Gov. Ron DeSantis’ “Safer at Home” executive order is in place statewide through the end of April and Sarasotans seem to be adhering to it well. After consulting with Mayor Jen Ahearn-Koch and City Attorney Bob Fournier, the local public health emergency has been extended through April 24. As required by the City Charter, the emergency declaration will be reevaluated in one week.

We consult with local health and medical experts daily, and at this time they are strongly urging caution in terms of returning to activities throughout the community. As we begin to discuss how to reopen Sarasota and minimize a rebound outbreak or second spike, we urge everyone to acquire and wear protective masks in public, particularly when going to the grocery store, pharmacy and other more populated areas.

The density maps released by the Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County show COVID-19 is in the heart of the Sarasota city limits. 56 percent of all hospital beds in the county are occupied. This was a particularly difficult week for Sarasota County with the number of COVID-19 deaths doubling and now standing at 17. 

We greatly appreciate the Health Department and Director Chuck Henry setting up a neighborhood oriented testing location at the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex in North Sarasota today. The coronavirus is affecting the minority population disproportionately, especially individuals with underlying medical conditions.  Every available appointment was filled with 30 pre-screened patients tested. This was first time individuals who work in the health care field were eligible for a test without showing symptoms.

The testing process was smooth and orderly, and with so much need in the North Sarasota community, the Health Department already plans to continue testing next Tuesday, April 21, again by appointment only. For information please call: 941-861-2883 Monday - Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.