This is a big week for Oppose Manasota Beach Rd, the local group putting up a fight against the Manasota Beach Rd extension.
Last week, the Englewood REVIEW put a spotlight on Kelly Bauman, who’s basically stepped into the “David vs. Goliath” role, except her Goliath isn’t just one guy. She’s up against the Economic Stimulus Working Group, developer Pat Neal of Neal Communities, Sarasota County’s approval, and $15 million backing of the project.
You can read the story at this link.
This week, the group isn’t sitting back. They’re showing up in force at three major meetings:
June 16, 9:00 a.m.
Sarasota County Budget Meeting
Robert L. Anderson Administration Center, Venice
June 17, 9:00 a.m.
Public Hearing
Rally/Protest: 10:00 a.m.—11:00 a.m.
June 18, 5:00 p.m.
Planning Meeting
Robert L. Anderson Administration Center, Venice
They want concerned citizens to show up, make noise, and support their cause. You can contact them on Facebook or join them at the meetings to take action.
Last August 2025, The County Commission approved the road project, handing Pat Neal the contract for a half-mile extension. It looked easy at first: big money, a unanimous vote, everything neat on paper. But residents pushed back hard. Protests, meetings, yard signs, people showing up, refusing to just watch it happen.
Kelly Bauman decided protesting wasn’t enough. She filed for an administrative hearing, taking on both Sarasota County Transportation and the Southwest Florida Water Management District to demand accountability under Florida law. She’s determined to dig into every detail and won’t let questionable moves slide by.
If you ask Kelly how to help, her answer is simple: show up. Speak out. Do not be afraid.
Remember the words of Margaret Mead, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
For information, call 941-500-9356 or on Facebook.
