SRQ DAILY Oct 31, 2026
Saturday Perspectives Edition
"Whatever the outcome, we will all wake up on Nov. 4 in the community we chose together, with neighbors who still need one another and organizations still at work for them."
Voters will decide Amendment 3 (Increased Homestead Exemption; Lower Cap on Increases in Non-Homestead Property Assessments) on Nov. 3, and it may be the most talked-about item on the ballot, even in a year with an open governor’s race. It would change how much property tax revenue local governments collect and how they can use it, a budget conversation that begins at the state level and reaches all the way down to our own communities.
With so many people asking what Amendment 3 means, Gulf Coast Community Foundation (Gulf Coast) launched a voter education campaign with the goal of ensuring every voter can head to the polls with nonpartisan, factual information. That included sponsoring the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance luncheon last month, where a panel of local leaders discussed what Amendment 3 could mean for our communities and local businesses. What stood out to me wasn't a particular point of view — it was curiosity. People want to understand what they're being asked to decide, and they want to feel ready when they fill out their ballots.
If 60 percent of Florida voters approve Amendment 3, homeowners would get a larger homestead exemption on non-school property taxes, rising to $250,000 by 2028, which would lower many people’s tax bills. Owners of rental, commercial, and other non-homestead property would see the limit on yearly growth in their assessed value drop from 10 percent to 5 percent. State economists estimate local governments would collect nearly $12 billion less in property tax revenue each year statewide by fiscal year 2031-32. Property tax revenue helps pay for public safety, parks, and partnerships with nonprofits, including many health and human service organizations.
Nonprofits are where many of our neighbors turn for essential help, and local government is one of the partners that helps fund that work. The model is practical; rather than building and staffing every program itself, a county partners with a nonprofit that already has the expertise, staff, and community trust to do the job, and many nonprofits pair that public funding with private donations and volunteers. Two organizations we work alongside at Gulf Coast show what I mean. The Child Protection Center provides therapy and other services for children who have survived abuse. All Faiths Food Bank gets food to families across Sarasota and DeSoto counties. Both receive funding from Sarasota County, where property taxes account for about 59 percent of the general fund. The amount the county collects directly affects how much funding is available for public services and programs. Reasonable people disagree about how much government should fund, and that is part of what voters are weighing this election season.
I think a lot about the people who turn to our local health and human services organizations every day: children in after-school programs, seniors and unhoused individuals who count on a hot meal and a friendly face, and families looking for care and resources during challenging times. They live across Sarasota, Charlotte, and DeSoto counties, at every stage of life, and the organizations that support them are watching this vote closely.
Gulf Coast does not take a position on Amendment 3. We believe our communities are strongest when residents decide together with good information in hand. Our hope is simple: that everyone walks into the polls feeling informed and confident in their own decision.
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3, and what voters decide will shape our region long after the votes are counted. In the days left, look closer. Start with Gulf Coast’s Amendment 3 Community Guide, which breaks down what Amendment 3 would change and what it could mean in our communities. Whether you own, rent, or are still looking for a place to call home, the services local governments help fund are part of your daily life. If you own property, check your most recent property tax bill to see which lines would change and which would stay the same. Ask questions. Talk with a neighbor, a local leader, or the people at a nonprofit whose work you admire. Whatever the outcome, we will all wake up on Nov. 4 in the community we chose together, with neighbors who still need one another and organizations still at work for them. What comes next belongs to all of us, and being ready for it starts now.
You'll find information for Sarasota, Charlotte, DeSoto, and other areas region-wide at GulfCoastCF.org/Amendment3.
Erin Minor is Vice President, Community Leadership at Gulf Coast Community Foundation. 
Beginning January 1, 2027, Sarasota County taxpayers will have a new opportunity to support students while reducing their federal income taxes. What makes this particularly exciting is that our local K-12 public school students can benefit, too. Yet surprisingly few people know about this opportunity.
Sarasota County has a long history of investing in education. Our residents, businesses, and philanthropic organizations consistently step forward to support students and educators. We've seen firsthand what happens when students receive the right support at the right time. This new federal tax credit offers another way to make that possible.
The Education Freedom Tax Credit, signed into federal law in July 2025, allows taxpayers to make charitable contributions to approved Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs) and receive a dollar-for-dollar federal income tax credit of up to $1,700. Married couples filing jointly may qualify for up to $3,400 combined. Unlike a charitable deduction, which reduces taxable income, this credit directly reduces federal income tax liability, subject to certain limitations.
Florida has opted into the program, making it available to taxpayers beginning in 2027.
While much of the national conversation surrounding education scholarships has centered on private school choice, this program also creates opportunities for students attending public schools. I believe that deserves more attention.
Consider a student attending one of our Sarasota County public schools. Her family works hard to make ends meet, but additional educational expenses can quickly become a financial burden. Whether it's academic tutoring, technology, school supplies, or other qualifying educational needs, these costs can create barriers that prevent her from fully participating and succeeding. Scholarships funded through this program could help close those gaps without requiring her or any student to leave their public schools.
The legislation allows scholarships for eligible students whose families earn up to 300% of area median income. That threshold could make this opportunity available to a significant number of Sarasota County families, including many who may not qualify for traditional assistance but still struggle with educational expenses.
So how does it work?
Approved Scholarship Granting Organizations receive charitable contributions, verify student eligibility, and distribute scholarships for qualifying educational expenses. These organizations play an important role in ensuring resources reach students and families.
As a locally rooted nonprofit committed to student success, the Education Foundation of Sarasota County sees tremendous potential in this opportunity. We are exploring options to establish an SGO as a locally focused program to support eligible students attending Sarasota County public schools, including charter schools.
Our goal is to build on our relationships with schools, families, and community partners to help students overcome financial barriers to educational success.
Florida is working through its process for identifying qualified SGOs, with its initial list due to the IRS by February 15, 2027. As federal guidance and our plans take shape, we will share updates about what this opportunity means for Sarasota County students, families, and donors.
For now, I hope Sarasota County residents will take time to learn about this opportunity and consider how it might fit into their charitable giving plans. A conversation with a tax advisor is a good place to start.
Sarasota County has always recognized the value of investing in students. This new federal tax credit gives us another opportunity to do just that, and I hope our community takes full advantage of it.
Jennifer Vigne is the President and CEO of the Education Foundation of Sarasota County and host of the podcast Education Conversations.
Pictured: Academic tutoring is among the educational expenses that scholarships could help cover through the new Education Freedom Tax Credit. Provided photo.
Every Saturday and Sunday, Cask and Ale on Main Street lifts a toast and taps a toe to a delicious brunch with a diverse chef-prepared menu. Try the rotating chef's special menu, bottomless mimosas and a wide selection of craft cocktails. On Sundays, hear live jazz music from 12pm-4pm.
Cask and Ale, 1548 Main St., Sarasota
Enjoy a delicious brunch offered every Sunday at Tripletail Seafood and Spirits on the beautiful covered patio or casual dining room. The menu features a variety of dishes created by Chef Cesareo Cardenas, including his decadent creme brulee French toast, steak and eggs, lobster benedict, crab and shrimp omelet and the Tripletail brunch burger. Guests will receive a complimentary Bloody Mary or mimosa with the purchase of any entree.
Tripletail Seafood and Spirits, 4870 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
The popular Halloween-inspired light show returns to Selby Gardens' Historic Spanish Point! The campus is transformed into Spooky Point where you can follow an eerily lit path and encounter fantastic creations and boo-tanically-themed decorations along the way. Equal parts campy, creepy and cute, this walk-through show is fun for all ages. Tickets go on sale August 24.
Historic Spanish Point Campus, 401 N Tamiami Trl, Osprey
Enjoy fresh produce, local art, music and free family activities on Bradenton's Old Main Street every Saturday from October through May. Local farmers, artisans and chefs share their talents, and you'll always be greeted with a smile from the market vendors.
Old Main Street, 400 12th St. W, Bradenton
Drawing on the ephemeral and fragile properties of smoke and mirroring, along with the purity, fragility and apparent permanence of porcelain, the work exposes false narratives, conflicted virtues and fractured identities. Using transience and tension as both visual and material metaphors, figures formed with smoke hover between presence and evasion across pristine porcelain and mirrored, color-shifting grounds. The opening reception will be held on October 3 from 5-8pm.
502 Gallery, 502 S Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
A work doesn't have to be monumental to demand our attention. The fifth installment of 502 Gallery's popular annual invitational exhibition, Shopliftable, is a celebration of small-scale works by 20 artists. Each artwork is modest in size but full of possibility, inviting viewers to look closely and discover how much an artist can say within a limited physical space. The opening reception will be held on October 3 from 5-8pm.
502 Gallery, 502 S Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
This rock musical adaptation of Stephen King's novel follows Carrie White, a shy, bullied teenage outcast with telekinetic powers. Dominatingly controlled by her religious fanatic mother at home and tormented by peers at school, Carrie unleashes her destructive powers on prom night after a cruel prank. Powerful vocals and raw storytelling will leave you on the edge of your seat.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. W, Bradenton
The seventh year of the popular Hermitage Sunsets at Selby Gardens will feature six programs between the Selby Gardens Downtown and Historic Spanish Point campuses. See performances and explorations of works-in-progress by Hermitage artists-in-residence and alumni. Dates include October 16, November 20, February 11, Feburary 25, March 18 and May 6. The first event, New Music Under the Old Oak, is at the Downtown Sarasota Campus at 5:30pm.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Sarasota campus and Historic Spanish Point campus, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota
This Tony-winning stage musical is about a shy high school student with social anxiety who becomes entangled in a lie after a classmate’s suicide. By fabricating a friendship with the deceased, Evan finds the popularity and connection he always craved. He faces a crisis when his deception threatens to unravel his life and ruin his relationships. Dear Evan Hansen reminds us all that–even in our loneliest moments–you will be found.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. W, Bradenton
Experience a morning of fall fun at the Runaway Pumpkin 5K and free family festival. Food trucks, trick-or-treating, pumpkin painting, a bounce house, costume contest and PAWS therapy dogs are featured. Kids ages 12 and under can participate in the mini monster dash. Consider donating non-perishable food items that will be distributed to local families facing food insecurity through partnering organizations.
The Child Protection Center's Monda Campus, 5600 Peace River Rd., North Port
Across from Marina Jack's in downtown Sarasota, see a variety of original fine art pieces. Peruse and purchase drawings, fiber works, jewelry, photography, paintings, sculptures and other media. Hot Works focuses on visual arts that are juried by art professionals.
J.D. Hamel Park, 199 Bayfront Dr., Sarasota
The only U.S. stop of the 2026 UCI World Cup brings the world's elite BMX Racing riders to Sarasota on the road to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Sarasota BMX was selected by the UCI to host two UCI World Cup final rounds in 2026 and two in 2027. The facility is home to a year-round local racing program with USA BMX-certified coaching for riders at every level.
Sarasota BMX Track, 1590 N Tuttle Ave., Sarasota
Inspired by the Brothers Grimm fable, this fairy tale opera follows two siblings who encounter a beguiling Gingerbread Witch. This opera displays a timeless reflection on innocence, resourcefulness and the power of family. Hansel and Gretel is presented in three acts and includes music by Engelbert Humperdinck and words by Adelheid Wette. Tickets go on sale online on August 1 and at the box office on September 1.
Sarasota Opera, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Rhythmic intensity and lyric experimentation are at work in pieces by Timo Andres, Curtis Stewart, Vivian Pung and Charles Wuorinen, and the world premiere of Shawn Allison's Vigil for the Disappeared. Examining the expressive power of music in the absence and aftermath of text, this program of works for smaller forces powerfully reshapes our perception of time and sound.
First Congregational Church, 1031 S Euclid Ave., Sarasota
Celebrate the rebellious nature of America through the music of artists who challenged convention, inspired change and gave voice to generations of Americans. Featuring unforgettable songs like Born in the U.S.A., Blowin' in the Wind, What's Going On and True Colors, this joyous musical journey celebrates the rebels, dreamers and visionaries who helped shape the American story. Written by Richard Hopkins and Rebecca Hopkins; directed by Catherine Randazzo; music arrangements by Jim Prosser.
Goldstein Cabaret, 1239 N Palm Ave., Sarasota
Each year, SRQ MEIDA recognizes local leading women who have deeply contributed to our community through their business, philanthropic, health and wellness, entrepreneurial, cultural, science, technology and educational endeavors through the Women Who Roar Initiative. We invite our readers to nominate an individual who best exemplifies the attributes of professional acumen, philanthropic passion, personal integrity and community leadership. Gather with us on November 6, 2026 at Michael's on East. Reserve a spot today!
Michael's on East, 1212 S. East Avenue, Sarasota, FL
Delight in thrilling tournaments, delicious feasts and exciting games at the 22nd Annual Sarasota Medieval Fair. On Saturdays and Sundays, travel back in time to The Siege of Paris in 845 A.D. through plays and shows about the people who shaped this time period. Kids can participate in crafts, storytime and dress-up while adults embark on a pub crawl or attend the Masquerade of Mordred Pendragon. An artisan marketplace will showcase over 140 vendors. Act fast, because ticket sales end on June 24.
Mallaranny Farms, 29847 FL-70, Myakka City
The Sarasota Youth Opera presents a whimsical journey of imagination, family and self-discovery this November. With music and text by Rachel J. Peters, Rootabaga Country follows Gimme the Ax and his children as they journey through the imaginative landscape of Rootabaga Country to learn more about the mother they never knew. Along this way, they discover that love and belonging come in many forms. Tickets go on sale online August 1.
Sarasota Opera, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Celebrate 10 years of making a difference for homeless animals at the sixth annual Friends of Manatee County Animal Welfare Friendsgiving. Enjoy an exciting live auction, silent auction and live music while helping raise critical funds to support this organization's life-saving programs. Every dollar raised helps provide specialized medical care, heartworm treatment, enrichment and second chances for animals in need.
The Pavilion at Mixon Fruit Farms, 2525 27th St. E, Bradenton
Learn about Sarasota history with guide John McCarthy on this relaxing cruise to learn illuminating facts about the region. This event is a major fundraiser that helps with the restoration and preservation of the Crocker Memorial Church and the Bidwell-Wood House. Enjoy snacks and a cash bar on board the LeBarge. Reserve tickets soon because seating is limited. Meet at Bayfront Park on the lawn in front of LeBarge at 10:30am to receive your name badge, which serves as your entry ticket.
Bayfront Park, 5 Bayfront Dr., Sarasota
Celebrating 20 years, Bowls of Hope attendees select offerings from dozens of the community's finest restaurants and caterers as they serve delicious soups, bread, desserts and more. Guests choose from beautiful, handcrafted bowls–all donated by local potters, artists and students–to keep, while enjoying a modest meal as a reminder of the empty bowls they help to fill. This year's event is chaired by Ruth Hochman. Individual tickets go on sale October 1.
Ed Smith Stadium, 2700 12th St., Sarasota
The annual Living Arts Festival showcases diverse art forms in Sarasota through performances, visual art, family events and live music. Throughout Bradenton, Sarasota and Venice, see the Sarasota Orchestra, Artists on Art: Photography, Rising Stars Talent Show, Creative Liberties Galleries, Perlman Music Program, Jazz Club of Sarasota and more. This is your opportunity to join the community in shared experiences, strengthening the connections that make the Cultural Coast a wonderful place to live, work and visit.
Olympic Medalist Nancy Kerrigan joins Our Mother's House for An Afternoon with a Champion, celebrating resilience, determination and the power of community. Nancy's journey from a hardworking family to the Olympic stage was shaped not only by determination but by the sacrifices and support of those around her. During the luncheon, she will share her personal story of perseverance and overcoming adversity, offering an inspiring perspective on resilience and finding the strength to keep moving forward.
Michael's On East, 1212 S East Ave., Sarasota
Join Sarasota artist Jing Herman for an interview on her American flag artworks in The Beautiful Country at the lobby of One Sarasota Tower. Herman's artwork, Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness, which resides in the White House Historical Association's permanent collection, will be represented by a full-size fine art reproduction on view at the event and through the end of the year. This in-person exhibit and artist interview is designed for professionals, community leaders and art and history lovers. A light lunch will be served, and parking is available at Palm Avenue Parking Garage.
One Sarasota Tower, 2 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Sarasota brings one of the most influential trailblazers to the city for a powerful series of experiences designed to inspire courage, character and civic engagement among youth and throughout the community. Local students will walk together in honor of Ruby's historic steps. A community town hall conversation, moderated by Charlayne Hunter-Gault, will reflect on Ms. Bridges' defining place in our nation's story and the enduring power of civic engagement, community dialogue and collective action.
Booker Visual and Performing Arts Center, 3201 N Orange Ave., Sarasota
SRQ DAILY is a daily e-newsletter produced by SRQ MEDIA. Note: The views and opinions expressed in the Saturday Perspectives Edition and the Letters department of SRQ DAILY are those of the author(s) and do not imply endorsement by SRQ Media. The views expressed by individuals are their own, and their appearance in this section does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. SRQ DAILY includes content excerpted from news releases as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by SRQ DAILY. For rates on SRQ DAILY banner advertising and sponsored content opportunities, please contact Robinson Valverde at 941-365-7702 x703 or via email |
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