Letter to the Editor: Shame on Sarasota County Commission for Lining Orioles Pockets at Expense of Youth Programs

Dear Editor:

The public park catty-corner to Ed Smith stadium is home to the Ringling Redskins, Sarasota youth baseball and other youth activities. Traditionally, these organizations have charged $5 for parking during spring-training games and split the proceeds among themselves. Not anymore.

On Feb. 22, without public discussion, the Sarasota County Commission approved via its consent agenda a parking licensing agreement with the Baltimore Orioles. The agreement increases parking fees at the public park to $9 during spring-training games. The additional $4 goes to the Orioles. The 2011 parking revenues, totaling $22,482, were divided as follows:

¥ $1,471 taxes
¥ $2,498 non-profit payout
¥ $4,114 Sarasota youth baseball
¥ $3,085 SW District Parents Council
¥ $3,086 Ringling Redskins
¥ $8,228 Orioles

The Sarasota County Commission has pulled funding from city parks. Fees for youth activities have increased. At the same time, our County Commission and administration worked to find one more way to line the Orioles pockets at our expense. What could an extra $8,228 have done for Sarasota’s children and parks?

It’s a disgraceful wealth transfer – from children’s activities to a billionaire baseball team owner. Shame on our County Commission.

Cathy Antunes
President, Sarasota Citizens for Responsible Government
CONA Board Member
Representative, Coalition of City Neighborhood Associations