**Manatee County continues community service efforts and beach improvement projects.**

Manatee County has been recognized for its outstanding community service efforts, including the rebuilding of beach and dune systems for enhanced hurricane protection. Additionally, the county's partnership with Turning Point’s Operation Smile provides vital free dental services to low-income adults, showcasing a commitment to public welfare and environmental resilience.

**Community Development projects selected for FY2025/26**

The Manatee County Board of County Commissioners has approved approximately $4.62 million in funding for community development projects in the FY2025/26 Annual Action Plan. This investment supports programs like Meals on Wheels PLUS, enhancing services for low-income residents and improving the quality of life in unincorporated areas.

**Lake Manatee Dam Emergency Repairs Underway**

Emergency repairs on the Lake Manatee Dam are in progress to reinforce its structural integrity before the 2025 hurricane season intensifies. This infrastructure initiative is vital to ensuring community safety and mitigating potential storm-related risks.

**Emergency Repairs at Lake Manatee Dam**

Emergency repairs continue on the Lake Manatee Dam to ensure its structural integrity ahead of the 2025 hurricane season. These critical efforts aim to protect the local community from potential weather-related impacts as storm activity intensifies.

**DeSantis Vetoes Manatee County Appropriations**

Governor DeSantis has vetoed $4 million in state budget appropriations for Manatee County, affecting funding for key initiatives like the Fresh Start Manatee Program, Veteran Connections Hub, and Gateway Greenway Trail. This decision impacts local projects aimed at community enhancement and development.

**Draft Annual Action Plan**

Manatee County has released its 2025/26 Annual Action Plan draft, which outlines the allocation of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME, and ESG funds to support low- and moderate-income residents. Public comments on this strategic plan are welcomed until July 29, encouraging community involvement in shaping local support initiatives.

**Community Initiatives**

Manatee County has been lauded for its community service initiatives, particularly the partnership with Turning Point’s Operation Smile. This program has successfully provided free dental assistance to over 3,000 residents with low income and no insurance, enhancing community health and well-being.

**Emergency Repairs to Lake Manatee Dam**

The Lake Manatee Dam is currently undergoing $3 million in emergency repairs to ensure its stability before the start of the 2025 hurricane season. These essential repairs aim to fortify the dam and protect surrounding communities from potential weather-related impacts.

**CDBG-DR Funds Allocation**

Manatee County has been awarded $252,711,000 in Community Development Block Grant―Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds from HUD aimed at rebuilding disaster-impacted areas. This substantial funding is intended to facilitate long-term recovery and enhance resilience against future disasters.

**Community Development Project Selection**

The Manatee County Board of County Commissioners has voted to fund an array of community development projects, including Meals on Wheels and Rapid Unsheltered Survivor Housing, in the FY2025/26 Annual Action Plan. This decision underscores the county's commitment to enhancing community welfare and supporting essential services for its residents.