Local leaders discuss Newtown's future with residents

Local leaders discuss Newtown's future with residents

Updated: Feb 11, 2008 11:30 PM EST


SARASOTA - More than a hundred people filled a room, demanding change in one Sarasota neighborhood. Both city and county leaders as well as law enforcement were all there to talk about what could be done about Newtown.

When it comes to revitalizing Newtown, to reducing crime there, we've heard many ideas through the years. But we're told that what was said Monday night is different, that now, finally, plans will be put in place.

"This is the #1 priority for the commission." The number one priority for our city leaders: to reduce crime in Newtown. "All of us said without any hesitation, Newtown has to be our focus," said commissioner Kelly Kirshner.

And with good reason; In 2007, more than 50% of all arrests in Sarasota took place in just the few blocks that is Newtown. The majority of the Sarasota Police Department has to be constantly dedicated to Newtown. "We do put a lot of manpower in this area now."

Even if you don't live there, that's still your tax dollars at work.

But Monday night, those 100+ people filled the room to give birth to an initiative called a New Day in Newtown.

"We're not going to be presenting any major plans. We're going to be seeking your input." The idea was to get ideas...to get people talking about what can be done about being proactive.

There was excitement and passion, but the question is: Is a New Day in Newtown just a new name for something we've seen and heard before?

Sarasota Police's Captain Lucius Bonner says this Newtown initiative will work because it is backed by the city commission. "I think the commission hopes to take advantage of this moment in time." A moment in time where everyone is pushing for change in Newtown.

Of course, it's time that will tell if it made a difference. "We'll reserve judgement. We'll see the ideas, sometimes it's money that's not available or resources that aren't there, but at least, the spirit is willing here," said Judge Lee Hayworth.

So the main idea of this was to get those in this community to be responsible for what goes on this community. But police say they will be playing a role. They say we can expect to see more officers on foot patrol around here, more bike patrol, and more officers involved in mentoring programs here.

There will be another meeting like Monday night's in a couple of weeks.

This whole thing is nothing more than a bandage on a festering wound. This is not going to work unless and untill the people themselves make the changes.
As long a little Johnny is out on the street corner selling dope, and supporting Mamma, and Grandmma and his brothers and sisters, then nothing will change.

In addition, this is nothing more then a PR move by the City Manager to make him look like he is doing something. This is a "Setup" either way you look at it to make Abbott look bad, because when this does not work and it won't, he's going to be the City Manager's scapgoat. And then it's bye, bye, Chief Abbott come November.

Abbott should get out NOW and run for Sheriff...........he would have the backing of the people over at the SSO.

newtown is a dump :wink:

Possible shooting in Sarasota

Updated: Feb 25, 2008 02:40 PM EST




SARASOTA - Sarasota police are currently working a possible shooting in the 2700 block of Palmedalia Avenue.

Bayflite has been brought in to transport at least one victim.

ABC 7 has a crew on the way. Stay tuned for the latest details.

YES IT IS :lol: