The 11th Make a Difference Day, a day of community service for volunteers of all ages, was held in the City of Venice the morning of Feb. 8. This event was postponed from October 2024 due to the recent hurricanes.
Landscaping, raking, cleaning and litter collection events were held at 27 City parks, beaches, and public spaces. More than 370 volunteers turned out for this citywide community service effort, saving the City thousands of dollars and benefiting our local environment.
Above, members of New Life Church, Calvary Sonlife and Team KVB (Keep Venice Beautiful) beautified East Gate and Mundy parks on Make a Difference Day. At right, Young Marines haul debris at Ruscelletto Park.
“What began in 2013 as a small work group assisting the City’s Parks division in refreshing eight parks before season has blossomed into a landscape of amazing
Mayor Nick Pachota Vice Mayor Jim Boldt
Joan Farrell Rachel Frank
Rick Howard Kevin Engelke
Ron Smith
beautification,” said MADD head organizer Jim Foubister.
The City’s Public Works Parks division staged 3 tons of mulch, work gloves, rakes, wheelbarrows, cleaning supplies and bags at parks. On Feb. 8, volunteers got to work refreshing the parks and green spaces. Some families had three generations working together. Following the event, 177 volunteers enjoyed lunch at West Blalock Park, sponsored by Together We Can and prepared by One Christ Won City and Her Hands His Heart.
More photos, page 3
City
Take the Venice 2024 Hurricane Season Survey
The City of Venice 2024 Hurricane Season Survey is being conducted by the Citizens Advisory Board (CAB) to find out what residents think the City did well and what should be improved in their preparations for and responses to Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Stay in the Know
Follow us on social media, sign up for the City’s digital newsletter, register for emergency alerts, see upcoming events and meetings, and more!
Important Phone Numbers
City Hall: 941-486-2626
Code Enforcement: 941-882-7545
Non-emergency: 941-486-2444
Emergency: 911
We ask you to please take this survey ONLY if you were living, working, or visiting in the City of Venice when Helene and Milton hit the area. Responses to this survey will allow the CAB to develop a Hurricane After Action Review with recommendations to City Council for future storms. The link to take the survey can be found here. It is also available on the City website, venicegov.com and on the City’s Facebook page and other social media platforms. A QR code with the link can be found below right.
The deadline to take the survey is Friday, March 14.
For those who do not have access to the Internet or a smartphone, a temporary kiosk with a monitor and keyboard for citizens to take the survey is available in the main lobby at Venice City Hall, 401 W. Venice Ave., through March 14. It is located in the Planning and Zoning reception area; please follow the posted signage or check in at the Information Center to utilize this kiosk. City Hall is open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Please share this survey information with friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers. Your Citizen Advisory Board thanks you for your help by taking this survey. Your feedback is valuable and appreciated!
New Fire Station coming soon!
The City has completed all regulatory permitting and is beginning site preparation work on the 5 acres adjacent to the Venice Police Department. This site, on East Venice Avenue between Ramsey Road and Auburn Woods Circle, will serve as an expansion of the City's existing Public Safety Complex and the future home of the new Fire Station 52. The fire station development will consist of two buildings totaling approximately 29,000 square feet dedicated to Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and equipment storage and apparatus bays. The new Station 52 will house Fire and EMS response crews, Fire Administration offices, and the Fire Marshal and Inspector offices. The completed project also includes includes tree mitigation plantings of 68 new trees, landscape buffers, and interior landscaping.
See location map and rendering of the future Fire Station 52 below. This new location moves the existing station 52 out of the Special Flood Hazard area, protecting critical infrastructure and equipment and providing a more centralized location for improved response coverage.
THE LATEST
Meet the new Airport Community Outreach Manager
David Surwilo is the new Community Outreach Manager at Venice Municipal Airport. He started on Feb. 10. David replaces Rob Pratt, who left the City last August. Here is a quick Q&A to get to know David:
Where did you reside before coming to Florida?
For the past 25 years I have been living in San Diego, Calif., arriving while serving in the U.S. Navy and with the San Diego Police Department.
Tell us about your schooling, degrees, and certifications. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Westfield State College, known today as Westfield State University, in Massachusetts. After active duty with the Navy, I attended the San Diego Regional Police Academy, held at Miramar College in San Diego.
What got you into this line of work, and what do you enjoy about it?
Serving the community seems to be a pattern of mine, first serving the country in the military, then the people of San Diego.
So when I was offered the opportunity to become the Community Outreach Manager for Venice Airport, I thought it would be a new challenge and a great way to really get to know the community while again serving the local citizens.
What did you do before coming to the COV?
I served 21 years in the U.S. Navy, serving both active duty and in the reserves, and as a police officer with the San Diego Police Department for 24 years. In the Navy I was an Aviation Weapons System Operator flying in helicopters as a rescue swimmer and door gunner conducting combat search and rescue missions. While serving with the SDPD I was a patrol officer and then the Community Relations Officer for my patrol division, sharing our department and city’s message with the community and problemsolving resolutions at locations which were creating criminal or quality of life issues for the local businesses and residents.
What do you like about Venice?
I had sun in San Diego so that is not much of a change, but less chances of crazy wildfires and earthquakes is not a bad trade for humidity and bugs in Venice. Plus, to be honest your water is so much warmer than the coastal water of California.
Airport Community Outreach Manager
What do you hope to bring to your role as Community Outreach Manager at the Airport?
I hope to build and strengthen communication with the community members related to matters concerning the Airport. I believe transparency and a clearer understanding of the economic and employment benefits the airport brings to the City of Venice and community can be better shared, so we have a more cohesive collaboration as Venice continues to develop and grow.
Tell us about your family life - significant other, children, grandchildren, pets?
I have a wife Stacy, daughter Bianca and son Michael and we have a dog, and a lizard. Stacy is a professor and still in California finishing the semester and will arrive this summer, Bianca graduated from Rutgers University and lives and works in New York City and Michael is a freshman at Rutgers University in New Jersey in the Business School. My mom has lived in Venice for a few decades and is active in a lot of clubs and organizations.
What is a fun fact about you?
I like spitting out movie quotes and musical lines into conversations whenever the chance arrives and see who catches them.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not working?
I like relaxing at home, concerts, road trips with my family, and thinking about going to the gym.
VABI treats Public Works to Valentine’s Appreciation Lunch
On Feb. 12, Venice Area Beautification Inc. (VABI) treated the City Public Works Department to a Valentine’s Appreciation Lunch.
VABI thanks Public Works staff for their continued support with the Bloom Team's flowers downtown, helping move pots and watering flower baskets. Public Works also supports VABI’s Urban Forest by removing debris from volunteers' workload and help with mowing. Their assistance at the Monty Andrews Arboretum in West Blalock Park and with Team KVB (Keep Venice Beautiful) is always appreciated as well.
The partnership between Public Works and these volunteer groups is instrumental to the beautification of Venice! Thank you VABI!
March is National Procurement Month
City Procurement Specialist Kayla Case and Procurement Manager Peter Boers open sealed bids Feb. 25 for the Hecksher Park pickleball courts project
Procurement Manager Peter Boers has been with the City since January 2014. As March is National Procurement Month and March 13 is Professional Buyer's Day, here is a brief Q&A with Peter about government procurement in the City of Venice.
For those who don’t know, what is procurement, and how does the procurement process work specifically at the City of Venice?
The Procurement process is all of the steps undertaken from identification of a need to the disposal of an asset. This is not to be confused with “Purchasing.” Procurement and Purchasing are related terms, but they have distinct meanings: Procurement refers to the strategic process of sourcing, analyzing, and acquiring goods and services to suit the needs of a supply chain. Purchasing is a subset of procurement and refers to the transactional process of merely ordering products and services.
In our office, we do complete many Purchasing functions (i.e., issuing purchase orders and processing payments), however the role of Procurement is a much greater scope.
Tell us about your role as Procurement Manager.
I oversee all orders for Goods and Services above the quote threshold ($10,000). That includes the issuance of all Invitations to Bid and Requests for Proposals, and input on the Project Delivery method. I also review and approve
the Accounts Payable Check Run bi-weekly to make sure that all payments are in compliance with our City Code of Ordinances.
How has procurement changed since you began here in Finance?
We have undergone two revisions to the Procurement Code. Initially we raised the single quote limit to $5,000 and the bid threshold to $150,000. In the most recent revision, we raised those limits to $10,000 and $250,000, respectively, and eliminated the local preference provision. Council has also decided that if a Bid Award is within the budgeted amount, it does not have to come back to Council for approval again. Our processes have been converted to be completed electronically. We have a paperless process for submitting Vendor Quote Forms (VQF) and Direct Payment Request (DPR) forms. In addition, E-Commerce, E-Procurement and alternative payment methods have all changed over the years. Amazon Business has become a great source for our office, IT, maintenance, repair and operating supplies. We have a lot of new tools at our disposal.
What are the biggest projects that fall under Procurement’s scope?
Virtually all Capital Projects are awarded through the Procurement Division. The biggest projects lately have been any kind of vertical construction (i.e., Booster Pump Station, Airport Terminal Building, Fire Station 1, Fire Station 2 Relocation, and Venice Police Station). Most of those projects have some sort of Qualitative Based Selection (QBS), either an RFP or an RFQ, where the decision to award is based on other factors besides price, and there may not even be a design to bid on. This involves a lot more time and effort than a traditional Invitation to Bid.
What are the duties of your Procurement Specialist?
Procurement Specialist Kayla Case handles all of the Accounts Payable duties and assists the Utility Billing Coordinator. She is also the first person most people call when they have an issue. Kayla is responsible for bidding term contracts for our on-going operational needs. Kayla recently awarded a Bid for Laboratory Services, and I was pleased to hear that a neighboring city wanted to “piggyback” that contract. We have also had requests from others as well. I think that is an accomplishment for such a small entity.
VPD hosts 11th Citizens Police Academy
The 11th Venice Police Department Citizens Police Academy kicked off Feb. 5, when VPD welcomed over 20 community members for an immersive 10-week journey into policing. Participants learn about the department, key decisions, officers, and the equipment they use.
Week 2 covered important safety instructions in the classroom before heading to Total Impact for some hands-on experience at a shooting range.
Week 3 brought a range of insightful presentations, including one from the Community Resource Unit, a session on the Fourth Amendment, a K9 demonstration with Officer Erin Skaggs and K9 Palmer, and a special visit from Sarasota K9 Search & Rescue
Government Finance Professionals Week is March 17-21
On March 17-21, 2025, the Florida Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) is sponsoring Government Finance Professionals Week to recognize government finance professionals and the vital services they provide for local government and the community in which they serve. In advance of this week, here’s a Q&A with City Finance Director Linda Senne.
What functions/services does Finance provide for COV?
The Finance Department is responsible for the City’s cash and treasury management, investment portfolio, debt management (municipal bond financings and state revolving funds), budgeting, accounting (financial reporting), miscellaneous receivables and utility billing, payroll, accounts payable, procurement, pursuing and accounting for federal and state grants for City assets, capital improvement plan, customer service/cashier’s office (collection of all payments), compliance with laws and regulations, and preparing the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR).
Which of the above are the most challenging?
As in every local governmental organization – establishing priorities, balancing increased expenditures (including personnel costs) and service demands with decreased
revenues, the costs of unfunded state and federal mandates, and the cost of infrastructure and associated costs.
What
are
the specific functions of Procurement?
The main purpose of the Procurement Division within Finance is to promote efficiency and economy, and to effectively coordinate purchases of commodities and/or services for the City. Procurement is responsible for the purchase of and contracting for all commodities and services requested by city departments, under competitive bidding or by contractual negotiation. The division also plans and coordinates purchases in volume, negotiates, and executes purchasing agreements and contracts; establishes standards and specifications for commodities acquired under blanket purchase orders; prescribes forms necessary for efficient procurement practices; and ensures commodities meet City standards and specifications.
City Finance Director Linda Senne, far left, with members of her team: Carolyn Hart, Rattana Wongsa, Robin Williams, Kathy Millspaugh, Jess Samson, Brenda Westlake, Kayla Case, Debra Schlake, Mel Mosser, Victoria Sanadi, Nancy Moroni, Peter Boers, and Kendra Arce in front
Government Finance Professionals Week continued
What is the City’s bond rating and why is that important?
Three major rating institutions (Standard & Poor’s, Moody’s Investor Services, and Fitch Ratings) evaluate the City’s financial management, economic conditions, and administrative practices. The City’s bond ratings reflect investment quality at AA+. The bond rating is important because the rating provides information for investors as to the quality and stability of the bonds. Investors in municipal bonds use credit ratings to assess creditworthiness, or the ability and willingness of the state or local government issuing the bonds to pay investors their money back, plus interest. The rating greatly influences the investment appetite, interest rate the City pays on the bonds, and bond pricing.
What is the most recent big project your team has completed, and what is next?
Everything the City does involves Finance in some way. Finance established a Fleet Replacement Fund in Fiscal Year 2014 to accumulate resources for the replacement of the City’s Fleet. Fleet is defined as vehicles or movable equipment generally costing over $10,000. All departments were fully funded at the end of FY 2024. At Sept. 30, 2024, the City Fleet contained 310 units with an estimated replacement cost of $41.0 million (in future dollars). Next: There are several big capital projects in the near future: Construction of Fire Station 52, acquiring land and construction of a new Fleet Maintenance/Solid Waste facility, and implementing the interlocal parks agreement. Also, continue to abide with the City’s financial management policies showing fiscal constraint and maintaining a balanced budget without the use of reserve funds. Perform a rating surveillance with the three rating agencies to maintain the City’s bond ratings at AA+. Provide information to the Council so that they can make decisions that are in the best interest of the City.
The COV Finance Department has won the GFOA Financial Reporting Award 35 years in a row. What is the significance of this achievement?
In order to be awarded a Certificate of Achievement, the City had to publish an easily readable and efficiently organized Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) that satisfies both generally accepted accounting principles and applicable legal requirements. The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management. In addition, the City has received the Triple Crown Award from GFOA for receiving all 3 GFOA Awards for Fiscal Year 2023 (the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting Award, Distinguished Budget Presentation Award, and Popular Annual Financial Reporting Award). The City expects to receive the Triple Crown Award for FY2024.
Characterize the COV Finance team for citizens.
The Finance Team is enthusiastic and functions very well under pressure with constant deadlines. All finance department personnel are leaders who look for new ways to improve processes/procedures and have the diligence and discipline to finish the job. What makes it outstanding? Ethics, standards of conduct, hard work, dedication, collaboration, communication, and commitment to serve the community.
Tell us something about your department you would like others to know.
The Finance team has individuals with specialized expertise and complementary skills who collaborate, innovate, and produce consistently superior results. The Finance Department’s knowledge, productivity, integrity, and dedication ensures that funds entrusted to the City are properly budgeted, disbursed and accounted for.
New book on Venice history debuts at Book Fair
Just in time for the City’s Centennial Celebration, a new book is coming out on the history of Venice. Larry Humes (pictured at left), longtime resident, Kentucky Military Institute alum, and frequent history correspondent for the Venice Gondolier, will be launching his new book at the Venice Book Fair on March 15 in West Blalock Park.
Published by the History Press, “Venice: A Century on the Gulf” tells the stories of the people and events that helped to define the City from the start of the Florida Land Book to present day. In easy-to-read prose, this master storyteller guides the reader through the early growth of the area under Bertha Palmer, Joseph Lord, and Dr. Fred Albee. Humes continues by delving into the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, John Nolen, and the Kentucky Military Institute. He then takes the reader up to the 21st century with tales about the Intracoastal Waterway, the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus, and the Venice Army Air Base. Finally, we get an early peak into Venice’s recent past.
The book officially releases on March 29, but advance copies will be available for sale at the Venice Book Fair. Humes will be available to sign your copy at the Venice Heritage booth. The book retails for $24.99.
Still time to take Museum Survey
The Venice Museum is participating in a nationwide survey of museum goers. We have been asking the public to share why they do or do not visit museums. We would also like to know who you visit with and what you expect when you visit.
In order to have solid results we can use to meet your needs, we need to hear from more of you. Please consider taking a moment to tell us what you think. By completing this survey, you are helping us move forward in directions that meet your needs and expectations.
Please take a few minutes to go to https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8056406/venice. Your feedback is appreciated!
FROM THE DESK OF
10 tips for a safer bicycle ride
March is Florida Bike Safety Month! Here are 10 tips for a safer ride:
1. Wear a helmet
Although it’s not a requirement for riders in Florida unless you are under 16, research shows that wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of serious injury by 70 percent.
2. Perform the “ABC” quick check before you ride
Air: Check the pressure in your tires, spin the wheels, and check for wear
Brakes: Pull brake levers for front and rear individually while rolling bicycle and verify wheel stops. Check the brake pads are clean, straight and contact the rims when engaged
Chain: Look for signs of rust or stiffness Spin the pedals to confirm it drives the rear wheel. Clean your chain with degreaser and re-oil it with tri-flow (NOT WD-40) at least once a month.
Check all quick releases on your bicycle Be sure to check your seat, handlebar, spokes, and gears
3. Be reflective, be seen
Bicycles typically come with front, rear, and pedal reflectors Wearing bright, highvisibility colors and reflective clothing can also assist in low-visibility situations. For night riding, Florida law requires bicycles to be equipped with a front and rear light as well as a rear reflector. Some of these lights have daytime settings to help with visibility.
4. Keep your hands on the bike
Riding hands-free can make it harder to react to unexpected circumstances in your path. You could fall off your bike or cause an accident if you cannot brake in time.
5.Know signals and use them
It’s important to use your hand signals, be familiar with them and to communicate with nearby drivers and other cyclists Nobody can anticipate where you’re going unless you provide fair warning Make sure they are obvious and clear to others
6. Limit distractions
Since you’re already using a more vulnerable means of transportation, serious injury can be even riskier Cycling is a great experience You get fresh air and exercise Take full advantage of this by stashing your electronics in your bag or pocket. Keep your eyes on the road and your surroundings. If you need water, opt for a bottle that’s easy to operate with one hand
Coordinator
Continued on page 14
Darlene Culpepper is the City’s Bicycle Pedestrian Coordinator in the Engineering Department. She can be contacted at dculpepper@venicefl.gov.
10 tips for a safer bicycle ride continued
7. Ride as if driving a car
Florida Law recognizes bicycles on the road as vehicles, so it’s important to operate your bicycle as a moving car. Drivers become used to patterns and behaviors of vehicles on the road They don’t weave in and out of traffic, ignore traffic signals, or cut across multiple lanes These maneuvers may seem easier when on a bicycle, but you can catch a driver by surprise or limit your visibility when you do. Keep yourself safe by riding predictably and mimicking behaviors of larger vehicles when appropriate.
8. Ride with the flow of traffic
In addition to riding predictably, it is important to ride with the flow of traffic. Travel in the same direction as other vehicles on the road. Accidents are much more likely to happen when you go against the grain
9. Observe sidewalk etiquette
Although it is legal for cyclists to ride on sidewalks and they seem like a safer alternative, they belong to pedestrians, who have the right of way on sidewalks They can be uneven compared to asphalt, and hitting a bump or crack can send a cyclist flying. Also, cars don’t expect to see cyclists entering the road from a sidewalk and cannot judge the speed of a cyclist As stated, Florida Law allows bicycles to ride on sidewalks, but you must yield to pedestrians And when crossing in a crosswalk, you are expected to walk your bike. In the City of Venice, an ordinance was passed in 2018 stating bicycles must be walked in the downtown shopping district on Venice Ave , Tampa Ave , and Miami Ave from U S 41 to Harbor Dr. and connecting streets of Nokomis Ave. and Nassau St. (see map below left).
10. Use dedicated bike lanes
Bike lanes have a significant impact on safety for all road users. By providing a designated space for cyclists, bike lanes reduce the risk of collisions with motor vehicles When traveling in a bike lane, it is still important to operate as a vehicle by riding with the flow of traffic and signaling your intentions.
UPDATES & ACTIONS
Feb. 11 City Council Meeting Recap
Venice City Council took the following actions at their Feb. 11 meeting:
Approved on Consent Agenda:
Utilities: Authorize the Mayor to Execute the State Revolving Fund Loan Agreement WW580490 Between the City of Venice and Florida Department of Environmental Protection Agency for Utilities Intracoastal Force Main Project.
Approve First Amendment of Interlocal Agreement with the Rustic Oaks Community Development District Regarding Construction of Knights Trail Sewer Force Main.
Approved 7-0: Dedication of Easement to Florida Power & Light (FPL) Concerning Property at 580 Gene Green Road to Provide Access for the Installation of Electrical Services for the City's New Water Booster Station Project.
Watch the complete Feb. 11 meeting here (pictured above) and the Feb. 25 meeting here. Venice City Council is currently meeting in Community Hall Room 165. Council meeting minutes and recordings are typically available within 48 hours of each meeting date.
Approved 4-3 on First Reading (Council Members Farrell, Smith and Howard dissenting): Ordinance 2025-07 of the City of Venice, Amending the 2017-2027 City of Venice Comprehensive Plan and Associated Pages Pursuant to Petition No. 24-31CP by Amending Strategy LUIS 1.1.3 Mixed Use Corridor (MUC), and Related Future Land Use Tables, to Allow Additional Residential Capacity in the MUC and to Allow the Conversion of Nonresidential to Residential for Properties Located East of Avenida Del Circo, South and West of Ringling Drive, and North of Base Avenue; Providing for Repeal of All Ordinances in Conflict Herewith; and Providing for Severability.
Approved 7-0 on First Reading: Ordinance 2025-08 of the City of Venice, Amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 87, Land Development Code, by Amending Table 2.3.6., Airport Avenue Development Standards, Pursuant to Text Amendment Petition No. 24-32AM, by Allowing a Height Exception up to 85 Feet for Parcels Located in the Airport Avenue Zoning District East of Avenida Del Circo, South and West of Ringling Drive, and North of Base Avenue; Providing for Repeal of All Ordinances in Conflict Herewith; and Providing for Severability.
Ordinance 2025-10 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 $500,000 and Total Expenditures by $500,000.
Approved 5-2 on Final Reading (Council Members Farrell and Smith dissenting): Ordinance 2025-04 of the City of Venice, Amending the 2017-2027 City of Venice Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map and Associated Pages Pursuant to Petition No. 24-04CP by Changing the Future Land Use Designation on a Portion of the Property Located at 705 S. Tamiami Trail from High Density Residential (HDR) to Mixed Use Corridor (MUC); Providing for Repeal of all Ordinances in Conflict Herewith; and Providing for Severability.
Ordinance 2025-05 Amending the Official Zoning Atlas of the City of Venice, Pursuant to Zoning Map Amendment Petition No. 24-05RZ, to Change the Zoning Designation on a Portion of the Property Located at 705 S. Tamiami Trail (1.44 ± Acres), from Residential, Multi-Family 3
Feb. 11 City Council Meeting Recap
(RMF-3) to South Trail Area 2 (ST-2); Providing for Repeal of all Ordinances in Conflict Herewith; and Providing for Severability (Quasi-judicial).
In Other Action, Council Approved:
Directing staff to pursue the installing of speed enforcement cameras in school zones. (Farrell dissenting)
Accepting the Citizen Advisory Board's recommendation and approve placement of a John Nolen Statue at the Southeast Corner of Centennial Park.
Directing staff to hold community workshops and engage a consultant to evaluate best options for the entire stretch of Bayshore Drive through Laguna and determine a project that suits the majority of residents, all while pausing the current design that is in place.
Approving a $125,000 matching grant to the Venice Theatre for capital improvements related to hurricane recovery. (Frank dissenting)
Venice City Council took the following actions at their Feb. 25 meeting:
Approved on First Reading: 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; Providing for Repeal of All Ordinances in Conflict Herewith; and Providing for Severability.
Approved on Final Reading: Ordinance 2025-10 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 $500,000 and Total Expenditures by $500,000.
Resolution 2025-04 of the City of Venice, Rescinding Resolution No. 2022-07 to Terminate the Temporary Reduction on Valuation Based
Building Permit Fees.
In Other Action, Council Approved:
Adoption of the Floodplain Management Plan Yearly Report, Local Mitigation Strategy Project List Update, and Unified Program for Public Information and Flood Insurance Promotion Plan Yearly Report.
Directing staff to submit a project sheet for the Watershed Master Plan by 5 p.m. on March 14, and add it to the Local Mitigation Strategy Project List.
Mayor Pachota and City Council members at the Feb. 25 Council meeting.
UPDATES & ACTIONS
Feb. 25 City Council Meeting Recap continued
The City continuing to administer firefighters and police pension plans and directing staff to bring back the cost of a 1% COLA for each pension plan. (Farrell dissenting)
The cost of $2,689 for Producing a Plaque of the Blackburn Quarters for the Union Missionary Baptist Church, and moving forward with ordering the plaque.
Directing the City Attorney to edit Resolution 2023-44, the City’s Logo Policy, with the suggested changes and bring back a draft resolution to the March meeting. (Farrell dissenting)
In Other Action, Council Denied: Instituting time limits for applicants coming before the Citizen Advisory Board and Historic and Architectural Preservation Board that are the same as City Council. (Farrell and Smith assenting)
At Your Service
The following residents have been reappointed to a City advisory board:
Alex Dafoulas, reappointed to the Citizens Advisory Board to serve a term from March 1, 2025, to Feb. 28, 2028.
Mary Davis, reappointed to the Citizens Advisory Board to serve a term from March 1, 2025, to Feb. 28, 2028.
Spay/Neuter Awareness Month proclamation
Girl Scout Madelyn Canty thanks City Council Feb 11 for recognizing Feb 25, 2025, as World Spay Day and February 2025 as Spay/Neuter Awareness Month with a proclamation in support of Madelyn's project promoting the spay/neuter of kittens.
National Engineers Week proclamation
Louis
White
promoted to Captain
Louis White is promoted from Venice Police Lieutenant to Captain during the Feb. 11 Council meeting, sworn in to his new post by City Clerk Kelly Michaels as his wife Alicia and Mayor Pachota assist. Louis' brother Ryan, a Sergeant with the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office, looks on Ryan then pinned on his brother’s badge
City Manager Ed Lavallee talks about the importance of engineers at the Feb. 11 Council meeting after Mayor Nick Pachota recognized the week of Feb 16-22, 2025, as National Engineers Week with proclamations presented to Stormwater Engineer Steven Berens, Assistant City Engineer Jon Kramer, Assistant Utilities Director Patience Anastasio, and Assistant City Manager James Clinch.
Diana Kaouris promoted to Lieutenant
Diana Kaouris is promoted from VPD Sergeant to Lieutenant during the Feb. 11 Council meeting, sworn in to her new post by City Clerk Michaels as Mayor Pachota assists. Lt. Kaouris' predecessor, former VPD Lt Jessica Chappa, now retired, then pinned on her badge
National Procurement Month proclamation
Mayor Nick Pachota recognizes the month of March 2025 as National Procurement Month and March 13, 2025, as Professional Buyer's Day with proclamations presented to City Procurement Specialist Kayla Case and Procurement Manager Peter Boers during the Feb. 25 City Council meeting, as City Manager Ed Lavallee looks on
Council Chambers renovation progress
Flood Awareness Week proclamation
Mayor Pachota recognizes the week of March 3-9, 2025, as Flood Awareness Week during the Feb. 25 Council meeting with proclamations presented to Building Official Derek Applegate and CRS (Community Rating System) Coordinator Christina Rimes, as City Manager Lavallee looks on
The Council Chambers renovation project involves audio/video technology upgrades, a new Council dais, security enhancements, hearing loop, and new audience seating and carpeting. Completion is expected by April.
Due to this work at City Hall, 401 W. Venice Ave., all City meetings have been relocated to Community Hall Room 165. Be advised there is limited seating capacity, so residents who will not be speaking, or presenting a case, are encouraged to view the meetings online either during live streaming during the meeting, or by video viewing from the meeting calendar afterward. As always, anyone wishing to speak in person will be accommodated during this temporary relocation
To watch a meeting online during live streaming, use this link to the City Meeting Calendar: https://venice.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx. Click on “In Progress” to the far right of the City meeting on this date To view a meeting afterward, go to the Meeting Calendar and click on “Video” to the far right of the City meeting on the date of interest.
Intracoastal Waterway Force Main Replacement Project
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 awarded contractor, Spectrum Underground, Inc., will begin preconstruction activities this month. The maps at right shows the location of the proposed construction work. Lane closures and other temporarily 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.
HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS
City Utilities Frequently Asked Questions
With the start of the 2025 hurricane season less than 3 months away, the City of Venice is providing FAQs from specific departments ahead of any potential storms. This month is the Utilities Department.
Why would Utilities turn off my water in the event of a hurricane?
It has become a standard practice to turn off the potable water to the barrier islands in Sarasota and Manatee counties if we are expecting a major storm, in order to protect the utilities and property during the event. The potable water system is a pressurized system which derives its pressure from high service pumps at the Water Treatment Plant, as well as elevated water towers. Turning off water to the island is performed by closing valves on the mains that serve the island, physically isolating the system from the mainland. Therefore, the system no longer has a continuous supply. The system is still filled, and you may see pressure because of the height of the tower, until that water runs out. During a hurricane, high winds tend to fell trees, which may pull water mains out of the ground. Also, the increased groundwater pressure and movement can create breaks. Turning off the water supply to the island reduces the pressure in the mains, thereby reducing the risk of breaks, as well as limiting the loss of water in the event of breaks, in a potential critical time. Turning off the water reduces the risk of introducing contaminants into the water system from flooding or storm surge, as well as mitigating potential flooding of homes from leaks or breaks. We will endeavor to turn the water system back on as quickly as possible when it is safe following the storm.
Occasionally, it may also become necessary to turn the water plant off, and therefore the whole City’s potable water system during the storm. The existing water plant on Venice Avenue is in the flood zone/storm surge area. Storm surge elevations are provided Above Ground Level (AGL) not sea level like the elevations. Prior to Hurricane Milton, the storm surge was expected to be up to 15 feet AGL. The water plant may have been submerged. Also, the buildings at the water plant are only rated for a Category 3 hurricane. Therefore, despite several hardening measures we have (flood doors, emergency power), the site was not safe for our staff in the projected conditions. Therefore, the decision was made to turn off the water plant and evacuate while it was still safe for them to leave. They remained within the City and returned to the Water Plant to restart as soon as it was safe to do so.
If it becomes necessary to evacuate the water plant again, we will attempt to restart the water plant as quickly as possible, once the dangerous part of the storm has passed, depending on the damage. However, as we experienced in Hurricane Ian, much of the water distribution system was damaged. We prioritize and fix water mains as quickly as possible, but depending on what break may be affecting you, it may take days to get to it (just like with power outages). This breakage is also a major risk with the sewer collection system, as it is highly susceptible to stormwater intrusion.
How will I be notified of a water shutoff?
Make sure you are signed up for Alert Sarasota County/Everbridge, which provides location-specific alert notifications via phone, text, or email as you designate. That can be done by visiting alertsarasotacounty.com. In addition, messaging is distributed via the City’s website, venicegov.com and the City’s Facebook page and other social media platforms. If there is a break in your community that only affects a small area, you may also receive a door hanger with the anticipated water off timing and boil water notice.
What does a boil water notice mean?
If a water main break occurs or the pressure of the public potable water system drops below 20 psi, a boil water advisory (BWA) notice will be
HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS
City Utilities FAQs continued
issued for the area affected. A boil water notice means that any water that is ingested, (i.e., cooking, drinking, brushing teeth) should be brought to a rolling boil for at least 3 minutes to confirm it is safe to ingest. To rescind the boil water notice, the City takes samples for biological analysis. When the samples show no evidence of contamination for two consecutive days, the notice is rescinded. Rescinds are posted in the same methods described on page 21. Please note, BWAs normally take a minimum of 2-3 days, but rarely go past that. If there are any concerns about current boil water notices, residents may call the water plant at 941-486-2770.
How will I be notified when my water is safe to drink?
Via Alert Sarasota County/Everbridge and by monitoring the City’s website, Facebook page and other social media. Also, for small areas, door hangers will be redistributed.
Why would the wastewater system be shut off?
Regarding sewer services, the wastewater from the City collection system and portions of Sarasota County’s collection system is pumped to the Venice Water Reclamation Facility. Pump stations (aka lift stations) run on electricity and many have generators available if the power goes out. However, on the island and in lower-lying areas of the City, we do not want to pump floodwaters or storm surge, or have a running generator submerged. This would cause a risk of electric shock from the water. Therefore, pump stations on the island and other areas of the City where this is a risk may been emptied and turned off, resulting in the collection system acting as storage, and if full, potentially backing up into homes.
It is important to note, this generally occurs in mandatory evacuation areas where no one should be using the utilities. Also, usually the water is off in these areas. Since the pump stations are reliant on power, it may take longer for them to be back online depending on the extent of the outages. Generator power is prioritized based on service area and critical customers. Similarly, lift stations have many electrical components for communication and control. We attempt to mitigate the risks to these sensitive components, particularly on the Island and low-lying areas, but damage may also affect service restoration.
What is the Utilities Department doing as a storm approaches?
As a storm approaches, the Utilities Department has a representative at the City’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) monitoring tropical activity and coordinating with other EOC representatives and City management to make decisions and disseminate information. Utility technicians, working with Fire and Police, confirm any critical facilities are aware of any interruptions in services. Technicians also work to prepare the facilities, including placement of hurricane shutters and flood gates at the treatment plants. Potable water storage facilities are filled, in case the treatment capacity is limited, and reclaimed, and wastewater storage facilities are emptied as much as possible, so that if the storm brings inundation of the sewer system, we have a safe place to put it until it can be treated. We wait as long as possible, while it is still safe for our staff, to shut down any systems; however, some systems may be partially isolated in the 24 hours before the storm so that less work needs to be done to affect a total shutdown. Most hurricane preparedness is done in the months before hurricane season, so that we can mobilize quickly and safely as we get information on an approaching storm.
Photo: Robin Austin
UPDATES AND ACTIONS
Tarpon Center Dr. Flood Mitigation Pilot Project fact sheet
UPDATES AND ACTIONS
Construction update: Old Betsy Museum
Exciting progress at the future site of the Old Betsy Museum at 343 Nassau St. across from the Venice Museum & Archives. When it is completed in a few months, the museum will showcase Venice's historic 1926 American LaFrance fire engine in its new home.
With its wall of windows and covered seating area, the display museum will honor this iconic piece of Venice's history while creating a welcoming space for the community.
Old Betsy served the Venice community for many decades before being retired and driven by head caretaker Earl Midlam in local parades. It is currently housed in a warehouse off East Venice Avenue in the Seaboard district.
At left, the Old Betsy Museum under construction on Feb. 25. Above, Old Betsy is the City’s 1926 American LaFrance fire engine
The Venice Museum at 351 Nassau St. S. is open regular hours during construction, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Support the completion of the Circus Mural
"To be continued!" Want to see the Circus Mural grow? Your support is instrumental to this artwork's completion!
The Venice Area Beautification Inc. mural is located on the City-owned wall along Business 41 on the island of Venice, just north of the Circus Bridge. It celebrates the cultural heritage of the circus, which has been an integral part of Venice’s history. The mural is created by Sami Makela, an accomplished artist from Lake Worth, Fla., and originally from Finland.
VABI is seeking support from the community and local businesses to finish the project. To make a donation of any size, visit www.vabi.org You may also contact the VABI office at 941-207-8224.
At top, undated image showing the right side of the building’s Italian Restaurant. Above, today’s view of the right side of the building.
Ira Hines was the original owner of this 1927 building. He worked as the Estimating Department Manager at Leadlay Ogden Builders in Sarasota. Ira and co-worker J.C. Humphrey designed and built the structure at a cost of $22,000. It had something for everyone — apartments, tea room, gift shop, antique shop, drug store, ladies’ shops, and even a “tonsorial parlor.” You might think a tonsorial parlor could be a dentist’s office, but it relates to hairdressing.
Venice’s first landscape architect, Prentiss French, designed the landscaping and we are fortunate to have his Planting Plan in the Julia Cousins Laning and Dale Laning Archives & Research Center. Dated Aug. 8, 1927, it calls for a center feature with radiating paths surrounded by hibiscus, oleander, vinca, banana, jacaranda, allamanda, ficus, bougainvillea, orange trees and more. The plan includes the costs for plants, $128.75; fertilizer, $10; labor, $8; and office expenses, $37; for a total of $183.75.
When her tea room first opened, Ira’s wife held a contest to name it and offered a $10 prize. Prentiss French was the winner with his suggestion “The Garden” due to the garden-like landscaping in front of the building and tropical foliage in the patio. Do you recognize the building today?
Provided by Rhonda Rogers, Historical Resources
At left, the building as seen in the Sept 15, 1927, edition of Venice News At right, the building still stands today It was well-built; you can see the seashells and stones in the walls. Note the center fountain and radiating tile pathways still follow Prentiss French’s design.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
2025 Venice Book Fair and Writers Festival set for March 14-15
The 13th Annual Venice Book Fair and Writers Festival is a two-day event filled with everything readers and writers love, plus fun for the family. Join the Festival to kick off the theme “Imagine Yourself a Writer” on Friday, March 14, from noon to 5 p.m. in the Gulf Coast Community Foundation Community Room at the Venice Library, 300 S. Nokomis Ave Register to attend by visiting venicebookfair com Guaranteed entry to the first 40 registrants for the entire day. Cost is $20 payable by credit card at venicebookfair.com. The author lineup at the March 14 Festival is as follows:
Noon to 1 p.m., From Idea to Awards: Lisa Malice Award-winning author of “Lest She Forget,” Lisa Malice of the local Florida Gulf Coast Sisters in Crime, will be the keynote speaker and discuss ways to ensure your manuscript hits the bull’s eye of publishing expectations and goes on to win accolades Followed by a half-hour book signing
1:30-2:30 p.m., The Nonfiction Blueprint: Kim Cool, Larry Humes and Karen Kelly
From proposal writing, submission, offer, contract negotiation, writing/editing, D&A, production, to marketing, sales, publication, and what’s next. Featuring Gondolier Sun Features Editor Kim Cool, local historian and author Larry Humes, and collaborative writer and coach Karen Kelly The Literary Spa founder Camille Cline will serve as moderator. Followed by a half-hour book signing.
3-4 p.m., From Pen to Web: Artistic and Digital Design Skills for Authors “Kinzie’s Kinventions” series and the “Claw & Order Fairy Goose Unit” detective series author, Donna Boock, shares her experience and advice about designing an author’s website, creating an online presence, and building a publishing company. Venice High English department chair Beth Donofrio will serve as moderator. Followed by a half-hour book signing.
5:30-6:30 p.m., The Writer’s Future: Making Sense, and a Living, as Publishing Evolves Sponsored by The Island Bookshop; event will take place at Collectors Gallery & Framery. First 40 registrants guaranteed entry. Wine and cheese reception to cap the day as “What Goes Around” author Michael Wendroff, “Crusade to Heal America: The Remarkable Life of Mary Lasker” author Judy Pearson, “Terror’s Sword” author Kevin Kuhens, and “Parallels of Murder” author Sherrie Rutherford discuss publishing’s future and the writer’s place in it Moderated by bookshop owners Aimee Odette and Michael Rank Followed by half-hour book signing
The event continues with the Book Fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 15 in West Blalock Park, bordered by Pensacola Ave. and Nassau St Park east of Nassau St in lots north and south of the Venice Museum and the Venice Community Center Venice High School National English Honor Society, Book Club, and JROTC student volunteers will be on hand in the morning to help authors cart and set up their tents. A limited number of author tents are still available. The registration fee includes a 10-x-10-foot tent, which may be used by one or two authors. Tents will also include an 8-foot table and two chairs. Authors must provide their own table coverings and booth identification. Registration forms can be found here.
A Children’s Experience at the Book Fair features children’s book author readings, coloring pages, puppet show, face painting, photo booth and a scavenger hunt with prizes, fantastic for elementary-age students to get excited about reading. Food trucks, picnic tables and portable restrooms will be onsite.
Proceeds from the Fair go to Venice Heritage Inc. For questions, email Camille Cline at cncliterary@comcast.net Provided by Andy Britton
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
Venice Book Fair & Writers Festival - FridaySaturday, March 14-15
“A Vette Together” Corvette Show - Sunday, March 16
Venice Blues & BBQ Music Festival - FridaySaturday, March 21-23
AACA Car Show - Sunday, March 30
Shark’s Tooth Festival - Saturday-Sunday, April 12-13
Eggstravaganza - Saturday, April 19
Venice Fire & Police Public Safety DaySaturday, April 26
Venice Hurricane Expo - Friday, May 30
SEASONAL REMINDERS
SEASONAL REMINDERS
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Reporting City issues just a few clicks away
The City’s SeeClickFix platform, Venice Connect, allows citizens to report quality-of-life issues such as potholes, roadside junk and tall grass and request City services. With free SeeClickFix mobile app and web tools, citizens are able to provide City staff with pictures, videos, specific descriptions and more valuable information needed to get the job done efficiently In addition, the SeeClickFix platform provides City officials with a centralized issue management system to manage issues from creation to resolution, engaging citizens throughout the process.
Use SeeClickFix to request assistance with City of Venice services or report problems, such as potholes, streetlights that are out, broken sidewalks, stormdrain issues, traffic signal/sign problems, code violations, etc Venice Connect will acknowledge newly submitted issues and forward them to the appropriate departments to take care of the requests. Users will receive email updates and can come back here to check the status of submitted issues. When the issue is resolved, the issue can be closed Separate issues should be submitted as separate SeeClickFix reports
Note: Please make sure that the address you are providing is the location of the issue being reported.
Those with general questions concerning the City and its policies should call 941-486-2626 Enforcement issues of an emergency nature such as excessive noise, homeless concerns, or dog owners not following the rules at the Paw Park, should be reported directly to the Venice Police Department by calling 911 to be dealt with in real-time. VPD’s non-emergency number is 941-486-2444. After-hours Utilities emergencies can be reported at 941-486-2770.
For more information on using SeeClickFix, call 941-882-7401 or visit venicegov.com.
Hurricane season starts June 1 - have you signed up for alerts yet?
Sarasota County’s mass notification system, Alert Sarasota County, is hosted by Everbridge as part of a partnership with the state of Florida and the cities of Venice, Sarasota, North Port and the Town of Longboat Key Alert Sarasota County, which replaced the CodeRED notification system, is used to communicate public health and safety topics affecting residents.
Available alerts in the City of Venice include severe weather such as hurricanes and tropical storms, police and fire incidents, temporary road closures and construction, hazardous spills, water outages and boil water notices, flooding, power outages and red tide. Hurricane season runs from June 1-Nov. 30 in Florida. Users can choose the types of alerts and how to receive them when registering their new account These options can be changed at any time Users can sign up for alerts by registering with their home address. County and municipality alerts can differ. Visit alertsarasotacounty.com or scan the QR code at right to register.
Alert Sarasota County can send alerts to users via landline phone, cell phone, text message, email, TDD/TTY, or a combination of these methods
AROUND TOWN
The Venice High School Parade of Champions was held Feb. 15 in Downtown Venice, followed by a program in Centennial Park. VHS celebrated the remarkable achievements of its football and cheerleading teams, along with the incredible efforts of the VHS Marching Band. The football team clinched the Florida High School Athletic Association Class 7A State Championship and secured their fourth state title by defeating Lake Mary on Dec. 14. Congrats to all!
AROUND TOWN
Above, Tony Rosen and Chris Somers with Public Works replace a street light pole on the KMI Bridge Feb 20, with the Venice Police CRO unit conducting traffic control for this dangerous work Above right, VPD Officer Kenite Webb assists in a classroom Feb. 11 at Epiphany School, where he is the School Resource Officer. At right, City staff (some with their kids!) assist with drive-through signups Feb 8 at the Venice Community Center for Make a Difference Day: Michelle Newman, Lorraine Anderson, Amanda Hawkins-Brown, Christina Rimes, Ashlee Castle, Elizabeth Joiner, Kelly Michaels and James Clinch.
Above left, Bicycle Pedestrian Coordinator Darlene Culpepper with participants in her Monthly Bike Ride Feb 13 outside City Hall The next ride is 10 a m March 13 At left, Officer Robert Santa with his family’s snow cone vendor business, The Shiver Shack, at the Italian Feast Feb. 20. Above, the City’s engineers pose for a group photo for National Engineers Week, held Feb 16-22. From left, Utilities Project Manager Jeff Sweater, Assistant City Manager James Clinch, Assistant Utilities Director Patience Anastasio, Assistant City Engineer Jon Kramer and Stormwater Engineer Steven Berens
At left, Police Chief Andy Leisenring and Sgt Sean Hammett participate in the Ride or Walk for a Better Community Feb. 16. The Venice Yacht Club Charitable Foundation raised over $110,000 during this 8th annual event This incredible effort will support charities throughout the greater Venice area. At right, Special Events and Marketing Coordinator Brianne Lorenz and Planning and Zoning Director Roger Clark discuss their careers with students during the Venice Chamber’s “Real World Wednesday” Feb. 19 at Venice High School.
At left, Parks, Facilities and Maintenance Specialist Scott “Boots” Marra works downtown recently. At right, members of the Italian American Club of Venice pose for a group photo outside their food tents Feb. 20 at the Italian Feast & Carnival at the Airport Festival Grounds.
1000 Miglia race rolls through Venice
The turnout was incredible for the 1000 Miglia Experience Florida, which brought a fleet of stunning vintage and exotic cars through the City on Feb. 23, supported by the Venice Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) Inspired by the legendary Mille Miglia race in Italy, this international rally brings together some of the world’s most remarkable cars, from a 1937 Bugatti and a 1951 Ferrari to a 1965 Fiat and a 2025 Porche As the autos made their way through Centennial Park, drivers had their paperwork stamped with the official Venice stamp, pictured above Below, Assistant City Manager James Clinch, Venice Chamber President & CEO Kathy Lehner, Mayor Nick Pachota, Venice Mainstreet CEO Kara Morgan, John McKeon with AACA, and City Special Events Coordinator Brianne Lorenz all took a turn at stamping the entries. A once-ina-lifetime event! See aerial photo, page 36
AROUND TOWN
1000 Miglia race event
“[Venice] was the absolute best moment of the whole road rally and the drivers were shocked by the massive cheering crowds you managed to gather.” - Alessandro Comoglio, Miglia organizer
