COUNTY  

Florida Politics  

Will Robinson considers bill to preempt Holmes Beach parking controls 

Could Manatee County get to build a parking garage with or without city permission? 

 

The News Leader 

High numbers of manatee deaths across Florida reported in 2023  

Lluvia and her calf Morado glide to the bottom of their habitat to munch on romaine lettuce; this is hour one of the eight they spend eating daily. They are the lucky ones, survivors from what wildlife experts are worried could be another year full of unusually high deaths among Florida’s beloved manatees. 

 

Flagler Live 

Flagler County Maintains Favorable ISO, or Fire Protection, Rating 

Flagler County on Monday (January 30) learned that it will continue to receive a favorable ISO fire rating – 3/3X, which is in the top 14% of the 39,850 fire departments rated nationwide by the Insurance Services Office (ISO). 

 

Orange County 

Orange County Leads the Way in Creating “EPIC” ESOL Pilot for International Drive Hotel Employees  

Sadya Pierre has a tough job. For the last five years, she has worked as a housekeeper at the Rosen Centre Hotel on International Drive. Originally from Haiti, Pierre’s limited language proficiency led to challenges communicating with guests at the resort, as well as with simply living in a largely English-speaking community. 

 

Orlando Sentinel  

In Seminole, the right choice for county manager 

Last fall, when Seminole County commissioners looked at their slate of potential candidates for county manager, they made one of the toughest — but smartest — decisions elected officials can make. 

 

AFFORDABLE HOUSING 

Sun Sentinel  

Should Florida outlaw rent control? Why some cities oppose the proposal amid housing crisis As a new Florida bill calls for banning cities from being able to enact rent-control measures, it’s facing fresh scrutiny from elected officials who say it’s another instance of state overreach — especially as renters feel the squeeze of the housing crisis. 

 

SPECIAL SESSION 

WLRN 

Another Florida special session starts Monday. Here’s what’s on the schedule  

Typically, a special legislative session focuses on just one—maybe two—subjects. This time, lawmakers are tacking a full slate of issues. Here’s a look at what’s on the docket for the special legislative session that starts Monday.