Liberty County School Board Plans New Banking System and Tackles Bullying Concerns

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Liberty County School Board focused on transitioning to a new banking system, ensuring school financial stability, and addressing crucial concerns about bullying within the district. The discussions centered on a strategic, gradual approach to financial changes and emphasized the need for improved communication and support systems to combat bullying effectively.

Port Orange City Council Greenlights Riverwalk Development and Tackles Youth Reckless Driving

Overview: The recent Port Orange City Council meeting was marked by the approval of several initiatives to revitalize the Riverwalk area, spearheaded by Coastline Coffee Company, and a discussion about the escalating issue of reckless driving among local youth. The council unanimously backed a temporary license agreement with Coastline Coffee Company for various interim uses at Riverwalk, as well as associated signage and economic incentives.

Palatka Community Grapples with Gas Lamp Funding Dilemma Amid Legal Constraints

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Palatka Community Redevelopment Agency, much of the discussion centered around the funding and future of gas street lamps in the city’s South Historic District. Legal interpretations now suggest that Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds cannot be allocated to recurring utility expenses, which has sparked a debate over the preservation of these historic gas lamps.

Broward County School Board Confronts Financial Challenges with School Closures and Restructuring

Overview: In a recent Broward County School Board meeting, the board tackled pressing financial challenges, including a projected $94 million budget shortfall, by considering school closures, restructuring, and program adjustments. Declining enrollment, with a loss of approximately 3,600 students this school year, compounded previous student attrition and impacted the district’s financial standing.

St. Pete Beach Special Magistrate Tackles Complex Short-Term Rental Violations and Compliance Issues

Overview: The recent St. Pete Beach Special Magistrate meeting, held on December 8, 2025, focused heavily on code enforcement violations, particularly concerning short-term rental regulations and property maintenance. The meeting, presided over by an independent attorney acting as the special magistrate, addressed several cases where property owners were cited for violations ranging from unauthorized short-term rentals to permit-related infractions.