Sarasota County officials provided a detailed update on the ongoing recovery efforts following the devastation caused by three hurricanes, with a focus on the restoration of the Hermitage campus. Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources Director Nicole Rizzler highlighted the extensive damage still evident across barrier islands, particularly on Manasota Key, where significant repairs are still pending.

Rizzler emphasized the importance of reopening parks and beaches to boost the local economy, stating, "Our parks, our recreational, our natural resources, we're open among the fastest on this side of the state." However, she acknowledged the complexity of the restoration process, which involves extensive design, engineering, and permitting due to the campus's historical designation and its location on a barrier island.

The timeline for full restoration remains uncertain, with rough estimates suggesting it could take a minimum of a year after contract amendments are finalized. Rizzler explained that the restoration involves more than just cosmetic repairs, as the buildings suffered severe damage from saltwater intrusion, necessitating a complete redesign of electrical and plumbing systems to prevent future issues.

Next steps include continuing with the restoration efforts while addressing unauthorized activities observed on-site. A full presentation on the campus repairs is scheduled for October, with further discussions on land conveyance proposals expected in November. Regular updates will be provided to the Board of County Commissioners and the Hermitage as the situation develops.