Sarasota County to hold annual economic development meeting Sept. 24

Sarasota County business, civic, and community leaders will gather for the county’s Annual Meeting on September 24. Chairman Laura DiBella of the Federal Maritime Commission will be the keynote speaker.

Jun 25, 2026 at 6:20 AM

Sarasota County shares steps for emergency preparedness

Sarasota County Emergency Services urged residents to learn their evacuation level and make an evacuation plan. The agency also recommended stocking an emergency kit and signing up for emergency alerts.

Jun 25, 2026 at 6:20 AM

Sarasota County urges safe lithium-ion battery storage

Sarasota County Emergency Services warned that lithium-ion batteries can catch fire or explode if damaged or not used correctly. The county advised people to avoid storing them in the sun or near heat and to keep them away from home entrances.

Jun 25, 2026 at 6:20 AM

Sarasota Virtual School Accepting 2026-2027 Applications

Sarasota Virtual School is still accepting applications for grades K-12 for the 2026-2027 school year. The program says families can get support from a local Sarasota County Schools team.

Jun 25, 2026 at 6:20 AM

Sarasota Police Set Gun Turn-In for July 11, 2026

The Sarasota Police Department will hold its annual “Done with the Gun” firearm turn-in on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 1 to 5 p.m. at 2099 Adams Lane. Gun locks will be available while supplies last.

Jun 25, 2026 at 6:20 AM

Sarasota Sheriff Shares Traffic Stop Reminder

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office shared a “TrafficTipTuesday” message advising drivers to remain calm during a traffic stop. The post says to take a deep breath and remember what to do.

Jun 24, 2026 at 8:20 AM

Sarasota sheriff honors deputies with life-saving awards

Sarasota County Sheriff Hoffman presented multiple awards at a ceremony on Tuesday. Deputies Matthew Hadnot and Luke Edwards and Deputy Daniel Traylor received Life Saving Awards.

Jun 24, 2026 at 8:20 AM

North Port High School Sends Father’s Day Wishes

North Port High School posted a Father’s Day message to fathers, step-fathers, grandfathers, guardians, and other positive male role models. The school said it hopes the community has an incredible Father’s Day.

Jun 23, 2026 at 8:20 AM

North Port parks hours set for July 3-4 weekend

North Port Parks & Recreation set holiday weekend hours for Independence Day. Several facilities will close Friday and Saturday, while the Aquatic Center and Warm Mineral Springs Park will have limited hours.

Jun 23, 2026 at 8:20 AM

North Port Freedom Festival 2026 Sponsors Announced

North Port Parks & Rec says sponsors have backed this year’s Freedom Festival: Cheers to 250 Years, making the free event possible for families. The post lists a presenting sponsor and more sponsor categories.

Jun 23, 2026 at 8:20 AM

Crews respond to smoke cloud, police say

The North Port Police Department said crews were still on scene after a smoke cloud appeared in the sky. The department said no structures were in danger at the time of the post.

Jun 23, 2026 at 8:20 AM

North Port Officer Meets Promoted Coffee Customer

North Port Police Department said Officer Lagarce stopped by Dutch Bros and met Mya, who was celebrating a recent promotion. The officer took a photo after she asked for one.

Jun 23, 2026 at 8:20 AM

Sylint grows in Sarasota with new office

Sarasota County’s economic development team visited Sylint’s expanded downtown Sarasota office. The cybersecurity firm has grown to about 40 employees and continues expanding its global capabilities from Sarasota.

Jun 23, 2026 at 2:20 AM

Sarasota County urges 911 callers to know location

Sarasota County Emergency Services said people should be ready to provide their location when calling 911. It advised callers to share details such as an address and room number to help operators send faster help.

Jun 23, 2026 at 2:20 AM

Sarasota County Schools touts K-8 expansion

Sarasota County Schools says it is expanding K-8 opportunities for families. The district says the model is designed to provide fewer school transitions and a consistent school community.

Jun 23, 2026 at 2:20 AM

North Port Fire Rescue Marks Father’s Day

North Port Fire Rescue posted a Father’s Day message recognizing fathers in its department and community. The department wished them a safe and happy Father’s Day.

Jun 22, 2026 at 2:20 PM

North Port Fire Rescue Podcast Features Firefighter Profile

North Port Fire Rescue released a new episode of “Voices of Fire Rescue” featuring Fire Chief Scott Titus and Firefighter/Paramedic Anthony Sardina. The episode discusses Sardina’s path in the fire service and the role of camaraderie and department culture.

Jun 22, 2026 at 2:20 PM

Sarasota County Sheriff marks Father’s Day with tribute

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office posted a Father’s Day message honoring dads, father figures and mentors. The post said their example and commitment inspire the next generation of deputies.

Jun 22, 2026 at 12:20 AM

Sarasota County burn ban remains despite recent rains

Sarasota County Emergency Services said a burn ban is still in place. Residents cannot have any open fires, including campfires, bonfires, or yard and trash burning.

Jun 21, 2026 at 4:20 AM

Sarasota County urges storm home preparations

Sarasota County Emergency Services advised residents to prepare their homes before a storm approaches. The county recommended clearing drains and gutters, bringing in outdoor furniture, and considering hurricane shutters.

Jun 21, 2026 at 4:20 AM

Sarasota Sheriff Issues E-Moto, E-Bike Safety Reminders

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office said it is continuing e-moto and e-bike education and enforcement during summer break. Deputies are handing out pamphlets on the Legacy Trail and reminding residents of local rules for e-motos and e-bikes.

Jun 20, 2026 at 10:20 PM

Sarasota County Sheriff Highlights Four Adoptable Dogs

The Sarasota County Sheriff shared four adoptable pets for #FurryFriendFriday. The post urged residents to adopt Ariat, Elijah, Trevor, and Frog and provided a link to view more pets.

Jun 20, 2026 at 10:20 PM

North Port High welcomes youth basketball players

North Port High School in North Port, Florida said it hosted “little ballers” on campus this week. The school said the visit was meant to help develop the next generation of Bobcat Basketball.

Jun 19, 2026 at 10:20 PM

North Port HS invites sign-ups for Helmets for Heads

North Port High School is accepting sign-ups for its 4th annual Helmets for Heads Golf Tournament. The event will support the NPHS Football program.

Jun 19, 2026 at 10:20 PM

North Port Freedom Festival set for live music

North Port Parks & Rec says this year’s Freedom Festival at CoolToday Park will include live music and a featured performance before fireworks. The event is presented by Dragonfly Dental of Port Charlotte.

Jun 19, 2026 at 10:20 PM

North Port captain graduates FBI National Academy

The North Port Police Department said Captain Brian Gregory graduated from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. The department said the program lasted 10 weeks and included training in leadership, management, and fitness.

Jun 19, 2026 at 10:20 PM

North Port Police Arrest Three Over Child Sex Offenses

North Port Police detectives arrested three men in connection with offenses involving sexual activity with a child. The department said detectives acted after a tip that juveniles were being victimized.

Jun 19, 2026 at 10:20 PM

North Port marks Juneteenth; closures announced

The City of North Port said it will honor Juneteenth on Thursday, with City Hall and other city offices closed. Solid waste collection will follow the normal schedule, and the Aquatic Center and Warm Mineral Springs Park will remain open.

Jun 19, 2026 at 4:20 PM

North Port Closes Offices for Juneteenth

The City of North Port said City Hall and other city offices will be closed Friday, June 19, for the federal Juneteenth holiday. Solid waste collection will continue on its normal schedule.

Jun 19, 2026 at 4:20 PM

North Port named No. 12 boomtown by SmartAsset

The City of North Port Economic Development was recognized by SmartAsset as one of America’s New Boomtowns, ranked No. 12 among 75 municipal economies. The post cited growth in housing units, labor force, and real GDP over the past five years.

Jun 19, 2026 at 2:20 PM

North Port Library-store to sell jewelry pieces

The Friends of the North Port Library posted that more jewelry pieces are available at the North Port Library-bookstore. Buyers can shop for a gift and support the group’s cause.

Jun 19, 2026 at 2:20 PM

North Port Economic Development shifts updates to LinkedIn

North Port Economic Development said it is shifting its updates to LinkedIn. The group invited people to follow its LinkedIn page for economic news, opportunities and growth updates in North Port.

Jun 19, 2026 at 2:20 PM

North Port expects 1,655 job openings next year

North Port Economic Development says more than 1,655 job openings are expected in North Port next year. The group says the outlook signals opportunity for employers.

Jun 19, 2026 at 2:20 PM

North Port Fire Rescue Marks Juneteenth

North Port Fire Rescue said it is recognizing Juneteenth and the end of slavery in the United States. The department said it is reaffirming its commitment to serving the community with respect, dignity, and compassion.

Jun 19, 2026 at 2:20 PM

North Port mourns fallen Firefighter/Paramedic Jay Sanders

North Port Fire Rescue said Firefighter/Paramedic Jan A. “Jay” Sanders Jr. died in the line of duty. The department said it stands with Charlotte County Fire & EMS during the loss and asked for prayers.

Jun 19, 2026 at 2:20 PM

Sarasota County praises SRQ CEO Paul Hoback’s Business Journal feature

Sarasota County Economic Development congratulated SRQ President and CEO Paul Hoback for a recent feature in the Tampa Bay Business Journal. The post credits his leadership with airport growth and investments.

Jun 19, 2026 at 12:20 AM

Sarasota County urges drivers to move over

Sarasota County Emergency Services says drivers should slow down and move over when they see emergency lights on the road. The agency said the reminder is to help keep responders safe.

Jun 19, 2026 at 12:20 AM

Sarasota Woman Arrested in St. Armands Circle Burglaries

A 31-year-old Sarasota woman was arrested in connection with two business burglaries on St. Armands Circle in early June. The Sarasota Police Department said she faces two felony burglary charges.

Jun 19, 2026 at 12:20 AM

Crash Causes Delays on U.S. 41 in Sarasota

Sarasota police said officers are helping Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office after a crash near Glengary Street and Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41). Drivers were warned to expect delays from lane closures.

Jun 19, 2026 at 12:20 AM

Sheriff’s Office Arrests Woman in Sarasota Bar Burglary

Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office arrested Kara Jane Rose Plocharsky on a burglary count after deputies responded to an alarm at the 8 Ball Lounge. Detectives said surveillance showed her shattering the front door and pushing liquor bottles off a bar, causing thousands of dollars in damage.

Jun 18, 2026 at 10:20 PM