SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) – Sarasota County is set to discuss a proposed land swap involving a property on Siesta Key that was originally purchased using a voter-approved preservation fund, a move that has drawn opposition from island residents.
The county acquired the property as part of a lawsuit settlement with local businessman Michael Holderness. Under the proposed swap, the county would trade that land for four oceanfront properties currently owned by Holderness.
Residents say the land was purchased in part with tax dollars collected through the Neighborhood Parkland Program, a voter-approved initiative, and argue they should have more input on its future…