SARASOTA COUNTY, Fla. (Dec. 12, 2025) — During a planning retreat on Friday, December 12, Sarasota County Commissioner Ron Cutsinger was elected by his fellow board members to serve as chair of the Sarasota County Commission for 2026.
Cutsinger represents District 5, which includes parts of southern Sarasota County, including Englewood. The selection was made during the commission’s annual reorganization, when commissioners choose leadership roles for the upcoming calendar year.
As chair, Cutsinger will preside over commission meetings, help set meeting agendas in coordination with the county administrator, and serve as a primary representative of the board at official functions and intergovernmental meetings. The role also includes guiding discussion as the commission addresses countywide policy issues, budget priorities and long range planning.
Cutsinger was first elected to the Sarasota County Commission in November 2020. Before joining the board, he served on several local advisory boards, including the Sarasota County Planning Commission, where he also held a leadership role. He has been active in civic affairs in the community for many years. Prior to that, he owned Ron’s Restaurant, located at the corner of SR776 and Harvard Rd.
The Sarasota County Commission is responsible for legislative and fiscal oversight of county government, including land use decisions, public safety, infrastructure, environmental protection and county services. The chair position rotates annually among commissioners.
Commissioner Mark Smith, District 2, was selected as Vice Chair. Commissioner Teresa Mast, District 1, was chosen Pro Tem. They’ll serve in these positions for the 2026 calendar year.
