Covering Local News
A Check for $625,000 was Presented to Mayor Petrila for the Funding of Filtered Storm Water
By: Natasha Collazo | St.Pete Beach
Storm water management is more than just a buzzword; it’s a vital aspect of keeping our environment clean. On Monday September 9th, a check for $625,000 was presented to Mayor Petrila for the funding of the filtration of storm water runoff for the city of St. Pete Beach. This funding not only represents a commitment to cleaner streets but also ensures that the water flowing into our bays meets higher quality standards. With advocates like Linda Chaney pushing for effective solutions, we are one step closer to seeing filtered water flow from the streets into natural bodies without carrying harmful pollutants along with it.
Storm water management is a critical aspect of urban planning. It directly impacts our communities and local ecosystems. When it rains, water flows over streets, parking lots, and buildings. This runoff collects debris, chemicals, and pollutants before entering our waterways. The consequences are significant—water quality deteriorates, and wildlife suffer. Communities willbenefit from cleaner water as well as reduced flooding risks. Better infrastructure promotes sustainability while enhancing public safety. The recent presentation of funds to Mayor Petrilais a significant step toward achieving this goal. It reflects collaborative efforts between community leaders and legislators. Whom which approved this all the way through the house and the senate- and onto the governor’s desk.
Chaney emphasized that at least half of the appropriations that came out of Tallahassee this year got vetoed by the governor,however his one did not. “We tried to get a lot more but were just happy we at least we got something. These are your taxpayer dollars that went up to Tallahassee, did a big loop and came back down.” Chaney stated during the presentation.
As Mayor Petrila receives this significant funding for filtering storm water efforts, it grants these committees hope and progress with cooperative effort among leaders dedicated to improving their constituents' quality of life.
Not All Residents came with a Good Report at Monday night’s Commission Meeting
By: Natasha Collazo | St.Pete Beach
Karen Boyer, a resident of this beloved beach community for 34 years, shared her ongoing experience with a sewage issue that had turned her life upside down. Her story is not just about pipes and plumbing; it reflects the struggles many citizens face when seeking help from local authorities. With emotions running high and frustrations boiling over, Boyer told her story as the room fell silent.
Boyer explained that for the past few months, her home had been plagued with sewage backups. She had contacted the local authorities’ multiple times, only to be met with unhelpful responses and empty promises. The issue had caused her family to endure living in unsanitary conditions, and she was desperate for a solution.
After navigating inspections, things took a dire turn. Thissewage disaster began pouring onto her front lawn without any help from city officials. As Karen described it, living there felt like "a third world country at a very high price."
A plumber's investigation revealed the harsh truth-exposed sewer pipes were the city's responsibility, not hers. Now faced with a hefty $5,000 fine for repairs.
She raises an important question, “would we treat our tourists this way?”
She concluded that it’s time for the city to pay attention to its residents and their struggles.
‘Hometown Heroes’ adopted August 25th as Lake Mary Little League World Championship day
By Natasha Collazo
District 4 Commissioner Lockhart made a significant announcement proclaiming August 25 as “Lake Mary Little League Championship Day” in Seminole County.
The Lake Mary Little League team has undoubtedly solidified their status as hometown heroes.
In a thrilling game against Texas, they showcased grit and determination, clinching a dramatic 10-1 victory. This pivotal win not only propelled them forward but also set a high bar for future teams in Seminole County.
Chairman Jay Zembower honored the achievements of the Lake Mary Little League as he presented copies of Senator Rubio's congressional record.The recognition highlighted their incredible journey through the 2024 season.
Senator Rubio’s acknowledgment placed a spotlight on these young athletes, showcasing their hard work and resilience. On September 11, 2024, a momentous occasion unfolded in the halls of Congress. The Lake Mary Little League was officially recognized as world champions during the proceedings of the 118th Congress.This recognition serves as more than just a trophy; it immortalizes their achievements within the annals of U.S. history. Future generations will look back and see how this team inspired pride in Seminole County and beyond.Hearing their names read aloud brought smiles and pride to everyone present.
The Lake Mary Little League baseball team stood on the brink of greatness on August 25th, 2024 in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Under Coach Anderson's guidance, they had achieved an impressive feat: a perfect record of 13-1.Their overall performance culminated in a stellar record of 20-1. Facing formidable opponents from the Midwest, Northwest, Metro West, and Mountain regions, they rose to every challenge.
The Lake Mary sports complex has served as a beloved hub for young athletes, but it’s facing growing pains Coach Anderson made known as he stood before the Seminole County Commissioners. With new rules allowing players aged seven and under to join any Little League team they choose, complications are on the horizon. This shift could impact Lake Mary's status in terms of resources and player retention.
Anderson emphasized that while expansion is crucial, careful consideration must be given to how these changes affect local teams. He highlighted the need for more space and facilities that can accommodate these eager young athletes. Zembower showed great respect and consideration for the issue and agreed to bring it up with the mayor.
Lake Mary Little League World Champions | Natasha Collazo
“I get one bill” a Local Resident Brings to the Board
Seminole Resident, Alyssa McIntosh spoke before commissioners regarding her tax bill. Commissioners had little to say regarding her claim. “I get one tax bill” she repeated throughout her three minutes. McIntosh begins by stating “I believe it's important to support schools, the fire department, the police department, and you guys, but there's always a but.” She continues questioning commissioners “why is it okay for the increase to be a minimum of 24% and a maximum of 31% year after year?”
According to McIntosh, she writes a budget for herself every year, including house insurance and taxes. She did not budget in a 31% increase for this one bill. “This feels like bad budget planning”
Commissioner Zembower responded in disagreement, asserting that there is a stationary cap, and it is not 31%. He states that the Property Appraiser who is present at the meeting, can explain all of the logistics, shifting the subject to him, differing to respond. According to McIntosh, her market value increased by 21%, “I can tell you, that is not accurate at all” in a debate with Commissioner Zembower. As the property appraiser joins Macintosh at the podium, he informs her that she might be looking at multiple tax parties on her bill, assuming that she is a new homeowner. As McIntosh reiterates, “I get one bill a year,” she corrects the appraiser that she has lived in this current home for 24 years, objecting to his assumption immediately. Commissioner Zembower reminds McIntosh that the county controls only the county side of the bill, not the school board and water management district. According to the appraiser, this will need to be an off-line conversation and he urges her to step outside and he can go over everything. McIntosh politely agrees to take the discussion outside, leaving the audience without a resolution to the issue. Although Zembower has made his point, she reassures him that she has heard him, however it still does not answer the question from the perspective of the average homeowner. Her final statement as she exits the podium is “we need to do something different so people can at least plan for it.”
At that time, Commissioner Lockhart intervened on her behalf, advising Commissioner Zembower that it was important to have a public explanation of what the situation was, so residents don’t think property taxes are going up that high.
Commissioner Zembower honored her suggestion and recommended they could add this to the next meeting. Lockhart suggests that a solution tonight could even be addressed without the need to wait for the next meeting. No further reports on the issue were mentioned by the end of the budget hearing.