The first cycle of the Comprehensive Plan Update is in full swing, as county planning staff works to examine Sarasota County’s environmental systems

The Environmental Systems Cycle, also known as Cycle 1, is open from March 2 to April 30 and includes two public workshops for citizens to learn about and give their feedback on conserving, maintaining, and where necessary, restoring the natural environment of Sarasota County.

The current Comprehensive Plan’s chapter on the environment addresses topics related to native habitats, air and water quality, sea level rise, endangered species and biodiversity. The workshops will give the public the opportunity to have their voices heard on these important environmental issues and learn how these issues impact the community.

“Sarasota County’s economy and quality of life are inextricably linked with a healthy environment,” says Planning Division Manager Allen Parsons. “Clean water bodies, clean air, and a balance of natural land and developed areas all contribute to making Sarasota County a desirable destination for seasonal visitors and a permanent home to so many others.”

The first workshop will take place Thursday, April 23, from 6:30-8:30 p.m., at Venice Community Center, 326 Nokomis Ave. S., Venice. The second workshop takes place Monday, April 27, from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the William L. Little Health and Human Services Center Auditorium, 2200 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota.

Those who cannot attend the workshop are urged to visit the Comprehensive Plan Update website and offer their feedback using an online survey. The survey will be open through April 30.

The Comprehensive Plan is updated regularly to reflect existing community characteristics and demographics changes, with an understanding of anticipated future trends. It also guides future development and growth.

The 18-month-long process to update the current plan, which began in March, is a series of cycles that will assess the goals, policies, objectives and gather public feedback. At the end of the process in 2016, staff will use the feedback gathered to draft a Comprehensive Plan that is simpler to use and understand.

For public meeting announcements, an events calendar and documents pertaining to the Comprehensive Plan Update process, call the Sarasota County Contact Center at 941-861-5000 or visit www.scgov.net.