Opinion Published by Sarasota Herald-Tribune Mar 04

Questions on Newtown market

Published: Tuesday, March 2, 2004 at 3:25 a.m.
Last Modified: Tuesday, March 2, 2004 at 12:00 a.m.

This story appeared in print on page A12

Phenomenal. Any community or neighborhood that drives its future with both interest and action is to be congratulated. But it is not enough. The Feb. 23 article "Newtown may soon get open-air market" raises, but does not answer, some interesting questions. The answers would demonstrate whether Sarasota city and neighborhood leaders will go beyond congratulations and offer real support for positive action and a sound economy.

The property was rezoned after vendors (described as unlicensed) ceased operations due to zoning and licensing issues. Will those vendors (e.g., Bernice Heggs) be offered licensing assistance and first refusal on market space in Lonnie Ward Jr.'s phase- one flea market?

Beyond rezoning, how is the city supporting development?

Does the neighborhood need or want the market/bazaar to evolve into a large shopping center and grocery store?

Does anyone besides Mr. Ward own the 30,000 square feet of land and, therefore, stand to gain economically from immediate revenue and proof of economic viability for longer-term and/or larger development projects?

In the article, Mr. Ward invites "other races" to shop at the market. So let's talk about that.

A few years ago, Sarasota was awarded two titles by two national publications: It was ranked in the top 10 of American cities for living and working. It was also ranked as one of America's top 10 segregated cities.

I have long agreed with the first. And I agree, technically, with the second. We are segregated. I have argued that ours is not a negative, racist separation but a positive, desirable aspect of community and neighborhood.

How will developers and vendors use the market to positively promote Sarasota as both a fantastic place to live and a city of great neighborhoods and communities?

[name redacted]

Sarasota

This story appeared in print on page A12

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