crossing busy roads. Your attention keeps everyone safe!
Veterans Day Ceremony: American Legion Post 159 of Venice hosted the annual Veterans Day Ceremony in Patriots Park Nov. 11 – one of the coldest days of the year! The event included a presentation of colors by a combined color guard of Legion Post 159 and VFW Post 8118 (above left), patriotic music by the Sun Coast Wind Ensemble, a proclamation by City Council Member Rachel Frank (above middle; photo by Earle Kimel/Sarasota Herald-Tribune), taps performed by Nick Sperry (below middle), and a rifle salute by the Post 159 Honor Guard (below right).
At left, Mayor Nick Pachota with Vets for Vets Festival organizers Paul and Stacy Kaldy and SRQ Vets President Rob Kehs on Nov. 8 in Centennial Park. The event was dedicated to honoring, celebrating, and supporting veterans, and included a fu
AROUND TOWN
World GIS Day: The public had an opportunity to meet members of the City of Venice GIS (Geographic Information System) team and learn about their cool contributions to the community during a GIS Day event Nov. 19 in the City Hall lobby.
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.
Citizens could stop by each of the tables and learn about how each of the team utilizes GIS for the City, finding out about the life of John Nolen, flood zones and evacuation levels, beach outfalls, utilities dashboards, imagery created from drone photos, and more. Raffles were also held. City staff included GIS Administrator Don Hubbard, Planning/GIS Analyst Kelsey Shope, Stormwater Engineering Manager Steven Berens, CRS (Community Rating System) Coordinator Christina Rimes, and Utilities GIS Analyst William Smith.
Don, Christina and Will also participated in the City of North Port’s GIS event on Nov. 17 at the Shannon Staub Library (at bottom right.)
AROUND TOWN
Below: On Nov. 13, the Venice Police Department Community Outreach Team had the opportunity to serve Thanksgiving lunch to children at Venice Elementary School Thanks to Sarah Woods and her staff for making it a memorable experience!
Above: On Nov 3, Gulf Coast Community Foundation and Centerstone launched BRACE (Behavioral Response and Community Engagement) to improve behavioral health response and reduce arrests, ER visits, and repeated 911 calls. A Gulf Coast grant funds the program with VPD Community Outreach. Read more about BRACE on the GGCF website: gulfcoastcf org/news
In partnership with Walmart, Officer Courtney Chaco and Kasey Ledford with the VPD Community Outreach Team provided basic essentials for a family in need at Our Mother’s House, a transitional living program for single mothers, on Nov 20
On Nov 20, 29 members of Team KVB (Keep Venice Beautiful) helped decorate the Monty Andrews Arboretum in West Blalock Park for the holidays.
Clockwise from top left: Russ Bullis, Kevin Leytze and Rose Altreuter decorate the KVB tree with decorations donated by Kevin Leytze to the Arboretum Decorating Committee; George Wolman, Allyn Gooen and Larry Luber check out the sparkly snowman for Anna and Elsa's castle; Kathy and Greg Short decorate the pergola; Becky, Rose and Russ hang decorations; Nancy Hurley tests out the new children's reindeer photo op.
The holiday lights in the park are on nightly, and the Arboretum will remain aglow each evening through Jan 1
Photos: Team KVB
AROUND TOWN
Above, Venice Area Beautification Inc. held a ribbon cutting Nov 18 for the new Circus Mural just south of Gold Rush on Business 41. The 240-foot mural by artist Sami Makela and his assistant Bulk Styles serves as a joyful reminder of the performers, families, and community members who helped shape Venice's unforgettable place in circus history The event was also attended by former aerial performer Tito Gaona and his family, and City officials. Photo by VABI
At right, Margaret “Peg” Kapustiak announces the release of her latest book, "Venice." Peg is a researcher, speaker, local author, and volunteer at the Venice Museum since 2011. Her new book is a snapshot of Venice and its people through the years, as depicted in more than 230 historic images Two Meet the Author events will be held at the Museum, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 6 and 5-7 p.m. Dec. 13.
Venice Fire Rescue responded to a recent vehicle fire between mile markers 198 and 200 on northbound I-75. Crews had the fully engulfed engine compartment extinguished within three minutes of water on, and no injuries were reported. The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office and FHP assisted with scene safety and traffic
On Nov. 12, the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office brought together law enforcement, emergency services, and marine partners for the first-ever Boats & Badges event with The Haven, and the Venice Police Department was honored to be part of it! Dedicated to supporting children, teens, and adults with disabilities and their families, The Haven brought more than 175 participants to explore marine units, try on gear, and and enjoy hands-on demonstrations with first responders See more photos here.
Below: On Nov. 13, VPD received a special visit from Acts Of Kindness, which generously donated stuffed animals to the department Officers will have these toys on hand to distribute to children in times of need Thank you, AOK, for your thoughtfulness and generosity.
Below: VPD on detail during the Venice Veterans Day Ceremony Nov 11 at Patriots Park: Sgt Alek Gregoire, Officer L J Hickman, Master Police Officer Colin Stalker, and Off
AROUND TOWN
The City’s Special Centennial Edition 2026 Calendar is out now, featuring vintage photographs of the Venice area for the City’s 100-year celebration, and useful information for both residents and visitors. Get your free copy at the City Hall information desk.
The Lift Station/Maintenance team at the City's Water Reclamation Facility off Laurel Road has been working hard to replace a faulty bar screen at the WRF headworks. A mechanical bar screen is the first step once raw wastewater enters the facility. It removes most rags and floating debris before they can damage downstream equipment The screen helps to protect pumps and other machinery and prevent blockages downstream. Thank you to Wayne Ball, Ron Peyton, Jerry Benoit, Tim Merritt, Danny Self, Brian Bettenhausen, Sheldon Sees and Scott Hart with Utilities for all your hard work!
Below, members of Venice Fire Rescue at the scene of a rollover wreck involving a tractor-trailer carrying fill material Nov 21 at Knights Trail and Laurel Road.
On Nov. 7, Venice High School students participated in the Big Brothers Big Sisters Beyond School Walls program where they were paired with members of the Venice Police Department who will mentor them through various law enforcement opportunities during the year Above, Criminalistics Specialist Tawnie Murdock talks to the students about collecting and processing evidence.
We all scream for ice cream! Above, Officer Courtney Chaco, Sgt. Sean Hammett, Community Outreach Case Manager Kasey Ledford, Community Resource Officer Kim Brown and Police Chief Andy Leisenring served up ice cream Nov. 18 at Venice Avenue Creamery for Cops & Cones, a fundraiser for VPD’s Community Outreach programs
AROUND TOWN
It looks a lot like the holidays at the Old Betsy Museum! The lights on the City’s historic 1926 American LaFrance fire engine are on from 5:30 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. daily. The OBM is located at 343 Nassau St., across from the Venice Museum in the Cultural Center Campus.
The Venice Police Department hit the field Nov. 15 with Venice Fire Rescue for Challenger Baseball, teaming up with incredible players of all abilities for a morning full of smiles, high-fives, and big hits! Pictured at right are Sgt. Seam Hammett, Officer Isaac Murray, and Police Chief Andy Leisenring.
Venice Elementary student Harper Shroyer, who won the City of Venice's annual Florida City Week poster contest at her school for the fifth grade, visited her newly installed artwork Nov. 13 at City Hall with her greatgrandmother, Rose. Harper’s artwork of the Venice Fishing Pier is third from left in the top row.
Mayor’sHometownChristmas
The Mayor's Hometown Christmas was Nov 28 in Centennial Park, with Mayor Nick Pachota, Venice Chorale and Venice Musicale Encore Chorus, presented by Venice MainStreet and Gulf Coast Community Foundation The annual tree lighting and some magical "snow" made the evening complete See more photos here.
BULLETIN BOARD
Next bike ride is Thursday, Dec. 11!
