Lourdes Ramirez
Determined to Make a Difference

Lourdes Ramirez, a recipient of three Citizen of the Year awards, has a proven track record of advocating for the residents of Sarasota County. In 2002, after witnessing the County Commission approve large homes that allowed for small lots to become nearly completely impervious, resulting in flooding in local neighborhoods, Lourdes became actively involved in civic organizations. She has served for many years as a board member and president of various community groups, including Protect Siesta Key (2023 - present) and the Sarasota County Council of Neighborhood Associations (CONA) (2011-2014).

In 2023, Lourdes successfully challenged Sarasota County in two court cases over their approval of a large hotel in Siesta Key Village (Ramirez v State of Florida, Department of Economic Opportunity, DOAH Case No 22-001385GM, Amended Final Order. April 5, 2023 and Ramirez v. Sarasota County, Case No. 2021-CA-5551-NC, August 21, 2023). Her dedication to the well-being of Sarasota County residents reflects her commitment to community advocacy and engagement, which have significantly impacted local policies and initiatives.