Notices

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (August 4, 2025) — Manatee County celebrated the completion of a transformative road project with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting of the 44th Avenue East Extension. While the celebration took place today, the roadway officially opens to all traffic Saturday, August 9.

“This is a legacy project,” said Manatee Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) Chair George Kruse. “We are pleased to bring this to completion.”

Spanning six major phases and more than a decade of construction, the final segment of the 44th Avenue East Extension adds nearly two miles of new roadway from east of I-75 to Lena Road. The extension includes a new overpass across Interstate 75, a bridge over the reclaimed lake at the Southeast Water Reclamation Facility and a modern roundabout at Lena Road. Designed with the future in mind, the corridor features four lanes, sidewalks, dedicated bike lanes, multi-use trails and enhanced lighting.

The project had its origins as part of the County’s 1968 Concept Development Plan, was reinforced through the 1989 Comprehensive Plan and was committed to action in our Capital Improvement Plans. This dedication serves as a moment to reflect on the community vision, inter-agency coordination and sustained investment that brought this corridor to life.

“Now, after years of planning, engineering and construction, we’re proud to mark the completion of the final piece,” said Manatee County District 5 Commissioner Dr. Bob McCann.

Crews will be completing some final touches through the coming week, with the new roadway officially open to drivers by the weekend (just in time for the opening of Manatee County Schools for students on Monday, August 11). The new thoroughfare will make room for around 36,000 more vehicles per day. It also will reduce traffic through State Road 64 and State Road 70 by 21,000 vehicles a day.

"This is an entirely new corridor,” said Public Works Director Chad Butzow. “If you were frustrated on the volume of traffic on (SR) 64 and (SR) 70, this will give you a totally new option."

For more information about Manatee County transportation projects, visit mymanatee.org/transportation.

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

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Manatee County Information Outreach

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

news@mymanatee.org

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (July 30, 2025) — Manatee County is accepting applicants for vacancies for two volunteer Special Magistrate positions to hear and decide rule on alleged violations of Manatee’s Land Development Code and Code of Ordinances, imposing fines against violators.

All Manatee County residents may apply for any of these volunteer positions. Special Magistrates are typically attorneys, retired judges, paralegals, and others who may have a legal background and/or law experience.

The Special Magistrate appointees will fill four-year terms which expire in October 2029 and will serve on a volunteer basis. A full list of qualifications for Special Magistrates can be found in the County's Code of Ordinances Chapter 2-7-21.

The Special Magistrate hearings are generally held on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 9 a.m. in the Honorable Patricia M. Glass Commission Chambers, located on the first floor of the Manatee County Administrative Center at 1112 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton.

Applications are due Sept. 1, 2025 and may be found online at this link.

For more information, call Manatee County Code Enforcement Chief Tom Wooten at (941) 748-2071 or email Tom.Wooten@mymanatee.org

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

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Manatee County Information Outreach

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

news@mymanatee.org

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (July 29, 2025) — The Manatee Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) has appointed five individuals to serve on a newly created Government Efficiency Liaison Committee, established to promote transparent, cost-effective public service delivery in alignment with Florida’s Executive Order No. 25-44 and Manatee County Resolution No. R-25-072.

David Otterness, Benjamin Heavener, John Settineri, Mark Stanoch and Don Berg were selected to begin their work to support the County’s participation in the statewide Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative with Manatee County Director of Government Relations Stephanie Garrison and Manatee County Government Relations Manager Brent Anderson. The appointments follow an open application process, which concluded July 18 and reflect the BOCC commitment to citizen engagement and responsible governance prior to the Governor’s announcement last week of the DOGE audit of Manatee County.

“This is an important board,” said Manatee County Commission Chair George Kruse. “The intent was to have a broad swatch of people with IT, HR and finance experience. Backgrounds and experience are important.”

Manatee County Commissioners also voted to purchase and preserve some important properties. Commissioners unanimously approved the purchase of roughly 10 acres of environmentally sensitive land at 950 Rye Road in Parrish, using $858,000 in Environmental Lands Management and Acquisition Committee (ELMAC) funding. Over 70% of voters passed the Conservation and Parks Referendum in November 2020 to pay for the purchase of land and easements for conservation like this, and the ELMAC team is working hard to bring more properties like this to the BOCC for approval. The land is a mix of uplands and forested wetlands. The uplands are primarily pine flatwoods, which are considered rare species habitat, an underrepresented natural community and are important for strategic habitat conservation and will be managed as a part of the expanded Rye Preserve.

The BOCC also voted unanimously to approve the purchase of the former Mixon Fruit Farms property, located at the intersection of 27th St. E and 26th Ave. E., in Bradenton for $13.5 Million.

“We’ve had an overwhelmingly positive response with citizens and organizations that want to be a part of this important work that we’re going to be doing,” said Manatee County District 2 Commissioner Amanda Ballard, who called the purchase of the 39-acre property—which includes a story, pavilion and home—a “once-in-a-generation opportunity to preserve a piece of Old Florida within the urban core.”

Plans for the property have yet to be finalized, but it is hoped that this a space will pay homage to Manatee County’s roots, while also giving the next generation of farmers a place to start. The inclusion of a library branch on site has also been discussed.

A Natural Resources Program Manager will carry out the desired educational events and activities related to this property, developing and managing innovative programs focused on water-quality education and conservation practices, community and micro gardens, composting and soil health, agritourism and cooperative farming models, food security and access to fresh and local produce for diverse segments of the local population. A Sports & Leisure Services Event Supervisor will manage and oversee weddings, continuing to generate revenue while offering a local community space in this area of the County. Also, a Property Management Parks Maintenance Technician and Custodian will ensure the maintenance and care of the property as it is developed.

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

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Manatee County Information Outreach

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

news@mymanatee.org

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (July 25, 2025) — More than 200 Siamese and Siamese-mix cats have been rescued from a single Manatee County residence following a coordinated response from Manatee County Animal Welfare (MCAW), Manatee County Public Safety and over nine partner animal rescue organizations.

The cats were removed after the resident—who had been feeding a growing number of stray cats—reached out to authorities for help. While the initial effort was an act of compassion, the population quickly expanded due to the lack of spay and neuter interventions. Officials emphasize that the individual cooperated fully with authorities and wanted what was best for the animals.

“This was not about cruelty or neglect—it was about someone trying to do good who became overwhelmed,” said Sarah Brown, director of Community & Veterans Services. “We’re proud of the quick and humane response from our team and partners, and we’re especially thankful to the resident for seeking help.”

Despite the large number of cats, the majority were found to be in good health and good spirits. Many were able to move freely between the home and the outdoors, which contributed to their overall well-being. Only one cat required more intensive medical attention due to an eye issue, but the vast majority were cleared for transport and adoption readiness.

The cats were assessed and treated on-site thanks to Southwest Florida Spay and Neuter Services, who performed surgeries in a mobile EMS unit in partnership with MCAW. The collaboration allowed 204 cats to be safely rescued and transferred to shelters and rescues across Florida.

Participating rescue organizations included:

Gulf Coast Humane Society

Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue

Cat Depot

Humane Society of Manatee County

Humane Society of Sarasota County

Cape Coral Animal Shelter

Furry Friends Humane Society

SPCA Tampa Bay

All Kitty Korner

“Animal hoarding is a complex behavioral condition often rooted in mental health challenges,” said Claribel Gill, MS, LAMP Counselor and Psychiatric Clinic Coordinator with Manatee County Government. “It’s important for the public to understand that hoarding is not about malice—it’s typically driven by a deep emotional attachment and a genuine desire to help, even when the situation becomes unmanageable. If you notice a loved one or friend exhibiting any of these behaviors, gently recommend professional help with a caring, compassionate and non-judgmental approach."

MCAW and its partners are now calling on the community to help with the next step in this rescue: fostering, adopting and donating. The cats range in age and are friendly, social and in need of stable environments as they transition to new lives.

While most of the highly social cats were transferred to rescue partners, MCAW’s Palmetto Adoption Center currently has 17 cats remaining who are best suited for barn cat placement. These cats are healthy but have a more independent temperament, ideal for safe outdoor environments like barns, warehouses or workshops where they can thrive.

“It’s remarkable how healthy the majority of these cats were when we arrived,” said DVM Syna Johnson, Medical Director of Manatee County Animal Welfare. “Our medical team—alongside Southwest Florida Spay and Neuter Services—was able to perform dozens of surgeries on-site using a mobile EMS unit, while our shelter’s medical staff triaged and received any unstable cats in-house.”

How to help:

Foster or adopt a cat through Manatee County Animal Welfare or any of the participating rescues

Donate to support continued medical care, food and supplies

Share this story to raise awareness

To learn more or get involved, visit mymanatee.org/pets or call Manatee County Animal Welfare at (941) 742-5933.

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

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Manatee County Information Outreach

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

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (July 25, 2025) — Manatee County Government is now accepting applications from residents interested in serving on the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) representing Manatee County.

“The Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan MPO helps develop the plans, policies, and priorities that guide regional decision-making on important transportation issues facing our growing community," said Sarasota/Manatee MPO Board member and At-Large Manatee County Commissioner Jason Bearden. "Committed and concerned residents can craft strategies that help ensure access to all."

Citizens Advisory Committee meetings are held at 5 p.m. on the second Monday of months in which an MPO meeting is scheduled (January, March, May, September, and November in 2025). The CAC meets in the main conference room at the Sarasota Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization Office at 8100 15th Street E., Sarasota, FL 34243.

Interested residents must apply no later than August 17, 2025. Applications are available online here.

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

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Manatee County Information Outreach

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

news@mymanatee.org

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (July 8, 2025) —Youth soccer’s elite are coming to Florida’s West Coast in a big way. Premier Sports Campus in Lakewood Ranch is thrilled to announce a multi-year agreement to host the prestigious Premier SuperCopa and SuperCopa+ championships in 2026, 2028, and 2030. These exclusive, invitation-only tournaments will bring the nation’s top U9–U17 teams to Florida’s West Coast thanks to a powerhouse partnership with U90C Sports and the regional tourism alliance between the Bradenton Area Tourism Bureau and Visit Sarasota.

Widely regarded as the pinnacle of youth soccer competition in the U.S., Premier SuperCopa and SuperCopa+ feature elite clubs and emerging talent from across the country. The events are more than just championships, they’re defining moments in youth athletic careers, set in a world-class destination that offers both top-tier play and unforgettable off-the-field experiences.

“The Bradenton and Sarasota Areas have become a favorite destination for our teams and their families as they look forward to competing for America’s Championship,” said Chris Zembik, Director of Operations for U90C Sports. “We’re grateful to both destinations for their shared vision in delivering exceptional youth sports experiences that blend top competition with everything Florida’s West Coast has to offer.”

Backed by U90C Sports, a national leader in youth soccer development, the Premier SuperCopa brand has earned a reputation for its high standards, diverse competition, and electric atmosphere. This long-term commitment to Premier Sports Campus cements Florida’s West Coast as a national hub for elite youth sports.

“This partnership brings incredible energy and visibility to our community,” said Manatee County District 2 Commissioner Amanda Ballard. “These events not only deliver high-impact competition, but they also provide an economic stimulus to our community that ultimately continues to enhance the quality of life for our residents.”

Premier Sports Campus, located in the heart of Lakewood Ranch in the Bradenton Area, offers 23 professional-grade fields, exceptional amenities, and easy access to sugar-sand beaches, award-winning restaurants, and world-class attractions.

Admission is free for spectators, making it the perfect family-friendly way to experience high-caliber youth sports in paradise.

About Premier SuperCopa

Premier SuperCopa provides the highest level of competition available in the United States for U9 - U12 boys and girls competitive youth teams. With nationwide teams being invited, the Premier SuperCopa is providing not only the best competition, but also the most diverse competition across the country. “Do You Have What It Takes?”

About Florida’s West Coast

Florida's West Coast, made up of the Bradenton Area Tourism Bureau and Visit Sarasota County, represents a true authentic Florida paradise boasting 51 miles of pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters including Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key and Siesta Key. Full of diverse activities for people of all ages and abilities, the region is packed with fresh Florida seafood and the state’s oldest continuously operating historic fishing village, incredible arts and culture including a circus history museum, natural blueways and preserves, professional and amateur sports and a rich heritage. For more information, visit www.bradentongulfislands.com or www.visitsarasota.com. 

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, FL (July 17, 2025) — Manatee County Government is now accepting applications from residents interested in serving on the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (AHAC), a citizen-led board that makes development and accessibility of affordable housing recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC).

"Affordable housing is one of the greatest challenges facing our growing community," said Tal Siddique, Manatee County commissioner and BOCC's AHAC appointee. "We need thoughtful, committed residents to help craft policies that ensure working families, seniors, and essential workers have a place to call home in Manatee County."

The AHAC plays a vital role in reviewing existing policies, ordinances, land development regulations, and the comprehensive plan, and in proposing strategies to promote affordable housing while also preserving property values. There are currently three open seats on the committee:

Seat #6: A citizen actively engaged as a non-profit provider of affordable housing (term through Dec. 31, 2027)

Seat #8: A citizen currently serving on the local planning agency pursuant to F.S. 163.3174 (term through Dec. 31, 2027)

Seat #11: A citizen who represents essential services personnel, as defined in the Local Housing Assistance Plan (term through Dec. 31, 2026)

Interested residents must apply no later than August 1, 2025. Applications are available online here.

Meetings are held on select Mondays from 3 - 5 p.m. in the Manatee Room, on the 5th Floor of the county administration building, 1112 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34205. Regular attendance is essential for quorum and voting purposes.

"Serving on AHAC is a meaningful opportunity to help shape the future of housing in our county,” said Deborah Ash, Manatee County housing and community development coordinator. “We encourage passionate residents from all backgrounds to apply and share their expertise and perspectives."

For more information, contact Deborah Ash at (941) 749-3029, ext. 3478 or via email at Deborah.Ash@mymanatee.org.

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

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Manatee County Information Outreach

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

news@mymanatee.org

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (July 11, 2025) – The Manatee Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) is asking for public input and ideas for the future Cortez Boat Ramp. This property is located just north of the Cortez Bridge over the Intracoastal waterway.

“We want to see the input from the community on this project,” said Manatee County District 3 Commissioner Tal Siddique “We are going to make sure your input is accounted for.”

Manatee County Government is starting with a blank slate to design a vibrant public boat‐launch and waterfront destination at The Cortez Boat Ramp and public input is being sought. Every dock plank, parking space, and amenity will reflect the community’s vision, so project managers are opening the doors wide for citizens to contribute their creativity, concerns, and aspirations.

With nine saltwater access boat ramps including 17 launches currently in Manatee County, this location in Cortez will help provide additional access to boaters. Planners have pointed out that this site has the potential to increase the number of boat trailer parking spaces by up to 25% county wide.

Following a series of damaging hurricanes in 2024, the existing structures were deemed unsafe, leading to an adjustment in redevelopment timelines. The events also encouraged community leaders to seek additional input on the future of this important property.

The survey is now accessible here and will run in conjunction with community “Open House” meetings where hands-on design tables, visual preference and additional access surveys will gauge user interest. Those meetings will be held as follows:

July 24, 2025

5-7 p.m.

The Bridge Church

4000 75th St. W.

Bradenton, FL 34209

August 6, 2025

5-7 p.m.

Manatee Central Library

1301 1st Ave. W.

Bradenton, FL 34205

August 11, 2025

5-7 p.m.

Island Library

5701 Marina Dr.

Holmes Beach, FL 34217

August 13, 2025

5-7 p.m.

Rocky Bluff Library

6750 US-301

Ellenton, FL 34222

August 18, 2025

5-7 p.m.

Lakewood Ranch Library

16410 Rangeland Pkwy.

Bradenton, FL 34211

“This is an important project for Cortez,” said Commissioner Siddique. “There is a lot happening there.”

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

The survey is now accessible here and will run in conjunction with community “Open House” meetings where hands-on design tables, visual preference and additional access surveys will gauge user interest. Those meetings will be held as follows:

Manatee County Information Outreach

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

news@mymanatee.org

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (July 8, 2025) — Big changes are coming to garbage, recycling, and yard waste pickup in unincorporated Manatee County, and residents now have an easy way to stay informed. Beginning October 6, 2025, a new Solid Waste collection schedule will take effect—impacting pickup days for thousands of households.

To help residents navigate the changes, the County has updated its Resident Information Tool, an interactive online service that lets residents look up their exact collection days by simply entering their address.

“This update reflects Manatee County’s commitment to customer service and transparency,” said Manatee County District 1 Commissioner Carol Ann Felts – who is hosting a July 23 Town Hall in Parrish at the Rocky Bluff Library (6750 US Highway 301 N., Ellenton) and another in Myakka in August to discuss the new trash pickup and educate citizens in better use of tools like this.

“With the Resident Information Tool, residents can stay prepared and informed—not only about waste collection, but also emergency planning and essential County services,” she added.

Key Features of the Tool:

Personalized garbage, recycling, and yard waste collection schedules

Details about the new collection routes launching October 6

Holiday collection adjustments

Flood and evacuation zone lookup

Nearest emergency shelters, polling places, libraries, schools, parks, and more

“The new collection routes are designed to improve efficiency and keep pace with our growing community,” said Pat Shea, Utilities Director. “The Resident Information Tool makes it simple—just enter your address to see your new day for garbage, recycling, and yard waste is starting October 6.”

Check the Resident Information Tool and learn more about the October 6 Big Bin Advantage: www.mymanatee.org/bigbin

Residents are encouraged to start using the tool now to get familiar with their new schedule before the October 6 rollout. Big Bins will start arriving August 18th and continue through September. Start using your new bin right away with your current schedule. Your new day will begin October 6th.

For more information, contact Manatee County Utilities at (941) 792-8811 or visit mymanatee.org.

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

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Manatee County Information Outreach

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

news@mymanatee.org

MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. (July 8, 2025) - Manatee County Veterans Services has partnered with Bay Area Legal Services to offer free monthly legal clinics for veterans at its Bradenton office, beginning this month.

“This partnership with Bay Area Legal Services is about standing by our veterans, not just in words but in action,” said Mike Rahn, Manatee County District 4 Commissioner. “Manatee County is proud to provide a welcoming space where those who’ve served our nation can access the help they need and deserve.”

These clinics provide veterans with access to legal guidance on civil issues, such as housing, benefits, family law and more—at no cost. Meetings are now taking place in the conference room at Manatee County Veterans Services, located at 1401 3rd Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205. Upcoming clinic dates can be found on the Manatee County Veterans Services Public Calendar, and appointments can be scheduled directly by calling Bay Area Legal Services at (813) 232-1343.

"We are committed to ensuring our local veterans continue to have access to these critical legal resources," said Renee Medina, Veterans Services Division Manager. "When we learned Bay Area Legal needed a new space, we immediately opened our doors to support this important mission."

Veterans in need of legal support are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity. This new partnership ensures Manatee County remains a steadfast advocate for the wellbeing and dignity of those who have served.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit: bals.org/areas/manatee-county

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About Bay Area Legal Services:

Bay Area Legal Services is a nonprofit, public interest law firm that provides civil legal assistance to low-income residents and veterans across the Tampa Bay region.

About Manatee County Veteran Services:

Manatee County Veteran Services assists veterans and their families in securing benefits and services earned through military service. From benefits counseling to advocacy, the division is committed to serving those who served.

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

Manatee County Information Outreach

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

news@mymanatee.org

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (June 30, 2025) – Manatee County is accepting applications for six (6) seats on the Children’s Services Advisory Board (CSAB). The CSAB makes recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners about priorities and expenditures of the County’s dedicated millage for children’s services.

The CSAB year begins with a full-day retreat in October. June through January, the CSAB typically meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 3 p.m. During the annual program funding review process which runs February – May, the review meetings are weekly beginning at 3 p.m. All CSAB meetings are scheduled at the Manatee County Administration Building, 1112 Manatee Ave W, Bradenton unless noted otherwise.

Applications for the following seats will be accepted through August 1, 2025:

Judge - Family Law Division (1 seat)

Physician (1 seat)

Child Advocates not affiliated with any agency receiving county funds (2 seats)

Criminal Justice Representative (1 seat)

Licensed Mental Health Professional (1 seat)

All prospective board members (except for the judge seat) must be a resident of Manatee County.

To qualify for consideration, candidates must submit an application and resume and provide answers to supplemental questions (page 4 of the Advisory Board Application). Applications can be found here.

For more information, call (941) 748-4501, ext. 3485, or email Kristi.Hagen@mymanatee.org

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

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Manatee County Information Outreach

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

news@mymanatee.org

Gulf Islands Ferry Enhances Summer Schedule

Service extended to accommodate strong ridership numbers

BRADENTON, FL (June 10, 2025) – The Gulf Islands Ferry, the Bradenton Area’s popular alternative mode of travel between downtown Bradenton to Anna Maria Island, is bringing back Wednesday service to its weekly schedule. Passengers can now ride the Gulf Islands Ferry five days per week beginning June 18, 2025.

The two 50-foot catamarans ride the waterways between the downtown Bradenton Riverwalk Pier and the Historic Bridge Street Pier on Anna Maria Island.

“As Manatee County continues to welcome visitors this Summer, the Gulf Islands Ferry is easing the traffic on our roadways,” said Manatee County District 3 Commissioner Tal Siddique.

In addition to providing easy transport to the island, the service is an extended commitment to working to preserve and protect the natural beauty of the area for future generations by eliminating carbon emission from car travel to the island. Featuring energy-efficient design elements, the vessels further support the Bradenton Area’s Love It Like a Local initiative and Leave No Trace commitment.

Weather permitting, the boats will depart from the Riverwalk Pier beginning at 7:30 a.m. through 7:30 p.m. to the Historic Bridge Street Pier, on Anna Maria Island with service starting at 9 a.m. through 9 p.m.

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

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ABOUT THE GULF ISLANDS FERRY

Launched in January 2024, the Gulf Islands Ferry connects downtown Bradenton to Anna Maria Island. This public transportation service, supported by the tourist development tax, was launched in an effort to cut down on high traffic and car use attempting to access Anna Maria Island during peak travel seasons. This year-round service offers a convenient and affordable 45-minute ride to the island all while taking in abundant marine wildlife and the amazing local views of the Bradenton Area from the Manatee River and intercoastal waterways.

The ferry routes are operated by two ADA-accessible catamarans and a soon to come third boat, the Manatee Belle, which will be fully enclosed and offer a faster service out to the island. Up-to-date run times and scheduling can be found at www.gulfislandsferry.com, or riders can call 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.

MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. (June 3, 2025) — As part of its ongoing efforts to help residents prepare for severe weather, Manatee County is making self-service sandbag locations available to the public throughout the entire 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season.

Beginning immediately and continuing through November 30, 2025, residents can access sand and bags at the following locations from dawn to dusk daily:

• Blackstone Park – 2112 14th Ave. W., Palmetto

• Myakka Community Center – 10060 Wauchula Rd., Myakka City

• Palma Sola Park – 7815 40th Ave. W., Bradenton

• Parrish Park Overflow Parking – 77550 Ft. Hamer Rd., Parrish

• Rubonia Community Center – 1309 72nd St. E., Palmetto

• Rye Preserve – 905 Rye Wilderness Trail, Parrish

• Manatee County Stormwater Facility – 5511 39th St. E., Bradenton

Each location is self-service, so residents should bring their own shovels and be prepared to fill and transport the sandbags themselves. Bags and sand are provided at the locations while supplies last.

A map of sandbag sites is available at mymanatee.org/storm by clicking on the "Sandbags" tab.

“Having sandbags ready ahead of a storm can make a big difference in protecting homes and property,” said Manatee County Commission Chair George Kruse. “We encourage residents to prepare early and make use of these resources now—before a storm is on the way.”

Residents are also reminded to stay up to date on local storm alerts and preparedness resources throughout the season by visiting mymanatee.org/storm and following Manatee County Government on social media.

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.

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