VENICE â Since Floridaâs Certified Local Government program was established in 1986, a total of 78 cities and counties throughout the state have become members.
As such, they have access to special grants as well as an abundance of resources and networking opportunities to help preserve and manage historic resources.
And during the last 35 years, no member of the program has elected to drop out.
For more than a decade, Venice leaders have considered joining the program. While benefits seemingly outweigh drawbacks, some community leaders remain reluctant to join.
At a recent workshop of the cityâs planning commission, Veniceâs director of planning stated that âjust because the Comprehensive Plan calls for us to pursue, that doesnât mean we have to do it.â