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Commissioners approve sale of 1926 Mediterranean house near Vamo Park over dissent
Summary
The board approved sale of a county-owned 1926 Mediterranean-style house adjacent to Vamo Lodge and Vamo Park, with a 4–1 vote; Commissioner Kutsinger dissented citing waterfront stewardship concerns.
Sarasota County commissioners on April 8 voted 4–1 to approve sale of a 1926 Mediterranean-style residence adjacent to Vamo Lodge at Vamo Park, concluding a long review and modification of the lot size and preservation conditions.
Why it mattered: some commissioners supported the sale because the prospective buyers plan to restore and occupy the dwelling, and staff reported the larger park area and access would be preserved; one commissioner objected, saying county strategic objectives favor holding and acquiring additional waterfront property rather than selling existing waterfront parcels.
Board discussion Commissioner Kutsinger said he could not support the sale and feared that an eventual change in ownership could allow demolition and new private construction that would reduce public waterfront access. Commissioner Smith and others contended the buyers appeared likely to restore the property and that the board retained control of the larger park parcel. The motion to approve was made by Commissioner Smith and seconded by Commissioner Mast; the vote passed 4–1 with Kutsinger dissenting.
Next steps County staff will proceed with the sale under the approved terms and retain responsibility for rehabilitating the larger historic structure on the site as described in staff materials.
