Community group proposes nonprofit to restore Mabel Ringling Fountain in Sarasota

Randy Kowalski, speaking for the Sarasota Historic Alliance (identified himself during public comment), told the Parks, Recreation and Environmental Protection Board on Jan. 22 that his group will form a nonprofit, "Miracle on Mound," to restore the Mabel Ringling Fountain and coordinate local stakeholders.

Kowalski outlined the fountain’s history and past work: he said a community rehabilitation carried out in roughly 2011–2013 cost the equivalent of about $200,000 ("we spent the equivalent of $200,000 to rehab it," he said). He said the city and the utilities department later declined long‑term maintenance and that the Alliance has begun fundraising and stakeholder outreach.

"We have about, dollars 50,000 endowment, and we will do more fundraising for that," Kowalski said, adding his group estimates "about 50,000 to get the the park the fountain going" and will hold its first board meeting in about four weeks. He said the plan is to develop a friends‑of‑the‑park model, involve neighborhood associations, and have Parks Department staff observe rather than manage the project directly.

Board members acknowledged the fountain’s historic value but pressed on long‑term sustainability. One member warned that operating fountains can be costly and often fail when ongoing maintenance is not secured: "maintenance of a fountain… is very expensive," the member said, noting many fountains are ultimately converted to planters when upkeep becomes unsustainable. Another member raised security and use concerns, saying underused fountain sites can become safety issues and require police attention.

Kowalski said the Alliance has contacted local organizations including Selby Gardens and neighborhood associations and plans to phase involvement, with civic groups first and businesses engaged later. He also reported a discovery in Lukewood Park South that may be the remains of Civil War soldiers; he said the group is investigating that site further.

The board did not take formal action on the proposal at the meeting. Members said they will consider the initiative and the next chair may propose any formal action in February. Several members asked staff to confirm long‑term maintenance obligations and to assess security and operational costs before committing city resources.

Provenance: First public mention and presentation began at the board’s agenda item on the Mabel Ringling Park Fountain (topic introduction SEG 238). The public presentation and related discussion continue through later board comments about maintenance and security (topic finish SEG 592).