**Impact Fee Increase**

Manatee County commissioners have unanimously approved a 100% increase in impact fees to bolster public infrastructure. The additional funds collected will be used to support infrastructure improvements and maintenance, addressing the growing needs of the county's expanding population.

**Holmes Beach Hurricane Preparedness Workshop**

Holmes Beach is conducting a hurricane preparedness workshop today at City Hall from 10-11:30 a.m. to equip residents with essential information and resources for the upcoming hurricane season. This session aims to fortify community readiness and enhance safety measures amid potential storm threats.

**44th Avenue East Construction Update**

The construction of the 44th Avenue East extension is progressing faster than anticipated, with completion expected by August. This new corridor aims to significantly reduce traffic congestion on I-75 and State Roads 64 and 70, enhancing travel efficiency for Manatee County residents.

**Advanced Technology for Hurricane Season**

Manatee County is enhancing its hurricane preparedness for the 2025 season by integrating advanced technology to efficiently manage 911 calls, optimize supply distribution, and streamline long-term recovery efforts. This tech-driven approach aims to improve overall emergency response and community resilience in the face of severe weather events.

**Public Hearing for CDBG-DR Draft Action Plan**

A public hearing is scheduled to gather input on the Community Development Block Grant–Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) Draft Action Plan. This meeting aims to involve residents and stakeholders in shaping the county's strategy for utilizing federal funds to support long-term recovery and resilience efforts.

**Community Support for Veterans**

A ceremonial groundbreaking in the Lakespur neighborhood at Wellen Park marks the beginning of a mortgage-free home project for U.S. Air Force Technical Sergeant Daniel Beesting and his family. This generous initiative, part of PulteGroup’s Built to Honor program and Building Homes for Heroes, underscores community appreciation for military service.

**StreetLeaf's 10,000th Solar-Powered Light Installation**

StreetLeaf has reached a significant milestone by installing its 10,000th solar-powered smart light in Florida, enhancing resilient infrastructure across the region just in time for the hurricane season. This initiative is expected to improve community safety and energy efficiency, showcasing a commitment to sustainable development.

**Adopt-A-Palooza 2025**

Manatee County Animal Welfare is hosting "Adopt-A-Palooza," the largest one-day pet adoption event in the county, at the Bradenton Area Convention Center from 11 AM to 3 PM. The event aims to find loving homes for dozens of adoptable dogs, bringing the community together to support animal welfare.

**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.

**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.