Notices

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (May 19, 2025) – Manatee County has been recognized by the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council (TBPRC) with a series of awards for its continued cooperation, community coordination and solution sharing with fellow governments in Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas Counties.

“This is our 31st year celebrating what you all do in the communities,” said Wren Krahl, TBRPC Executive Director. “These awards honor our local governments and their best practices.”

The Herman W. Goldner Award for Regional Leadership – the highest honor for an individual -- was presented to Manatee County Director of Natural Resources Charlie Hunsicker. Named for the former Mayor of St. Petersburg and Founding Father of the TBRPC, the award was presented to Hunsicker for his continued work with the County (since 1977) on a wide variety of environmental issues, from conserving land to beach renourishment.

“It’s all about public service,” said Hunsicker, acknowledging the work of his colleagues in the Natural Resources Department. “It’s been a pleasure to be – and continue to be – your public servant.”

The Manatee Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) received a Future Region Award in the Natural Resources & The Environment category for the Anna Maria Island Hurricane Storm Recovery for the Department of Natural Resources, joining with the County’s Property Management and Public Safety teams to provide rapid response to the management of Hurricane Helene’s storm damages by providing a central island location for collection and treatment of storm-deposited beach sand across the cities of Anna Maria, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach and the Town of Longboat Key. As a result, 35,000 cubic yards of beach-compatible sand were returned to the island’s public beaches (saving taxpayers $2,500 per person) while another 65,000 cubic yards of incompatible sand were saved for future infrastructure projects (saving the County over one million dollars).

“We needed to manage the sand as a resource,” said Manatee County District 3 Commissioner Tal Siddique. “We rebuilt this beach, and we rebuilt the dune systems that are going to continue to provide protection for the next hurricane season.”

The County was also recognized with an award in the Community Service category for its partnership with Turning Point’s Operation Smile, which offers free dental assistance to adults with low income and no insurance. Over the past decade, the County has invested more than $600,000 in Community Development Block Grant funding to help provide new smiles for some 3,000 residents.

For more information on Manatee County Government, visit online at www.mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. You can also follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/manatee.county.fl and on X, @ManateeGov.

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Manatee County Information Outreach

NEWS line: (941) 745-6397 (NEWS)

news@mymanatee.org

The Manatee Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) has voted to move forward on the purchase of a property that will serve as an additional campus for Manatee County Government.

“There is a lot of benefit to this,” said Manatee County Commission Chair George Kruse. "We have a unique opportunity to buy a property at a tremendous discount to purchase that is turnkey with cubicles already in place to create better efficiency for this government.”

The BOCC unanimously approved the execution of a $24 million contract for the purchase of a property located at 9000 Town Center Parkway in Lakewood Ranch. This move will not change the county seat. BOCC and Land Use meetings, including workshops, will still take place in the downtown Commission Chambers at 1112 Manatee Ave. W. in Bradenton.

This approval is the first step toward moving some departments to a new building that better aligns with the County’s growth pattern. The property is approximately 11.28 acres and includes a two-story, 101,000-square-foot, partially furnished office building with over 600 parking spaces. The additional campus positions some County services closer to where much of the residential and commercial growth is occurring.

Purchasing an existing building is significantly more cost-effective than constructing a new facility. A tenant currently occupies the first and second floors. The move(s) would occur in phases to accommodate the tenant’s departure. Even after closing ─ anticipated to be on or before September 1, 2025 ─ several weeks of preparation will be necessary before any employees or departments can relocate.

Space created in the downtown Administration Building will be used to accommodate the future growth of the State Attorney, Supervisor of Elections, County Attorney, Probation and Guardian Ad Litem. Other facilities would be repurposed to support EMS, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office and housing empowerment initiatives, while also helping the County comply with new state requirements to provide shelters or designated areas for individuals experiencing homelessness.

“I’m excited about bringing this forward,” said Manatee County District 2 Commissioner Amanda Ballard, “and I think it will be good for the entire county.”

For more information on Manatee County Government, visit online at www.mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. You can also follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/manatee.county.fl and on X, @ManateeGov.

Manatee County Information Outreach

NEWS line: (941) 745-6397 (NEWS)

news@mymanatee.org

Manatee County “Big Bin Advantage” to Streamline Waste Collection

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (April 30, 2025) – Manatee County Utilities customers soon will be able to experience the “Big Bin Advantage,” a comprehensive initiative aimed at enhancing waste-collection services for residents in unincorporated areas. This program introduces larger, more efficient rolling bins for garbage collection, aligning with industry best practices and allowing for future service improvements.​

"We’re teaming up with our haulers to roll out a better, more reliable collection system,” said District 1 Commissioner Carol Ann Felts. “This proven technology is already working in nearby areas. We know any change takes some getting used to, but this update is important to keep up with the needs of our growing community.”

Residents will receive free 96-gallon garbage bins, which they can begin using immediately. These larger receptacles are designed to accommodate increased waste volumes, reduce litter, and support the County waste haulers as they transition to more efficient, automated collection systems.​ Here is a video highlighting the production process for the bins.

“The Big Bin Advantage represents a significant step forward in modernizing our waste-management services,” said Patrick Shea, Manatee County Utilities Director. “By adopting larger, standardized bins, we are aligning with industry standards that prioritize efficiency, environmental responsibility, and customer convenience.”​

The move to larger bins supports the county’s ongoing efforts to streamline waste collection. Currently, garbage, recycling, and yard waste pickups occur on different days, leading to multiple truck visits each week. The new system will help consolidate these services, allowing all pickups to occur on the same day, thereby reducing truck traffic and wear on neighborhood roads.​

In addition to the new bins, the County is implementing automated-collection methods, enhancing worker safety, reducing operational costs and improving overall service reliability.​ The Big Bin Advantage also complements Manatee County’s already-in-place single-stream recycling program, which simplifies the recycling process by allowing residents to place all recyclable materials into a county-provided container without the need for sorting. ​

Residents will begin receiving their new bins in the coming weeks, with full implementation expected by October 6, 2025. For more information about the Big Bin Advantage and other waste-management initiatives, please visit mymanatee.org/BigBin, contact Manatee County Utilities Customer Service at (941) 792-8811 or dial 3-1-1.​

For more information on Manatee County Government, visit online at www.mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. You can also follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/manatee.county.fl and on X, @ManateeGov.

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Manatee County Information Outreach

NEWS line: (941) 745-6397 (NEWS)

news@mymanatee.org

Gulf Islands Ferry Updates Operational Schedule

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (April 25, 2025) – The Gulf Islands Ferry will adjust its operational schedule for May 2025. Effective May 1, the two catamarans will shift service from five to four days-per-week, running Thursday through Sunday. Service will continue between the downtown Bradenton Riverwalk Pier and the Historic Bridge Street Pier on Anna Maria Island.

For more information and a detailed schedule, visit gulfislandsferry.com or the Bradenton Area Tourism Bureau website. 

ABOUT THE GULF ISLANDS FERRY

Launched in January 2024, the Gulf Islands Ferry connects downtown Bradenton via the Historic Bridge Street Pier on Anna Maria Island. The 45-minute ride is an affordable alternative mode of travel on two sustainably powered and ADA-accessible catamarans. Up-to-date run times and scheduling can be found at gulfislandsferry.com or the Bradenton Area Tourism Bureau website. For up-to-date information on run times, tickets and scheduling, riders can call or text customer service at 727-200-6487. 

For more information about Manatee County Government, visit mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @ManateeGov.

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Keenan Singleton, Communications Manager

Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

941-773-6000

keenan.singleton@bacvb.com

Manatee County invites residents to join the 2025 Neighborhood Ambassador Academy for an interactive 11-week program offering the opportunity to learn about local government and services available to the public.

The academy will run weekly on Friday mornings from May 2 through July 25, 2025, between 9 a.m. and noon, with no sessions on May 23 and July 4. Session may be held at various locations throughout the county, providing participants with a behind-the-scenes look at how county departments operate and insight into the decision-making processes.

Kicking off on Friday, May 2, the academy will open with remarks from Manatee County Commission Chair George Kruse. “The Neighborhood Ambassador Academy is a powerful way to connect our residents with the work happening in Manatee County every day,” said Kruse. “It’s about building trust, encouraging involvement, and helping our community better understand how we serve them.”

Led by department experts, the academy offers interactive sessions, tours, presentations, and hands-on activities. Participants will gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities local government faces, enhancing their understanding of public services and equipping participants with tools to become more informed, engaged members of the community.

"This program is a fantastic opportunity for residents to learn how our departments serve the public and manage resources," said Neighborhood Connections Division Manager Debbie Deleon. “With registration spots filling quickly, residents are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.”

Program Highlights:

Duration: 11 weeks (May 2 - July 25, 2025)

Schedule: Fridays, 9 a.m. – Noon (no sessions on May 23 and July 4)

Location: Various County departments and facilities

Eligibility: Open to Manatee County residents aged 18 and older

Cost: Free of charge

Capacity: Limited to approximately 30 participants

Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. If the number of applicants exceeds the available slots, a waiting list will be maintained for future sessions. Learn more and apply here.

Participants must attend at least 9 of the 11 sessions to receive a certificate of completion at the graduation ceremony. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided at each session.

Manatee County encourages all interested residents to take advantage of this unique opportunity to engage with local government and contribute to the community's growth and development. For more details, please contact the Neighborhood Connections Division at (941) 748-3030 ext. 6929

About Manatee County Community and Veterans Services: Manatee County Community and Veterans Services (CVS) is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all residents by connecting individuals and families to essential resources, support programs, and community-based initiatives. CVS provides a wide range of services, including veteran support, housing assistance, neighborhood connections, and human services coordination. Through strong partnerships and a commitment to public service, CVS helps build a healthier, more resilient community for visitors and residents.

For more information on Manatee County Government, visit online at www.mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. You can also follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/manatee.county.fl and on X, @ManateeGov.

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Manatee County Information Outreach

NEWS line: (941) 745-6397 (NEWS)

news@mymanatee.org

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (April 15, 2025) – The Manatee Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) has earmarked $5.6 Million for a catalytic loan to help develop 156 affordable housing units in Bradenton.

In December 2024, the BOCC agreed to negotiate the loan for One Stop Housing to build new apartments at its Forest Cove property at 1478 45th Ave. Cir. W. in Bradenton. The site has been home to 36 affordable apartment units, but the developer is partnering with local employers to expand its offerings.

“I think this is going to be an amazing project in the right location,” said Manatee Commission Chair George Kruse. “This is truly an effort to provide what the community needs.”

One Stop Housing representatives previously briefed commissioners, estimating the cost to build the development at $28 million with funding through investments from local businesses, a bank loan and the catalytic loan from Manatee County. Planners say Forest Cove will eventually house over 300 working families within three communities connected to a public center with amenities once completed. A variety of studio, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom units will be available.

The BOCC also voted unanimously to purchase a 93-acre property along Golf Course Road and Gamble Creek in Parrish for use in storm water improvement, floodwater mitigation, future road widening and bridge replacement. A new stormwater park will help provide 300 acre-feet of flood storage as part of the $9.5 million purchase. Natural habitats will be managed to support wildlife and passive recreational activities on the property.

County Administrator Charlie Bishop shared an update from Congressman Vern Buchanan’s office that $3.1 Million in federal funding has been awarded to Manatee County for the Coquina Beach Engineered Project making permanent repairs as a direct result of Hurricane Idalia. This work includes the replacement of beach-quality sand obtained from the borrow area in Longboat Pass and work to return the Coquina Beach area to pre-Hurricane Idalia conditions.

For more information on Manatee County Government, visit online at www.mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. You can also follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/manatee.county.fl and on X, @ManateeGov.

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Manatee County Information Outreach

NEWS line: (941) 745-6397 (NEWS)

news@mymanatee.org

WaterWise Manatee Program to Bring Smart Water Meters to Manatee Utilities Customers

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (April 7, 2025) – Manatee County Utilities is launching the WaterWise Manatee program, a major infrastructure upgrade that will provide 150,000 customers with new high-tech water meters.

The transition to this advanced metering infrastructure system will enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and promote environmental sustainability improving access to water meter data, eliminating the monthly process of driving or walking by each home and business.

“This investment in smart technology benefits everyone in Manatee County,” said Manatee County Commission Chair George Kruse. “By reducing costs, increasing efficiency, and saving time, WaterWise Manatee is a win for our residents and the environment.”

Installation of the new smart meters will begin on April 21, 2025, and is expected to be completed by the end of 2027. Manatee County will notify customers with postcards mailed prior to the work occurring in their neighborhood. During the installation process, water service at each customer’s home or business will be interrupted for approximately 10 minutes. While workers will need access to the meter, customers do not need to be present or take any action and there is no charge for the meter upgrade.

“WaterWise Manatee represents a significant step forward in modernizing our county’s water infrastructure,” said Patrick Shea, Manatee County Utilities Director. “With the implementation of this program, we can improve operational efficiency, provide better customer service, and contribute to water conservation efforts.”

As the technology is rolled out to neighborhoods across the county, it will become a key tool for conservation, offering Manatee County Utilities and its customers real-time data on water usage. Future “Phase II” system enhancements will allow customers to monitor their water use online and receive alerts for water flow/consumption, helping them to conserve water and detect issues early.

For more information, visit mymanatee.org/WaterWiseManatee.

For more information on Manatee County Government, visit online at www.mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. You can also follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/manatee.county.fl and on Twitter, @ManateeGov.

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Manatee County Information Outreach

NEWS line: (941) 745-6397 (NEWS)

news@mymanatee.org

Manatee County Library Sets Sail for a

Summer of Reading Adventure

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (April 4, 2025) – Ahoy, young readers! The 2025 Manatee County Library Summer Learning Program is back, inviting kids and teens up to age 17 to embark on a reading journey from May 31 through August 1. Chart your course through books, earn fantastic rewards, and discover the treasures of reading all summer long.

“This is a great opportunity to track progress all summer,” said Manatee County District 2 Commissioner and Library Board Liaison Amanda Ballard. “The incentives are bonuses to the real prize of learning.”

For every five hours of reading, participants earn a free book and an entry into the Grand Prize raffle. Reading beyond 20 hours unlocks additional raffle entries and brings them closer to the chance to become a Kid Librarian. Along the way, readers who reach 10 hours will earn a free round of mini golf at Smugglers Cove (with one paying golfer), and those who reach 20 hours will receive a ticket voucher to the August 2nd Bradenton Marauders baseball game.

Participants can pre-register now on the Manatee Library Beanstack page and start logging reading hours for the Summer Learning Program on May 31 when the program starts. Grand prize raffle prizes depend on age, but include pirate themed squishmallow, wooden pirate ship craft, a pirate lego set, and a drone.

Don’t miss this chance to set sail on a summer full of stories, prizes, and fun! More information on the Summer Reading Program can be found at this link. The 2025 Summer Learning Program is proudly sponsored by the Library Foundation of Manatee County.

For more information on Manatee County Government, visit online at www.mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. You can also follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/manatee.county.fl and on Twitter, @ManateeGov.

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Manatee County Information Outreach

NEWS line: (941) 745-6397 (NEWS)

news@mymanatee.org

Gold Star Memorial Kiosk

Manatee County is honored to host the unveiling of the Gold Star Memorial Kiosk, a tribute to the families of fallen service members, in the lobby of the Manatee County Administration Building (1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton) Friday, May 23, 2025, at 10 a.m.

This event will bring together local dignitaries, community leaders, veteran organizations, and Gold Star families to commemorate the sacrifices made by our local heroes. A "Gold Star Family" refers to the immediate family of a U.S. military member who has died while serving in the armed forces, and the term originated during World War I with the use of service flags.

“This is an opportunity to honor those who’ve paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom,” said Manatee County District 4 Commissioner – and Marine Corps Veteran – Mike Rahn (who will also serve as emcee for the event). “We are pleased to unveil this interactive display in time for Memorial Day.”

The kiosk will offer updated biographical information for local Gold Star members organized by War, WWI through 1958 (including WWII and Korean War). Those biographies will be included under their corresponding War in the Memorial. After 1958 the Veteran must have died while engaged in an action against an enemy of the U.S., or while engaged in a military operation involving conflict with an opposing foreign force, or while in service with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict. Each war will contain a description and details about how Manatee County supported each War. Each war will open to the individual Gold Star Member’s biography.

Local families are invited to help complete the memorial with biographical information, including name, hometown, date of death, age, a uniformed pic, any veterans’ life photos, assigned unit, how they died, details on the life of the veteran and their ties to Manatee County. Information included in the kiosk will be from research and audio interviews with friend(s) and/or family member(s) who wish to contribute the legacy of their loved one. Sound clips from those audio interviews will be included in the Gold Star biography.

The ceremony will feature remarks from key officials and representatives, including other Manatee County Commissioners and Administrators who have served in the armed forces. A Gold Star Family representative and Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Fla., who represents Florida’s 16th Congressional District will also speak prior to the unveiling.

For more information on Manatee County Government, visit online at www.mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. You can also follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/manatee.county.fl and on Twitter, @ManateeGov.