ReportWire

Tag: Citrus County

  • Hernando County rescinds countywide burn ban

    [ad_1]

    TUESDAY, MAY 13 UPDATE:

    Hernando County officals have have lifted a county-wide burn ban for all unincorporated areas of Hernando County. 

    “Hernando County has seen adequate precipitation accumulations resulting in a significant drop in the Keetch-Byram Drought Index,” officials said in a news release on Tuesday.

    Residents can resume burning within the setbacks and regulations set by the Florida Forest Service.
     

    MONDAY, MAY 12 UPDATE:

    Hillsborough County on Monday rescinded the burn ban for the incorporated and unincorporated areas of the county.

    “Due to the recent heavy rainfall and projected weather conditions, an outdoor burn no longer poses a risk to the health, safety, and welfare of County
    residents,” the county said in a news release.

    County Administrator Bonnie Wise signed an Executive Order today. To read the Executive Order, visit https://hcfl.gov/residents/stay-safe/emergency-orders. County officials will continue to monitor the conditions and update residents as needed.

    While the burn ban order has been rescinded, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue reminds residents to always take steps to prevent fires.
     

    PREVIOUS UPDATES TO THIS STORY:

    HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – As the dry season continues across the Bay area, more counties are issuing burn bans.

    Hillsborough County issued an emergency burn ban Friday on all outdoor open burning in all areas of the county.  

    In a news release, the county said: “Warm temperatures and dry conditions have combined to increase the danger of wildfires in our area. The only exceptions are a constantly attended barbecue grill for outdoor cooking, certain agricultural enterprises in eastern and southern Hillsborough County that can dispose of agricultural plastic through controlled burns, and burning that has been specifically allowed by the Florida Forest Service. “

    County Administrator Bonnie Wise signed an Executive Order today, April 25, 2025. Under the executive order:  

    • A local state of emergency is declared. 
    • All outdoor open burning is prohibited.  
    • The order bans fireworks and sparklers. 
    • Outdoor grilling is allowed, as long as the flames are contained within a grill, and the fire is constantly attended. 

    By law, the order can be in effect for no more than seven days. If conditions persist, the order can be extended.

    What You Need To Know

    • Hillsborough County is the latest to issue a ban, issuing it on Tuesday.

    • Citrus, Hernando, Polk and Pasco counties also are under a burn restriction from the Florida Forest Service. Pinellas County does not have a burn ban, but open burning of yard debris is prohibited year-round

    • Florida Forest Service: Enacted Burn Bans

    Hillsborough County’s decision comes just days after Manatee County issued its own ban.

    “We are deeply concerned about the ongoing hot and dry conditions that have significantly increased the risk of wildfires in our community,” Manatee County Commission Chair George Kruse said Tuesday. “We urge all citizens to remain vigilant, adhere to the restrictions, and exercise caution during this period.

    Emergency Managers point out that the ban includes items containing any “explosive compound,” sparklers, any item or product using or containing any amount of pyrotechnic composition, flares, open burning and campfires because of the increasingly dry conditions in the county.

    Manatee County’s ban is in effect until 11:59 p.m. on April 29.

    Citrus, Hernando, Polk and Pasco counties also are under a burn restriction from the Florida Forest Service. Hillsborough and Pinellas counties do not have burn bans but open burning of yard debris is prohibited year-round.

    The burn ban prohibits:
    • Campfires
    • Bonfires
    • Unpermitted controlled burns
    • Burning yard and household trash
    • Burning construction debris
    • Burning organic debris
    • Igniting fireworks and
    • Noncommercial burning of materials other than for religious or ceremonial purposes, in which case they must be contained in a barbecue grill or barbecue pit, and the total fuel area cannot exceed 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height.

     


    “In an abundance of caution and after looking at all the information provided, we have decided it is necessary that we issue a burn ban,” said Polk County Fire Rescue Fire Chief Shawn Smith. “We are experiencing widespread dry conditions across Polk County that leads to the increased potential for wildfires. So, to minimize the risk and help ensure the safety of all Polk County residents and visitors along with our public safety members, we ask you to be a good neighbor and adhere to the ban while it is in effect.”

    Anyone who refuses to comply or violates this burn ban will be in violation of Polk County Ordinance 08-015 and can be punished by a fine not to exceed $500 or by imprisonment not to exceed 60 days in the county jail or both. 

    Smoke/Air Quality

    The Keetch-Byram Drought Index

    The burn ban is determined using the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI). The KBDI is a continuous reference scale, ranging from 0 to 800. It assesses the moisture content from no moisture deficiency (0) to maximum drought conditions (800) of the soil. This helps predict the potential for wildfires.

    Utilizing the KBDI, the process of a burn ban begins once more than 50% of the county reaches 500 on the index. Polk County’s current daily reading is 55% over the 500 benchmark with a countywide average of 503.

    FIRE DANGER INDEX


     

     

     

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Floridians mark Hurricane Preparedness Week before season starts

    [ad_1]

    TAMPA, Fla. – As Floridians continue to prepare for the upcoming storm season, state officials are focusing on safety with Hurricane Preparedness Week.

    This week’s Hurricane Preparedness Week 2025, which runs through May 10, focuses on a different topic each day. 

    What You Need To Know

    Here’s how the week breaks down:

    May 4:  Know your risk: Wind and water

    May 5:  Prepare before hurricane season

    May 6:  Understand forecast information

    May 7:  Get moving when a storm threatens

    May 8: Stay Protected during storms

    May 9: Use caution after storms

    May 10: Take action today


    The Spectrum Bay News 9 Weather Experts stress the best time to prepare for hurricanes is before hurricane season starts.

    In conjunction with that message, the Bay News 9 Weather Experts will host hurricane expos throughout the Bay area, answering questions and giving a seasonal outlook.

    See the listed dates and locations here.

    Also, before storm season kicks off, now is a good time to download the Spectrum News App.

    The Bay News 9 meteorologists are always providing updates heading into the rainy season and sharing what you should know if anything developments and heads our way.

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Bay News 9 meteorologists to appear at hurricane expos ahead of storm season

    [ad_1]

    BY

    Spectrum News Staff

    Tampa

    UPDATED 4:11 PM ET May. 01, 2025
    PUBLISHED 2:03 PM ET May 01, 2025
    PUBLISHED 2:03 PM EDT May 01, 2025

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Florida’s Tax Day deadline pushed back due to storms

    [ad_1]

    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Today is April 15, which means tax returns are due.

    But for filers in Florida, the deadline has been pushed back to May 1 due to hurricanes Helene and Milton.

    What You Need To Know

    • IRS has pushed the deadline back to May 1 for those directly impacted by hurricanes Helene and Milton
       
    • Taxpayers get the extra time without having to ask for it
    • IRS.gov has a variety of information to help disaster victims navigate common situations in the aftermath of disasters

    IRS.gov has a variety of information to help disaster victims navigate common situations in the aftermath of disasters. The IRS also has a special hotline specifically dedicated to taxpayers with disaster-related tax questions; disaster victims can call the agency’s disaster hotline at 866-562-5227.

    Here is a rundown on tax help available from the IRS.

    More time to file and pay

    The IRS automatically gives taxpayers whose address of record is in a disaster-area locality more time to file returns and pay taxes. Taxpayers get the extra time without having to ask for it.

    • Currently, taxpayers in the entire states of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina, and parts of Tennessee and Virginia, who received extensions to file their 2023 returns have until May 1, 2025, to file. Tax-year 2023 tax payments are not eligible for this extension. In addition, May 1 is also the deadline for filing 2024 returns and paying any tax due.

    The IRS is offering relief to any area designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The current list of eligible localities is always available on the Tax relief in disaster situations page on IRS.gov.

    This page also provides disaster updates and links to resources, and information is usually available on the IRS Twitter (now X) account as well.

    Disaster payments usually tax-free

    Qualified disaster relief payments are generally excluded from gross income. In general, this means that affected taxpayers can exclude from their gross income amounts received from a government agency for reasonable and necessary personal, family, living or funeral expenses, as well as for the repair or rehabilitation of their home, or for the repair or replacement of its contents. See Publication 525, Taxable and Nontaxable Income, for details.

    What else is different this year?

    The IRS has expanded a program that allows people to file their taxes directly with the agency for free. The federal Direct File program, which permits taxpayers to calculate and submit their returns without using commercial tax preparation software, is now available to taxpayers in 25 states, up from 12 states that were part of last year’s pilot program.

    The program allows people in some states with very simple W-2s to calculate and submit their returns directly to the IRS. Those using the pilot program in 2024 claimed more than $90 million in refunds, the IRS said in October.

    What if I have a tax liability?

    For those that have a tax liability and don’t have the money to cover the tax bill, ignoring the tax filing deadline of May 1st could bring punishing late filing fees and interest.

    The IRS offers a number of options for those that can’t cover tax liabilities, including short and long-term payments plans with interest rates starting at 7% here https://www.irs.gov/payments/payment-plans-installment-agreements.

    On the flip-side of owning taxes, the IRS has just released its unclaimed tax returns from the 2021 tax season.

    The IRS says it is currently holding more than $1-billion-dollars in unclaimed returns nationwide, with $61-million-dollars of it being owed back to around 70-thousand Floridians.  For more information on unclaimed returns, visit here https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/more-than-1-billion-in-2021-tax-refunds-still-unclaimed-taxpayers-should-act-now-to-see-if-they-are-eligible.

    [ad_2]

    Jason Lanning

    Source link

  • Hurricane Milton by the numbers

    [ad_1]

    TAMPA, Fla. — The National Hurricane Center released its final report on Hurricane Milton. Here are the final numbers from around Tampa Bay.

    What You Need To Know

    • Milton was one of the strongest hurricanes on record in the Atlantic basin

    • It had peak winds of 180 mph

    • Milton made landfall near Siesta Key on Oct. 9, 2024

    • More than 20 inches of rain fell in St. Petersburg
    • More Hurricane Milton stories

    MILTON STATS

    Milton was one of the strongest hurricanes on record in the Atlantic basin, reaching Category 5 intensity in the Gulf on Oct. 7, 2024 with peak winds 180 mph (155 kts).

    The pressure is estimated to have been 895 mb at the time of peak intensity. This ties Hurricane Rita of 2005 for the fourth-lowest minimum central pressure in the Atlantic basin. The lower central pressures include 882 mb in Wilma in 2005, 888 mb in Gilbert in 1988 and 892 mb in the Labor Day Hurricane of 1935.

    Milton made landfall near Siesta Key on Oct. 9, 2024 at 8:30 p.m. as a Category 3 hurricane with max winds of 115 mph.

    The NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) estimates that Milton caused $34.3 billion in damage in the United States, almost exclusively in Florida.

    One prominent building damaged by the hurricane was Tropicana Field, where the fabric roof was ripped off by high winds followed by water damage from rain falling into the stadium.

    The report notes that the west coast most affected by Hurricane Milton had also been affected by Hurricane Helene two weeks before, which complicated damage assessments.

    In Florida, Milton caused hurricane conditions along the west coast from Clearwater Beach and Tampa southward across Sarasota to near Venice. Tropical storm conditions occurred elsewhere across the Florida Peninsula south of a Cedar Key – Fernandina Beach line, with hurricane-force wind gusts reported in central Florida near the track of the center.

    STORM SURGE

    Here are the storm surge numbers from Florida’s Gulf Coast.

    • 4-6 ft from Longboat key to Venice and near landfall location.
    • 1-2 feet Tampa Bay (a sharp gradient in the surge occurred north of the landfall location where the winds were mostly offshore)
    • 4–6 ft south of Boca Grande through Bonita Beach.
    • 5–8 ft in the northern portion of Charlotte Harbor and along the Peace River.
    • 6–9 ft from Venice southward to Boca Grande
    • An isolated peak of up to 10 ft estimated near Manasota Key, excluding the height of waves.

    There were destructive storm surge impacts to the Manasota Key beach front community and significant coastal erosion. A new inlet was opened termed Milton Pass. Survey crews concluded that the water was moving extremely fast and the wave action was tremendous, leading to ‘blowout’ of the first floor of many structures.

    The report notes that the same area had a significant storm surge from Hurricane Helene two weeks prior, and the erosion and debris from its aftermath compounded the damages incurred during Milton.

    WINDS

    Here are the top wind reports from Milton that were recorded over water:

    • Egmont Key 86/105 mph
    • Skyway Fishing Pier 73/102 mph
    • Sarasota-Bradenton Airport 69/102 mph
    • Middle Tampa Bay 74/98 mph
    • Egmont Channel 78/100 mph

    Here are the top wind reports from each county around Tampa Bay:

    • Manatee County: Peak wind gusts 80 to 100 mph, Sarasota-Bradenton Airport 102 mph wind gust
    • Pinellas County: Peak wind gusts 80 to 100 mph, St. Petersburg Albert Whitted Airport 101 mph wind gust
    • Hillsborough County: Peak wind gusts 80 to 100 mph, Tampa Airport 93 mph wind gust
    • Polk County: Peak wind gusts 80 to 90 mph, Winter Haven Airport 87 mph wind gust
    • Pasco County: Peak wind gusts 65 to 75 mph, Zephyrhills 59 mph wind gust
    • Hernando County: Peak wind gusts 60 to 70 mph, Brooksville 76 mph wind gust
    • Citrus County: Peak wind gusts 50 to 60 mph., Inverness 58 mph wind gust

    RAINFALL AND FLOODING

    Milton produced a large area of heavy rain across portions of the central and northern Florida Peninsula, including 10 to 20 inches of rain in Tampa Bay.

    The highest reported storm total rainfall was 20.40 inches at a Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network (CoCoRaHS) site near St. Petersburg.

    Here’s a collection of rainfall reports from the airports, CoCoRaHS, and other sites:

    • 20.40” St. Petersburg
    • 18.88” St. Petersburg Albert Whitted Airport
    • 18.82” near Westchase
    • 16.88” Largo
    • 15.66” Temple Terrace
    • 15.03” Pinellas Park
    • 14.94” Dade City
    • 14.15” Trilby
    • 14.73” Dover
    • 14.13” Zephyrhills
    • 13.68” Oldsmar
    • 13.62” Thonotosassa
    • 13.13” Lakeland Airport
    • 13.05” Plant City
    • 13.05” Bradenton
    • 12.78” Gulfport
    • 12.52” Clearwater
    • 12.32” Citrus Park
    • 11.91” Riverview
    • 11.73” Tampa Airport
    • 11.63” Safety Harbor
    • 11.40” Wesley Chapel
    • 11.10” Tarpon Springs
    • 10.44” Ruskin
    • 10.28” Auburndale
    • 9.67” Lithia
    • 9.46” Spring Hill
    • 9.07” Weeki Wachee
    • 9.02” Elfers
    • 8.15” Myakka Head
    • 7.74” Floral City
    • 7.58” Sarasota/Bradenton Airport
    • 7.51” Homosassa
    • 7.47” Wimauma
    • 7.31” New Port Richey
    • 7.17” Inverness
    • 6.49” Brooksville Airport
    • 6.48” Lecanto
    • 4.77” Holder
    • 4.60 Winter Haven Airport

    Here’s an interactive rainfall map from around Florida.


    These rains caused widespread river and urban flooding, particularly in Tampa Bay with record-high crests on the Hillsborough River: a crest of 38.16 feet at Morris Bridge on Oct. 12 and 17.14 feet near Zephyrhills at Hillsborough River State Park on Oct. 10.

    TORNADOES

    Milton caused a significant tornado outbreak over the southern and central portions of the Florida Peninsula on Oct. 9.

    • Milton caused a significant tornado outbreak over the southern and central portions of the Florida Peninsula on Oct. 9
    • 45 known tornadoes on land and a tornadic waterspout over Lake Okeechobee
    • The outbreak included 3 EF3 tornadoes, 6 EF2 tornadoes, 25 EF1 tornadoes, 7 EF0 tornadoes and 4 tornadoes of unknown intensity.
    • One of the EF3 tornadoes killed six people near Fort Pierce and Vero Beach.
    • There were 14 known injuries associated with the tornadoes.

    Here is an interactive map of the tornadoes produced by Hurricane Milton.


    IMPACTS

    Milton is currently known to be responsible for 15 direct deaths – 12 in the United States (all in Florida) and 3 in Mexico.

    • Six people died due to the tornado near Fort Pierce and Vero Beach.
    • Four people were killed by falling trees, while there were two deaths due to freshwater flooding.

    Milton caused 27 indirect deaths in the United States, all in Florida.

    Most of the deaths were due to health issues during storm preparations or post-storm clean-up or due to falls related to storm preparations, clean-up, or power failures.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Easter events ‘egg’-spected to take place across Tampa Bay for 2025

    [ad_1]

    BY

    Spectrum News Staff

    Tampa

    UPDATED 12:05 PM ET Apr. 03, 2025
    PUBLISHED 12:51 PM ET Mar. 12, 2025
    PUBLISHED 12:51 PM EDT Mar. 12, 2025

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Local stakeholders, officials tour King’s Bay to protect waterways

    [ad_1]

    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — A local effort is underway to protect Citrus County’s waters.

    The Sierra Club Florida Chapter recently hosted a special boat tour of areas along Kings Bay in an effort to protect and improve Florida’s waterways.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Sierra Club Florida Chapter hosted a special boat tour of areas along Kings Bay in an effort to protect and improve Florida’s waterways

    • Part of that mission included inviting some key stakeholders and local officials along for the ride
    • Experts say the waters play a crucial role in Citrus County’s economy and wildlife, like manatees, which serve an important role in the area’s tourism
    • Those with the Sierra Club say they hope local officials and key decision makers will take action to help get the springs on the road to recovery


    Officials with the Sierra Club say things like hurricanes, development and fertilizer runoff have all contributed to the problems seen at places like Kings Bay. Among them are erosion, algae growth and reductions in seagrass, which manatees rely on to survive.

    Outside PaddleTail Lodge, the group gathered to tour the area’s waterways. Organizers said to better understand what’s happening to it, one has to actually touch the water’s surface.

    “Really to help connect the dots as far as what’s going on within our springs, and how different stakeholders and groups are working together to help restore our springs to their former glory,” said Michael McGrath, a lead organizer with the Sierra Club Florida Chapter.

    Part of that mission included inviting some key stakeholders along for the ride, under the guidance of Capt. John Spann with PaddleTail Waterfront Adventures, who has witnessed firsthand how the waters have changed throughout the years.

    “It’s everything,” said Spann. “It’s the fertilizer we put on our yard, it’s our septic tank when we flush our toilet, it’s the city water sources if they’re using them and how they’re being managed, it’s golf courses, it’s agriculture. Everybody plays a part and the more we realize that we’re all part of the problem, the easier it is to make everybody be part of the solution.” 

    It’s those waters that play such a crucial role in Citrus County’s economy. Without these springs, there would not be any manatees — which are a significant part of the area’s tourism.

    “We know what we’re doing is a problem,” Spann said. “It’s trying to get back ahead of that curve to protect the ones we do have left, especially up here in North Florida.”

    Some of those areas impacted on the water are noticeable from the surface, including spots of erosion that have taken place along the shore.

    “Being on the water today, it all became a tremendous reality of what’s happened,” said Citrus County Chamber of Commerce Vice President Ardath Prendergast. “The erosion, to me, emphasizes how important it is that we all play our part to protect this area.”

    And Spann said the solution starts with getting everyone on board.

    “Just educate people,” he said. “Most people don’t know that if they fertilize their yard 30 yards away from the springs, it can affect that water system. So just letting people know how this interconnected system works.”

    Those with the Sierra Club say they hope local officials and key decision makers take action to help get the springs on the road to recovery.

    [ad_2]

    Calvin Lewis

    Source link

  • Crystal River named among HGTV’s 50 ‘Most Charming’ small towns list in the U.S.

    [ad_1]

    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — This small town has been declared one of the “Most Charming” in America.

    What You Need To Know

    • Crystal River has been recognized by HGTV as one of the “Most Charming” small towns in America

    • The new designation is bringing some much-needed attention to the Nature Coast, along with the best in what it has to offer
    • According to Crystal River officials, Citrus County sees more than 1.6 million visitors a year
    • It has been a stark contrast from where Crystal River was only a matter of months ago, with businesses and areas damaged by Hurricanes Helene and Milton


    Recently, HGTV released a list of the 50 Most Charming Small Towns in America. One Florida small town, located along the Nature Coast, made the list.

    The new designation is making waves for Crystal River and the Nature Coast.

    Along the shores of Hunter Springs Park, dozens can be seen enjoying nature.

    “This is one of the prettiest small towns I’ve ever lived in, and I love it very much,” said Crystal River City Manager Audra Curts.

    “A designation like this just puts our name out nationwide,” Curts added. “More people from the United States, more people from outside our country will come here and visit and see the wonders of Crystal River. It’s just a wonderful thing for supporting the local economy here.”

    It’s a designation that comes as no surprise to Curts and tourism director Auvis Cole. They get to enjoy what this small town has to offer every day.

    “The cool thing about it: This was something that was not voted on,” said Cole. “We were selected.”

    In their eyes, it’s bringing some much-needed attention to the Nature Coast, and brings out the best it has to offer.

    “People want to relax,” said Cole. “People want to enjoy the nature — the natural and original beauty of Florida. And when they come here, they’re able to unwind a little bit and get away from the hustle and bustle.”

    It has been a stark contrast from where Crystal River was only a matter of months ago, with businesses and areas damaged by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. But now, with spring in the air, tourist season is in full-swing.

    “We welcome over 1.6 million people a year annually,” said Cole. “To some, that may be a lot, but the cool thing about it is it pumps a lot of financial benefits into our local economy and our businesses, our tour operators, our restaurants, our hotels — our residents. We can all take part in that.”

    And as more flock to the area, Cole says he hopes it will open travelers’ eyes to what else this small town has to offer.

    “You talk about the culinary scene, you talk about the shops,” Cole said. “Again, the people, the parks — we have things like different centers, like the refuge wildlife centers, which are amazing.”

    [ad_2]

    Calvin Lewis

    Source link

  • Scammers pose as vendors, steal $800k from Citrus County schools

    [ad_1]

    INVERNESS, Fla. – Investigators are working to uncover a cyber fraud that scammed more than $800,000 from the Citrus County School Board.

    According to the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office, the scheme resulted in fraudulent transfers totaling $846,864.86.

    What You Need To Know

    • Investigators are working to uncover a cyber fraud that scammed more than $800,000 from the Citrus County School Board

    • According to the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office, the scheme resulted in fraudulent transfers totaling $846,864.86

    • The case remains under active investigation by the sheriff’s office and U.S. Secret Service

    School officials said they became aware of issues when they were alerted by a vendor that a payment was not received.

    Officials were able to confirm the payment had been made, but to a fraudulent party that had emulated the vendor’s email and provided a falsified account number.

    Authorities say the suspect is operating outside of Florida and has no known ties to the school board.

    This type of cyber fraud, commonly known as “business email compromise” (BEC), occurs when suspects gain unauthorized access to email communications and impersonate legitimate entities to divert funds.

    “The moment we discovered this was a fraudulent transaction, we immediately contacted our partners at the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office,” said Dr. Scott Hebert, Superintendent of Schools. “Their swift response, along with the expertise of the United States Secret Service, was instrumental in recovering the majority of the stolen funds.”

    The Secret Service was able to ID and freeze $779,604 in two separate bank accounts outside of Florida. These funds were later recovered and efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining $67,260.

    The case remains under active investigation by the sheriff’s office and U.S. Secret Service.

    “As with any criminal case, my priority is to the victims in the case, whether that is a person, business, or government agency,” said Sheriff David Vincent. “This case could have been a significant financial loss to our local school district; our priority was locating the funds and securing them.”

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Teenager’s body discovered near Cypress Lake Preserve

    [ad_1]

    HERNANDO COUNTY, Fla. – The Hernando County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death of a teenage girl and has announced an arrest.

    According to authorities, a body was found by a passerby at around 9:35 a.m. Thursday just off Ridge Manor Boulevard in Ridge Manor, near the Cypress Lake Preserve.

    Deputies say the victim snuck out of her house around 1:30 a.m. Thursday and met up with the suspect. Investigators believe she was murdered shortly after that.

    “There is no murder that is easy to work. When it involves a young person, I will tell you that it tugs at the heartstrings of everyone involved whether they have children or not, but if they have children obviously it’s even more heartwrenching.”

    The victim’s name hasn’t been released.

    A 16-year-old has been charged with first-degree murder. Sheriff Al Nienhuis said he couldn’t release many details about the relationship between the suspect and victim, but did say they knew each other.

    The suspect lives close to the city limits of Brooksville, the sheriff said.

    The sheriff added that the suspect for now is being charged as a juvenile. Spectrum News is not releasing the suspect’s name due to company crime guidelines.

    Nienhuis said an “edged” weapon was used in the killing and that it was “nothing short of violent.”

    He said the charges may be changed to charge the suspect as an adult.

    The investigation is still under way, Nienhuis said.

    Anyone with information on this incident is asked to call the Sheriff’s Office at (352) 754-6830 and ask to speak to Detective J. Mitro. 

    This is a developing story and any additional information will be provided as it becomes available. 

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Recent manatee deaths have Homosassa homeowners concerned about wildlife

    [ad_1]

    HOMOSASSA, Fla. — A few homeowners are growing concerned after a string of manatee deaths in their own backyard.

    What You Need To Know

    • Homosassa residents are growing concerned after a recent string of manatee deaths in their own backyard

    • Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is currently investigating the deaths, with some locals becoming vocal over the issue
    • One strong belief from locals is that the construction on US-19 has something to do with the recent deaths
    • According to a statement from FWC, staff have not found any evidence to suggest the manatee deaths and fish kills are related


    The recent deaths have sparked an investigation by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), with some locals becoming vocal over the issue.

    Nestled in a quiet habitat along the Halls River, Sally Krasny looks out on her backyard. A view she’s been enjoying for 27 years and counting.

    “We used to have crabs all over the place. We’d see the kids and the shells hunting for crabs. We’d have lots of birds in the winter,” she said. “We’re known as the Nature Coast and our resources need to be protected.”

    But recently, there’s been an issue on the water. A recent string of deaths involving manatees and catfish. Something, Krasny says, that has not happened before.

    “We have never seen a kill off the way we’re experiencing right now,” Krasny said. “We’re not seeing the wildlife here. There is no eel grass left in the Halls River.”

    It’s for this reason that has Krasny and other homeowners, like Laura King, concerned.

    “It’s quite shocking,” said King. “The first one I cried. I know people think that’s silly to cry over wildlife, but I spend so much time out here. They’re like my pets — we name them and I know them by their scars.”

    One strong belief from Krasny and a few others is that the cause is nearby, believing the construction on US-19 has something to do with the recent deaths.

    “It started when they started the highway project and started digging the retention ponds,” says Krasny. “We objected to them and they convinced us that the ponds would not affect our rivers at all.”

    Whatever the cause may be, locals like King and Krasny say they will remain vocal for the wildlife.

    “This is our passion — is nature,” said Krasny. “And so I’m going to protect it the best way I can. It’s my backyard.”

    A backyard worth protecting.

    Spectrum News did reach out for comment from the FWC. A spokesperson with the FWC provided the following statement:

    The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is investigating a fish kill in the Homosassa River, which primarily affected hardhead catfish (Ariopsis felis), and was first reported to FWC’s Fish Kill Hotline on March 9th relaying dead fish had been observed for one week prior to the call. On March 15, FWC staff visited the site, collected three water samples, all of which were associated with normal water quality parameters (dissolved oxygen, pH, salinity, temperature). Due to decomposition, staff could not collect fish samples for necropsy. Analysis of water samples for harmful algal blooms is pending.   

    FWC is also monitoring an increase in manatee deaths from the Homosassa River. Since January, FWC has confirmed ten manatee carcasses in the Homosassa River, and four additional carcasses in its tributaries. At least five of the manatee deaths are attributed to an acute natural gut infection from a dietary change to macroalgae, which has been documented before when colder weather restricts manatee movements to areas with seagrass.  

    At this time, staff have found no evidence to suggest the manatee mortality and fish kill events are related. 

    We urge the public to continue to report any sightings of sick, injured, or dead manatees or other wildlife to FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 1-888-404-FWCC (3922).  
     
    To report a fish kill, diseased fish, or a fish with other abnormalities to FWC’s Fish Kill Hotline you can call: 800-636-0511 or submit a report online at MyFWC.com/ReportFishKill.

    [ad_2]

    Calvin Lewis

    Source link

  • Cold weather shelter opening in Citrus County Friday night

    [ad_1]

    BY

    Spectrum News Staff

    Citrus County

    UPDATED 12:03 PM ET Mar. 21, 2025
    PUBLISHED 11:34 AM ET Mar. 21, 2025
    PUBLISHED 11:34 AM EDT Mar. 21, 2025

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Citrus County and Inverness working collaboratively on courthouse makeover

    [ad_1]

    INVERNESS, Fla. — A historic courthouse in Citrus County is getting a big makeover.

    What You Need To Know

    • A renovation has been approved for the Old Citrus County Courthouse in downtown Inverness

    • Inverness City Council approved a bid to refurbish the historic courthouse in a cooperative effort with Citrus County
    • The last time the courthouse saw any upgrades was 20 years ago
    • Work is expected to be done in June at a cost of about $1 million


    Inverness City Council approved a bid to refurbish the historic downtown courthouse in a cooperative effort with Citrus County. It’s bringing some much-needed revitalization to a downtown gem.

    “It’s an iconic building,” said Eric Williams, city manager for the City of Inverness. “It’s probably the most significant, historic building in Citrus County.”

    At the corner of US-41 and Courthouse Square proudly stands the Old Citrus County Courthouse: a centerpiece of downtown Inverness.

    “These buildings create such an iconic destination,” Williams said. “Being a ‘small town done right,’ you need the old courthouse. Blending that in with the city’s approach to redevelopment over the last 20 years has just really been something we’ve been dying to have happen.”

    Officials recently approved a refurbishment project for the courthouse, including exterior painting, new windows, and improved landscaping. Work has already gotten underway.

    “An amazing asset that we have is an opportunity to leverage it,” says Steve Howard, county administrator with the Citrus County Board of County Commissioners. “Again, keep the history that’s here — we never want to forget the history. We have an opportunity to share this with the next generation and that’s exciting.”

    It’s a major overhaul for a building that has witnessed so much throughout the years, including serving as a backdrop to the movie, “Follow That Dream,” starring Elvis Presley.

    The last time the courthouse saw any upgrades was 20 years ago.

    “We serve all the same citizens, but what an opportunity to leverage assets all together — look at this together — but also have some thought put into future planning,” said Howard.

    Work on the courthouse may also be the first step in a wider-reaching partnership between city and county with future projects down the road.

    “I think there’s some opportunities for the future as we look to maximize things like our tourist development council and the relationships with the city’s park and rec and cultural arts program,” says Williams. “I see those things really being huge, because the more that we work together, I think there’s a brighter day and a high tide for the community.”

    A big step for the self-proclaimed, “small city done right.”

    Workers have already begun work on the courthouse and expect to finish in June. The project’s estimated cost is about $1 million.

    [ad_2]

    Calvin Lewis

    Source link

  • Dedicated group of veterans coming together as Citrus County Veterans Coalition

    [ad_1]

    INVERNESS, Fla. — A dedicated group of veterans in Citrus County is coming together to help their community. 

    For more than 20 years, the Citrus County Veterans Coalition has brought aid to their brothers and sisters. The group is helping other veterans when they are at their most vulnerable.

    “We’re veterans helping veterans,” said Chairman of the Citrus County Veterans Coalition Richard Floyd.

    What You Need To Know

    • For more than 20 years, the Citrus County Veterans Coalition has been helping fellow vets in their community

    • Volunteers with the group are bringing aid to their brothers and sisters primarily through the coalition’s food pantry
    • Help comes in a variety of forms, from food and electric bills to yard work and building handicap ramps
    • The Citrus County Veterans Coalition is open on Tuesdays starting at 10 o’clock


    Inside a small building off North Paul Drive, Richard Floyd helps run the Citrus County Veterans Coalition with a team of vets from throughout Citrus County.

    “We have a full range that we give out and we normally give out anywhere between 35 and 40 lbs. of food, usually,” Floyd said.

    Floyd has been with the group for more than 20 years, nearly as long as they have existed. It’s a special bond that unites volunteers to help out their fellow vets.

    “They kind of become your brothers and sisters, so they become family,” said Brenda Wingate, treasurer and food manager of the Citrus County Veterans Coalition. “Anything you can do to help family, I love to do.”

    Help primarily comes through the food pantry that Wingate runs. But it also comes in other forms, like offering a lending hand at home.

    “If any veteran comes in, whether it’s food, electric bills,” Wingate said. “If they need help with yard work, if they need help with a ramp, anything we can help them with, we will go out of our way to help them or find them somebody who can help them.”

    It’s work that is making a meaningful impact not only on their community, but on themselves. 

    “You know you’re doing something right and you’re making yourself feel good about what you do,” said Floyd.

    The Citrus County Veterans Coalition is open on Tuesdays at 10 a.m. 

    [ad_2]

    Calvin Lewis

    Source link

  • They know it’s weird – that’s the point of the Oddities Market

    [ad_1]

    It’s a celebration of the odd.

    On Sunday, Feb. 23, Citrus County will host the First Inverness Oddity Market of the year.

    It’s an opportunity to buy unique items like taxidermy, bugs, bones, art, 3D jewelry and other curiosities.

    “I think there’s really something for everybody,” said Allison Doty, a taxidermist who will be one of about 65 vendors at the event. “You have to have an open mind about it.”

    The event runs from noon to 4 p.m. at the Citrus County Fairgrounds, located at 3600 S. Florida Avenue in Inverness. The event is free to attend.

    [ad_2]

    Jeff Butera

    Source link

  • Report: Almost half of statewide storm insurance claims have been denied

    [ad_1]

    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Driving around the Bay area coast, it’s clear last year’s hurricanes wreaked havoc, causing billions of dollars in damage.

    Now, there’s a better way to understand the magnitude of the damage.


    New numbers show more than 329,000 statewide residential property insurance claims since the storms.

    But those same numbers indicate less than half those claims have been paid out, per the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (FLOIR).

    According to a Realtor.com report, 42% of the claims have been paid. But more than 40% were denied, indicating it was either something the policy did not cover, or the damage fell below the deductible.

    As for the claims still open, 7% of them are still in the evaluation process, according to state regulators.

    Overall, according to FLOIR, residential property insurance policies have paid out $2.4 billion in claims related to Milton, and $500 million for Helene.

    Excluding federal flood insurance, total payments for the two hurricanes in Florida during 2024, including commercial and auto policies, have topped $5.7 billion.

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • One person found dead in Homosassa house fire

    [ad_1]

    CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. — One person is dead following a house fire Tuesday night in Homosassa.

    According to Citrus County Fire Rescue, crews responded Tuesday just after 11 p.m. to a structure fire in the Sugarmill Woods community. Authorities said the 2,400-square foot home was 80 percent involved in flames when crews arrived.

    The roof of the structure collapsed shortly after crews arrived, prompting firefighters to take defensive positioning. Still, crews were able to prevent the spread of the fire to neighboring homes.

    Once the fire was out, a search of the home led to the discovery of a body.

    The state Fire Marshal’s Office, Citrus County Sheriff’s Office and Medical Examiner are conducting an investigation into the fire. Due to the extensive damage and the ongoing investigation, the origin and cause of the fire remain undetermined. 

    The identity of the victim is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. 

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Federal cuts being felt at Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge

    [ad_1]

    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — Concerns are mounting when it comes to job security at a Citrus County wildlife refuge.

    What You Need To Know

    • Staff and employees with the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge are fearing the elimination of their jobs amid federal spending cuts

    • Two positions, a visitor services specialist and volunteer coordinator, were eliminated last week

    • In 2015, there were 12 employees on staff at the refuge, but following funding cuts in 2018, 2020 and now, only six remain


    Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge employees are fearing the elimination of jobs amid federal spending cuts. This isn’t the first time they’ve gone through staff and funding cuts and now are doing what they can to be prepared.

    At the water’s edge of King’s Bay, proudly stands the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge.

    For years, the hub has operated as a window to nature for visitors of all ages. But recently, some forceful changes had to be made. 

    “Historically, anytime there are governmental cuts, unfortunately, U.S. Fish and Wildlife is one of the most vulnerable agencies, so we tend to feel the blow a little bit more than some of the other agencies in federal government,” said K.C. Nayfield, president of Friends of Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge.

    Funding and jobs are being cut at the federal level, and the wildlife refuge and its visitor’s center were included, with two positions being eliminated last week.

    “We lost our visitor services specialist and our volunteer coordinator,” Nayfield said. “These were two positions that were vital to make sure this refuge funs smoothly, efficiently and effectively. It’s going to be very difficult to function without them.”

    The visitor center coordinator is responsible for education programs, and he said it’s a significant loss that will impact their operation, including field trips.

    “These volunteers put in between 25 and 30,000 hours per year and they save U.S. Fish and Wildlife hundreds of thousands of dollars per year with the work they do out here in Three Sisters and in King’s Bay,” said Nayfield.

    While the impact from those cuts is being felt immediately, Nayfield said he is remaining optimistic.

    “It’s just going to take a little while to adapt and hopefully, maybe, we can get these guys back and fill these positions at some time in the future,” he said.

    And he is hopeful that the refuge will be able to continue educating people for years to come.

    This is not the first time the refuge has had to deal with cuts. In 2015, there were 12 employees on staff, but following cuts in 2018, 2020 and now, only six remain.

    [ad_2]

    Calvin Lewis

    Source link

  • Reconstruction efforts underway on Fort Island Gulf Beach and boat ramp

    [ad_1]

    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — A popular beaching spot in Citrus County is remaining closed months after Hurricane Helene.

    What You Need To Know

    • Fort Island Gulf Beach is undergoing a major facelift, after storm surge from Hurricane Helene wiped out the tiny beach and its facilities

    • Efforts to restore the beach for visitors and residents alike are ongoing
    • Focus has been on getting the beach area open first and then the park’s boat ramp
    • The county anticipates reopening Fort Island Gulf Beach on or before Feb. 21


    Fort Island Gulf Beach is undergoing a major facelift, after storm surge wiped out the tiny beach and its facilities. Efforts to restore the beach for visitors and residents alike are ongoing.

    “It’s all the way out on the Gulf, so this is one of the few areas where you can spend time right on the Gulf,” said Eric Head, Community Services Director for Citrus County. 

    The beach park was one of Hurricane Helene’s victims last September. With storm surge wiping out the beach and forcing the county to demolish existing restroom facilities that were there.

    “We were already recovering from Idalia the year before,” said Head. “The beach was still open and the pier had been damaged, but Helene pretty much finished it off. It did an extensive amount of damage to this little island. It took out our restrooms, it took out the pier and took out the boat ramp dock.”

    It’s been a trying time, as Head says. But county staff have been hard at work. Striving to get the beach back open quickly and safely.

    “Staff have already cleared the parking lots. They’ve redone the parking areas, the signage is going back into place, and we’ve made the area safe for folks to come back,” Head said.

    With the beach close to being back, attention turns to other areas in the park. Including the damaged fishing pier and tidying up the boat ramp.

    “That’s going to take a little more time,” Head said. “As soon as we get this finished, our attention has been and is going to get more prioritized on the pier and the boardwalk so we’ll get that restored.” 

    With the aim of getting the park back and better than what it was before.

    Head says they are focused on getting the beach area open first and then the boat ramp. Portable restrooms will be placed at the beach as new ones are built.

    The county anticipates re-opening Fort Island Gulf Beach on or before February 21.

    [ad_2]

    Calvin Lewis

    Source link

  • Hernando County deputy shoots suspect after being bit in the neck

    [ad_1]

    BROOKSVILLE, Fla. — A Hernando County sheriff’s deputy received a bite in the neck before shooting a man during a traffic stop late Thursday night, stated officials. 

    According to Sheriff Al Nienhuis, the incident happened just after 9 p.m. near the intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and South Brooksville Avenue.

    What You Need To Know

    • Hernando County sheriff’s deputy shot a man during a traffic stop late Thursday

    • Incident happened just after 9 p.m. near the intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and South Brooksville Avenue

    • Hernando County Sheriff Al Nienhuis said the deputy was injured when the suspect bit him; the suspect was taken to an area hospital in unknown condition

    Authorities said after the traffic stop, the man got out of his vehicle and tried to run off.

    When the deputy chased after and caught him, the man attempted to fight back, officials said.

    The sheriff’s office says their preliminary investigation indicates the suspect, who has been identified as Michael O’Banner, tried to reach for the deputy’s gun.


    That is when the deputy shot him. O’Banner was taken to the hospital. His condition has not been released.

    That is when the deputy shot him. O’Banner, 62, was taken to the hospital. His condition has not been released.

    During the struggle and before using his gun, the deputy tried to use a “Taser” on O’Banner, but it had no effect on him, said Nienhuis.

    The deputy was injured when the suspect bit him, leaving a “pretty pronounced bit mark on his neck,” Nienhuis said.

    The sheriff added that the suspect has a long criminal history in Florida and in other states.

    The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is now investigating, which is procedure.


    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link