Recap from the most recent Sarasota County Commissioners meeting

**An area off Anna Maria Island known as 'Bean Point' has been designated a 'No Swim Zone'**

In light of recent safety concerns, Manatee County officials have designated Bean Point off Anna Maria Island as a 'No Swim Zone' following the discovery of a body believed to be a missing 20-year-old swimmer. This precautionary measure highlights the importance of safety awareness for both residents and visitors to this popular coastal destination.

The most recent breaking governmental news in Manatee County for today, September 24, 2025, is that the Manatee County Commission approved a **$1.3 billion budget for fiscal year 2026** with one commissioner dissenting. The net budget is $1,368,296,426 and the gross budget, including reserves and grants, is $3,577,708,037. The millage rate was reduced by 0.05 mills, which will save property owners about $15 a year on a $300,000 home, continuing a trend of recent millage reductions. However, one commissioner vocally opposed the budget, arguing the millage remains too high and the county has sufficient reserves[5].

Opening of Waxing Bye Felicia in Lakewood Ranch: The new waxing business, owned by Felicia Michaels who moved to Lakewood Ranch in April, opened on September 22. Michaels, a bodybuilder who started waxing to support her competitions, now runs the business solo, emphasizing waxing as a better alternative to shaving especially for Florida heat.

Storm Preparations for Tropical Storm Helene: Sarasota County Public Works Director Spencer Anderson provided an update on preparations for Tropical Storm Helene. Crews are actively clearing infrastructure, and moveable bridges may close to marine traffic starting Wednesday, advising residents with vessels to plan accordingly.

Innovate Corp has introduced the "Leadership Growth Platform," an innovative tool designed to enhance leadership skills across its workforce. By utilizing AI-driven assessments and tailored coaching plans, the platform identifies employee strengths and growth areas, supporting personal development aligned with organizational goals.

The most recent breaking governmental news in the Manatee County area for September 23, 2025, is that Manatee County has begun shifting some of its administration services to a new, larger building in Lakewood Ranch. The county closed on a two-story, 101,312-square-foot building at 9000 Town Center Parkway on September 2 for $23.5 million, with total costs including renovations expected to reach nearly $35 million. This building will house Development Services and six other departments, accommodating up to 600 county employees, including top county officials, while the county maintains existing offices downtown in Bradenton[2].

This move reflects significant administrative restructuring aimed at managing the county’s services more efficiently and accommodating staff growth. The new building in Lakewood Ranch will centralize multiple departments, including Public Works, Human Resources, Property Management, Financial Management, Government Relations, and County Administration[2].

Orlando developer Tavistock is building a new light industrial complex in Lakewood Ranch with construction beginning soon and expected completion by February 2026. This major project involves two large buildings and reflects ongoing commercial growth in the area.

Sarasota County Preparing for Tropical Storm Helene: Sarasota County offices will be closed on September 24 to focus on preparations for Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine, expected to become Hurricane Helene in the Gulf of Mexico. Heavy rain and flooding risk are anticipated later this week. Sandbag stations will be open for residents, and county departments are conducting pre-storm operations to mitigate impact.

**Manatee County School Board's Selection of a New Superintendent and Rezoning Plans**

The Manatee County School Board has appointed a new superintendent and is implementing rezoning plans for the 2026-2027 school year to address the district's growth and new school openings. These changes in attendance zones aim to manage the increasing student population effectively, ensuring optimal resource allocation and educational support across the district.