What Sarasota Patch is Covering This Week

The Sarasota City Commission will be discussing a few controversial parks issues today at its meeting. Last month the commission voted to removed park benches from 5 Points Park. Commissioner Willie Shaw has asked the issue be brought back for discussion before the temporary ban is over. 

A parks smoking ban, endorsed by the city's parks, recreation and environmental protection agency, will be voted on by commissioners Monday evening. The ban, if approved, would also include city-owned buildings. The commission will discuss the enforcement/penalties of the ban. 

Two weeks ago the Sarasota County School Board approved a new collective bargaining agreement with the instructional and classified staff. After that hurdle was passed with ease, the board on Tuesday will switch its attention to a multi-million dollar shortfall for next year's budget. 

Earlier this month key documents, such as the probable cause affidavit, were released in the murder investigation of two British tourists. In the affidavit there are great amounts information, such as witness names, that has been redacted. A court order requires that information to be released on Friday unless another order requires an extension of the redacted information. Sixteen-year-old Shawn Tyson is still in custody and charged with their murders. 

On Monday the city commission will consider another portion of the master plan for Payne Park. The plan calls for $1 million for the construction of circus-themed playground equipment at the park.