Sustainable Communities, Advisory Openings, more in County Updates

Welcome to Sarasota County's community e-newsletter. If you have questions, ideas for articles, or feedback on the system, contact us at pubcom@scgov.net.    Fitch Ratings gives county bond 'AA+' rating Fitch Ratings upgraded Sarasota County's utility system revenue bond rating this month to "AA+" from "AA" based on an improving local economy. Down Payment Assistance Program to open in September  In anticipation for the Sarasota Down Payment Assistance Program's opening Tuesday, Sept. 2, the Sarasota Office of Housing and Community Development is hosting a workshop Thursday, Aug. 21, at 9:30 a.m. at 1565 1st St., City Hall Annex, Sarasota.  Sustainable Communities Workshop scheduled for Oct. 29 Sarasota County will hold its ninth annual Sustainable Communities Workshop Oct. 29, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. at the Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida Event and Conference Center, 4740 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota. Registration is open to the public, and advanced registration is encouraged. Are you interested in serving on a county advisory committee? Sarasota County Government values the participation and input of its residents in the decision-making process. To further that goal, the county has more than 30 citizen advisory boards, councils and committees, with members appointed by the County Commission. The following committees have open positions: Bicycle Pedestrian Trail Advisory Committee (BPTAC): 9 vacancies (5 at large, plus Longboat Key, City of North Port, City of Sarasota, School Board representatives) Building Code Board of Adjustments and Appeals: 4 vacancies Citizens Advisory Committee for Public Transportation: 4 vacancies General Contractors Licensing & Examining Board: 6 vacancies (engineer; general contractor; residential contractor; 3 at large) Health Facilities Authority & Industrial Development Revenue Bond Citizens Advisory Committee: 2 vacancies Mechanical Contractors Licensing & Examining Board: 5 vacancies (architect; master electrician; trade alternate; 2 at large Waterways Advisory Council: 2 vacancies For a complete description of committees and how you can serve, visitwww.scgov.net (keyword Advisory Council). SCAT is on Facebook Visit and like the page now to stay on top of new service announcements.   About Us Sarasota County Government  1660 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota, Florida 34236  941-861-5000, pubcom@scgov.net   Sarasota County prohibits discrimination in all services, programs or activities. View the complete policy at https://www.scgov.net/ADA/Pages/default.aspx. Got a question about Sarasota County Government? Call the Contact Center, 941-861-5000.