SARASOTA COUNTY - During the annual planning retreat on Friday, Dec. 8, the Sarasota County Board of County Commissioners identified their strategic priorities that will set the roadmap for next year’s goals, projects, and initiatives.

The board's priorities focus on adding value to the community and building robust and diverse opportunities for residents, visitors and business owners.

The commissioners will continue to focus on crucial policy agenda items including water quality initiatives and health of the bay, affordable housing, public safety, south county regional park planning, the future of River Road, as well as additional priorities discussed Friday.

The board will finalize their strategic priorities during the Jan. 10, 2024, commission meeting. The Sarasota County Board of County Commission webpage will be updated in January 2024 to reflect these changes and the board's committee appointments.

Also, during the retreat, Commissioner Mike Moran, District 1, was selected as the next chair, and Commissioner Joe Neunder, District 4, was selected as vice chair. Commissioner Neil Rainford was selected as pro tem. They’ll serve in these positions for the 2024 calendar year.

The chair presides at commission meetings and represents the board during ceremonial functions, and the vice chair assumes duties when they are unavailable.

For more information, call 311 or visit scgov.net.