COUNTY  

Florida Politics 

The outreach support event started in Perry, drawing small-business leaders from Lafayette, Dixie and Taylor counties. 

Florida Commerce and the state’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) have started an outreach program designed to grow more businesses in smaller markets. 

Your Local Station  

New shelter opens in Manatee County for women in crisis 

A new facility in Manatee County will offer not only shelter to women in crisis but also provide essential services, all under one roof. 

Action News Jax 

St. Johns County supports Volusia Woods project to expand affordable housing – Action News Jax 

St. Johns County has reaffirmed its commitment to affordable housing by supporting the Volusia Woods development, which will introduce 36 new homes to the community. 

PROPERTY TAXES

News Channel 8 

DeSantis hints at summer session for property tax proposal | WFLA 

State lawmakers have yet to begin the next legislative session, but Governor Ron DeSantis is already warning about a summer special session. That’s if the House and Senate are unable to pass his preferred property tax proposal. 

DOGE 

Orlando Weekly 

Orange County mayor says he stands by county spending amid criticism from Florida DOGE – Orlando Weekly 

Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, pushed back against allegations of wasteful spending made by Florida’s Department of Government Efficiency task force Wednesday as tensions over government finances edge closer to the boiling point. 

Newsroom 

Governor Ron DeSantis and CFO Blaise Ingoglia Highlight Excessive Local Government Spending Uncovered by Florida DOGE Audits | Executive Office of the Governor 

 Today’s examples are just a few of the DOGE Task Force’s findings from those visits and from data requests sent to all of Florida’s 411 municipalities and 67 counties. 

INNOVATION 

The Town-Crier 

Palm Beach County Offering ‘Neighborhood Dashboard’ – Town-Crier Newspaper 

Palm Beach County is proud to announce the launch of “Your Neighborhood Dashboard.” This comprehensive online tool is a convenient, one-stop resource for staying informed and connected, enabling residents to access valuable, district-specific information. 

WEATHER 

News Herald 

Coastal flood watch, advisory issued by NWS in Florida. What to know 

Former hurricanes Imelda and Humberto may be gone, but their effects continue to be felt along Florida’s coast. 

25 WPBF News 

Flood Watch issued for Indian River, St. Lucie, Martin counties 

The National Weather Service issued a flood watch for Indian River, St. Lucie and Martin counties from Thursday afternoon through Sunday morning.