In a recent community workshop held in Sarasota, representatives from the Florida Hospitality Group presented plans for a proposed rezoning and concurrent site plan aimed at developing a new hotel on a vacant 1.5-acre property. The meeting, which was attended by local residents and business owners, served as an initial step in the development review process mandated by the city.

The attorney for the applicant outlined the purpose of the workshop, emphasizing the importance of gathering community feedback before the formal development application is submitted. This feedback will be considered in subsequent public hearings before the planning board and city commission.

The proposed site, currently zoned for residential multifamily use, is surrounded by existing hotels to the north and west, with residential areas to the east. The recent update to the future land use map introduced a new category called \"urban mixed use,\" which allows for a broader range of zoning options. The Florida Hospitality Group is seeking a rezoning to a mixed-use district, which would facilitate the construction of a four-story hotel with the potential for a fifth story, comprising approximately 102 rooms and 89 parking spaces.

The workshop included a presentation detailing the existing conditions of the site and the intended development, although technical difficulties prevented the full display of the PowerPoint presentation. Attendees were encouraged to sign a sheet to receive further materials and updates regarding the proposal.

As the project moves forward, the community will have additional opportunities to voice their opinions during the formal public hearings, ensuring that local concerns are addressed in the development process.