About the Author: Kelly Kirschner | Suncoast Searchlight
How Mark Vengroff became a major force in affordable housing on the Suncoast
A few years ago, Sarasota affordable housing developer Mark Vengroff tried to buy the Magic Castle Inn and Suites in Kissimmee. Made famous in the 2017 film “The Florida Project,” the faded purple motel [...]
A bold affordable housing plan sputtered. Now Sarasota is trying again
Nearly two years ago, Sarasota’s then-City Manager Marlon Brown had an ambitious idea to purchase downtown property near City Hall and turn it into large-scale affordable housing. In an effort that would become the [...]
Sarasota mayor accused of violating First Amendment by cutting off speakers
The Sarasota City Commission ushered in the New Year facing complaints from residents who said the mayor violated citizens’ First Amendment rights during its first meeting of 2026. Mayor Debbie Trice twice interrupted speakers [...]
