Commission delays request‑for‑proposals for historic Scott Building, sets 18‑month hold to allow tenant time to relocate

The Sarasota County Commission on April 8 voted 3–2 to delay issuance of an invitation‑to‑negotiate (ITN) or other procurement step for the historic Scott Building, effectively pausing active marketing or disposition for about 18 months.

Commissioners debated the balance between stewardship of a county historic asset, the tenant’s long‑standing low‑cost lease ($10 per year was cited in public remarks about lease economics) and broader county redevelopment objectives. Several commissioners urged patience and a negotiated approach that would allow the current tenant (Architecture Sarasota / Center for Architecture historically) the opportunity to find a new location or to negotiate relocation terms; others raised stewardship and fiscal concerns tied to a low‑value lease on a high‑value downtown parcel.

Commissioner Knight moved to defer the ITN for approximately 18 months; Commissioner Smith seconded. The motion passed on a 3–2 roll (motion recorded as approved). The board clarified that the pause does not prohibit private parties or prospective buyers from discussing arrangements with the tenant, and that the board retains discretion to rescind the hold earlier if an actionable offer or relocation solution is presented.

Next steps: staff will refrain from issuing the ITN for the Scott Building during the hold period but will continue outreach and may return procurement language to the board for approval when the board is ready. Commissioners suggested staff continue confidential outreach to identify possible donors or purchasers and explore preservation options including transfer of development rights and other tools to protect historic value.