Episode 284: WSLR News Fri., Sept. 6: Sarasota County Commission diverts public school funds for private building industry institution, WCBTT performs to GOTV, District 73 State House Race, Sarasota City Master Plan meeting, Siesta Key's density holds steady

 The Sarasota County Commission has $15 million to allocate for job training in the wake of Hurricane Ian. Some commissioners were ready to give it all to the Suncoast Builders Association. The West Coast Black Theater Troupe took a creative approach to getting out the vote with a presentation of a one-woman show called “The Fannie Lou Hamer Story.” Democrat Derek Reich is once again challenging Republican Fiona McFarland for the District 73 seat in the Florida House. He thinks he has a better chance this time around.  The Sarasota City Commission gathered for a special meeting to discuss the Downtown Master Plan, and how to bring fresh ideas to the table through an Ad Hoc Committee. With strong opinions and a clear call for collaboration, the debate was anything but routine.  Perhaps surprisingly, the Sarasota County Commission on Wednesday passed up a chance to increase density on Siesta Key.