Notices

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

Affordable plants grown by Master Gardener Volunteers

to benefit outreach and educational programs

MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. (April 10, 2025) -- Bring beauty and diversity into your landscape with affordable, Florida-friendly plants grown locally by UF/IFAS Extension Manatee County Master Gardener Volunteers (MGV’s).

The sale will take place Saturday, May 3, 2025 at the Barbara Davis Educational Gardens, 1303 17th St W, Palmetto, Fla. from 8 a.m.–noon. Get the best selection of plants and beat the rush with one of our early-bird tickets. Starting at $10 per person or $15 per family, the early-bird ticket allows you access to the plant sale from 8–9 a.m. Regular entry begins at 9 a.m. and is free. Pre-registration is required on Eventbrite for communication and event capacity purposes. Contact the UF/IFAS office at 941-722-4524 for accessibility concerns and special accommodation requests. Only cash or check will be accepted during the sale.

The annual MGV plant sale is a great opportunity for beginner gardeners to get started on their horticultural journey! Experienced, university-trained Master Gardener Volunteers will be available to answer questions about the plants they’ve grown and make recommendations based on your specific needs and site conditions. You can be assured that all the plants we have for sale are Florida-friendly and suited to our climate in Manatee County. For our veteran plant lovers, the MGV 2025 Spring Plant Sale offers affordably priced plants, a unique selection, and the opportunity to meet and chat with other green thumbs.

All proceeds from this event go to the operation and maintenance of the Master Gardeners’ Educational Gardens and Greenhouse and to support Master Gardener educational and outreach programs.

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.

Mack Lessig

(941) 722-4524 ext. 1821

mlessig@ufl.edu

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (April 10, 2025) – Manatee County Government offices will be closed Friday, April 18, 2025, in observance of the Good Friday holiday. All County offices will re-open Monday, April 21, 2025.

All Manatee County Public Libraries will be closed for the holiday and will reopen Saturday, April 19, with normal hours.

G.T. Bray Recreation Center will be open from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., with all check-ins occurring at the Recreation Center and a modified group exercise schedule. The pool will be open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. After 1 p.m. access to the pool will be through the aquatics gate.

Manatee County Area Transit and the Anna Maria Island Trolley will operate normal daily routes.

Manatee County’s publicly owned natural preserves, parks and beaches will be open to the public. Manatee County and Buffalo Creek Golf Courses will be also open.

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

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (April 3, 2025) – Manatee County Animal Welfare (MCAW) will host Adopt-A-Palooza, the county's largest one-day dog adoption event, on Saturday, May 31, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto, FL.

“Adopt-A-Palooza is a fantastic opportunity for our community to come together and give these dogs the loving homes they deserve,” said Carol Ann Felts, Manatee County District 1 Commissioner. “The compassion and support shown by our residents make a real difference in the lives of these animals.”

Co-hosted by Friends of Manatee County Animal Welfare (FoMCAW), Adopt-A-Palooza is dedicated to finding loving homes for animals in need. Dozens of adoptable dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages will be available.

The free family-friendly event will include a marketplace with vendors offering a variety of products, services, and resources for pet owners. Proceeds from the event will benefit Friends of Manatee County Animal Welfare (FoMCAW), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works hand in hand with MCAW to enrich the lives of shelter animals by raising funds to provide additional resources and medical care.

"Our goal is to connect as many dogs and cats as possible with families ready to provide them with love and care," said Sarah Brown, director of Community and Veterans Services for Manatee County. “Since October 2017, Manatee County has achieved no-kill a status with a 90% or higher save rate. Events like Adopt-A-Palooza are vital in continuing this success and giving even more animals a second chance at a forever home.”

All fees for pets adopted from MCAW will be waived in lieu of a donation made to FoMCAW. Manatee County residents are required to license their new pet for an additional $20 tag fee. All pets from MCAW are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped.

Please note that on the day of the event, the Palmetto Adoption Center will be closed to the public. Cat Town Adoption Center will remain open and will also offer waived adoption fees for all cats. The Bishop Animal Shelter, which handles lost and found pets and select adoptions, will operate during its regular business hours. While appointments are preferred at all locations, walk-ins will be accommodated based on availability.

The FoMCAW contact for sponsors is Caryn Hodge: carynhodgefomcas@gmail.com

(941) 713-3105.

Interested vendor inquiries should be directed to Katy Demick: katydemickfomcas@gmail.com

(941) 524-5769.

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.

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.

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (Jan. 7, 2025) – Manatee County’s Veterans Services and Transportation divisions have launched a new free on-demand transportation option to help veterans easily reach their medical appointments.

Starting today, ‘Manatee Moves’ will directly connect county veterans to their health providers by utilizing a rideshare service. Accessible through a smartphone app, Manatee Moves is open to all pre-registered veterans who can walk on their own, or who use an assistance device like a folding walker.

According to Manatee County Veterans Services Officer Renee Medina, Manatee Moves will help to remove obstacles that can prevent veterans from accessing the critical care and health services they need.

“This initiative reflects our deep commitment to ensuring that veterans can easily and reliably receive the medical attention they deserve, without the added stress of transportation challenges. Our goal is to make their well-being a top priority, and we are honored to play a role in improving their quality of life," Medina added.

Manatee Veterans do not need to be currently enrolled in other county services provided by the Veterans Services division. However, they must be verified, which can be done by contacting the county Veterans Services office.

Riders are limited to two one-way trips per day (for example to and from a doctor’s office), and trips are restricted to Manatee County boundaries.

Service hours are 5:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday. For those unable to utilize the mobile app a trip can be booked by calling (941) 747-1739, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Riders can book their travel up to two days in advance.

The app is now available to download on Apple and Android devices.

For more information about Manatee County Veterans Services call (941) 745-3795, send an email to vets@mymanatee.org, or visit mymanatee.org.

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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Manatee County Information Outreach

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

news@mymanatee.org