WVID Board of Supervisors Reaches Settlement in Assessment, Urbanization Litigation

The West Villages Improvement District (WVID) Board of Supervisors has reached settlements in two recent legal cases, both of which have been dismissed with prejudice.

In June 2025, the District settled litigation filed by Jeffrey O’Sullivan and John Coughlin challenging the WVID Board of Supervisors’ 4-1 decision to levy special assessments as part of the fiscal year 2023-24 budget.

In September 2025, the District reached a settlement with David Fernstrum regarding the Board’s adoption of urban area maps, which were previously used to determine Board of Supervisors’ turnover timelines.

As part of both settlements, the plaintiffs were required to take all necessary actions to ensure full dismissal of the cases with prejudice.

                The WVID views these settlements as a productive step forward, enabling the District to focus on delivering timely, coordinated and cost-effective infrastructure management throughout the community.

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About the District

The West Villages Improvement District (WVID) was created in 2004 by a Special Act of the Florida Legislature, pursuant to and under Chapter 189, Florida Statutes. The WVID is a limited, single and specialized purpose local government, whose purpose is to assure timely, cost-effective and high-quality and implementation of infrastructure for the district.

The WVID has the authority to plan, finance, construct, operate and maintain public infrastructure within Wellen Park. The district currently spans more than 12,000 acres within the city of North Port and unincorporated Sarasota County. Residential neighborhoods, commercial centers and the Atlanta Braves’ spring training stadium are all located within the district boundaries.

The WVID is governed by a five-member Board of Supervisors, who are elected to a term of four years. The District has the authority to borrow money, issue bonds and levy and impose special assessments, user fees and charges.