SARASOTA COUNTY – Residents and community organizations are invited to participate in a housing and community development survey from the Sarasota County Housing Enhancement and Redevelopment Office (HERO). The survey is available online through March 20, 2026.

Survey responses will help shape the county’s five-year consolidated plan, which outlines strategies to support very low- to moderate-income residents, strengthen neighborhoods, and address the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness and those with special needs. The plan will guide how federal funds are allocated, prioritizing affordable housing, homelessness prevention and social services.

Community members may also provide feedback in person at upcoming public meetings:

• Tuesday, March 3, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the Frances T. Bourne Jacaranda Library, 4143 Woodmere Park Blvd., Venice.
• Thursday, March 5, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the Betty J. Johnson North Sarasota Library, 2801 Newtown Blvd., Sarasota.

“Community input is essential to ensuring our programs reflect the needs of Sarasota County residents,” said Steve Hyatt, Division Manager, Program Management Division. “This survey helps us understand what’s most important to the community so we can make decisions that help people and strengthen our neighborhoods.”

Funding for priorities identified in the consolidated plan is provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the Community Development Block Grant, Emergency Solutions Grant and HOME Investment Partnerships programs. The consolidated plan was created by HUD to help local governments plan for housing and community needs and receive federal funding to support those priorities.

About the Housing Enhancement and Redevelopment Office