Sarasota Police take over city parking operations

SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - The Sarasota Police Department has assumed oversight of the city’s parking operations, moving Parking Services under the agency’s Patrol Division. The change took effect Wednesday.Parking enforcement employees will now be known as Parking Ambassadors. They will continue enforcing parking rules, helping with parking-related concerns and assisting residents, business owners and visitors, according to the Sarasota Police Department.The department said the move is intended to improve employee safety, customer service and coordination between parking employees and police officers.Parking Ambassadors often work alone in streets, garages and other public areas, Sarasota police said. Employees will receive additional communication resources, field support and de-escalation training as part of the transition.PREVIOUS COVERAGE | Sarasota parking operations to move under police department by end of monthThe transition will also include gradual changes to uniforms and equip