ReportWire

Tag: local-politics

  • Fourth annual Day of Remembrance at SJSU emphasizes activism and solidarity

    [ad_1]

    Gordon Yamate, who serves on the Los Gatos Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission, spoke about inspiring solidarity and activism for a panel at this year’s Day of Remembrance of Japanese American incarceration at San Jose State University.

    Feb. 19 nationally commemorates the anniversary of Executive Order 9066, a 1942 decree that ordered the removal of all people of Japanese descent from the West Coast to camps in remote areas of California, Arizona, Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, Idaho and Arkansas. San Jose State held an event on that day to acknowledge the Japanese American experience and the campus’ connection to it. In 1942, Yoshihiro Uchida Hall, which used to be the university’s men’s gymnasium, was used as a registration center for Japanese Americans in Santa Clara County before they were sent to the incarceration camps.

    [ad_2]

    Nollyanne Delacruz

    Source link

  • Crowded Republican field lines up to take on Democrat Don Davis

    [ad_1]

    It’s a small group at the Nashville Exchange in Nash County on a Monday night, a little more than two weeks before the North Carolina primary election. But each person here is a dedicated Republican and an almost certain voter.

    What You Need To Know

    • Five Republicans are running in North Carolina’s 1st Congressional District primary

    • The district was recently redrawn to benefit the Republican Party

    • The winner of the Republican primary will challenge Democratic Rep. Don Davis


    They are hearing from two of the Republicans running in the state’s 1st Congressional District. It’s a race with national attention because the party thinks it can flip the seat red for the first time in more than 140 years.

    Issues in this district include farming, where tobacco is very prevalent, health care, there’s been a number of hospital closures, and poverty. While there’s been a decline in the poverty rate, eastern North Carolina has some of the highest rates in the state.

    There’s a flood of Republicans running in the primary, which is March 3. The number of candidates makes it hard to predict who could win.

    President Donald Trump, an influential voice in Republican primaries, has not endorsed a candidate.

    “He’s really proven over and over to be a kingmaker in Republican politics,” said East Carolina University political science professor Peter Francia. “If he had decided to endorse one of the candidates, then I think we would be able to say with a lot of confidence that that candidate had a really good chance of winning.”

    Related: A closer look at N.C.’s only toss-up congressional House race

    Of the five Republicans running, the candidate who’s probably received the most attention is Laurie Buckhout.

    Democratic Rep. Don Davis is seeking reelection in the 1st Congressional District. (AP File Photo/David Yeazell)

    She ran for the seat in 2024, losing to Democratic Rep. Don Davis by two points. Despite the loss she has name recognition. She’s a retired Army colonel who recently served as acting assistant secretary of war for cyber policy in the Trump administration.

    Asa Buck is the longtime sheriff of Carteret County and is well-known in parts of the district.

    State Sen. Bobby Hanig represents some of this U.S. House district in the General Assembly and runs a pool cleaning and maintenance business in Currituck.

    Eric Rouse is a construction business owner who lives in Kinston and is a Lenoir County commissioner.

    And Ashley-Nicole Russell is a family law attorney with offices throughout the state.

    “The high number of candidates means there’s always the potential that a candidate doesn’t reach 30%, and in that case we have a runoff,” Francia told Spectrum News 1. “But my suspicion is that there will be a candidate who exceeds 30%.”

    Spectrum News 1 spoke with a number of voters at a poll site in Nash County.

    “I’ve met Laurie a couple of different times and I feel like her service to our country and I know that she has worked for Trump and I believe she is dedicated and loyal,” said JoAnn Everette, who said she voted for Buckhout.

    “Reducing it down to the top two would have been Laurie Buckhout and Asa Buck. I consider both of them to be near equals in different categories,” said Jerry Barnes. “The deciding factor for me was based on who stood the best chance in beating Don Davis and I felt that was Asa Buck.”

    The winner of the Republican primary will take on Davis, who’s vying for his third term.

    Davis is arguably one of the most moderate Democrats in the U.S. House and has a record of winning in the district.

    This November could be Davis’ toughest election because Republicans in the state legislature recently redrew the district boundaries to heavily favor their party’s candidate. It was part of the rare move of mid-decade redistricting that a number of states have taken in the country, started by Texas at Trump’s urging.

    “In this new map I think any political expert would tell you that the Republicans have a very good chance of winning the district this time around,” Francia said about the new 1st Congressional District.

    The district is wide, stretching from the Virginia border to the Democratic area of Rocky Mount and now the Republican stronghold of the Outer Banks.

    “In the 40 years that we’ve lived here we’ve been redistricted a lot of times, so it’s just a matter of OK, what’s coming up next,” said Republican voter Cynthia Carpenter.

    With so many candidates in the Republican primary, this race could be close as the GOP smells a chance to flip a blue seat to try to keep control of the U.S. House in November.

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

    [ad_2]

    Reuben Jones

    Source link

  • Anna Maria City Pier set for comeback after $2 million county approval

    [ad_1]

    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Manatee County commissioners have approved a grant of up to $2 million to help rebuild the Anna Maria City Pier. In total, it’s a $7 to $8 million project.

    Anna Maria City Mayor Mark Short said right now, the city is paying for the work, but will soon receive money from FEMA, the state and the county.

    Members of the community can’t contain their anticipation for when the rebuilt pier will be complete.

    What You Need To Know

    • Manatee County commissioners approved a grant of up to $2 million to help rebuild the Anna Maria City Pier — part of a $7 to $8 million total project
    • The mayor says the pier is coming back stronger built with solid cement pilings and reinforced connections designed to better withstand major storms
    • Local business owners and residents say the pier is a vital landmark and gathering place, and its return will boost both community spirit and local businesses

    Kitchen Manager Michael Rain has been working at The Waterfront Restaurant in Anna Maria for 17 years.

    “I love it,” he said. “Love the people I get to meet that work here. They’re fun.”

    What wasn’t fun, he said, was dealing with the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024. Right across the street from his restaurant, the iconic Anna Maria City Pier was significantly damaged.

    But now it’s being rebuilt, with help from the Manatee County commissioners’ grant.

    The pier is special to many people in the community, including Rain.

    “I grew up coming out here visiting my cousin, fishing on the pier. So that’ll be exciting,” he said.

    He says a rebuilt pier will also be good for business.

    “I believe so, especially locals from in town,” he said. “You get to come out and it gives them just one more thing to do while out here.”

    Short said they’re not just rebuilding the pier, but it is coming back stronger than ever.

    Short said the walkway this time around is being built with solid cement pilings. The prior walkway, built after Hurricane Irma, was constructed with precast pilings that had a hole in the middle. In addition, they will all be connected by cement bents and stringers.

    He said they’re focused on making this new pier more resilient than the last.

    “Now, there’s never a guarantee,” Short said, adding the rebuilt pier is on track to be completed by the end of the year. “We do believe that this walkway will survive a significant storm.”

    [ad_2]

    Julia Hazel

    Source link

  • School board OKs closings, consolidations to adjust to declining enrollment

    [ad_1]

    LARGO, Fla. — Tuesday, the Pinellas County Schools board unanimously approved a series of proposals to close and consolidate a handful of schools.

    The move, the district officials say, will help it save money and adjust to declining enrollment.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pinellas County school board members voted to approve a number of changes the district says will help it adjust to declining enrollment

    • Disston Academy and Cross Bayou Elementary will close, Bay Point Elementary and Middle will combine to form a K-8, and Oldsmar Elementary will expand to a K-8

    • According to the district, the changes will save $7.7 million in recurring annual expenses

    • Read previous coverage: Final word on Pinellas schools closings and consolidations likely Tuesday


    The board approved combining Bay Point Elementary and Middle Schools into a K-8 and expanding Oldsmar Elementary to eighth grade. Cross Bayou Elementary School and Disston Academy will both close at the end of this school year.

    For some, it was an emotional decision.

    “I’ll only ask you one more time: Please save my school,” said Michael Gerke, a parent of a Cross Bayou student and volunteer at the school.

    Gerke says Cross Bayou Elementary should not be on the chopping block. He previously told Spectrum Bay News 9 the school’s 250-student population makes it easier for educators to know the kids than at a bigger school.

    He also said he doesn’t think the Deaf/Hard of Hearing Program should be disturbed.

    In the end, that proposal, like the others, passed with a 7-0 vote from the board. Gerke and his son were visibly upset afterwards, walking out of the meeting and declining an on-camera interview.

    “Any closure is impactful for the communities we serve. We certainly heard from Cross Bayou Elementary School community members who are not happy with this recommendation, and we should expect that,” said Superintendent Kevin Hendrick. “Our schools should be places that are loved and remembered fondly. It is my responsibility, though, and obligation to provide our families with excellent academic choices and programs while maintaining a balanced budget.”

    Hendrick told board members Cross Bayou is only at 40% utilization and needs $5 million in maintenance. According to the district, closing it, along with the other changes, can save $7.7 million on recurring annual expenses. Another is expanding Oldsmar Elementary to a K-8.

    One parent told the board he supports it.

    “Three more years, my kids get to be together as siblings. That increases the togetherness, the bond, the psychological safety. Not only, though, is it stability for them, it is stability for my wife and I as parents,” said Oldsmar Elementary parent Curtis Campogni. 

    The superintendent said expanding Oldsmar will take it from 57% utilization up to 95%.

    Board member Eileen Long said she’s heard from parents who asked for closer options for middle school.

    “When your child goes to Carwise and you work until 5 p.m. and then want to go to open house at 6 p.m., a lot of parents didn’t make it. We have a lot of support for this,” Long said.

    The Oldsmar expansion will happen in phases beginning next school year. Bay Point K-8 will begin in 2027-28, and Disston Academy will close at the end of this school year. 

    According to district information, more comprehensive recommendations are expected this fall. They wouldn’t go into effect until the 2027-28 school year.

    [ad_2]

    Sarah Blazonis

    Source link

  • Despite some public objections, Palmetto approves teen curfew

    [ad_1]

    PALMETTO, Fla. — Despite some pushback from the community, members of the Palmetto City Commission voted 4-1 Monday to adopt a new curfew ordinance for minors.

    What You Need To Know

    • Despite some pushback from the community, members of the Palmetto City Commission voted 4-1 Monday to adopt a new curfew ordinance for minors

    • Children under 16 will not be allowed out without a parent between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, and midnight to 6 a.m. Friday and Saturday

    • Some parents and community members spoke against the ordinance, saying they worry teens in minority groups might be targeted

    Children under 16 will not be allowed out without a parent between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, and midnight to 6 a.m. Friday and Saturday.

    The city’s ordinance mirrors the ordinance passed by the Manatee County Board of County Commissioners in November.

    Some parents and community members spoke against the city’s ordinance, saying they worry teens in minority groups might be targeted.

    “I just don’t want our children ending up caught up into the system or having any fines imposed on them when they’re not the responsible ones for all of that,” said Manatee County NAACP President Tracey Washington.


    Palmetto Police Chief Scott Tyler said the rule will help protect teens, and they will not be charged criminally for violating it.

    “We enforce the law impartially, effectively,” Tyler said. “This isn’t an ordinance where we’re going to be out there stopping kids. When we encounter kids, we’re trying to get them home. Also, remember that this ordinance and the statute that backs it up, it’s not criminal.”

    Tyler added there could be a $50 fine, but that will be reserved for repeat violations.

    [ad_2]

    Sarah Blazonis

    Source link

  • Florida cabinet set to vote on land gift to Hillsborough College

    [ad_1]

    TAMPA, Fla. — The Florida Cabinet are expected to vote Tuesday on gifting Hillsborough College 22 acres of land.

    The move would give the college the land needed for a proposed Tampa Bay Rays baseball stadium.

    What You Need To Know

    • Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet are expected to vote Tuesday on gifting Hillsborough College 22 acres of land. The move would give the college the land needed for a proposed Tampa Bay Rays baseball stadium

    • Hillsborough College says it is working on plans to allow a quick relocation of the campus, and later a move in to a new permanent home 

    • Local leaders are still conducting economic impact studies on a new Rays Stadium

    • The Rays have told local leaders it wants to be playing in a new stadium by the start of the 2029 MLB season 
    • PREVIOUS STORIES on Rays stadium pursuit

     

    The team is envisioning a mixed-used entertainment district that would include a domed stadium that can seat about 31,000 people. According to a team release, the entire development would stretch about 130 acres across the campus.

    Gov. Ron DeSantis has publicly signaled support for the project and discussions have been underway behind the scenes for months. The proposal would relocate HC’s oldest campus, a move that carries both promise and uncertainty for thousands of students and staff.

    The Dale Mabry campus is adjacent to Raymond James Stadium. Most of the campus buildings are more than 50 years old, making maintenance increasingly costly.

    Freshman Dania Arauc said she sees opportunity in the proposal but also has concerns.

    “I do think it’s a great opportunity, especially if it means it is going to improve the campus or things like that, like make it more modern and stuff like that,” Arauc said. “The only thing is, how will it look during the transition?”


    That transition is now the focus for campus leadership.

    Campus President Paige Niehaus said HC has been intentional about planning for both temporary and permanent solutions.

    “We’ve been very, very intentional in making sure that what works good here on Dale Mabry Campus and our thriving campus, carries over into a temporary space and then eventually a new permanent home,” Niehaus said.

    Relocating an entire college campus is no small task, especially under a tight timeline. The Rays hope to open a new stadium by the start of the 2029 season. To meet that deadline, construction would need to begin within months.

    “It will probably be a very rapid move into a temporary space,” Niehaus said. “So we are taking all the time that we have now to make sure that we are prepared for when that happens.”

    While the governor has cited ongoing maintenance costs as a reason to support the relocation, college leaders stress the importance of collaboration.

    “I think for not only the Rays to be successful, Hillsborough College Dale Mabry Campus needs to be successful as well,” Niehaus said. “And I think everybody has that in their best interest.”

    Behind the land discussions lies a much larger financial question: How to pay for a new stadium.

    Hillsborough County and the City of Tampa are still conducting economic impact studies to determine funding sources.

    The projected cost of the stadium itself is just over $2 billion. 

    However, some estimates suggest the total cost, including surrounding development, could climb to $8 billion.

    State approval of the land transfer would mark the clearest signal yet that Tampa is positioning itself as the Rays’ long-term home. 

    If the vote goes through today, the team would have five years to start building a stadium, or else the state could take the land back.

    [ad_2]

    Jason Lanning

    Source link

  • N.C. toy store owner says impact of Supreme Court tariff decision is unclear

    [ad_1]

    CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The U.S. Supreme Court ruled Friday that many of President Donald Trump’s tariffs are illegal.

    A toy store owner in Charlotte says after the past year’s tariffs, “you kind of become numb to it.”

    “You have to run your business,” Dan Weiss, owner of Harper and Skyler’s Toys and Sweets, said. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The U.S. Supreme Court ruled many of President Donald Trump’s tariffs illegal

    • It’s unclear what the ruling means for local businesses that had to deal with the tariffs 

    • The owner of Harper and Skyler’s Toys and Sweets in Charlotte sells a variety of items other than toys in order to keep his business afloat 

    • Regardless of the ruling, owner Dan Weiss says he’s keeping a level head about the future 


    Weiss says it’s unclear what this ruling could mean for his business or the industry in general. Over the last year, he absorbed most of the extra costs due to tariffs.

    “Some prices I kept the same. I again, 20% of the stuff in the store might have went up in price, but for the most part, we ate a lot of it. We kept our pricing the same and we tried to not burden the customer,” he said.

    The justices ruled that the president does not have the authority to impose sweeping tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, but other Trump duties, including on goods such as aluminum and lumber through the Trade Expansion Act, were not part of the case considered by the Supreme Court and still remain.

    Trump responded to the Supreme Court ruling in a press conference Friday afternoon, saying, “Their decision’s incorrect, but it doesn’t matter because we have very powerful alternatives that have been approved by this decision. You know they’ve been approved by the decision, for those that thought they had us.”

    Weiss has dealt with surcharges from companies and discontinuation of some items because of tariffs, but in the short term, he said, “You’re not going to get money back. I’m not going to see money back.”

    “And if it happens, it’s going to be years down the road,” Weiss said. “Today and tomorrow mean nothing.”

    That’s why he’s focused on the day to day of his business.

    “I have to run my business the way I run it. I have to order the way I order. I have to get products. The way I get products, whether they’re 10% more, 20% more, or I’m getting a check back next week, it doesn’t affect what I do day to day,” he said. 

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

    [ad_2]

    Melody Greene

    Source link

  • Report: Florida Cabinet to discuss gift of 22 acres to Hillsborough College

    [ad_1]

    TAMPA, Fla. — Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet are considering giving Hillsborough College 22 acres of land.

    The move would give the college the land needed for a proposed Tampa Bay Rays baseball stadium.

    What You Need To Know

    • Florida Cabinet may consider giving 22 acres of land to Hillsborough College to go toward a Rays stadium 

    • The possible land gift is listed as an agenda item for a meeting scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 24

    • The team is envisioning a mixed-use entertainment district that would include a domed stadium that can seat about 31,000 people  
    • The Tampa Bay Rays released initial renderings on Thursday morning of the proposed ballpark at Hillsborough College’s Dale Mabry campus 
    • PREVIOUS STORIES on Rays stadium pursuit

    According to Spectrum Bay News 9 partner newspaper, the Tampa Bay Times, the possible land gift is listed as an agenda item for a meeting scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 24.

    DeSantis, along with Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred, has come out in support of the project.

    The team is envisioning a mixed-used entertainment district that would include a domed stadium that can seat about 31,000 people. According to a team release, the entire development would stretch about 130 acres across the campus.

    The college campus is located on North Dale Mabry Highway, across from Raymond James Stadium.

     

    Rays officials have said they want to be in the new ballpark for the 2029 season. The team’s lease with St. Petersburg at the newly renovated Tropicana Field expires after the 2028 season.

    According to a potential deal, the college would own the land and could negotiate its use with the Rays. Construction of the stadium could cost an estimated $2.3 billion.

    The team’s new owners, led by developer Patrick Zalupski, have said they would fund 50 percent of the stadium costs.

    City, county and state officials have yet to officially discuss any other funding sources, though property taxes on the nearby area, a half-cent county sales tax and a tourist tax have all been mentioned.  

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • St. Pete Mayor Welch delivers State of the City

    [ad_1]

    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — St. Pete Mayor Ken Welch delivered his State of the City address on Wednesday.

    He took a look back at storm recovery, affordable housing challenges and the ongoing issues with trying to redevelop Tropicana Field.

    What You Need To Know

    • Mayor Ken Welch delivered St. Pete’s State of the City Address Wednesday
    • Welch said the community continues to rebuild from 2024’s storms and that 2025 was a year of recovery
    • In 2026, Welch said residents can look forward to more major projects including sewer upgrades, redevelopment of the Manhattan Casino and Municipal Marina

    Welch said the community continues to recovery from the blow of 2024’s hurricanes.

    “2025 was a year of recovery,” he said. “How we recover defines who we are.”

    Welch said continued investments in smart infrastructure will aid the community. He highlighted a $600-million infrastructure stormwater and coastal protection project, along with engaging with residents in flood-prone neighborhoods.


    This is also an election year, and Welch has already announced he’s running for a second term.

    Affordable housing also remains an issue, Welch said, adding he planned on continuing a variety of affordable housing programs.

    Meanwhile, safe and healthy neighbors are key to the city, Welch said. The mayor said the city saw 10 homicides in 2025, the lowest since 1967.

    Also, the mayor stressed the importance of investments in walking, biking and traffic calming projects.

    In 2026, Welch said residents can look forward to more major projects including sewer upgrades, redevelopment of the Manhattan Casino and Municipal Marina. He said investments also would continue into education and investments in non-profits and youth programs. 

    And yes, Welch touched on continued talks about the Historic Gas Plant District. 

    “We have planned extensively,” he said about the ongoing discussions about what to do with the 86-acre Tropicana Field site. “Community conversations have focused on the Gas Plant District.

    “I recognize and respect the city council’s part in this proposal. Our team is working to identify next steps.”

    “In the year ahead, we will continue to do the work that matters most: Creating opportunity, protecting neighborhoods and strengthening infrastructure.” 

    [ad_2]

    Josh Rojas

    Source link

  • City officials use first meeting to take stock of city seawalls

    [ad_1]

    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla, — St. Petersburg city officials are one step closer to developing a plan about what improvements will take place for miles of seawall around the city.

    A virtual meeting was held Tuesday to get public input on the seawall master plan, which calls for improvements to the structure.

    What You Need To Know

    • St. Petersburg city officials are one step closer to developing a plan about what improvements will take place for miles of seawall around the city

    • The meeting came after consultants did extensive inspections of 15 miles of city-owned seawalls

    •  St. Pete residents asked to take Seawall Capital Improvement Plan survey

    The meeting came after consultants did extensive inspections of 15 miles of city-owned seawalls.

    The most common finding noted that more than 27,000 feet of wall was in “fair” condition.

    City engineering and capital improvements department design manager Evan Birk told residents improvements can include replacing what was already there and creating living shorelines.

    “Ultimately, the goal is to create a program that serves the city and by serving the city, it really means that it’s serving the neighborhoods and it serves the residents that reside in those neighborhoods,” Birk said.

    The goal, the city said, is to make the area more resistant to flooding and erosion.

    This comes after years of storm damage and documented flooding issues that plague parts of St. Pete.

    “It’s obviously very important,” said St. Petersburg resident Stephanie Kelly. “And living here, it’s the most important thing because your home is a lot of money, and you don’t want to be relocated or anything like that.”

    Residents can still fill out a survey online.

    [ad_2]

    Sarah Blazonis

    Source link

  • Stronger Seawalls: St. Pete wants community input before launching master plan

    [ad_1]

    ST. PETE, Fla. — The city of St. Pete wants input from the community before moving forward with creating a plan that would strengthen 15 miles of city-owned seawalls.

    The city is putting together a Seawall Master Plan that would lay the groundwork for future seawall improvements. They hope to create a consistent seawall condition rating system using federal standards, as well as make a plan for replacement and repair projects.

    The goal, the city says, is to make the area more resistant to flooding and erosion. This comes after years of storm damage and documented flooding issues that plague parts of St. Pete.

    Before putting a plan together, the city is asking residents to fill out a survey online. Those looking to give additional feedback or get more information are invited to a virtual public meeting on Feb. 17 at 6 p.m.

    As part of the feedback portion of the master plan creation, the city is asking residents if they would support city policy updates that raise the minimum required elevation for private seawalls and if they would support the city taking ownership of private seawalls to provide more consistent maintenance. They also want to know if residents would support a citywide assessment for the city to inspect, maintain and repair or replace private seawalls.

    The city of St. Pete currently has 95 miles of privately owned seawalls. It’s not clear how they would be affected by the upcoming Seawall Master Plan.

    Lifelong resident Amy Dinovo says while the quality of one person’s seawall directly affects their neighbor, she’s hoping that should changes come for privately owned seawalls that the city is held to the same standard.

    “I want the city to be held to the same standards that the homeowners are. I don’t want to have somebody getting a fine and then going out and finding city waterfront not in the same condition,” she said. “I think that’s an important thing for people to know, that whatever standards we’re holding the public to, we’re holding the city to as well.”

    Dinovo says she hopes that if this affects private property, there’s a well thought out funding plan.

    “Seawalls aren’t cheap; it’s an expensive endeavor. There’s some great companies out there who make strong seawalls and everything else, but it’s certainly an opportunity for not great companies to come into the marketplace if there’s a lot of need,” she said. “So there has to be a process to have some funding, have some relief, and have some incentive.”

    The first virtual public meeting on this topic was held on Tuesday, Feb. 10.

    [ad_2]

    Angie Angers

    Source link

  • Polk County approves nearly $2M contract for new well water supply

    [ad_1]

    POLK COUNTY, Fla. — Polk County leaders are looking for ways to keep up with the influx of people moving to the area.

    They recently approved a nearly $2-million contract for a new water well supply in the northeast part of the county.

    What You Need To Know

    • Polk County Commissioners approved a new water supply well in Northeast Polk County
    • An alternative water supply receiving facility is awaiting approval to be constructed on the same property as the new well
    • The county cites the growing population and the need to look for sustainable water sources


    Stepping out into his backyard, Sean Brinkmeier likes to enjoy the scenery, although it might look a little different this time of year.

    “I’ve always wanted to live near water, around water, I have for a good portion of my life,” he says.

    He’s lived in and around Polk County for several years.

    So, he’s seen the growth firsthand and what’s needed for growing communities like his.

    “It needs a lot of infrastructure, whether that’s roads, water, power lines all of it, so it’s great to see that they’re investing in this part of Polk County,” he said.

    The Polk County Board of Commissioners recently approved a $1.8-million project for a new water supply well in northeast Polk County adjacent to Davenport.

    “It’s more of a maintenance type thing, rather than a new water supply,” said Tamara Richardson, the utilities director.

    She said the current well in the area isn’t up to par, so they’re creating a new one about a mile away, but she says this is just part of a bigger project to construct an alternative water supply receiving facility.

    Richardson said they’ve reached the water pumping limit from the upper level of the Floridan aquifer.

    Now, they’re having to find new ways to access water from the lower Floridan aquifer.

    She said the northeast part of the county is the fastest growing, and they serve more than 40,000 residential and commercial areas.

    “We need this lower Floridan to continue to serve additional growth and to provide more reliability for the northeast for our existing customers,” she says.

    Richardson said the new project came with rate increases; according to the county, customers can expect a 6% increase every year over the next six years.

    Brinkmeier says he’s excited to see more people calling Polk County home, and he hopes local leaders keep residents in mind as the growth continues.

    “Davenport is lagging, Polk County’s lagging but they are showing great steps to get back up and get in front of the growth that’s happening right now,” says Brinkmeier.

    It’s a growing community, one which Brinkmeier hopes his family can continue to enjoy for many years to come.

    The plans for the construction of the receiving facility are going to be presented for approval on Tuesday at the Polk County Board of Commissioners’ meeting.

    [ad_2]

    Lizbeth Gutierrez

    Source link

  • Cape Canaveral prepares to improve their infrastructure as launch rates increase

    [ad_1]

    CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — One city is bracing for the effects of more and more rocket launches from our Space Coast.

    With 2025 a record-setting year, and 2026 looks like more of the same, but to ensure they can withstand all of that action, cities on the Space Coast are looking at ways to improve their infrastructure.

    What You Need To Know

    • The City of Cape Canaveral is bracing itself for a continued influx in rocket launches on the Space Coast
    • Cape Canaveral’s City Council meeting Tuesday will discuss a plan for the city to be able to pay for infrastructure improvements to prepare for the impacts of bigger rockets

    • The Federal Aviation Administration considered several impacts when approving these launches, including possible sound interference and airspace closures

    • Cape Canaveral’s City Council meeting will be held at their City Hall at 6 p.m., Tuesday


    You could call the situation an issue of supply and demand.

    Just 10 years ago, experts say Florida’s Space Coast would be lucky to have a dozen launches in a year, but the last two years, Floridians have seen more than 200.

    And as the supply of missions increases, demand for resiliency goes up too.

    Because of that, cities like Cape Canaveral are looking at ways to improve their roads, bridges, and water and sewage systems to adjust for the uptick in launches, which in turn means more tourists.

    During their City Commission meeting Tuesday evening, Cape Canaveral city officials will discuss the potential of writing a grant proposal for state or federal funding.

    That money would be used for infrastructure resiliency because of the impacts that larger rockets like NASA’s Artemis moon rocket, called Space Launch System, and SpaceX’s Starship could have on the area.

    Space expert Ken Kremer tells Spectrum News 13 that action is needed to manage water, sewage and pollution control, and to update local roads and bridges. Especially if the number of launches continues to rise.

    “There will be monumental traffic jams on a continuous basis. Now, it’s occasional, especially when we have the big launches and when there’s cruise ships there,” Kremer explained. “So, it’s the cruise ships and the rockets that are causing a need for infrastructure improvements.”

    Kremer also says that more launches will bring in more money, space companies and tourists to the area.

    But that will all mean nothing if the surrounding areas cannot support it.

    And for Cape Canaveral, Kremer says that also means the port.

    So, he would like to also see the port and space companies step up to the table to give a helping hand when it comes to infrastructure as well.

    The Federal Aviation Administration looked at possible sound interference, like noise driven by landings and sonic booms.

    Studies from the FAA also show that noises in places like Cape Canaveral could reach 110 decibels, which is the equivalent of being at a rock concert or being 3 feet away from a chainsaw.

    Potential airspace closures were also a part of the considerations, as launches could potentially lead to delays or re-routing of international flights.

    Cape Canaveral’s City Council meeting will take place at 6 p.m. at  City Hall.

    [ad_2]

    Brandon Spencer

    Source link

  • AI, property tax bills garnering attention as legislature meets halfway point

    [ad_1]

    TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Lawmakers are in the second half of the legislative session in Tallahassee, and among the mountain of legislation being considered, a number of bills addressing artificial intelligence and property taxes are still moving through committees.

    What You Need To Know

    • Florida legislative session at halfway point 

    • Two bills garnering a lot of interest addressing artificial intelligence are House Bill 1007 and Senate Bill 484

    • Lawmakers also discussing House Joint Resolution 209, which is taking aim at property tax reductions with a full House vote expected in the coming weeks

    Two bills garnering a lot of interest addressing AI are House Bill 1007 and Senate Bill 484.

    The artificial intelligence bill is seeking regulation of new data centers — which require a huge draw of electricity and water — across the state

    The bill would disallow incentives and make providers pay full price for electricity. Those data centers would also be subject to strict water restrictions.

    Meanwhile, House Joint Resolution 209 is taking aim at property tax reductions with a full House vote expected in the coming weeks.

    The resolution would provide an increase of homestead exemption to $200,000 for homeowners that carry comprehensive multi-peril insurance coverage.

    Other bills also moving through committees include mandatory mediation for disputes between homeowners and insurance companies and a bill that would prohibit insurers from dropping homeowners based solely on roof condition.

    [ad_2]

    Jason Lanning

    Source link

  • Polk County limits number of speakers for general public comment

    [ad_1]

    POLK COUNTY, Fla. — New changes are coming to Polk County commission meetings.

    What You Need To Know

    • Polk County commissioners voted unanimously to limit general public comment on non-agenda items to 15 speakers per meeting
    • Animal welfare advocates argue the change is an attempt to silence community voices, especially after public comment was previously moved to the end of meetings

    • A law professor says municipalities are legally allowed to limit speakers, but residents could challenge the Florida statute


    Commissioners recently voted to limit the number of people who can speak during public comment for non-agenda items. The resolution passed unanimously on a consent agenda, without public input.

    Being a voice for change has become Angie Lorio and Shannon Medina’s life’s work. The two first started the Polk County Bully Project in 2019 to help improve adoption rates for pit bulls. Since then, they’ve advocated for animal welfare across Polk County, often joining other groups to speak at county commission meetings.

    “They tell us you’re wasting your time,” Lorio said. “’You need to talk to the sheriff. This has nothing to do with us.’ And when some stand up to speak about the animals, they’re looking down, they’re looking around. One gets up to leave the room.”

    Lorio said it became even more clear when county commissioners moved general public comment to the end of meetings. Now, they’re limiting the number of speakers on non-agenda items to 15 people, which Medina believes is another attempt to censor the community.

    “The community still needs their county commissioners to listen to what they have to say, whether or not they agree with it. They still need to listen,” Medina said.

    Spectrum Bay News 9 reached out to the county several times about the change, but commissioners were unavailable for comment. While it may be controversial, Cooley Law School professor Jeffrey Swartz said that as of 2024, municipalities are allowed to limit the number of speakers at meetings.

    “The problem with this statute is that it allows a commission to basically limit debate and limit dissent, depending upon who the first 15 people are that have signed up to speak to the commission,” Swartz said.

    Swartz said residents have the option to challenge the Florida statute if they feel it denies them their First Amendment rights. As for Lorio and Medina, they’re unsure if that’s a route they’ll take. But they said what they know for sure is that they won’t be silent.

    “Whether we’re number 15 walking in or 16, we deserve the right to have our voices heard,” Medina said.

    Moving forward, people will be required to submit speaker cards and will be called in the order they are received. Anyone not heard will get the chance to speak at the next meeting.

    [ad_2]

    Alexis Jones

    Source link

  • Decision approaching on possible Tampa Bay MPO merger

    [ad_1]

    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Thirty-five years after it was first discussed, a decision on merging three of Tampa Bay’s metropolitan planning organizations may be on the horizon. 

    “We would be the largest metropolitan planning organization in the state of Florida, and with size comes some funding,” said Whit Blanton, executive director of Forward Pinellas. “A lot of the federal funding is based on formula: based on population, based on transit ridership, things like that.”

    What You Need To Know

    • Metropolitan planning organizations in Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas Counties could learn in the next few months whether they’ll merge into a regional MPO

    • Forward Pinellas Executive Director Whit Blanton said the idea of a merger was first brought up in the early 1990s, but it was thought at the time the counties were too different for the move to make sense

    • Blanton said creating a larger organization could make it easier for Tampa Bay to secure federal dollars for transportation projects

    • The MPOs could vote on whether to merge in March or April. The county commissions and Tampa City Council would also have to give their approval


    Forward Pinellas, the Hillsborough Transportation Planning Organization, and the Pasco Metropolitan Planning Organization are the groups that could merge. Blanton said initial talks happened in the 1990s, but it was thought the counties were too different for a merger to make sense.

    For instance, Pasco County was just starting to grow. Now, he said the time is right and the move would be in the best interest of the region.

    “So much funding for capital projects, like the big interstate projects or the big transit projects, is competitive, and you’ve got to show strong regional support to be competitive with Seattle or San Diego,” said Blanton.

    He said a merger could help Tampa Bay compete at that level.

    “We would be a mega MPO, and with that would come so much more opportunity for funding,” said St. Petersburg City Council Member Gina Driscoll.

    Blanton updated council members on the effort at Thursday’s meeting, telling them the latest effort began in 2023. That’s when state lawmakers passed legislation requiring the MPOs to study what a merger would mean. Details are still being worked out, but Blanton said a 25-member board seems to be the preference.

    He said federal law requires the number of representatives from each county to be based on population. He also said Florida statutes require tax revenues to be distributed equitably among counties based on population.

    “So, even though Hillsborough County, City of Tampa may be larger, they would not be able to take down all the transportation dollars, nor would they have a majority of the votes,” said Blanton.

    “It’s going to take a lot of political will across the region to bring this together,” said City Councilmember Brandi Gabbard.

    Gabbard said MetroPlan Orlando, the MPO for Orange, Osceola, and Seminole Counties, is an example of how local governments can work together to benefit a region.

    “What they’re accomplishing is phenomenal,” said Gabbard. “Because right now, those dollars are not coming to us the way that they should be, and this is really the only way to make that happen.”

    Blanton said a workshop is being held Friday to talk about the details of the governing board and what the structure of the organization would look like.

    He said the MPOs will likely vote on whether to merge in March or April. Next, the three county commissions and Tampa City Council would also have to approve it. Blanton said that could happen by June, and the merger could be complete in 2027 or 2028.

    [ad_2]

    Sarah Blazonis

    Source link

  • Foreclosure complaint filed against Elements on Third owner

    [ad_1]

    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — People who live at the Elements on Third apartment complex say they’ve dealt with everything from maintenance issues to a possible water shut-off that could’ve resulted in them needing to find new places to live.

    That’s all within the past six months.

    Now, a foreclosure complaint has been filed against the complex’s owner. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Court records show a mortgage lender has filed a complaint for foreclosure against Lurin Real Estate Holdings for a loan it issued for the Elements on Third apartment complex

    • In the complaint, lawyers for BDS IV Mortgage Capital say Lurin failed to make payments starting in August and now owes more than $110 million

    • Lurin previously came under scrutiny when the city of St. Petersburg said a water shut-off at two properties, including Elements, was possible after Lurin failed to pay its utility bills

    • Read previous coverage here


    “Am I surprised? No, not really,” said Boshko Stanisic, an organizer with the St. Petersburg Tenants Union. “Lurin has been in kind of a financial fall for quite awhile.”

    The complaint was filed on Feb. 6 against Lurin Real Estate Holdings. Lawyers for BDS IV Mortgage Capital claim Lurin failed to make payments on a $110 million loan starting in August.

    “I didn’t know this was an ongoing thing. So, it’s a little concerning,” said Elements on Third resident Mitchell Williams.

    In the nearly three years Williams has lived at the complex, he’s seen it go through ups and downs.


    “I think they were running out of cash or something,” he said. “The property started to get a little bit dirty.”

    Then, the city said Lurin wasn’t paying its water bill at Elements and another of its properties, The Morgan Apartments.

    “It was a little scary when we were notified that we might be without water and might have to make other accommodations when we’d been paying for it the whole time,” Williams said. “So, that was definitely frustrating.”

    Williams said things started getting better in the fall, with maintenance and amenities being brought up to par. A city spokesperson also said back in August that Lurin paid its outstanding utility balance on the property. 

    Now, the BDS is seeking for force Lurin to pay the principal of the loan, plus interest and expenses, in full. 

    Stanisic said he’s working with residents at The Morgan as they navigate their own uncertain situation. He said tenants of a property facing foreclosure wouldn’t necessarily see immediate impacts.

    “A lot of it is just a change in ownership, a little bit of uncertainty,” he said. “A new owner, they might purchase the property, they might come in and change up the property manager.”

    Williams said residents haven’t been notified of the proceedings or any changes.

    “We’re happy at the moment, but hopefully nothing goes downhill to where we were a few months ago,” he said.

    A spokesperson for Lurin did not immediately respond to requests for comment. 

    The complaint says BDS is requesting the court appoint a receiver for Elements on Third. It also asks that the property be sold at a public sale if Lurin doesn’t pay the debt.

    [ad_2]

    Sarah Blazonis

    Source link

  • Pinellas Park officials approve golf carts ordinance

    [ad_1]

    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Pinellas Park leaders have passed a new ordinance defining where you can and cannot drive golf carts.

    It was a unanimous vote at Tuesday’s city council meeting.

    The new guidelines allow you to drive golf carts on public streets and roads that are regulated by the city.

    They also ban golf carts on county and state roads, including a few of the area’s busiest highways.

    “No crossing on US-19,” said Mayor Sandra Bradbury, announcing that they are not allowed on certain roads. “No crossing on 66th Street which is a state road. No crossing on Park Boulevard, which is a state road. And no crossing on 49th Street, which is a county road.”

    There are some exceptions to that rule at legally approved crossing points.

    City council members say the new policy gives people more flexibility while keeping safety a priority.



    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Pasco County voters may be asked to extend school tax

    [ad_1]

    LAND O’ LAKES, Fla. — In November, Pasco County voters may have a decision to make: Continue paying a school tax referendum, or let it expire. 

    In 2022, Pasco voters approved a referendum to support school employee salaries, but it expires in June 2027. The school board voted last week to ask taxpayers for a renewal.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pasco school board voted last week to ask taxpayers for a renewal of a school tax referendum 

    • The tax money is used to supplement pay for both instructional and non-instructional positions, including bus drivers, teachers, custodians, and other school support staff

    • Superintendent John Legg the referendum is a needed source of income that helps the school district keep up with other districts

    • What is millage? One mill is equal to $1 for every $1,000 of assessed property value. It’s how the taxing authorities calculate your property tax. Want to know more about millage rates? Visit the Pinellas County Tax Collector website.


    The tax money is used to supplement pay for both instructional and non-instructional positions, including bus drivers, teachers, custodians, and other school support staff.

    Without it, Superintendent Dr. John Legg said it’ll be tough for Pasco to compete with neighboring districts, which have referendums.

    “What this referendum does is it continues the pay we’ve been doing the last several years,” Legg said.

    Legg said since voters approved the initial tax referendum in 2022, classroom vacancies decreased by nearly 83%, and without it, “If the voters say no to this, it would mean a drastic cut in our teachers’ pay. 

    “It would drop our teacher pay by 12% on average.”

    The Pasco County School Board is seeking a renewal of its one mill property tax. 

    If passed, nothing would really change for Pasco County homeowners; they would continue paying the same tax, which Dr. Legg says is $300 per year for the average homeowner.

    A Pasco school bus driver and teacher, both in their professions for over 18 years, said both they’ve personally noticed positive changes since receiving the referendum.

    “The morale of faculty members has increased,” said James Washington, a Pasco County teacher. “The idea that we’ve got a community that supports us, there was a lot of vitriol in the news for months and months and months four years ago, and now it’s starting to swell in the opposite direction where people validate what teachers are again.”

    Bur driver Mary Ann Brini said the referendum has made a difference.

    “It’s very important to keep new staff moving in,” Brini said. “If we don’t have this, in my personal opinion, I don’t know what will happen down the line.”

    Critics of the referendum say teachers and school staff shouldn’t have to rely on voters to maintain their raises. 

    Michelle Mandarin, a parent who hosts an education podcast, said teachers need sustainability in their salaries.

    “We knew it was coming,” said Mandarin, who also is running for the District 5 school board seat. “But we did warn the board that it’s not a sustainable way to increase the pay of our teachers. We really feel like there is a way we can restructure the budget and put it into the core budget.”

    Meanwhile, Legg said he is confident Pasco County voters will continue supporting education. 

    “The people of Pasco County value education and believe that education is important and essential for our thriving economy so I’m confident that our voters will re-affirm what they’ve already said.”

    The next step is for the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners to vote on whether to put this on November’s ballot. Legg said he plans on meeting with them and he doesn’t expect any issues. 

    The vote may happen as soon as March.

    The referendum adds from around $3,000 to $5,500 per year for staff, depending on their position.

    Hillsborough and Pinellas County schools both have referendums that voters approved in recent years.

    Polk County voters will be deciding on a school tax referendum in November. 

    [ad_2]

    Fallon Silcox

    Source link

  • Polk County landscaper advises residents on new watering schedule

    [ad_1]

    POLK COUNTY, Fla. — Polk County Utilities is one of the latest utilities working to preserve water across the Tampa Bay area.

    What You Need To Know

    • Polk County Utilities is the latest to enforce a new once-per-week lawn watering schedule due to below-average rainfall and low water levels

    • Watering is limited to specific days and times based on street address, with schedules running before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m.

    • Local landscapers warn that the restrictions may not be enough to maintain healthy lawns


    Officials recently announced it will enforce the Modified Phase II water shortage order issued by the Southwest Florida Water Management District. The restrictions apply to the following areas:

    Citrus, DeSoto, Hardee, Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota and Sumter counties; portions of Charlotte, Highlands and Lake counties; the city of Dunnellon and The Villages in Marion County; and the portion of Gasparilla Island in Lee County.

    Starting this Sunday, residents and businesses can only water their lawns once a week. The new watering schedule is due to below-average rainfall and low water levels in area water resources.

    However, Eric Myers, owner of Myerscapes Environmental, says that may not be enough to maintain a healthy landscape.

    “The limitations on irrigating your yard, it’s going to cause a lot of damage to sod and everybody’s plants and foliage is going to start dying off. If they can’t irrigate, it’s going to be a lot of unhappy people,” Myers said.

    While the restrictions could mean more business for him, Myers says he is more concerned about how they will impact his customers.

    “Everybody doesn’t have tons of money to put into their yards to keep it properly maintained and looking good,” he said.

    With that said, Myers recommends residents water their yards for at least 20 minutes on their designated day. Even then, he says a healthy lawn is not guaranteed.

    Polk County Utilities says watering hours are assigned to one day per week based on address and must take place before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m.

    Details of the once-per-week watering schedule are as follows:

    • Addresses ending in 0 or 1 may only water on Mondays.
    • Addresses ending in 2 or 3 may only water on Tuesdays.
    • Addresses ending in 4 or 5 may only water on Wednesdays.
    • Addresses ending in 6 or 7 may only water on Thursdays.
    • Addresses ending in 8 or 9, along with locations for which an address cannot be determined (such as common areas associated with a subdivision), may only water on Fridays.

    The new schedule begins Sunday and is expected to remain in place through July 1.

    [ad_2]

    Alexis Jones

    Source link