Sarasota County incorporated in 1921 and adopted a Home Rule Charter in 1971 in accordance with the state constitution and Florida law. The Charter established a commission form of government with County Commissioners as the county's governing body. The county administrator is appointed and is responsible to the commissioners as the chief administrative officer for all administration and operations. County Commissioners also appoint a county attorney who serves as legal adviser to the Commission.

The Board of Sarasota County Commissioners may be reached at commissioners@scgov.net.