Sarasota School Board set to ‘reimagine,’ not close, Wilkinson Elementary The about-face comes amid privatization and a new Florida law that makes the future of low-enrollment schools uncertain. Read Article »
Manatee County Commissioner proposes hiring freeze The all-Republican commission commiserates about DOGE failure to shrink government, but does not vote on Bob McCann’s proposal. Read Article »
FPL requests largest base rate hike in Florida’s history The investor-owned monopoly argues consumers must bear the cost of rising power needs. Read Article »
NOAA’s Hurricane Hunters prepare for 2025 storm season After bouncing back from firings, a flight engineer says the team is ready for any challenge. Read Article »
This Week in Local Government On Tuesday, the Manatee County Commission will discuss a temporary hiring freeze during an expected economic downturn. On Wednesday, City of Sarasota planners will review two big downtown projects. Read Article »
Is Sarasota ready for the 2025 hurricane season? Stormwater system maintenance, county-city cooperation remain unresolved. Read Article »
Bradenton moves to revamp wastewater system After outsourcing treatment plant operations, the city hopes federal funding will help fix its sewage spill issues. Read Article »
Neunder pushes reset button on social service funding Ending a crusade begun by his predecessor, the Sarasota County Commission chair makes peace with non-profits. Read Article »
Panel expected to recommend tearing down the Van Wezel 3,000 signatures to keep the historic performing arts center did not sway the Purple Ribbon Committee. Read Article »
New College has a student retention problem According to a new report, the school’s graduation rate is at 40%—an all-time low. Read Article »
Funding shift expected to produce cuts at public schools Two school board members share how state funding for private schools will impact Sarasota and Manatee students. Read Article »
County commission denies special exception for Old Miakka cell tower Residents urged them to reject the project. The commissioners listened. Read Article »
5/31 Talk of the Town: Future of Van Wezel, Ringling Museum On the May 31 edition of Talk of the Town with Carrie Seidman: what does the future hold for both Read Article »
