**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.

**Army Veteran Receives Refurbished Car**

Through the NABC Recycled Ride program, an army veteran was gifted a refurbished vehicle, offering much-needed support and gratitude for his service. This heartwarming initiative highlights community efforts to assist those who served in the military, providing them with transportation to enhance their daily lives.

**Annual Memorial Day Service**

The Manatee County Veterans Council is hosting its annual Memorial Day Service at Donald L. Courtney Veterans Memorial Park on the Bradenton Riverwalk. The event, beginning at 9 a.m., honors fallen service members and offers a moment for the community to reflect on their sacrifices.

**Home Repairs Before Hurricane Season**

Jimmy Gula of Westwinds has articulated concern over the upcoming hurricane season, emphasizing the critical nature of home repairs following Hurricane Milton. His outlook is hopeful that Milton was an extraordinary occurrence, yet he stresses the importance of readiness and property fortification in preparation for future storms.

**Local Events and Initiatives**

Manatee County Habitat for Humanity has made progress by breaking ground on a new 27-home community designed to assist families who are currently priced out of homeownership. In addition to this initiative, the county is actively working to clear stormwater channels of debris in preparation for hurricane season, and is deliberating the allocation of $252 million in HUD federal grant funds for further community improvement.

**Manatee County Observes Memorial Day and Honors Gold Star Families**

Manatee County is commemorating Memorial Day with a significant event featuring the unveiling of a new interactive Gold Star Memorial kiosk. Alongside this dedication, a local roadway will be officially named "Gold Star Families Memorial Highway," honoring the sacrifices of military families.

**Presentation of Updated Impact Fee Study**

The updated impact fee study conducted by consulting firm Benesch will be presented to the Manatee County Board of County Commissioners. This study aims to demonstrate extraordinary circumstances justifying higher impact fees, potentially increasing them up to 100% if approved by the state, to address the financial demands of rapid development.

**CDBG-DR Funding and Action Plan**

Manatee County has been awarded $252,711,000 in Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds to assist in recovery from hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton. The draft Action Plan for the Lasting Manatee program is open for public comment until June 20, 2025, inviting community input to shape recovery strategies.

**Organized Manatee Resident Group Wins Over Builder**

A determined coalition of Manatee County residents has successfully opposed a construction project proposed by a builder, showcasing the power of community organization and advocacy. This victory reflects the residents' commitment to preserving their area's character and ensuring that development aligns with local interests.

**Seatbelt Crackdown Begins**

The National Click It or Ticket campaign has commenced in Manatee County, emphasizing heightened enforcement of seatbelt laws to enhance road safety. This initiative is part of a broader effort to increase compliance and reduce traffic-related injuries and fatalities.