City of St. Petersburg Proposes $1.1B Budget & 700,000+ People in Florida Fell Victim to Human Trafficking in 2024
July 24, 2025 - This Week's News from Central Florida
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City of St. Petersburg Proposes $1.1B Budget
Mayor Ken Welch has unveiled a $1.1 billion proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2026, emphasizing affordable housing, climate resilience, and public safety in St. Petersburg. The plan includes a $967 million operating budget and a $202 million Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for infrastructure upgrades such as road resurfacing and wastewater improvements. The budget reflects a 7.25% increase from the previous year and maintains the city’s current property tax (millage) rate of 6.4525. The city expects to collect $228.9 million in ad valorem revenue and expand its general fund operating budget by $18.2 million. Infrastructure tops spending at $321 million, underscoring a commitment to road resurfacing, wastewater upgrades, and the new St. Pete Agile Resilience (SPAR) Program, aimed at climate adaptation following last year’s hurricane season. Public safety receives $243.8 million across police and fire departments, supporting the continued use of body cameras, drone programs, mental health services, overtime pay, and expanded firefighter/paramedic staffing. As affordable housing remains a central focus for St. Petersburg’s leaders, a $9.8 million allocation is being proposed for programs and services provided by the Housing and Community Development Department, complemented by grants and additional funds for land acquisition and homelessness services. However, this amount represents a $591K decrease from the FY25 adopted budget. Furthermore, the Affordable Housing Fund’s recommended budget for FY26 is reduced to $449,000, a $400,000 deduction from last year. Despite this, the CIP Budget includes $6.0 million in the Penny for Pinellas funding from the county over five years for permanent affordable housing land acquisition. Additional allocations set aside $2 million for homelessness services, $450,000 for workforce and small business development, and $1.1 million for health and food access initiatives. The city will also maintain funding for arts and culture, with $557,000 in city grants. As St. Petersburg faces tightened financial resources following Hurricanes Helene and Milton and the loss of federal funding, Mayor Welch described the budget as a reflection of the city's long-term priorities, grounded in equity, resilience, and responsible long-term investment. The public will have two opportunities to provide input before the budget's final adoption, with public hearings scheduled for September 11 and September 25th. The new fiscal year begins on October 1st.
Source: City of St. Petersburg | FY25 Mayor's Recommended Budget
700,000+ People in Florida Were Victims of Human Trafficking in 2024, Report Finds
A groundbreaking report, "The 2024 State Report on Human Trafficking," commissioned by Florida and conducted by the University of South Florida (USF), estimates that over 700,000 individuals were victims of human trafficking in the state during the past year. This includes approximately 540,000 exploited in labor trafficking and 200,000 in sex trafficking. Alarmingly, half of all sex trafficking victims and one-fourth of labor trafficking victims were minors. The comprehensive 140-page report, compiled by USF's Trafficking In Persons (TIP) Risk to Resilience Research Lab, marks a pivotal step in understanding the prevalence of this hidden crime. Mandated under a 2023 state law, the annual report is the first comprehensive statewide analysis of trafficking. It employed a collaborative effort to gather data from various state agencies and non-profits, with the goal of using the information to bolster anti-trafficking efforts, including improved victim support. Florida's susceptibility to human trafficking is attributed to its large population, major cities hosting national and international events, numerous airports and ports, and flourishing industries like agriculture, construction, and tourism, which often involve vulnerable workers, low pay, and poor conditions. The report highlights that high volumes of commercial sex ads are prevalent in cities like Jacksonville, Orlando, and Tampa, while illicit massage businesses, often facades for trafficking, are concentrated in areas like Orlando, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale. Researchers correlate the prevalence of ads with demand for trafficking, positing that this data “indicates a greater likelihood of human trafficking incidents” in markets with more commercial sex ads. Data from 30 agencies revealed that 84% of victims were female, while 83% of offenders were male. State officials also conducted over 8,500 screenings of at-risk youth, identifying just 99 of the minors surveyed as confirmed or likely victims of trafficking. They detailed “excessive running away” as the leading indicator most positively correlated with being exploited for those underage. Dr. Joan Reid, director of USF’s TIP Lab, emphasized the goal of exposing a “hidden” crime and guiding policy to disrupt trafficking networks statewide, empowering authorities and communities to enhance prevention, intervention, and victim support efforts. The report also highlights that Florida is “at the forefront” in combating human trafficking through policy, citing an increase in legislation passed that focuses on “prevention, protection, and prosecution.” It also stresses the importance of strong prosecutorial policies and sentencing requirements to prevent trafficking-related crimes and protect victims, pointing to Florida’s penalties that far exceed the national average. The state imposes a maximum sentence of life imprisonment for convictions of human trafficking.
Source: USF research lab releases groundbreaking report on the high prevalence of human trafficking in Florida; 2024 TIPSTR State Report on Human Trafficking | USF; Report details prominent cities for human trafficking in Florida • Florida Phoenix
Brightline Plans Tampa High-Speed Rail Expansion, Challenges Remain
Brightline is one step closer to expanding its high-speed rail line to Tampa, but officials caution the long-anticipated project may still be nearly a decade away. The private rail company has recently requested $400 million in bonds from the Florida Development Finance Corporation to help fund new tracks and stations, including one in downtown Tampa. While Hillsborough County residents are eager for the connection, and Tampa city officials have unanimously approved Brightline's financing process, the delivery of passenger service faces significant logistical hurdles. The Brightline extension hinges on laying new railway tracks along the I-4 corridor, a project intertwined with the ongoing highway expansion. While this could take 15-20 years, state officials hope the governor and the state legislature could accelerate the timeline, allowing rail construction to occur alongside new express lanes. Tampa Mayor Jane Castor previously suggested the downtown Tampa station—possibly in Ybor City—could open by 2029, but some regional planners now estimate a 10-year timeline. Brightline also faces financial challenges, including $5.5 billion in debt, lower-than-expected ridership in 2024, and consistent annual operational losses. Concerns of a possible bankruptcy are also swirling. Locally, officials are planning for supporting infrastructure that surrounds a proposed Tampa rail station, including a parking structure, pedestrian safety upgrades, and even possible streetcar expansion.
Florida DOGE: DeSantis Orders State Audits of Broward County, Gainesville Over Spending
Governor Ron DeSantis has directed the state Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to begin audits of Broward County and the City of Gainesville, citing concerns about excessive local government spending. The reviews, which begin July 31, will be the first in a series of state-led examinations of local agencies and are part of his administration's push to reduce the property tax burden on Floridians. DeSantis pointed to projects like Broward’s $800,000 float in the 2024 Rose Parade and “Green New Deal” climate initiatives in both jurisdictions as examples of “excessive, reckless spending.” “We agree on core services like education and public safety,” he said, “but taxpayers shouldn’t be footing the bill for wasteful spending.” The audits will review data systems, staffing, and financial records. State officials said Gainesville’s annual tax burden has risen by over $30 million—an 80% increase—over the last four years. They also alleged the city’s annual budget has grown by $90 million per year during this time. Gainesville Mayor Harvey Ward disputed these figures, and clarified that the city's general fund increase was largely for public safety, which he stands behind due to "huge decreases" in crime. Meanwhile, the state’s DOGE office accused Broward County leaders of a “spending spree” over the past five years that has resulted in hiking property taxes by $450 million annually, or 45%, despite minimal population growth. According to DOGE, 75 cities and counties have cooperated with previous state inquiries, but the latest audits are being mandated due to noncompliance. A provision in the state budget allows the governor’s office to fine local governments up to $1,000 per day, per line item for failure to comply with their requests. DeSantis indicated that additional counties, including Miami-Dade and Hillsborough, could be next.
Source: DeSantis & Ingoglia target two Democratic-leaning areas as DOGE crackdown begins • Florida Phoenix
UCF Athletics Sets Fundraising Record with $52.8M in Donations
The University of Central Florida (UCF) Athletics Department has reached a new milestone, announcing a record $52.8 million in fundraising for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. The total includes both cash and commitments, and marks the fourth straight year the department has exceeded $40 million in annual giving for its "Charge On Fund." Deputy Athletics Director Mark Wright credited the achievement to the passion of staff and the commitment of donors, calling it “a testament to the belief in our program.” More than 13,200 donors contributed to the effort, including 467 members of the Shareholders Society and 579 Varsity Knights. While progress is strong, continued efforts are needed to match Big 12 Conference peers. Athletics Director Terry Mohajir noted the department’s rapid growth in self-generated revenue since his arrival in 2021, citing increases in charitable giving, sponsorships, licensing, and ticket sales. UCF’s athletic operating budget has nearly doubled from $64 million in 2020 to a projected $121 million for 2026. The fundraising surge follows the high-profile return of former head football coach Scott Frost. His comeback has helped reenergize the program, accelerating facility investments that now exceed $130 million.
Source: UCF Athletics Sets All-Time Fundraising Records - UCF Athletics
Developer Proposes 1,000-Home Subdivision in North Apopka, Faces Early Opposition
A major Central Florida homebuilder, PulteGroup, has unveiled plans for a sprawling 1,052-home subdivision on 618 acres along Ponkan Road in north Apopka, named “Paulucci Acres.” The proposed community would include a mix of townhomes and single-family homes, along with two commercial outparcels across from Wolf Lake Middle School. Pulte intends to be the exclusive builder, with seven phases of construction projected to begin in late 2027 or early 2028. However, the project is already drawing early opposition from residents and city officials concerned about traffic, neighborhood character, school overcrowding, and impacts to sensitive wetlands. At a recent Development Review Committee meeting, Apopka Police Chief Michael McKinley raised safety concerns about the winding Ponkan Road, urging improvements before any approvals are granted. Nearly 40 acres must be annexed from unincorporated Orange County, and Pulte is seeking zoning changes to move forward. They scaled back earlier plans that included apartments and additional commercial uses. The development team has also attempted to alleviate environmental concerns, noting that nearly 58% of the land would be preserved as open space, including conservation areas, buffers, stormwater ponds, and recreation areas. The project remains in early planning stages and will require multiple approvals from Apopka's Planning Commission and City Council, indicating a lengthy review process ahead.
Source: Pulte proposes sprawling Apopka subdivision with more than 1,000 lots along Ponkan Road – Orlando Sentinel; Orange County: development, new apartments and single-family homes being built - WFTV
Florida’s Property Insurance Market Shows Signs of Stabilization After Reforms
The Consumer Protection Coalition, a consumer advocacy group affiliated with the Florida Chamber of Commerce, says property insurance reforms passed by the Florida Legislature in 2022 are beginning to stabilize a market once feared to be in crisis. The coalition credited changes aimed at reducing lawsuits, increasing insurer participation, and expanding competition with helping lower premiums and shrinking the state-backed Citizens Property Insurance Corp.’s footprint. Citizens’ policy count has dropped to 777,592 in June—a 36% decline from the previous year and 45% below its October 2023 peak. The state’s Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) reports that 14 new carriers have entered the Florida market since 2023, and over 120 residential rate filings this year have requested decreases or no increases. Although Florida’s average annual premium of $2,625 remains about 24% above the national average, officials see progress. Litigation, once blamed for skyrocketing costs, has fallen nearly 30%. This is a stark contrast to 2019, when Florida accounted for 76% of all property insurance litigation nationwide, despite only having 8% of policies.
Source: Florida Chamber says property insurance market shows improvements | Business Observer
Pinellas County Seeks State Support to Split $125M Beach Renourishment Bill
Faced with significant erosion from hurricanes like Idalia and Helene, Pinellas County is launching a $125 million beach renourishment project stretching from Sand Key to Upham Beach. The project, which will begin in September, aims to replenish 2.5 million cubic yards of sand along 12 miles of critically eroded beaches. While the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers typically funds about 65% of similar beach renourishment efforts, this year the county must shoulder the full cost due to a lack of permanent easements from some beachfront property owners—now a federal requirement. Despite this federal stalemate, county officials deem the renourishment essential for protecting barrier islands and the mainland from future storm surge. They will move ahead using revenue from its 6% tourism development (bed) tax on hotel stays and short-term rentals to fund the project. County commissioners have also unanimously voted to seek state financial assistance through the Florida Beach Management Funding Assistance Program, requesting about $50 million in reimbursement. Pinellas County will continue efforts to secure temporary construction easements from the remaining 130 holdout property owners, but are prepared to proceed with or without full cooperation.
Source: Pinellas County hopes state will fund part of $126 million beach project | ABC Action News
Water Street Tampa Reveals New Plans for Second Phase
Strategic Property Partners (SPP), the developer behind downtown Tampa’s Water Street district, has unveiled revised plans for the neighborhood’s second phase, featuring a mixed-use parking structure and a new one-acre public park. In recently filed plans with the City of Tampa, the proposal outlines a 124-foot-tall building at the northwest corner of Water Street and East Cumberland Avenue. The 13-story structure will feature 675 parking spaces, 38,000 square feet of ground-floor retail, and a “signature rooftop area” designed to enhance the urban experience. The site was initially planned for a build-to-suit office tower, but SPP says increased demand for parking took priority. Office development remains a possibility for future phases. Adjacent to the garage, a one-acre green space will anchor the community with space for open-air markets, concerts, and other events. Both the park and the mixed-use building are expected to be completed by 2027.
Source: Water Street Tampa unveils next mixed-use building - Tampa Bay Business Journal
Volusia County Allocates $133M in Hurricane Milton Recovery Funds
Volusia County is preparing to spend $133.5 million in federal disaster recovery funds to aid in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. The County Council has voted to formally appropriate the Community Development Block Grant–Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds, recently approved by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The Community Development Block Grant - Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds include $40.1 million for single-family homeowner recovery, $62.6 million for infrastructure projects, and $17.4 million for disaster mitigation. This funding will support stormwater and drainage improvements in areas like Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach, and Port Orange, and enable homeowner buyouts through the county's Office of Recovery and Resiliency. In addition, the Council approved $5 million in grants for the ECHO initiative, a program that allows for the “acquisition, restoration, construction or improvement of projects to be used for environmental, cultural, historical and outdoor recreational purposes.” The program is funded by a voter-approved property tax. Volusia County is proposing a $1.75 billion budget for FY26, maintaining the General Fund property tax rate at $3.20 per $1,000 of taxable value. Public hearings for the budget are scheduled for September.
Source: Volusia gets ready to spend $133 million recovery grant for Hurricane Milton
Sarasota’s New Mote Aquarium Nears Completion, Expects to Double Attendance
The highly anticipated Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA) is nearing completion in Sarasota, promising to significantly enhance marine science education and become a major draw for Tampa Bay residents. The $130 million complex, strategically located near I-75 and the Mall at University Town Center, is expected to attract over 700,000 visitors in its first year, more than doubling attendance at the previous City Island location. While an exact opening date in early 2026 is still pending, Mote Marine emphasizes that the health and safety of its animals are paramount. The delay, partly due to Hurricanes Helene and Milton, also stems from the intricate process of establishing correct water chemistry and ensuring the safe quarantine, transfer, and acclimation of all marine life to their new habitats. The 110,000-square-foot, three-story aquarium will feature over 1 million gallons of water and provide hands-on learning experiences for an estimated 70,000 students annually. The original Mote Marine Laboratory on Sarasota’s City Island closed to the public on July 6 to begin the transition to the new Mote SEA. It will remain operational to conduct research and support conservation and education programs.
Legoland Florida to Launch Space-Themed Coaster in Early 2026
Legoland Florida Resort in Winter Haven is preparing to launch a new space-themed area, featuring an immersive indoor roller coaster, in early 2026. This will be the first new roller coaster within the main Legoland Florida theme park since its opening in 2011, promising the park's most technologically advanced attraction to date. Guests will embark on a mission from the "Legoland Spaceport 885" launchpad, entering a story-driven queue area designed to fully engage them before takeoff. The new area will also include "Orbital Outpost," a themed retail shop, and the "Duplo Tot Spot for Tiny Astronauts," a shaded play area for younger children. Developed by Merlin Magic Making in collaboration with the Lego Group, construction began two years ago and marks the park’s largest single investment.
Source: Legoland Florida Plans Space-Themed Indoor Roller Coaster | Lakeland Ledger
0.9-Acre Lot in Downtown Tampa Sells for $40M
In one of the priciest land transactions in the city’s history, a 0.9-acre lot in downtown Tampa was sold for $40 million to Naples developer Stock Development. Located across from Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and overlooking the Hillsborough River, the property at 601 N Ashley Drive was acquired by real estate firm TLR Group for nearly half the recent purchase price in 2021. The site currently holds a 100-year-old office building slated for demolition as Stock Development plans to build luxury condominiums. Demolition is expected to occur within six months, with the construction timeline dependent on the completion of design and permitting processes. The proposed condos would rival the adjacent ONE Tampa tower, which is on track to open in late 2027, featuring 225 luxury units with prices starting at $1 million.
Source: TLR Group sells downtown Tampa apartment tower - Tampa Bay Business Journal
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