On the heels of its declaration of a public health emergency last Friday, the City of Sarasota on Monday announced that organized events and activities at its recreational facilities are suspended. It also announced that it is scaling back on upcoming meetings—including city commission meetings and city advisory board meetings—for at least the next 30 days. The move is to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in the  community.

Sarasota's parks and beaches are currently open, although health officials strongly advise visitors to restrict gatherings to 10 or fewer people. Arlington Park and Aquatic Complex, Bobby Jones Golf Club, Lido Beach Pool, Payne Park Skate Park and Tennis Center, and Robert L. Taylor Community Center will be closed to the public beginning Wednesday, March 18, through at least the end of the month.