Sarasota County officials are urged to prioritize the reopening of Midnight Pass, a vital waterway that has faced closure and deterioration over the years. Jamie DiDomenico, representing the Midnight Pass Society, addressed the Board of County Commissioners, emphasizing the need for a long-term, sustainable solution to keep the pass open.

DiDomenico highlighted the community's ongoing struggles since the pass was closed, attributing the situation to decades of inadequate political leadership. She called for a specific action plan that would ensure immediate responses if the pass were to close again or become unstable, arguing that relying on emergency plans after the fact could lead to delays and complications.

The board has previously shown commitment to this issue, having voted unanimously five times in favor of restoring or maintaining Midnight Pass. Additionally, they secured $500,000 in state funding aimed at planning and permitting a permanent solution. DiDomenico expressed gratitude for the board's past efforts and urged them to continue prioritizing this matter until a resilient solution is in place.

As the community awaits further developments, the call for action underscores the importance of maintaining access to this critical waterway for both environmental health and local interests. The board's next steps will be crucial in determining the future of Midnight Pass and the well-being of Sarasota Bay.