Hundreds attend 2025 Public Safety Day
Over 800 attended the City’s 4 Venice Fire and Police Public Safety Day on April 26 at the Venice Community Center.
The free event included firetrucks, police vehicles and equipment that families could check out; a Bayflite helicopter landing (above); firefighter rappelling and and police K-9 demonstrations; photo ID cards for kids; a dunk tank featuring Mayor Nick Pachota; a cake walk; free food and snacks, including from Kona Ice and Wawa; face painting, balloon twisting, and other giveaways.
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Mayor Nick Pachota Vice Mayor Jim Boldt
Rachel Frank
Rick Howard
Kevin Engelke
Ron Smith
Application process open for Venice City Council Seat 1
Venice City Council is searching for applicants interested in being appointed to Council Member Seat 1, following the resignation of Joan Farrell on April 11. The term of the appointment will run from Tuesday, May 13, 2025, to November 2026, when the certified winner of the general election held on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, will be sworn into office.
Interested applicants who are qualified electors of the City of Venice may apply online until 4 p.m. Friday, May 2, 2025, at the link provided here. Click on “Council Member Seat 1,” then click on the blue “Apply” button at top right to fill out an application.
The City Council intends to make their appointment decision at the regular Council meeting at 9 a.m. Tuesday, May 13. The applicant chosen will be sworn into office and immediately seated at the Council dais following the appointment.
For questions regarding the Council Member appointment process or the online application, please contact City Clerk’s Office staff at 941-486-2626.
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Important Phone Num
City Hall: 941-486-2626
Code Enforcement: 941-882-7545
Non-emergency: 941-486-2444
Emergency: 911
Public Works: People, Purpose, Presence
The City of Venice employs 144 Public Works and Utilities employees. Public Works staff includes Solid Waste and Recycling, Parks, Maintenance, Fleet and Facilities, and Stormwater. Utilities includes employees at both the water production and water reclamation plants. During National Public Works Week, May 18-24 this year, we pay tribute to these men and women who work so tirelessly behind the scenes. This year’s week is themed “People, Purpose, Presence.”
Public Works Parks Division – is responsible for the care of more than 40 parks varying in size, they also care for the public rights-of-way, median landscaping, irrigation, maintenance of more than 7,500 trees, and trash services for the City’s public trash receptacles. Parks staff also maintain the Interactive Children's Fountain in Centennial Park — ensuring compliance with swimming pool standards — along with all the other fountains throughout the City. In addition, they support the efforts of various volunteer organizations, including Venice Area Beautification Inc.’s Bloom Team and Team KVB (Keep Venice Beautiful).
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Public Works Maintenance Division – includes facilities maintenance, a carpenter shop, a sign technician, roadside maintenance crew, electricians and a stormwater crew This section oversees the maintenance and cleaning of all City facilities and over 650 decorative streetlights. The carpenter shop builds all the City benches, trashcans and picnic tables within the parks system by hand, in addition to taking care of minor construction needs throughout the City The sign technician maintains all City street signs, as well as sets up maintenance of traffic and road barricades for certain special events. The roadside maintenance crew is responsible for all sidewalk and road repairs and many other miscellaneous repairs to keep the City safe and operational. The stormwater crew has a full-time street sweeper to keep our roadways clean, and they maintain all City-owned stormwater drainage systems including ponds, pipes and outfalls
“In recognition of Public Works Week, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the team members in all divisions of Public Works for their service and dedication,” said Ricky Simpson, Director of Public Works and Asset Management. “The work they do day in and day out keeps our community running smoothly, and it's appreciated Whether out in the field, behind the scenes, or helping things move along in the office, their dedication and hard work doesn’t go unnoticed. Their commitment to excellence is vital to the success and well-being of our community. Thank you for your continued efforts and for being such a valuable part of our organization ”
Solid Waste and Recycling Division – operates six days a week, providing a wide range of essential services to the community These include automated collection, single-stream recycling, yard waste, bulk yard waste, bulk waste, construction and demolition debris, and bulk cardboard. The City’s fleet includes various specialized vehicles such as automated side-loaders, claw/grapple trucks, and front-load dumpster trucks. While many of these operations are modernized, some tasks – like yard waste pickup – still require manual labor due to the lack of a more efficient alternative In addition to standard waste collection, the division supports various City events, provides logistical support for parades and large gatherings, assists in the removal of abandoned vessels, and helps clean up homeless encampments – all in an effort to keep our City’s land and waterways safe and clean. Staff also play a key role in storm response and recovery operations One of the division’s goals moving forward is to become more visible and active in the community, sharing staff’s expertise and passion, and highlighting the vital role Solid Waste services play in maintaining the quality of life in Venice.
SOLID WASTE BY THE NUMBERS
27 employees
36 trucks, both large and small
22 drivers
1 welder
Collected in February 2025 alone:
Garbage – 4,535,200 pounds disposed of (2267.6 tons)
Yard waste – 416,300 pounds dumped for recycling (208 15 tons)
Recycling – 555,600 pounds delivered for processing (275.36 tons)
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“We are proud to have a dedicated team of 27 employees, including myself,” said Solid Waste, Recycle & Fleet Superintendent Travis Hout. “The work this team performs each day, in both residential and commercial areas, often under challenging conditions, is truly commendable Navigating tight spaces, enduring extreme weather, and handling heavy manual work, our drivers and support staff continue to go above and beyond to keep Venice beautiful. Their skill and commitment are unmatched, and I am incredibly grateful for every member of our team. The division was led for many years by Bob Moroni, a leader I had the privilege of working alongside. I’m honored to carry forward his legacy and guide our department through the next phase of growth and innovation, as we continue enhancing our service through new technology and expanding community engagement ”
Fleet Management Division – is responsible for overseeing and optimizing the City’s fleet of vehicles to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure full regulatory compliance. Work encompasses vehicle acquisition, maintenance coordination, driver behavior monitoring, fuel management, and overall fleet operations. With a current staff of two, the Fleet Division manages approximately 400 assets across multiple City departments, including Police, Fire, Utilities, Solid Waste, Airport, Public Works and Building
“We assist in identifying the appropriate vehicles for City use, manage the procurement process, and oversee the disposal of retired units. To ensure reliability and longevity of our assets, we coordinate all scheduled maintenance, repairs, and prompt issue resolution through contracted vendors,” Travis said “Driver safety and efficiency are key priorities We provide training programs and monitor driver behavior to promote safe driving practices and adherence to City policies and regulations
“Our responsibilities extend beyond just vehicles. We also maintain City fueling stations and fuel tanks, track and manage fuel consumption, and are responsible for the maintenance of most City facility generators. Compliance is at the core of our operations. We help ensure the city meets all applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations related to fleet services. Our overarching goal is to continuously control and reduce overall fleet-related costs – such as fuel, maintenance, and repairs – while ensuring operational readiness and public safety ”
Utilities Department – the City employs 73 workers in the Utilities Department. Services provided by Utilities, which include both drinking water and wastewater, are essential to the health, economy, comfort and environment of the City Utilities produces about 2 6 million gallons of drinking water daily by treating groundwater with a reverse-osmosis process The potable water is distributed to City customers via over 213 miles of water mains and wastewater is collected via approximately 108 miles of gravity sewers. The sewers transmit the wastewater to the Water Reclamation Facility via 93 pump stations and about 40 miles of pressurized force mains. The Water Reclamation Facility utilizes advanced treatment technologies to transform wastewater into clean, recycled water
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for irrigation purposes – about 3.7 million gallons a day – including flows from Sarasota County. The utility sector is vulnerable to many types of threats, such as natural disasters or manmade incidents that may disrupt normal operations Disruptions to these services can impact communities in many ways, such as limiting the availability of water for firefighting and essential healthcare functions, as well as providing potable water for drinking and sanitation purposes.
The Utilities Department has several exciting projects currently in various stages of design and construction Residents may see ongoing construction on the New Water Booster Pump Station, Intracoastal Second Force Main, Water Main Replacement Program Phase 8, and Water Production Well 8E projects which will improve the reliability and level of service for all City customers
“As your Director of Utilities, I want to emphasize the critical role that clean drinking water and effective wastewater treatment play in the overall health, growth, and prosperity of our beautiful city,” said Javier Vargas. “Access to safe, reliable drinking water is the foundation of a healthy community. It supports public health, education, and quality of life. Every home, business, school, and health-care facility depends on it daily
“Just as important, proper treatment of wastewater ensures that we protect our natural resources, preserve the environment, and maintain the integrity of our infrastructure for future generations. A strong utility infrastructure gives our city a competitive edge, making it a place where businesses want to invest, travelers want to visit, and families want to live. We are committed to maintaining and improving these essential systems with integrity, innovation, and responsibility. Together, we can continue to ensure that our city remains vibrant, sustainable, and resilient for years to come ”
Engineering Department/Stormwater Division – comprised of 7 professional, inspection and construction staff who monitor and manage capital projects and maintain and improve stormwater infrastructure In addition to improving water quality, resiliency has gained importance in the overall program.
The Tarpon Center Nature-Based Flood Mitigation Pilot Project is under construction and will be completed this summer Beach renourishment is also an important part of resiliency by providing protection from storms and sea level rise.
“We are excited to begin construction on the Northeast Park and Hecksher Park pickleball courts, as well as repairs to the Venice Fishing Pier,” said Interim City Engineer Jon Kramer. “We are lucky to have such dedicated staff. They are always ready to get the job done correctly.”
Public Works Week
At left, City staff from Public Works, Solid Waste, Utilities, Engineering and Stormwater pose for an annual group photo in Legacy Park in April, taken via drone by GIS Administrator Don Hubbard. Below left, Enrique Alicea, Derrick Jones, George Elie, Marco Ramirez, Paul Olsen, Anthony Perez and Joe Misak with Solid Waste; below right, Lad Trcak, Joe Wagaman, Tony Rosen, Will Tyerman and Deegan Harwood with Public Works install a plaque recently at Union Missionary Baptist Church recognizing the last generation of residents who lived in the Blackburn Quarters.
Download the City of Venice 2025 Hurricane Guide
Your local information for how to prepare for, respond to and recover from a storm, setting realistic expectations for living in a low-lying coastal community. Includes emergency contacts, City department information, and a preparedness checklist!
Hurricane Season is June 1 - Nov. 30. Now is the time to prepare!
Alert Sarasota County can send alerts to users via landline phone, cell phone, text message, email, TDD/TTY, or a combination of these methods.
Council Chambers renovations complete
Venice City Council Chambers officially reopened April 2 with a ribbon-cutting following a fivemonth renovation project. The improvements include audio-video technology upgrades, security enhancements, hearing loop, and new audience seating, carpeting, and Council dais.
Public Works Assistant Director Ashlee Castle, project manager (pictured at far right), presented letters from the old dais to Council members, charter officers, and construction partners; and the new clock tower logo signage behind the dais was revealed.
Many thanks to Coastal Construction, Sweet Sparkman Architecture, and H&H Signs. City board meetings, which were temporarily relocated to Community Hall at City Hall, have resumed in the new Council Chambers space.
Circus Mural progress
The repainting of the Circus Mural on the repaired wall north of the Circus Bridge continues with artist Sami Makela from Lake Worth, Fla., originally from Finland (left), with assistance from artist Bulk Styles of Jupiter, Fla. (below left, speaking with City Manager Ed Lavallee about his craft April 23.) The project is sponsored by Venice Area Beautification Inc.
The mural celebrates the cultural heritage of the circus, which has been an integral part of Venice’s history.
The community's support is instrumental to this artwork's completion. To make a donation of any size, visit vabi.org. You may also contact the VABI office at 941-207-8224. Thank you in advance!
Municipal City Clerks Week is May 4-10
Professional Municipal Clerks Week, in its 56th year, is a celebration and reflection on the importance of the City Clerk’s Office. This year, it runs from May 4-10.
What do clerks do? A little bit of everything, says Venice City Clerk Kelly Michaels. The clerk is the administrative and recordkeeping pivot between the elected officials, the public and all City departments. Day-to-day operational responsibilities vary but include office and meeting management, public relations, recordkeeping, and reporting functions. These duties interface with public policies and hot topics under consideration by elected officials – Mayor and City Council Members – which often see opposing and passionate points of view The Clerk and her staff are there to capture the record as matters make their way through the legislative process, all while remaining neutral and professional This is necessary to effectively assist all members of the public as they engage in what can often be a confusing legislative process
“It is important for the Clerk to have her finger on the pulse of what is happening so she knows what processes, technology, decorum and logistics will be necessary to hold successful and open public hearings, meetings, and workshops,” Kelly said.
Deputy City Clerk/Records Manager Toni Cone, Records Clerk Tracey Smith, Deputy City Clerk/Records Manager Mercedes Barcia, City Clerk Kelly Michaels, and Recording Secretary Amanda Hawkins-Brown with a word cloud of clerk duties in Kelly’s office at City Hall.
Logistical work includes setting up schedules, assessing technology needs, testing audio and other meeting software systems, putting out notices, and planning for public attendance and engagement, which is all part of the magic that happens in advance Post decision-making work involves implementing the Council’s legislation by taking steps to officially codify the decision as well as creating, disseminating and retaining the official record so that in the present and future, all individuals can know what decisions were made and the documentation behind those decisions
Other duties involve elections, creating the annual budgets for the Clerk and Council’s operational needs, county, state, and federal report filings, procedural and technology needs for the Clerk and Council, acting as the City’s official filing officer accepting candidate reports, applications, petitions, orders, and other legal filings, responding to public requests for records, assisting all departments in the retention and disposition of public records, public notary, attesting to all official actions, and performing certifications and sworn oaths of office.
“I enjoy variety, so being the City Clerk is the perfect job for me as there are never two days that are alike,” Kelly said. “As one of three Charter Officers hired by the elected officials serving the City of Venice, I work closely with the City Manager and the City Attorney to assist the elected officials as they carry out their legislative duties while heading up my respective administrative role on the operational leadership team.”
UPDATES & ACTIONS
April 8 City Council Meeting Recap
Venice City Council took the following actions at their April 8 meeting (Council Member Rick Howard absent):
Approved on Consent Agenda:
Engineering: Adding the Flamingo Ditch Area Flood Mitigation Project to the Local Mitigation Strategy (LMS) Project List and submitting an Economic Recovery & Resiliency Project Summary Worksheet.
Authorize the Mayor to Execute Subrecipient Agreement Between Sarasota County and the City of Venice to Provide Community Development Block Grant Funds for the Cockrill Street Sidewalk (Phase 2) Project in the Amount of $700,000.
Approved 4-2 on First Reading (Farrell and Smith dissenting): Ordinance 2025-14 of the City of Venice, Amending the 2017-2027 Comprehensive Plan Pursuant to Petition No. 24-35CP to Comply with the
Watch the complete April 8 meeting here and the April 9 appeal hearing here. City Council meets in Chambers at Venice City Hall, 401 W. Venice Ave , the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month Council meeting minutes and recordings are typically available within 48 hours of each meeting date
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.
Approved 6-0 on Final Reading: Ordinance 2025-12 of the City of Venice, Providing for Placement of the Structure Known as the Venice Beach Pavilion Located at 101 The Esplanade South 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.
Approved 6-0: Resolution 2025-06 of the City of Venice, Approving an Amendment to the Public Transportation Grant Agreement for Project Number 438750-1-94-02 by and Between the State of Florida Department of Transportation and the City of Venice, Florida, for the Design and Construction of a General Aviation Terminal Building; and Authorizing Appropriate City Officials to Execute it.
Resolution 2025-07 of the City of Venice, Accepting Utilities and Improvements Installed by Isola Casa Development Company LLC, and Accepting a One Year Developers Maintenance Bond and Bill of Sale.
Approved 5-1 (Smith dissenting): Resolution 2025-08 of the City of Venice, Authorizing the Venice City Council to Participate in a Joint Meeting with Sarasota County to Receive, Discuss and Act Upon Matters of Mutual Interest.
In Other Business, Council Approved 4-2 (Farrell and Smith dissenting): The Venice Strategic Plan for Fiscal Year Ending Sept. 30, 2026.
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UPDATES & ACTIONS
April 9 City Council Appeal Hearing Recap
City Council took the following action at their April 9 appeal hearing for Village at Laurel and Jacaranda Site and Development Plan Petition No. 22-40SP (Council Members Rick Howard and Rachel Frank absent):
Approved 3-2 (Farrell and Smith dissenting): On Appeal, the Planning Commission's Approval of Site and Development Plan Petition No. 22-40SP for the Development of a Shopping Center in the Milano PUD Located at the Southwest Corner of Laurel Road and Jacaranda Boulevard (Quasi-Judicial).
April 22 City Council Meeting Recap
City Council took the following actions at their April 22 meeting (Seat 1 vacant):
Approved 6-0 on First Reading: Ordinance 2025-15 Amending the Official Zoning Atlas of the City of Venice, Pursuant to Zoning Map Amendment Petition No. 24-36RZ, to Change the Zoning Designation for the Properties Generally Located at 3520 Laurel Road E. (15.58 ± Acres), from Sarasota County Open Use Estate-1 (OUE-1) to City of Venice Laurel East (LE); Providing for Repeal of All Ordinances in Conflict Herewith; and Providing for Severability (Quasi-Judicial).
Ordinance 2025-18 Amending City of Venice Ordinance No. 2024-25, Which Adopted the Official Budget of the City of Venice for the Fiscal Year Beginning Oct. 1, 2024 and Ending Sept. 30, 2025; by Increasing the Total Revenue by $1,494,951 and Total Expenditures by $1,494,951.
Approved 5-1 on Final Reading (Smith dissenting): Ordinance 2025-09 of the City of Venice, Amending the 2017-2027 Comprehensive Plan and Associated Pages Pursuant to Petition No. 24-52CP Specifically to Update Data for Each Mixed-Use Land Use Designation Within Each Neighborhood Area of the City as a Result of New Development through Nov. 1, 2024; and Providing for Repeal of All Ordinances in Conflict Herewith.
Watch the complete April 22 meeting here. Council meeting minutes and recordings are typically available within 48 hours of each meeting date.
Ordinance 2025-13 of the City of Venice, Amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 46, Parks and Recreation, Article V, Camping and Storage of Personal Property on Public Property, By Amending Section 46-201, Definitions, and Section 46-202, Camping Prohibited; Exceptions; Providing for Repeal of All Ordinances in Conflict Herewith and Providing for Severability.
Approved 6-0: Resolution 2025-10 of the City of Venice, Vacating a Utility Easement Located at 775 S. Tamiami Trail.
Resolution 2025-09 of the City of Venice, Adopting the Special Events Guide to Establish the Criteria, Policies, Codes,
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Standards, Requirements, Fees, Public Space Use, and Eligibility for Special Event Permits and City Sponsorship Related to Proposed New Special Events and Recurring Special and Heritage Events and Creating the New Event Review Team; Authorizing Certain Revisions to the Special Events Guide by the City Manager’s Office; and Superseding In Part Resolution No. 2020-18.
Resolution 2025-11 of the City of Venice, Approving a 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, in the Amount of $176,000 for the Venice Municipal Airport Runway 5-23 Precision Approach Path Indicators (PAPIs) Replacement; and Authorizing Appropriate City Officials to Execute it.
Resolution 2025-12 of the City of Venice, Approving Amendment No. 1 to the Public Transportation Grant Agreement for Project Number 451945-1-94-01 by and Between the State of Florida Department of Transportation and the City of Venice for Venice Municipal Airport Safety, Wildlife, and Security Fencing, to Extend the Expiration Date; and Authorizing Appropriate City Officials to Execute it.
In Other Business, Council Approved 5-1 (Smith dissenting): Make an appointment to vacant Council Seat 1, open the application acceptance in alignment with the normal board recruitment process, closing on May 2, at which time the City Clerk will provide Council with the applications and a nomination can be made from the floor to serve the duration of the Seat's term until 2026 General Election.
Approved 6-0: Direct the appropriate charter officer to evaluate the City's stormwater development standards and allow the Mayor to advocate on behalf of the City with the State Legislature.
Holiday Parade Winners Recognized
The City's 2024 Holiday Parade Award Recipients were lauded during the April 8 City Council meeting: Venice Theatre, Starz Choice Dance Academy, Advanced Asphalt, Bowersox Air Conditioning, and The Circus Arts Conservatory. Here, Special Events Coordinator Brianne Lorenz, Assistant City Manager James Clinch, Mayor Nick Pachota and parade organizer Bob Hebert recognize John Andzulis with Venice Theatre and Cathleen Becker of Starz Choice, in attendance.
New Police Officers Sworn In
Deputy City Clerk Mercedes Barcia swears in new Venice Police Officers Milton Davis, Courtney Chaco and Courtney Brady during the April 8 Council meeting, as Mayor Pachota assists Their family members then pinned on their badges: Officer Davis' mom Francis, Officer Chaco's son Colton, and Officer Brady's uncle Christopher.
Fire Rescue 5-Year Service Awards
Crime Victims’ Rights Week Proclamation
Vice Mayor Jim Boldt recognizes the week of April 6-12, 2025, as Crime Victims' Rights Week with a proclamation presented April 8 to Sarasota County Sheriff's Office Victim Assistance Unit Advocates Amber Haller and Amanda Schubert, as Mayor Pachota assists.
Fire Chief Frank Giddens recognizes Fire Rescue Administrative Coordinator Marion Vandermark and Firefighter/Paramedics Bithja LaFaille, Nicholas Miller and Jeffrey Lunsford with 5-Year Service Awards during the April 8 Council meeting
Sexual Assault Awareness Month Proclamation
Vice Mayor Boldt recognizes April 2025 as Sexual Assault Awareness Month with a proclamation presented Tuesday to SPARCC Sarasota (Safe Place & Rape Crisis Center) Advocate Mirna Marcia and VPD Acting Chief Eric Hill.
City Attorney Recognized
City Attorney Kelly Fernandez shares a laugh with Vice Mayor Jim Boldt, Mayor Nick Pachota and Assistant City Manager James Clinch during the April 8 Council meeting as April 8, 2025, is recognized as Be Kind to Our Municipal Attorney Day in the City of Venice Kelly has been Venice City Attorney since July 2018.
Bicycle Pedestrian Coordinator Lauded
New Firefighter/Paramedic Sworn In
New Venice Firefighter/Paramedic Runny Hernandez is sworn in by City Clerk Kelly Michaels during the April 22 Council meeting as Runny's uncle, Chief Don Bock with the Key Largo Fire Department, and Venice Fire Chief Frank Giddens look on, and Mayor Pachota assists. Runny's uncle then pinned on his badge.
City Bicycle Pedestrian Coordinator Darlene Culpepper is recognized with a plaque April 8 by Louis Kosiba, president of the Friends of the Legacy Trail, for her work in getting Venice designated as a Trail Town by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Greenways & Trails Division.
New Firefighter/EMT Sworn In
New Firefighter/EMT Williams Milian-Perera is sworn in by City Clerk Michaels during the April 22 Council meeting, as Fire Chief Giddens looks on and Mayor Pachota assists Chief Giddens then pinned on Williams' badge.
New EMS Supervisor Sworn In
As his girlfriend Amy and 6-year-old granddaughter Aubry look on, EMS Supervisor Donnie Morrell is sworn in by City Clerk Kelly Michaels during the April 22 Council meeting, with an assist by Mayor Nick Pachota Donnie's girlfriend then pinned on his badge
New Assistant Chief of EMS Sworn In
New Fire Rescue Assistant Chief of EMS Steven Lambright is sworn in by City Clerk Michaels during the April 22 Council meeting, as Mayor Pachota assists Steven's wife Sheena, daughter Liana and son Preston look on Steven's wife then pinned on his badge
Nurses and Hospital Week Proclamation
Mayor Pachota reads a proclamation April 22 recognizing the week of May 11-17, 2025, as Nurses and Hospital Week, presented to Julie Polaszek, Chief Nursing Officer, and Tiffany Arnold, Inpatient Nursing Director, at SMH-Venice. City Manager Ed Lavallee looks on.
Records Information Management Staff Recognized
City Clerk Kelly Michaels and City Records Information Management staff are recognized during the April 22 Council meeting with a proclamation for Records Information Management Month, April 2025, as Mayor Pachota and City Manager Lavallee look on. RIM staff pictured are Ashley Griffin, Sheila Young, Mercedes Barcia, Christina Rimes, Toni Cone and Tracey Smith.
UPDATES & ACTIONS
Municipal Clerks Week Proclamation
Mayor Nick Pachota recognizes the week of May 4-10, 2025, as Municipal Clerks Week with a proclamation presented April 22 to City Clerk Kelly Michaels and her staff, Mercedes Barcia, Toni Cone, Tracey Smith and Amanda Hawkins-Brown, as City Manager Ed Lavallee looks on.
Building Safety Month proclamation
EMS Week Proclamation
Assistant Fire Chief of EMS Steven Lambright and Fire Inspector Cynthia Dehler are recognized during the April 22 Council meeting with a proclamation for Emergency Medical Services Week, May 1824, 2025. Fire Chief Frank Giddens, Assistant Fire Chief Kyle Hartley, City Manager Lavallee and Mayor Pachota look on.
Vice Mayor Jim Boldt recognizes the month of May 2025 as Building Safety Month with a proclamation presented to Building Official Derek Applegate and staff – some of whom do not work in the Building Department, but are involved with building safety – during the April 22 Council meeting Staff pictured are Michael Reeves, Kim Back, Alicia Chapman, Christina Rimes, Tom Sims, Carlos Dennis, Paul Rakes, Cynthia Dehler, Audrey Symowicz and Bill Blair, along with City Manager Lavallee.
City Council adopts Special Events Guide and policy update
City Council unanimously approved Resolution No. 2025-09, formalizing the new Special Events Guide (bottom right) and accompanying policy updates presented by Assistant City Manager James Clinch and Special Events and Marketing Coordinator Brianne Lorenz (top right). The updated guide includes all City policies, procedures, rules, and regulations related to recurring and requests for new Special Events, and shares resources for event holders
The City permits over 45 recurring Special Events annually and the new guide aims to reestablish the balance of public use, park reservations and Special Events Park Reservations will remain free as long as the intended use falls within the City’s Code of Ordinances and regulations, while public spaces fees for permitted Special Events increased by approximately 30%. Policy updates included the prohibition of amplified music in Centennial Park on Mondays, Tuesday and Wednesdays, no new road closures, and the requirement for event holders to provide an offsite parking plan if their event footprint utilizes Centennial Park in its entirety, among other minor updates and clarifications.
All permitted Special Events go before City Council for final approval
Download a copy of the Special Events Guide online at venicegov.com.
Requests for new Special Events
Those interested in submitting a request for a new Special Event or one-time City of Venice Centennial-related Special Event must submit an event proposal for review by the New Events Review Team (NERT) at least 6 months before the desired event date. Events that meet NERT criteria will move on for Council approval and progress through the permit application process
Learn about proposal requirements and the application timeline here: venicegov.com/things-to-do/events/special-event-planning-guide
Intracoastal Waterway Force Main Replacement Project - May Update
Project Overview: The Utilities Intracoastal Waterway Force Main Replacement 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 is scheduled to commence with installation of a 6-inch gravity sewer under N. Seaboard Ave. just north of the E. Venice Ave. intersection; a 16-inch sewer force main via horizontal directional drill and open cut along the north side of E. Venice Ave. from American Legion Way to Warfield Ave.; and televising of existing sewer mains within the intersection of E. Venice Ave. at Warfield Ave.
The maps above and at right show the location of the construction work. Lane closures and other temporary traffic mitigation efforts will be needed that could impact normal traffic patterns within active construction areas. Updates will be posted monthly in this newsletter and 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 we update the City’s infrastructure 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.
HISTORY LESSON
How did
the Venice Museum & Archives get its start?
In 1975 Betty Hauser Arnall started “saving history,” as she called it.
Betty’s family moved to Venice from Minnesota in 1926, when she was 5 Her father, George Hauser, started a lumber business here. Looking back, she said, “When the Depression hit, Dad had to close his lumberyard. No one had money.” The family went back to Minnesota seeking employment but found none and returned to Florida. “In the 1930s you could come down Venice Avenue and there might be two cars on the street or just you. It was that quiet.” Eventually, the lumber business reopened, and she worked in the office at age 14, earning $3 per week Betty was described as petite and energetic. She was the first female to take flying lessons in Venice.
Fast forward to 1975 when Betty started collecting old photographs, maps, post cards, newspapers – anything that would chronicle this area’s history. Volunteers joined her, and together they worked out of a closet in the Venice Library. The collection was immense, and so was Betty’s memory At the time, she was the go-to local historian Betty recalled, “I grew up here, married here, raised my kids here. I saw things changing and felt some things should be saved so future generations would have the facts. I’m not trying to live in the past; I am trying to be a link between two periods of time. I feel that we need to understand the thinking of those who came before us. If we don’t do it with some thought, we have really destroyed what they worked for.”
Betty became Venice’s first Director of Historical Resources in 1987, basically a volunteer position except for a small stipend of less than $200 per month She and her volunteers continued building the collection
Having outgrown the closet, the collection was moved to City Hall in 1991. As other City staff grew and needed additional space, the historical collection would need to move again. With the historic Triangle Inn slated for demolition, City Councilwoman Dorothy Korwek approached the City Manager with the idea of taking possession of the building and moving it and the collection to a location across the street from West Blalock Park. The City agreed and the building was moved to 351 Nassau St. S. in 1991. For several years Dorothy and volunteers raised money until the building was restored and suitable to house the collection It opened in 1996 and is home to the Venice Museum today. Recently Dorothy said, “I knew the collection would disappear unless it got its own space. I was familiar with old buildings and knew the core of the Triangle Inn was solid. Moving and restoring the building was doable.”
HISTORY LESSON
VMA start continued
Betty Arnall received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Society of Florida Archivists. In 1996, at age 76, she retired and passed away the following year Dorothy Korwek became the second Director of Historical Resources in 1997; she too received a small stipend and no employee benefits. Mary Charles volunteered as her assistant. Dorothy retired from the position in 2007 and has stayed on as a volunteer for the past 18 years. Recently, she received the Lillian Burns Individual Achievement Award from the Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation for achieving National Register of Historic Places status for the John Nolen Plan of Venice Historic District, and her book on the topic.
Betty Arnall and Dorothy Korwek’s passion for local history saved not only the beautiful 1927 Triangle Inn, but also the collection that continues to enrich our lives today. – Compiled by Rhonda Rogers, Historical Resources
BOTTOM LEFT: Betty and her volunteers in the closet at the Venice Public Library. Standing left foreground: Vera Schierenberg and Glenn Stephens Seated front to back: Pat Hobbs and Barbara Dein. Kneeling L-R: Betty Arnall and Millie Nugent.
Standing L-R: Peg Fintel, Louise Ingram, Virginia Schufflebarger, and Dottie Jechorek.
BOTTOM CENTER: TV crew interviewing Betty Arnall as the Triangle Inn building behind her is being transported to its current location. BOTTOM RIGHT: The Triangle Inn/Venice Museum as it looks today. FAR RIGHT: Betty Arnall memorial plaque at the VMA, 351 Nassau St S AT RIGHT: Dorothy Korwek, Director of Historical Resources for the City of Venice, 1997-2007.
FROM HISTORICAL RESOURCES
City Seeks Nominations for Legacy Award
There is still time to submit nominations for this program! The Historic and Architectural Preservation Board (HAPB) is seeking nominations for the revamped Legacy Award Program. Initiated originally by the Venice Historical Commission in 2005, for years this program recognized individuals or organizations for historic preservation or educational accomplishments, or for significant historical impact in the city or the greater Venice area.
Moving forward, the HAPB will now seek nominations from the public in the categories of Historical Achievement and Historic Preservation Nominations submitted by May 9, 2025, will be considered by the HAPB for this year’s program To learn more about the program and fill out the online nomination form, please visit venicegov.com and click on Legacy Award in Historical Resources.
Historical Achievement
The nominee should have made a significant contribution to Venice’s history or have a long-standing record of preserving Venice history.
Historic Preservation Projects
The nominee should have completed a restoration, rehabilitation, or new construction related to a historic building in the city. Nominees may be a group, organization, company, or individual.
FAR LEFT: The 2024 Legacy Award honored Julia Cousins Laning posthumously, presented to Julia's nephew Jimmy Cousins, far right, by Mayor Nick Pachota, Historical Resources
Administrative Coordinator Rhonda Rogers, and Historical Resources Manager Harry Klinkhamer Julia lived in the Triangle Inn building (which now houses the Venice Museum) when she was a girl, and it was her dream to preserve local history for the benefit of future generations. AT LEFT: The Julia Cousins Laning and Dale Laning Archives & Research Center, located across the street from the Museum, is named in honor of Julia (inset) and her late husband. Julia passed away in 2022 at the age of 100
FROM HISTORICAL RESOURCES
Local Register Forum set for May 8
The City of Venice, along with several partners, will be holding a Local Register Forum on May 8 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the William H. Jervey Jr. Venice Public Library.
Learn about having your property locally designated as a historic resource. This event will provide attendees with the information and answers they need about historic preservation in Venice. Panelists will cover the process from application and review to the benefits and obligations of being designated.
Members of the Planning and Zoning Department and the Historical Resources Division along with the City’s Historic and Architectural Preservation Board will be there to answer your questions Attendees will also have the opportunity to talk to representatives from the Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation on the value of historic preservation and other benefits. Joy Builders will share their insights from the contractor’s perspective about doing work on historically designated properties.
Bring your questions, fears, and assumptions about historic preservation and be prepared to feel better about listing your property in the local register. Preservation Month is a great time to understand better what historic preservation is all about.
Thanks to Venice Heritage for providing refreshments and answering your questions about Venice history
SEASONAL REMINDERS
Sea Turtle Nesting Season is Underway
Mote Marine Laboratory announced that its Sea Turtle Conservation and Research Program (STCRP) has documented the first local turtle activity of the 2025 season
On April 26, STCRP’s Sea Turtle Patrol reported three loggerhead sea turtle nests one each on Casey Key, Longboat Key and Siesta Key These early nests mark the start of an important and exciting time for sea turtle conservation along local beaches.
The dedicated individuals of the Sea Turtle Patrol are at the heart of STCRP’s conservation mission. Comprising STCRP staff, interns, and more than 300 volunteers, the Patrol began its annual monitoring efforts on April 15, two weeks before the technical start of sea turtle nesting season
“Even though sea turtle nesting season isn’t officially supposed to start until May 1, we begin patrolling early to ensure we catch the first signs of nesting on our beaches,” said Melissa Macksey, Senior Biologist and Data Manager of STCRP. “Thanks to our dedicated volunteers, interns, and staff, we’re able to cover a large stretch of coastline and monitor for early nesters. We couldn’t do it without them.”
From April 15 through Oct. 31, the Sea Turtle Patrol conducts daily surveys of 35 miles of nesting beaches, from Longboat Key to Venice. Each morning, they scan the sand for signs of nesting activity and document each nest with care and precision. Their commitment is essential to the success of Mote’s long-term nesting research
Loggerhead sea turtles are a threatened species protected under the U S Endangered Species Act They are the most
Like many of Florida’s coastal communities, the City of Venice has a lighting ordinance requiring residents to turn off beachfront lights during sea turtle nesting season.
commonly observed nesting species in this region, followed by endangered green sea turtles In recent years, Sarasota County has also occasionally hosted nests from Kemp’s ridleys and leatherback turtles.
Throughout the nesting season, STCRP staff and volunteers collect detailed data on nesting activity to track long-term trends and assess critical aspects of sea turtle ecology. These include phenological shifts (changes in the timing of nesting), nest density, hatching and emergence success, nest site selection, and the influence of environmental conditions As in past years, each nest is marked with yellow stakes and flagging tape to prevent disturbances while data collection continues
Mote’s monitoring has shown encouraging signs in recent years, including rising nest numbers along local beaches In 2024, Mote documented nearly 4,400 nests from Longboat Key to Venice
To follow along throughout the season, the public can view weekly sea turtle nesting updates at mote org/nesting – Provided by Mote Marine Laboratory
Continued on page 28
SEASONAL REMINDERS
Sea Turtle Nesting Season is Underway
How to protect sea turtles
During nesting season, it is important to keep local waters and beaches sea tur swimming just offshore to mate before the females come ashore to nest, juvenil Gulf Coast, and by early summer the first hatchlings will venture into Gulf water from waterfront properties can disorient nesting female turtles and their young, natural light to find the sea Beach furniture, trash, and other obstacles can also young.
Onshore
Do:
If you encounter a nesting turtle or hatchlings, remain quiet and observe from a distance. Shield or turn off outdoor lights that are visible on the beach from May through October.
Close drapes after dark and stack beach furniture at the dune line or, ideally, remove it from the beach. Fill in holes that may entrap hatchlings on their way to the water
Do Not:
Approach nesting turtles or hatchlings, make noise, or shine lights at turtles.
Use flashlights or fishing lamps on the beach
Encourage a turtle to move while nesting or pick up hatchlings that have emerged and are heading for the wa
Use fireworks on the beach.
For more details, please refer to local sea turtle ordinances, including the City of Venice marine turtle protection ordinance and Sarasota County’s marine turtle protection code (which includes Lido, Siesta, Casey, and Manasota Keys)
On the water
Follow Coast Guard-approved safe boating guidelines and use vigilance to avoid striking sea turtles and other large marine life.
Be sure to stow trash and line when underway Marine debris that accidentally blows overboard or out of a truck can become ingested by or entangled around marine life.
Wear polarized sunglasses to better see marine life in your path.
Emergency contacts
If you see a sick, injured, or stranded sea turtle, dolphin, or whale in Sarasota or Manatee county waters, contact Mote Marine Laboratory’s Stranding Investigations Program at 888-345-2335. Outside of Sarasota or Manatee counties, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) at 888-404-FWCC (3922). If you suspect that someone is tampering with a sea turtle nest, harassing a sea turtle, or has possession of a sea turtle or any of its parts, please call FWC or Venice Police Department at 941-486-2444 Sea turtles are protected under federal law and any harassment or interference with a sea turtle, living or dead, their eggs and/or nest marking materials is subject to penalty.
The City’s Community Resource Officers will be walking the beachfronts at night to look for any potential lighting violators Residents and visitors to our beaches are also reminded to make sure to remove all items such as beach chairs and trash – in which sea turtles can become entangled – from the beach at night. People should also fill in holes and knock down sandcastles to make the beach safer for sea turtles. If you see lights shining on Venice beaches during nesting season, contact Code Enforcement at 941-882-7549.
SEASONAL REMINDERS
SEASONAL REMINDERS
SEASONAL REMINDERS
SEASONAL REMINDERS
SEASONAL REMINDERS
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Last ride of the season is Thursday, May 10!
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!
Venice Hurricane Expo - Friday, May 30
Centennial Community Meeting - Thursday, June 5
Downtown Venice Craft Festival - Saturday-Sunday, June 14-15
Independence Day Fireworks - Friday, July 4
VMS Labor Day Weekend Craft Festival - SaturdaySunday, Sept. 6-7
Envirorace 5K - Sunday, Sept. 14
Venice Beach Bash - Saturday, Sept. 27
TOP LEFT: Venice Police Department officers were joined by members of U S Probation to carry the Special Olympics Torch 3.1 miles, from the Venice Beach Pavilion to the Venice Police Department station. TOP RIGHT: On April 10, members of the Venice-Nokomis Woman's Club Inc. presented Kara Morgan, CEO of Venice MainStreet, Inc , with a check for $12,500 from their fundraising efforts for VMS children’s programs.
ABOVE RIGHT: Participants in the April 8 Monthly City Bike Ride, led by Bicycle Pedestrian Coordinator Darlene Culpepper AT LEFT: The annual Epiphany Church Good Friday Processional stops at Centennial Park on April 18.
The annual Easter Eggstravaganza egg hunt, sponsored by Venice MainStreet Inc. and the Venice Lions Club, attracted hundreds to Centennial Park on April 19.
Taking Our Kids to Work: Utilities Project Manager Jeff Sweater, Heavy Equipment Operator Dwayne Evans, Controller Rattana Wongsa, Senior Accounting Specialist Mel Mosser, Utility Billing Coordinator Jess Samson, and Officer Brett Woodworth with their littles on April 24.
TOP LEFT: Venice Area Garden Club members installed new landscaping inside City Hall's two atriums on April 1.
TOP RIGHT: The SunCoast Blood Centers mobile unit hosted their bi-monthly blood drive at City Hall on April 2.
AT LEFT: My Favorite Race Events race directors Amber and Chad Jacob at the annual MFRE Fool’s Run 5K Over 400 runners participated in the fun run at Legacy Park on April 5.
LEFT: VPD Officer Steven Short recently received the Sons of the American Revolution commendation medal. Officer Short is known as VPD's “go-to guy" for a wide range of tasks and assignments. His responsibilities include the procurement of departmental equipment, vehicle maintenance, serving as a Certified Traffic Homicide Investigator, and being an FDLE Certified Driving Instructor, providing training to the entire City workforce Officer Short is congratulated by Capt. White upon receiving the commendation medal.
RIGHT: The Venice Suncoast Rotary Club held its annual Hometown Heroes Banquet recently at Plantation Golf & Country Club. Scotty Dubrule was named Firefighter of the Year and Jason Esquijarosa, Paramedic of the Year. Thank you for your service to our community – you are greatly appreciated!
All smiles at the April 19 Venice Police Department Pancake Breakfast fundraiser! At left, VPD Community Outreach Manager Kasey Ledford serves up a plate of scrambled eggs; center, VPD Sgt. Sean Hammett and his wife grill up breakfast sausage; right, community members enjoy breakfast in the police department community room Thanks to your generosity, the breakfast raised $2,620 for VPD’s community outreach programs!
Venice Area Beautification Inc held a Family-Friendly Earth Day Celebration April 12 at the Monty Andrews Arboretum in West Blalock Park. The event featured a tree and plant giveaway; butterfly garden, compost, invasive plants and rain barrel stations; self-guided tree walk; and children’s activities Additionally, City Arborist Jim Yelverton, pictured at right, was on hand to answer tree questions. Photos: Ursula Chevrier
ABOVE: The Venice Sharks Tooth Festival, sponsored by Venice MainStreet, was held in Centennial Park April 12-13. Thousands turned out for the annual event.
LEFT: Marine units with Venice Police, the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office and Sarasota Police Department provided an Intracoastal Waterway escort April 21 for a veterans appreciation program, Waves of Honor. About 40 veterans left MarineMax by the Circus Bridge aboard vessels bound for Pop's Sunset Grill for lunch, then returned later that afternoon Thank you for your service!
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Students with the Venice High Enterprise Program toured Fire Station 1 and City Hall on April 15; Airport Maintenance Tech new hires Kathy Mixon and Keith Nechanicky get some recent training; City crews repair a depression at the intersection of Madrid Avenue and Armada Road April 21; Historical Resources Manager Harry Klinkhamer speaks on “Top 10 Things You Need to Know About Venice” April 17 at the Jacaranda Library
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The Sarasota County Croquet Club hosted the 2025 Golf Croquet World Championship April 14-18 at Wellfield Park; Rise and shine! It’s always an early morning for Commercial Solid Waste Supervisor Chase Banyas; Wastewater Plant Operator John Clark and Plant Operator Trainee Meegan Wood at the Water Reclamation Facility off Laurel Road April 24; Public Works installed a new piece of playground equipment at Hecksher Park in midApril, near the tennis/pickleball courts at 450 W. Venice Ave.
The Old Betsy Museum, which will house the City’s historic 1926 LaFrance fire engine, is nearing completion!
Above and at right, lights are on; below right, Public Works staff install the museum’s irrigation system, landscaping and add topsoil April 25
ABOVE: The Leadership Venice Class of 2025 includes Venice Airport Manager Nick Dumas, 7 from right. th
BELOW: The U S Coast Guard doesn’t just patrol our coastline and keep us safe On April 29, members of the Coast Guard stopped by Venice Airport with one of their MH-65 Dolphin helicopters to purchase fuel and eat lunch in town, which helps add to our local economy.
