Florida Budget Talks Collapse as DeSantis Threatens Veto & Ban on Developing State Parks to Become Law
May 11, 2025 - This Week's News from Central Florida
Welcome to this week’s edition of the Central Florida Times, an independent, reader-supported newsletter focusing on the Sunshine State. These are the most important stories you need to know from across Central Florida. To never miss an update, subscribe here:
Here’s the latest from Central Florida…
Florida Budget Talks Collapse Amid Tax Cut Clash, Veto Threat
A fragile budget agreement between Florida’s House and Senate has unraveled, as House Speaker Daniel Perez (R-Miami) confirmed in a Friday memo that the tentative deal had “blown up.” The breakdown stems largely from disputes over a $2.8 billion tax relief package, with $1.6 billion earmarked for a sales tax cut, which Governor Ron DeSantis has vowed to veto, calling it “dead on arrival.” In the memo to lawmakers, Perez blamed Senate President Ben Albritton (R-Wauchula) for walking away from the previously agreed-upon framework. House leadership remains firm on trimming state spending and insists the sales tax cut would benefit Floridians, but Albritton has voiced concerns about sustainability and favors more targeted relief for families and seniors. The prior spending plan was verbally agreed to by both chambers ahead of lawmakers’ return to Tallahassee on May 12 for an extended session that will include passing a state budget and addressing 14 other bills. Gov. DeSantis’ pledge to veto the sales tax cut proposal likely resulted in the collapse, as he argued it would favor tourists over Floridians and undermine his push for property tax relief. Despite a contentious relationship, Perez said he would be open to discussing the matter with DeSantis directly, though he noted the governor “only talks in roundtables and Twitter.” With the session already extended to June 6, the Speaker’s Office said the House will seek to prolong it through the end of June if needed, while the Senate is holding off on further extensions for now. Lawmakers must reach a deal before July 1 to avoid disruptions to state-funded services. The Florida GOP has offered to mediate a budget summit between legislative leaders and the governor to break the impasse.
Ban on Golf Courses, Hotels in Florida State Parks to Become Law
Governor Ron DeSantis confirmed last week that he will sign a bill permanently blocking the development of golf courses, hotels, and other similar large-scale amenities in Florida’s state parks. The announcement is a significant departure from a controversial proposal his administration promoted last summer—the so-called “Great Outdoors Initiative.” That plan pushed for commercial developments in nine state parks across the state, resulting in intense public backlash and protests from residents, environmental advocates, and even bipartisan lawmakers, who voiced strong opposition. Opponents further argued the proposed construction would irreversibly alter the natural landscape and disrupt fragile habitats, including ecosystems home to both endangered and threatened species such as the Florida scrub-jay and gopher tortoises. Facing widespread criticism, the DeSantis administration quickly withdrew the proposal, and the governor distanced himself from the initiative, stating that he never saw or approved the plans to allow commercial development within protected areas. In response to the outcry, both chambers of the Florida Legislature unanimously passed House Bill 209, prohibiting the construction of facilities like golf courses, hotels, and sports venues in Florida's 175 state parks. Under the bill, new projects on such land would be limited to “conservation-based recreational uses” like hiking, kayaking, camping, and fishing, prioritizing the preservation of these natural spaces for future generations. It also mandates an assessment of park maintenance needs by December and requires greater transparency, mandating at least 30 days’ public notice before any hearings on proposed changes to park lands. Lawmakers and environmentalists say the measure is a major victory for conservation and public input, upholding the state's rich environmental heritage. The bill is expected to take effect on July 1, 2025, once signed into law.
DeSantis Rejects GOP Sales Tax Cut Plan, Says It Hurts Florida Families
In yet another unusual split among Florida Republicans, Gov. Ron DeSantis rejected a proposed sales tax reduction backed by legislative leaders, calling it harmful to state priorities. At a recent roundtable discussion on taxes, DeSantis criticized the plan to reduce Florida’s sales tax by 0.25%—from 6% to 5.75%. He stated, “Any Florida last tax package is going to be dead on arrival.” The proposal was part of the broader budget negotiations agreed to by House Speaker Daniel Perez (R-Miami) and Senate President Ben Albritton (R-Wauchula), which have since faltered. But DeSantis argued any such tax break would largely benefit out-of-state visitors and tourists, jeopardizing future efforts to provide relief to homeowners. “This would basically kill any chance of doing property relief for folks,” DeSantis said, reiterating his preference for lower property taxes and a rebate system to aid longtime Florida residents directly. Perez pushed back, calling the governor “confused” and saying both sales and property taxes could be lowered. He also questioned why DeSantis hasn’t offered a specific property tax plan. The veto threat injects new uncertainty into already tense budget negotiations, as lawmakers remain divided on how best to deliver tax relief and finalize the state’s multi-billion-dollar budget. A newly formed House committee is examining property tax reform over the coming months and plans to put forth proposals ahead of the 2026 Legislative Session.
Bill to Expand Compensation for Wrongfully Incarcerated Awaits Governor’s Approval
Legislation aimed at easing the path to compensation for wrongfully convicted individuals is heading to Gov. Ron DeSantis after unanimous approval by both chambers of the state legislature. If signed into law, the bill would eliminate a rule that prohibited exonerees with prior felony records from seeking state compensation. Currently, Florida is the only state with such an exclusion. Unchanged in the bill is the existing law that allows eligible exonerees to receive $50,000 for each year wrongfully imprisoned, up to $2 million. But the bill will streamline the process for those seeking justice after being cleared of wrongful convictions and give them two years, instead of 90 days, to apply for compensation claims. The push for reform has been a multi-year legislative effort and is inspired by the story of Robert DuBoise, a Hillsborough County man who spent 37 years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit. However, he was ineligible for compensation due to a previous felony conviction. The National Registry of Exonerations reports 91 people in Florida have been exonerated since 1989, and 19 exonerees—who collectively served 306 years in prison—would be eligible to seek compensation under the pending law.
How Trump’s Tariffs Could Impact Central Florida Trade
The Trump administration’s imposed tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada, and China could disrupt billions of dollars in Central Florida trade, raising concerns among the region’s businesses and economic experts. The tariffs—25% on most goods from Mexico and Canada (with a 10% rate for Canadian energy and gas) and 125% on Chinese imports—target the region’s top trading partners, which collectively account for over 42% of Central Florida’s $27.6 billion in annual imports. The Central Florida International Trade Office reports that in 2023, exports to Canada and Mexico totaled more than $1 billion, about 10% of the region’s $10.27 billion in total exports. Key sectors likely to be affected include aerospace, medical, industrial machinery, electronics, and marine, which rely on imported materials and components. Tourism, a cornerstone of Central Florida’s economy, could also suffer if tariffs lead to higher travel costs or retaliatory measures from other countries, reducing international visitors and local spending. This has many companies anxious about the potential impact on their bottom line. Even with the risk of shrinking export markets and potential job losses in critical industries, there is optimism that the tariffs are a short-term bargaining tool and diplomatic negotiations will prevent long-term disruption to the area.
Survey Finds Likely Graves on Tropicana Field Property
A recent survey using ground-penetrating radar has uncovered seven additional possible graves beneath the parking lot at Tropicana Field, bringing the total to ten likely burial sites identified under the former Oaklawn Cemetery. The findings, detailed in an 83-page report completed in November 2024, also noted eight areas of interest and nine spots where graves may have been removed. Historical research linked 27 individuals by name to the site. St. Petersburg began investigating the area five years ago as part of major redevelopment plans for the Tropicana Field site. The findings were not publicly acknowledged until a St. Petersburg city council member pushed for answers. “The city’s known for over five months and they’ve kept the report on the backburner,” Councilman Corey Givens said. Last week, the council voted unanimously to hold a formal discussion on the report’s recommendations, including how to honor those buried and move forward with transparency before any further work is done. Three cemeteries once occupied the area—Oaklawn, Evergreen, and Moffett—and research has uncovered 112 burial records, most from the early 20th century. Oaklawn was a White cemetery, Evergreen was a Black cemetery, and Moffett, the oldest of three, served both communities. Experts are urging that no archaeological work proceed without consulting the families of descendants and stakeholders connected to the historic cemeteries.
Sen. Jason Pizzo Confirms Run for Governor, Plans to Spend $25M
State Senator Jason Pizzo (I-Hollywood) has officially entered Florida’s 2026 gubernatorial race, confirming in a recent interview that he will run as an independent and is prepared to invest $25 million of his own money into the campaign. Pizzo, who recently left the Democratic Party and resigned as Senate Democratic Leader, said his decision comes from frustration with both major parties, arguing that neither is adequately addressing issues like housing affordability and climate resilience. He emphasized that independent voters, numbering 3.7 million in Florida, are key to winning statewide office. He believes his centrist approach and willingness to self-fund will set him apart in a race expected to feature high-profile Republicans like Congressman Byron Donalds and possibly First Lady Casey DeSantis, as well as newly registered Democrat, former U.S. Representative David Jolly. While Pizzo’s break from party politics has drawn criticism from Democratic leaders, he insists he’s running to offer voters a practical, nonpartisan alternative. “Florida is ready for someone to put people before party,” he said. Pizzo expects to formally launch his campaign in September.
Hillsborough Approves Bonuses for Teachers at Low-Performing Schools
The Hillsborough County School Board has approved a $15 million agreement with the teachers’ union to continue bonuses for staff at its lowest-performing schools, known as the Transformation Network. The network, created in 2020, provides extra support and resources to educators in the district’s struggling schools, currently serving 39 campuses. The approved bonuses will award $5,000 to teachers and assistant principals, $7,500 to principals, and $1,000 to paraprofessionals. While the move drew support, board members expressed concern over the end of state funding for Renaissance schools, which serve low-income areas. Educators warned of potential staffing vacancies and retention issues without continued financial support.
Tampa Mayor Jane Castor Confronts City Council Over Disrespectful Treatment of Staff
Tampa City Council members met Thursday to address Mayor Jane Castor’s concerns about the treatment of city staff, following a letter she sent in March to Council Chair Guido Maniscalco. Castor cited repeated instances of staff being labeled as “lying” or “unethical,” calling it “unnecessarily hostile” and disruptive to city operations. The hour-long discussion sparked debate among council members, some defending their tone as “assertive” and “pointed,” not disrespectful or angry. Council member Bill Carlson, a frequent critic of Castor, alleged misconduct by staff and claimed the administration lacks transparency. He also accused Castor of retaliating against employees, though her office denies those claims. The letter also warned that frequent staff report requests were “delaying critical projects,” with staff tasked with over 60 reports at one point. The long history of tensions between Mayor Castor and the Tampa City Council is layered with political context, including campaign mailers backed by Castor allies targeting Carlson and Lynn Hurtak in 2023. Council member Luis Viera said the aftermath of that contentious election still lingers. Meanwhile, for years, Mayor Castor has faced her own accusations of fostering a toxic work environment, with critics pointing to high employee turnover and reports of retaliation and discrimination from leadership.
Orlando Acquires 15 Acres from Mormon Church
The City of Orlando has secured 15.34 acres of land from Suburban Land Reserve, a real estate arm of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Finalized on April 23, the deal involved exchanging $8 million in transportation impact fee credits, according to the city. The property will be used for the first phase of Sunbridge Parkway, a planned four-lane road that will connect with Tavistock Development Co.’s expansive 27,000-acre Sunbridge project. The mixed-use development will span both Orange and Osceola counties and will include thousands of homes, commercial space, and preserved natural areas.
Sales Launch for St. Petersburg’s Waldorf Astoria Residences, City’s Tallest Tower
Sales have officially begun for the Waldorf Astoria Residences in downtown St. Petersburg, a 50-story luxury condominium tower that will soon become the city’s tallest structure. Backed by national developer PMG, along with Feldman Equities and City Office REIT, the 540-foot tower will feature 163 high-end residences and marks the arrival of St. Petersburg’s first five-star branded condo. Prices are expected to be the highest per square foot in the market, with prices starting at $2.5 million. The units, ranging from 2,031 to 3,408 square feet, will include expansive terraces, private foyers, and premium finishes. The building will offer exclusive amenities like a 46-floor sky lounge, a 20,000-square-foot pool deck with an infinity pool, spa, fitness center, valet parking, and personal concierge services. The Waldorf Astoria’s lower levels will include 73,000 square feet of office space and 10,000 square feet of ground-level retail space. Construction could begin by fall, depending on sales pace. The tower will rise at 100 2nd Ave. S, replacing an existing parking garage.
Mount Dora, Florida, Discovers Source Behind Longtime Mysterious Odor in City
After years of complaints and speculation, Mount Dora officials say they have finally identified the persistent foul odor troubling residents: the Mid Florida Materials landfill on State Road 46. We first covered the story in an April 10th edition of the newsletter, when the city and Lake County commissioned a $270,000 study to determine why a mysterious stench lingered throughout the area. A recently released 83-page report by consultants concludes that hydrogen sulfide gas from the landfill is the main culprit behind the city’s notorious odor, ruling out the wastewater treatment plant, which was previously suspected by residents. Experts found that calm weather patterns trap the gas, allowing the smell to intensify in certain neighborhoods. The report identified landfill vents, retention ponds, and active dumping zones as primary contributors. Mid Florida Materials, which runs the private landfill, has pledged to review the findings but emphasized that its operations meet air quality rules and regulatory standards. City officials now face the challenge of working with the landfill operator and state regulators to address the issue.
Four Florida Panthers Killed During First Week of May
Four endangered Florida panthers were killed by vehicles in southwest Florida during the first week of May, marking a devastating period for the species, which numbers fewer than 250 adults in the wild. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) confirmed the fatalities occurred in Hendry and Collier counties, with three deaths along State Road 29—a known hotspot for panther collisions. The panthers, ranging from under a year old to five years old, add to the nine total reported fatalities by the FWC so far in 2025. Vehicle collisions have become the leading cause of death for the vulnerable Florida panther, accounting for eight out of nine fatalities this year alone. Conservationists continue to warn that unless land conservation and wildlife crossings are expanded, these losses could threaten the species’ survival.
Global Attractions Company Opens Headquarters in Orlando
Vekoma Rides, a global leader in roller coaster and amusement ride design, has opened its new Americas headquarters in downtown Orlando. Known for building iconic attractions like TRON Lightcycle Run, Expedition Everest, and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train at Walt Disney World, the Netherlands-based company is making a major investment in Central Florida. The new office will support Vekoma’s growing operations across North and South America, bringing new jobs to the region and allowing the company to be closer to a large concentration of its customers. The Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP) played a key role in the move, helping Vekoma navigate site selection and connect with city leaders. Vekoma has been growing its presence in the U.S. market, with recent projects including Big Bear Mountain at Dollywood and The Flash: Vertical Velocity at Six Flags Great Adventure.
Thanks for reading this edition of the Central Florida Times. To never miss an update, subscribe for free:
In the meantime, if you learned something or found this read interesting, please consider sharing it to grow our community!