The Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast today endorsed Sarasota County’s Penny Tax referendum citing multiple water quality and environmental protection projects as reasons to support its renewal this November. The group specifically referenced critical funding for environmental projects such as the Bobby Jones Golf Club Preserve when endorsing continuation of the one-cent sales tax. The historic Bobby Jones Golf Club, located in the city of Sarasota, contains nearly 300 acres of green space and serves as the habitat for over 45 species of birds and other wildlife species. Approval of the Penny Tax in November would provide an additional $5 million to include water quality improvements along with recreational amenities to support the Nature Park. Conservation Foundation also pointed to septic and sewer replacement projects as well as preserving the “water quality of our rivers, bays and beaches” as additional grounds for supporting the Penny Tax referendum that passed with over 66 percent of the vote the last time it appeared on the ballot. Drainage improvement programs in North Port, stormwater infrastructure upgrades in Venice, beach renourishment enhancements in Longboat Key and the restoration of multiple countywide water systems are just a few of the projects that would benefit from renewing the Penny Tax on Nov. 8. Last month, Common Cents for Sarasota County, a committee comprised of a bipartisan group of community leaders, launched its first campaign advertisement showcasing the benefits of the Penny Tax. 

The campaign advertisement video, entitled No-Brainer, can be viewed here.