A year later, hurricane damange lingers at Hermitage Artist Retreat

For nearly a year, the Hermitage Artist Retreat has waited on Sarasota County to make hurricane repairs at its Manasota Key campus. Hurricanes Helene and Milton struck last fall, leaving the nationally recognized nonprofit with damaged historic buildings and restricted programming. While Hermitage leaders say the work could be completed in weeks, county officials have indicated it may take until late 2026.

Hermitage CEO Andy Sandberg said the delays have put the retreat — and its mission of hosting world-class artists who share free programs with the community — in jeopardy.