SARASOTA COUNTY (SNN TV) – Two new Sarasota County commissioners received big bucks from big developers.
The Herald-Tribune found around 20% of campaign donations for Joe Neunder and Mark Smith came from big developers. Benderson is one of those; it’s planning the mixed-use Siesta Promenade development despite pushback from nearby residents. Schroeder-Manatee Ranch, the parent company of Lakewood Ranch is another. These numbers also don’t include small developers.
Sarasota County Commissioners approved building 5,000 homes in east Sarasota County.
Smith beat his opponent Fredd Atkins by 373 votes.
Smith said as an architect, he understands development and was most qualified. Neunder says donations won’t affect what developments he supports.
They received donations from notable land-use attorneys in Sarasota County, including Dan and Charles Bailey of Williams Parker Attorneys at Law.
