Three downtown Sarasota apartment projects totaling 435 units, including 48 affordable and attainable units, have received partial approval from the city's Development Review Committee.

**Bus Drivers' "Wave-Off" Tradition**

The School District of Manatee County is celebrating the end of the school year with its cherished tradition where bus drivers wave goodbye to students. This heartwarming gesture, ongoing since 2015, reinforces the close-knit community atmosphere between students and school transport staff.

The most recent breaking news regarding governmental information in the Manatee County area for today, May 29, 2025, is about Manatee County officials discussing the purchase of a new $24 million building in Lakewood Ranch to establish an East County Campus[1].

Lakewood Ranch has been hosting various events, including a special event at Waterside Place to honor moms and the opening of The Juice Pod on Main Street. Additionally, John Cannon Homes unveiled a new collaboration with Visbeen Architects.

Homeowners in Sarasota County can now apply for financial assistance to pay for damages from Hurricane Ian in 2022 and the 2024 storms (Debby, Helene, and Milton). The program is funded with federal dollars and applications can be started by completing an online survey.

**Free Meals for Students**

The School District of Manatee County is offering free meals to students participating in summer programs and is also delivering meals to local families. This initiative aims to ensure that children have access to nutritious meals even when school is not in session, supporting community well-being.

The most recent breaking news regarding governmental information in the Manatee County area for today, May 28, 2025, is the **Notice of Public Hearing** regarding the establishment or change of a regulation affecting the use of land in unincorporated Manatee County. The hearing is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. at the Manatee County Government Administrative Center[3].

The 50-acre mixed-use project, Center Point at Waterside, developed by Casto Southeast Realty, has reached full occupancy with the final commercial space leased. The project includes a 77,000-square-foot medical building and features local and national tenants, including an upscale steak and seafood restaurant, 131 Main.

The first major offshore fish farm has been approved for the Gulf off Sarasota County, marking a significant development in the region's aquaculture industry.

**Manatee Community Foundation Grant for Pet Resource Center**

The Manatee Community Foundation has awarded a $50,000 grant to establish a new Pet Resource Center in downtown Bradenton. This initiative aims to enhance the connection between residents and their pets by providing essential resources and support.