Lennar to build a new gated community, Stillwater, with 105 homes starting construction this fall near State Road 70. Sales will begin in winter 2025, offering 2-4 bedroom homes designed for various homebuyers.

Sarasota community responding to statewide crosswalk ban with an art protest project involving mosaic stepping stones to symbolize inclusion, resilience, and reclaiming belonging for minority groups following the removal of a rainbow-colored crosswalk. The event takes place Sunday, Sept. 14, from 4 to 9 p.m. at FAB Arts Center.

**Hit-and-Run Tragedy on 15th Street East: Suspect Apprehended**

A tragic hit-and-run incident occurred on September 12 on 15th Street East, resulting in the death of a 46-year-old Bradenton man. The suspect, Arnulfo Carranza Dominguez, was later apprehended and faces multiple charges, including DUI and leaving the scene of a crash involving death.

The most recent breaking governmental news for Manatee County is that Manatee County has joined a group of local governments suing the state of Florida over Senate Bill 180. This legal action aligns Manatee County with 10 other local governments opposing the state legislation, indicating ongoing tensions between local and state governance[1].

Additionally, there is a related story about ongoing legal threats to Manatee County officials by the Lawson Huck Gonzalez law firm, known for close ties to Governor Ron DeSantis, regarding the county's decisions on comprehensive plan text amendments related to land use. The firm has formally warned the County Commissioners they will face a lawsuit if they do not formally withdraw two proposed measures by September 4, 2025, reflecting a direct legal challenge to local governance decisions[2].

The county is also actively handling administrative and transparency matters through regular Board of County Commissioners meetings and public accountability initiatives[4], but the core breaking news involves this major legal conflict with the state over SB 180 and land use planning.

A $12.44 million construction loan was secured for the new StudioRes by Marriott hotel project in Lakewood Ranch: The financing will fund the development of an extended-stay hotel featuring studios with kitchens and amenities. The hotel is located near University Parkway and Interstate 75 and is expected to cater to travelers with longer stays. The project is on track for completion later this year.

Potential Closure and Repurposing of Wilkinson Elementary School: Sarasota County Schools is considering closing Wilkinson Elementary due to declining enrollment, despite recent population growth. The plan would reassign its 300+ students to nearby schools and move the district's central office to the Wilkinson site. Parents are actively fighting to keep the school open, with ongoing community meetings and a possible school board decision expected by November 18. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to keep schools operating closer to capacity and expand educational programs.

**Manatee County Moves to Cut Property Tax Millage Rate as Reserves Swell**

As Manatee County's reserve funds approach nearly $1 billion, county officials have decided to slightly reduce the property tax millage rate, offering some relief to local taxpayers. This decision follows financial growth achieved after three hurricanes in 2024, opening discussions on how to balance tax cuts with essential capital improvement projects for sustained community development.

**Armed Man Killed by Deputies After Standoff**

Michael Shanteau, a suspect in a marijuana dispensary robbery, was killed by Manatee County SWAT officers following a three-hour standoff. Shanteau fired at deputies executing a search warrant, leading to his fatal shooting after the evacuation of nearby homes; no deputies were harmed in the confrontation.

The most recent breaking governmental news in the Manatee County, Sarasota County, or Lakewood Ranch areas on September 12, 2025, is that the Manatee School Board approved a $245,000 contract for their new Superintendent Laurie Breslin. The contract includes salary incentives tied to academic performance and graduation rates, aiming to achieve or maintain an "A" rating from the State Department of Education and a 90% or higher graduation rate. Breslin expressed confidence in the district’s progress and commitment to student safety. The district is currently rated a B with an 88% graduation rate[5].

Calusa Country Club to unveil a new 12-hole golf course this winter. The course features a mix of par 3, 4, and 5 holes, designed to provide a quicker and more accessible golf experience. This complements the new 18-hole championship course opened earlier in 2025 and highlights the area's growing golf amenities and community appeal.