Public Meetings - Hillsborough County, Florida

The Hart Board of Directors convened on November 4, 2026, at the Hart Administrative Offices. The meeting included public comment, recognition of outgoing and new board members, approval of consent agenda items, and discussion of two major action items: a CNG/RNG contract award and an increase to the paratransit customer choice contract. Key outcomes included approval of the contract with Kinder Morgan for RFP 55218 and approval of the first option year for West Coast Transportation. Public Comments & Testimony - David Elpers (representing UF Energy) asked the board to defer action on Resolution R 2026-11-42 (RFP 55218), citing a $6.5 million difference between UF Energy's net cost estimate ($2.3 million over five years) and Hart's analysis of Kinder Morgan's proposal ($4.2 million revenue). He requested the matter be sent back for further review rather than awarding the contract. He stated that if the board authorized the award without review, UF Energy would preserve its rights under protest procedures. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the September 8, 2026 regular meeting and September 21, 2026 public hearing on FY2027 millage rate and budget. - Approved consent agenda items 6A and 6B as recommended by the Joint Finance, Audit, and Operations and Safety Committee. Item 6C was removed for separate discussion. Discussion Items - Removal of Item 6C from Consent Agenda: Director Nieberg requested removal of Resolution R 2026-11-42 from the consent agenda to allow discussion of concerns raised in public comment. Director Williams opposed, stating that UF Energy had an opportunity to protest earlier but did not. After discussion and legal guidance, the board voted to remove the item and consider it under the regular agenda. - Resolution R 2026-11-42 – CNG/RNG Contract Award: Procurement Director Marty provided an overview of the RFP process, noting that nine respondents were evaluated and Kinder Morgan scored highest, including the best net revenue to Hart. Marty explained that UF Energy's proposal would have resulted in a net cost to Hart of approximately $2.3 million over five years, while Kinder Morgan's would generate about $4.2 million in revenue, creating a $6.5 million swing. Director Nieberg sought clarification on the pricing and revenue structure. Commissioner Wassel requested safeguards and noted that Hart can terminate for convenience but the contract lacks a minimum annual guarantee. Director Hobbes confirmed that the protest window had expired with no protests. The board subsequently approved the resolution. - Resolution R 2026-11-43 – West Coast Transportation (Yellow Cab) Contract Option Year: Sean McCarthy presented a request to increase the contract not-to-exceed amount by $1,955,149 to $11,663,785 for the first option year of the customer choice paratransit service. He reviewed utilization growth, cost per trip comparisons (customer choice: $24; Hart Plus: $66), and service hour changes made in 2025 to control costs. The program is partially funded by a Section 5310 grant (anticipated $3.5 million) and Hart's FY27 operating budget. Board members discussed efficiency concerns and the need to evaluate program sustainability. The item was approved with the condition that staff return to the January 2027 committee meeting with options for program changes (fare increases, trip limits, etc.). Key Outcomes - Approved the removal of Item 6C from the consent agenda (vote). - Approved Resolution R 2026-11-42, authorizing the contract award to Kinder Morgan for RFP 55218 (vote). - Approved Resolution R 2026-11-43, authorizing the CEO to execute the first option year with West Coast Transportation and increase the contract ceiling (vote). - Established a CEO performance evaluation ad hoc committee composed of Directors Nieberg, Smith, Hobbes, Myers, and Williams to review evaluations and recommend a merit increase by January 2027.

This special meeting of the Hillsborough County Tourist Development Council (TDC) was convened to consider recommending a modification to the county's Tourist Development Plan to allocate approximately $300 million in tourist development tax revenues toward the construction of a new Tampa Bay Rays ballpark and mixed-use development. The project, located at the Hillsborough College Dale Maverick campus, has an estimated total cost of $2.3 billion, with $876 million in public funding split between the county and the City of Tampa. The council voted unanimously to recommend the plan modification to the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC). Discussion Items - Project Overview: Yaksa, a county staff member, presented the proposed framework. He noted that on August 28 (BOCC) and August 27 (City of Tampa), both governing bodies approved the development and funding agreement for the Rays ballpark project. The mixed-use development encompasses approximately 113 acres and includes residential, commercial, retail, office, and entertainment uses. Of the $300 million in TDT funds, $263 million would be raised through bonds secured by the 6% and the third-percent portions of the tourist development tax, with debt service repaid primarily from the 6% portion. An additional $40 million would come from reserves associated with those same tax portions. - Fiscal Impact Questions: Mayor Ross asked what percentage of the 6% tax revenue would be consumed by debt service. Chief Financial Administrator Tom responded that the plan envisions using the majority, if not all, of the 6% portion for debt service, with the third-percent portion only serving as debt service coverage. He noted that future growth in TDT revenue could free up capacity. - Convention Center Concerns: Mayor Castor expressed full support for the Rays stadium but raised a concern about the need for expansion of the convention center. She noted that existing conferences have outgrown available space and that the JW Marriott and other hotels have been filling the gap. Deputy County Administrator Greg Horwidale acknowledged the issue, stating that staff is in active discussions with developers about hotel capacity and convention center expansion, which remains a top priority. - Marketing Fund Protection: Mr. Manthe voiced support for the project but warned that using the third-percent portion (even as backup) would cross the 50% threshold for capital projects, potentially diverting funds from marketing. He stressed that marketing the destination is the original intent of the tax and that the council must be sensitive to preserving those funds. - Shortfall Contingency: Mr. Morrison supported the resolution but urged that if a shortfall in the 6% portion occurs, all recipients of TDT funds must recognize that telling the county's story (marketing) should be the priority. He advocated for developing a plan to address potential shortfalls. Key Outcomes - Motion and Vote: A motion was made by Mr. Manty (likely Mr. Manthe) and seconded by Mayor Castor to recommend the inclusion of the Tampa Bay Rays ballpark project in the Tourist Development Plan, thereby allowing the expenditure of TDT funds. The motion carried unanimously (all present voted "aye"). - Next Steps: The council's recommendation will be presented to the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) for final action on the plan modification. The council also expressed intent to continue conversations about convention center expansion and preserving marketing funding. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comments during the designated public comment period.

This summary was prepared from the raw transcript; no agenda or minutes were available. The meeting metadata date is 2026-10-28, but the transcript identifies the session as the 'October 19th, 2026 regular board meeting'; this discrepancy is noted rather than resolved. Chair Hanowitz presided, Vice Chair Waiteman led the Pledge, and the board voted on consent, action, and administrative items. Consent Calendar - No consent items were pulled. A motion to approve the consent agenda was made and seconded, and the clerk tallied a unanimous vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Karen Hillary, a Brandon resident living on the pipeline route, said the route decision has turned residents' lives upside down. She described two months on a dirt road, missed trash collection, mail delays, internet interruptions, blocked driveways, rerouted traffic, six-day-per-week construction, 24-hour dewatering pumps, house vibrations, dogs needing calming medication, yards used as temporary driveways, and contractor vehicles parked beyond promised barriers. She said the promised 'no staging on our side' did not hold, with dewatering and heavy construction within 50 feet of her front door. She asked the board to take responsibility for route consequences, create clear accountability for future property damage, and ensure honest communication and meaningful public input in future decisions. - David Ballard Geddes Jr., a Palm Harbor resident on Georgia Avenue, voiced opposition to what he called unbridled development and questioned water-supply planning, eminent domain, reclaimed-water requirements, stormwater vaults, mortgage revenue bond financing, and conservation half-measures. He invoked constitutional and statutory arguments and expressed concern that private property and religious liberty were being taken through water and development processes. Discussion Items - General Manager's Report (B1): The general manager discussed the end-of-year water use true-up; coordination with the Polk Regional Water Cooperative under a settlement that upgraded the Alafia River water use permit; quarterly meetings with the district, Polk, and Tampa Bay Water; and a goal for Polk to find 12 MGD by 2032 so it would not seek more Alafia River water. He noted the 2027 water conservation and source water protection grants of $2,000 to $10,000 for nonprofits, community groups, schools, and universities, with applications closing in early November and awardees expected in January. He also mentioned a draft point-of-connection policy that member legal staffs and utility directors would discuss informally after the meeting before it returns to the board. - Pipeline construction concerns during the general manager's report: Commissioner Wastel said the pipeline decision came from a prior Hillsborough County official who had since been defeated by voters, but the consequences linger. He said construction teams have told him they cannot do anything different, which frustrates his taxpayers. Sam Flowers of Garney Construction expressed sympathy for Ms. Hillary's experience and said the project team is committed to minimizing impacts; he stated work is within right-of-way and temporary construction easement limits, and that alleged encroachments beyond barriers were new to him. Michelle Robinson of Dialogue PR said community coordinators are on site daily, Garney added a sound-mitigating barrier around pumps, and portable toilets were moved after Ms. Hillary's complaints. Flowers added that on at least one trash-pickup day, coordinators used a loader to collect trash from every Ronell resident into a dumpster. - B2 - Pasco County Point of Connection: Staff reported that Pasco County requested a new point of connection in eastern Pasco County, with a stated need by 2035. Approval would initiate planning and negotiations leading to an MOU or joint project agreement at a future board meeting. The board approved unanimously. - B3 - Purchase and Sale Agreement: General counsel presented a purchase and sale agreement for Hillsborough County ELAP and environmental parcels with Florida Communities Trust interests related to the South Hillsborough Pipeline. The approximate $525,000 amount exceeds the $400,000 policy threshold, but most of the cost is restoration and environmental contribution due to the environmentally sensitive nature of the property. The board approved unanimously. - C1 - Purchasing Policy Revisions: Staff presented Resolution 2026-003. The proposed revisions increase executive staff purchasing approval thresholds delegated by the general manager, align them with small-purchase thresholds and Florida Statute 287.017 categories, and add core technology infrastructure systems and services to the delegated aggregate expenditures list. The board approved unanimously. - C2 - Long-Term Master Water Plan Update Services: Staff requested approval of Work Assignment 36 with Black & Veatch for integrated program management services for the five-year update of the long-term master water plan, required by November 2028. The assignment covers demand forecasting, screening of water supply alternatives, feasibility assessments, report co-authoring, public engagement, and coordination with ongoing planning. The amount is $1,853,941. The board approved unanimously. - C3 - PFAS Interim Pilot Implementation and Operations Services: Staff presented a $1.98 million contract amendment with Veolia for implementation and operation of an interim pilot at the Surface Water Treatment Plant Water Quality Pilot Study, including $1.24 million in implementation/operations services and $735,000 in owner's allowances. The interim pilot will test near-term PFAS treatment using granulated activated carbon and ion exchange while a permanent pilot advances separately. Commissioner Wastel questioned the certainty of EPA PFAS rules and the litigation risk, noting he was counting votes and could be the margin. Staff responded that current regulations require April 2029 compliance, a proposed extension to 2031 is likely but not final, and pre-construction work is needed to meet the deadline if the extension holds. The motion passed 5 to 1; no roll-call breakdown was read, but Commissioner Wastel had said his vote could put approval on the margin. - C4/C5/C6 - Acquired Permit Capacity and Balm Farm Permit Modification: Warren Hogg presented two capacity acquisitions. C4 is a $357,722 agreement with Damare Ruskin LLC plus up to $50,000 in verified transaction costs for 93,400 gallons per day, modeled to add nearly 91,000 gallons per day to the Balm Farm permit and reduce aquifer impacts by 10 percent. Commissioner Wastel noted Demare Family Farms is one of the last century-old pioneer tomato farm families in Hillsborough County and said they are selling because of NAFTA and agricultural regulations. C5 is a $349,003 agreement with Tampa Electric Company plus up to $50,000 in transaction costs for 91,134 gallons per day, modeled to add about 94,400 gallons per day. C6 is a companion application to modify the Balm Farm water use permit to add 367,900 gallons per day from the two new acquisitions and one existing Farmland Reserve agreement, bringing the permit to about 4.09 million gallons per day. The board approved all three unanimously, and the permit application will be held for 30 days to allow Hillsborough County and EPC to decide whether to seek arbitration before filing with the water management district. - C7 - Environmental Monitoring Contracts: Staff requested approval of five contracts for environmental monitoring and assessment at the 10 well fields covered by the consolidated water use permit, continuing permit-required monitoring through water year 2030. Fifty firms downloaded the solicitation, ten submitted timely proposals, and five were judged qualified and assigned work based on experience and priorities. The board approved unanimously. City of Tampa Water Department Report (D1) - Rory Jones, City of Tampa Water Department director, described a system serving more than 744,000 customers across 220 square miles and 2,200 miles of pipe. He explained how the Hillsborough River, Tampa Bay Water, and the city's aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) system are coordinated, including drought operations and minimum flows and levels (MFL) support for the lower river. - He presented a drought timeline: once-per-week watering began in December 2023 and was made permanent by the City Council in August 2024, saving about 5 MGD every day since. During the 2025-2026 drought, Tampa began buying finished water early, the district issued phased emergency orders, the middle pool was allowed to drop from 12 to 10 feet, the lower pool from 6 to 4 feet, and the spring MFL base flow was held at 20 cubic feet per second instead of the seasonal 24 cfs. Regional storage fell to about 20 percent, Bill Young Reservoir fell to 2.4 billion gallons, and Tampa's finished water purchases reached about 2.4 billion gallons. He said that without the one-day-per-week rule, Tampa would likely have drawn an additional 650 to 700 million gallons from Bill Young. - Jones credited weekly coordination with Tampa Bay Water and the district and informal 'state of the river' email briefings to mayors and council members with building shared responsibility across the region. He said Mayor Castor personally called high irrigation users to encourage conversion to reclaimed water. - He identified long-term challenges: Sulfur Springs is becoming saltier, Blue Sink became intermittent, and the city may need to offset reduced spring contributions with reservoir or regional water. He noted about 330 million gallons were currently going over the dam and could be captured in ASR if regulatory, storage, recovery, and water quality questions are resolved. - He said the city will soon begin a 20-year water resources master plan, complete its water use permit renewal, keep advancing capital improvements, and revisit rates later through the appropriate process. - Commissioner Wastel questioned how dense Tampa development is reconciled with the 82 MGD supply and noted Tampa Bay Water has no authority to deny certificates of occupancy. Jones said the city is not seeking to draw above 82 MGD, per-capita use is dropping as density rises, about 50 percent of use is irrigation, demand above the city's permit falls to Tampa Bay Water, and large projects such as the Hillsborough College site are included in growth planning. Wastel responded that no one had planned for 100 acres of dense development at Hillsborough College and that the political answer to his supply question remains difficult. - Councilmember Miranda thanked Jones for the presentation and expressed support for the regional system's evolution since 1998. He said growth is a problem the region created by being attractive, Tampa has only about 3.5 percent of developable land left, and the city will need future help from the regional system. Regional System Update (D2) - Warren Hogg reported that the region entered a stage one drought alert on November 1 and a stage three shortage on March 1. Rainfall remained about 10 inches below normal at the end of September, and river flows were 28 MGD below normal, but conditions improved substantially with late-summer rain. - C.W. Bill Young Regional Reservoir reached a low of 2.11 billion gallons in July, closed the fiscal year at 9.4 billion gallons, and was about 12.4 billion gallons (80 percent full) as of the previous night, still filling at more than 200 MGD. - FY26 deliveries averaged 202.07 MGD, about 2 percent above the prior year, with 70 percent groundwater, 24 percent surface water, and 6 percent desalinated seawater. The desalination plant has operated continuously since December 2024. The consolidated permit well fields ended the fiscal year at a 108.73 MGD running average; compliance is expected by summer 2027. The agency budgeted 212.84 MGD of deliveries in the current year. - Commissioner Wastel spoke in favor of continuing to pursue a second reservoir, saying it would make operations easier and reduce drought concerns. Strategic Plan Review (D3) - The continuous improvement director reported that Tampa Bay Water completed its 2022-2027 strategic plan. The proposed FY2027-2032 plan has five goals and 19 objectives covering reliable water supply, operational excellence/security/innovation, financial stability, stakeholder partnerships, and workforce capability. Staff incorporated a SWOT assessment and all 11 recommendations from the performance and management audit. The board was asked for feedback now, with formal approval requested in November and annual progress reports afterward. Capital Projects Update (D4) - Maribel Medina reported that the Surface Water Treatment Plant expansion remains on track. The project is about 15 percent complete, with spending aligned at 22 percent of the $167 million budget. Work includes the fifth treatment train, belt filter presses, new filters, chemical facilities, and solids drying beds. - The South Hillsborough Pipeline is about 13 percent complete by linear feet of pipe, with spending aligned at 27 percent of the $461.2 million construction budget. Seventeen tunnel crossings were selected to limit traffic and environmental impacts; seven are complete, including the State Road 60 crossing, with six more microtunnel locations remaining. Work in segment A includes open-cut installation on Victoria Street, Ronel Drive, and Boyette Road; segment B includes the first microtunnel launch shaft and open-cut work along Balm Boyette Road. - Community outreach included additional flaggers near schools and the Fitchhawk Boulevard sidewalk detour near the Fitch Hawk Sports Complex, custom signage to keep businesses visible, a CHOP local web page with a business directory, one-on-one business meetings, and coordination with the Hillsborough County Entrepreneur Collaborative Center. There were 16 media mentions and four influencer reels in the past two months. Administrative Matters - The receive-and-file motion was approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda and administrative receive-and-file: approved unanimously. - Pasco County point of connection request: approved unanimously, starting planning and negotiations for a future MOU/JPA. - South Hillsborough Pipeline environmental purchase and sale agreement: approved unanimously. - Purchasing policy Resolution 2026-003: approved unanimously. - Long-term master water plan update support (Black & Veatch Work Assignment 36): approved unanimously for $1,853,941. - Veolia PFAS interim pilot amendment: approved 5 to 1 for $1.98 million; one member opposed because of regulatory and litigation uncertainty. - Damare Ruskin and Tampa Electric capacity acquisitions: approved unanimously; Balm Farm permit modification application approved unanimously. - Five environmental monitoring contracts: approved unanimously. - Strategic plan: board feedback requested now; formal approval scheduled for November. - Balm Farm permit application: to be held 30 days to allow Hillsborough County and EPC to consider arbitration before filing. - Next PFAS/full-scale pilot actions: permanent pilot construction and operations scope is to return to the board in spring 2027; the interim pilot is to operate through spring 2028.

The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners held its Quarterly Awards and Recognition Ceremony on October 28, 2026, honoring county employees, nonprofit organizations, and health awareness campaigns. Commissioner Myers gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance. The ceremony recognized four county departments for achieving American Public Works Association (APWA) reaccreditation and presented proclamations for World Sight Month and Breast Cancer Awareness Month. APWA Reaccreditation Recognition - The board honored Public Works Administration, Facilities Management and Real Estate Services, Fleet Services, and Solid Waste Management for their APWA reaccreditation. Recognized leaders included Assistant County Administrator Kim Beyer, Engineering and Operations Director Josh Bellotti, Business Operations Division Director Marissa Ramirez, Facilities Management and Real Estate Services Director John Mueller, Solid Waste Management Director Damien Trommel, Assistant County Administrator for Public Utilities George Cassidy, Fleet Services Director Justin Laffler, and APWA regional director Larry Ingram. - The accreditation process involved a review of 40 chapters and 525 best practices, with six reaccreditation managers and over 30 chapter leaders working in addition to their regular duties. Public Works Administration earned its fifth reaccreditation (first accredited in 2006), while Facilities Management and Real Estate Services, Fleet Services, and Solid Waste Management each earned their second reaccreditation. - The departments were described as four of 231 accredited agencies; Larry Ingram later said the latest count was 241 accredited agencies. Ingram also said there are roughly 23,000 public works agencies across the U.S. and Canada, placing Hillsborough County departments in the 99th percentile, and that the departments are four of approximately 42 accredited agencies in Florida. - Ingram noted that October 28 is National First Responders Day and said public works employees should be considered first responders because they are first in after disasters and last out, clearing roads and helping communities recover. - Ingram described the reaccreditation threshold as requiring '957% of the 528 practices' to be in full compliance (as transcribed; this figure was followed by the statement that the departments earned 100% full compliance). - Note: The transcript contains an internal discrepancy: the earlier description cites 525 best practices in 40 chapters, while Ingram's remarks refer to 528 practices. The transcript also reads '957%' where a lower percentage was expected. - Kim Beyer thanked the employees and credited Division Director Rob Sees with the original vision for the accreditation. Ingram thanked county administration and commissioners for supporting the accreditation effort. Proclamation: World Sight Month - Commissioner Cohen presented a proclamation to Preserve Vision Florida Board Chair Kevin Bakewell and Director of Programs Marilee Berrios, recognizing October 2026 as World Sight Month in Hillsborough County. - The proclamation cited World Health Organization data that at least 2.2 billion people have near or distance vision impairment and at least one billion of those cases could have been prevented or are yet to be addressed. - It also noted that one in three children enter school with vision loss, 75% of adults use some type of vision correction, and seniors with vision issues face increased risks of falls, social isolation, and depression. - Preserve Vision Florida, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 1957 by Mildred Baynard of St. Petersburg, will celebrate its 70th anniversary in 2027 and provides more than 16,000 services, including vision screenings, eye exams, glasses, and vision health education. - Commissioner Cohen spoke about her personal reliance on glasses since second grade. Kevin Bakewell expressed gratitude, said Preserve Vision is not only the organization's name but also what it does, and noted that losing vision is one of people's top health worries. Proclamation: Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Day - Commissioner Cohen also recognized the American Cancer Society and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Tampa Bay, including Paige Carbon, Megan Arnold, Doug Abate, and representatives from Portraits of Hope and Men Wear Pink. - The proclamation declared October 2026 as Breast Cancer Awareness Month and October 24, 2026 as Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Day in Hillsborough County. - It cited American Cancer Society estimates that more than 323,000 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in 2026, that breast cancer death rates have declined 44% since 1989, and that more than four million breast cancer survivors live in the U.S. - Paige Carbon, executive ambassador co-chair for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Tampa Bay, thanked the county and said more than 32,000 people attended the October 24, 2026 event at Raymond James Stadium. She said the community was on track to reach a $1.2 million fundraising goal, making Tampa Bay the number three Making Strides event in the country. She encouraged people to talk with healthcare providers about risk and screening and to support those facing a diagnosis. Key Outcomes - Four county departments were celebrated for APWA reaccreditation with 100% full compliance. - The board issued proclamations declaring World Sight Month, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Day. - No formal votes were taken during the ceremony.

The Environmental Protection Commission (EPC) of Hillsborough County held its regular meeting on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 2:30 PM. The commission approved the consent agenda, authorized $929,126 in Pollution Recovery Fund grants for 11 environmental projects, received the 2026 annual report, and recognized outgoing Commissioner Cameron Cepeda. All votes were unanimous (6-0). Consent Calendar - Motion to approve the consent agenda passed 6-0. Discussion Items - Pollution Recovery Fund (PRF) Grant Applications (Item 9A): Chris Pratt, EPC staff, presented 11 recommended projects totaling $929,126. Since 1987, the PRF has provided over $9 million for environmental projects in Hillsborough County, funded solely by enforcement penalties. The recommended projects included: flood monitoring sensors by USF ($100,000), real-time water quality stations ($100,000), avian blood parasite diversity study ($97,097), GIS-based stormwater pollution prevention ($86,369), PFAS bioaccumulation study ($99,478), Tampa Bay cleanups by Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful ($40,450), floating wetlands on the Hillsborough River ($97,783), wetland restoration at Learning Gate Community School ($90,000), seagrass restoration near Apollo Beach ($99,000), a framework for hypereutrophic lake remediation ($85,449), and mangroves/substrate restoration in Ruskin ($33,500). The commission approved all 11 projects (6-0). - 2026 Annual Report: The executive director presented the annual report, highlighting EPC’s achievements: over 2,000 authorizations, 3,700 field inspections, compliance assistance in over 1,000 cases, water quality monitoring at 261 stations (over 50 years of data), 15 delegated environmental programs, and a 93% customer satisfaction rating. The report noted that EPC staff has been reduced by 18% since 2000 while population grew 57%. Commissioner Boles raised concerns about urban service area expansion and Lake Thanona Sassa pollution, urging EPC to engage proactively with the planning commission. The report was received (6-0). - Recognition of Commissioner Cameron Cepeda: Staff and commissioners honored outgoing Commissioner Cepeda for her service since 2022, her work as chaplain leading invocations, and her contributions to the board. Gifts and cards were presented. - Other Updates: Staff reported on recent engagements (FLARA conference, wetland workshop, volunteer cleanups collecting 23 bags of trash), new attorney Marie O’Donnell, and four interns from the University of South Florida. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved (6-0). - 2026 Pollution Recovery Fund grants approved: 11 projects, $929,126 total (6-0). - 2026 annual report received (6-0). - The next EPC meeting is scheduled for December 17, 2026; if no action items arise, it may be deferred to 2027.

The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners held its regular meeting on October 21, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. The meeting included ceremonial recognitions, public comments, several public hearings, and votes on funding, ordinances, and land-use certifications. Key actions included approving $5 million for ZooTampa capital improvements, reallocating $2.9 million in HOPE funds to the Pet Resource Center, denying an agricultural enclave application, and receiving reports from Visit Tampa Bay and the Tampa Bay Economic Development Council. Consent Calendar - A-1 (Removed for discussion): Five SHIP program funding agreements for owner-occupied housing rehabilitation and demolition/reconstruction, totaling $6.85 million, were approved except for the East Tampa Business & Community Development Alliance (ETBCDA) agreement, which was voted down 5-2 (Commissioners Bowles and Wostal voted no) after Commissioner Wostal’s motion to divide the question. The remaining five agreements passed 7-0. - A-6 (Removed for highlighting): Ordinance relating to e-bikes, bicycles, motorized scooters, and micromobility devices – approved to advertise and schedule a public hearing for November 10, 2026. - All other consent items (A-2 through A-62) were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Animal Shelter: Multiple speakers (including Julie the dog’s owner John Marinello, Dr. Betsy Coville) urged immediate construction of a new animal shelter, citing dangerous conditions (recent electrical fire) and the $43 million already allocated. They opposed using funds for temporary fixes and requested a timeline matching the pace of the Rays stadium project. - Kratom Ban: Several speakers (Ellen Snelling, Mary Huff, Dana McDonald, Olivia McDonald, Rachel Reynolds, Leanne Bennati, Teresa Bennati) testified in favor of banning all kratom products, describing personal tragedies of overdose deaths and addiction. They urged the Board to expand the proposed synthetic drug ordinance (Item A-5) to include natural kratom and its active compounds. - Towing Rates: Anthony Huffman (towing association) and Stephen McCalini supported a rate increase, citing rising costs (fuel, insurance, equipment). Justin Heller (Professional Wrecker Operators of Florida) requested a 25% adjustment rather than the proposed 15%. - E-Bikes: Frank Santini, a personal injury attorney, shared data on e-bike crashes and urged careful definitional strategies in the upcoming ordinance. - ZooTampa CIT (Public Hearing): Chris Masaro (ZooTampa) spoke in support of adding ZooTampa capital improvements to the CIT project list, noting the zoo lacks CRA funding available to other cultural institutions. Andrea Thomas spoke in opposition, concerned about potential impacts to Lowry Park green space. - Agricultural Enclave (Public Hearing): Multiple opponents (Jane Graham, Dr. James Barry, Brittany Barry, Nathan Smith) argued the property is not undeveloped (active mining operation) and does not meet statutory perimeter requirements. The applicant (Jim Porter, Sam Sabelli) maintained the property qualifies under the “700 acres or less” alternative and that the mining had ceased. Discussion Items - YEA Awards & First Responders Day Proclamation: The Board recognized six middle and high school students for volunteerism, leadership, and overcoming adversity. Commissioner Boles presented a proclamation declaring October 28, 2026, as First Responders Day in Hillsborough County. - D-2 / B-3: ZooTampa CIT Funding (Time Certain 10:00 a.m.): The Board conducted a public hearing and voted 4-3 (Commissioners Hagan, Cohen, Myers dissenting) to add ZooTampa Capital Improvements to the Renewed CIT project list and approved a $5 million FY27 budget amendment from CIT Extension reserves. The $5 million is the first installment of a planned $75 million contribution over 15 years. - E-1: Visit Tampa Bay Activity Report (10:15 a.m.): President/CEO Santiago Corrada reported another record fiscal year with hotel taxable revenue exceeding $1 billion for the fourth consecutive year, and highlighted marketing successes, tourism academy partnerships, and free media value of $24 million. - E-2: Tampa Bay EDC Activity Report (10:30 a.m.): President/CEO Craig Richard reported 22 companies announced, 1,130 new jobs, $187 million capital investment, and $2.8 million in non-government funding. The Board noted the $100,000 budget increase for enhanced branding. - B-1: Cass Street Underpass Extension: Approved a $200,000 funding agreement with Friends of the Riverwalk for preliminary engineering design, matched by the City of Tampa. Motion passed 7-0. - B-2: CDBG-DR Workforce Training Program: Approved a $1.545 million subrecipient agreement with Associated Builders and Contractors of Florida for a trades training and certification program benefiting lower-income residents and increasing the construction labor pool. Motion passed 7-0. - Commissioner Items: - F-1 (Cameron Cepeda): Increased funding to Veterans Helping Veterans by $10,000 to $30,000 (7-0). - F-2 (Cohen): Renamed the Warren Elly Media Room to include Mark Zewalk (7-0). - F-3 (Myers): Approved sponsorship for 2027 United Bikerz Jamboree ($22,500) (6-0, one abstention). - F-4 (Myers): Approved sponsorship for 2027 Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival & Music Fest ($46,875) (5-1, Cameron Cepeda dissenting). - F-5 (Myers): Approved sponsorship for Be Out Day Tampa Bay ($10,000) (6-0). - F-6 (Myers): Approved sponsorship for 2027 Tampa Bay Caribbean Carnival ($18,750) (5-1, Cameron Cepeda dissenting). - G-1: Towing/Immobilization Rates Review: Staff presented a report on rate adjustments. Commissioner Miller moved to direct staff to bring back a resolution updating rates as staff recommended. Motion passed 7-0. - G-2: Board Policy Workgroup Report: Staff presented a comprehensive review of 251 board policies, recommending rescinding 104, updating 122, maintaining 25, and creating 3 new ones to reduce policies to 150. Commissioner Bowles initially moved to adopt the recommendations; after discussion about needing more time to review, the Board voted 7-0 to accept the report and bring back a block vote at the next meeting. - G-3: HOPE Affordable Housing Trust Funds Report: Staff reported $12.8 million unspent, with $2.9 million unallocated. Commissioner Miller moved to reallocate the $2.9 million to the Pet Resource Center project, preserving the $3.2 million under an active RFP for affordable housing. Motion passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - Approved: ZooTampa CIT amendment and $5 million budget (4-3) - Approved: SHIP program agreements (5 of 6, 7-0; ETBCDA voted down 5-2) - Approved: B-1 Riverwalk design funding (7-0) - Approved: B-2 Workforce training program (7-0) - Approved: Commissioner sponsorship items (various votes) - Approved: G-1 Towing rate review (directed to bring resolution) (7-0) - Approved: G-3 HOPE fund reallocation of $2.9 million to Pet Resource Center (7-0) - Denied: D-1 Agricultural Enclave certification (6-1, Cameron Cepeda dissenting) - Deferred: G-2 Board Policy Workgroup recommendations to next meeting for block vote (7-0) - Scheduled: Public hearing for kratom ordinance (A-5) and e-bike ordinance (A-6) for November 10, 2026. - Recognized: YEA Awards recipients and First Responders Day proclamation.

The Zoning Hearing Master (ZHM) hearing was convened at 6:00 PM on October 19, 2026, at the County Center, 2nd Floor. The hearing officer was Steve Luce. The meeting addressed 23 continuances, 1 remand, 2 standard rezonings, and 5 rezoning-to-planned-development and major modification applications. All applications heard resulted in recommendations pending final decision by the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) scheduled for December 8, 2026. No new petitions were started after midnight. Consent Calendar - No items were placed on a consent agenda; all items were considered individually. Public Comments & Testimony - B1 (PD 26-0095): Lise Garcia, manager of a condominium unit in Phase 1 of the project, spoke in opposition to aspects of the application, questioning the authority of the HOA representative who signed the affidavit and requesting conditions regarding separate utilities, construction access, and use of common facilities. She did not oppose development of the vacant lot but sought accurate records. - D1 (RZ-PD 26-0672): Alfred Bruner, president of the Balm Civic Association, spoke in opposition, citing non-compliance with the Balm Community Development Plan (which calls for 5-acre minimum lots), insufficient infrastructure (fire response, traffic), and the need for larger buffers and road improvements. He noted the road (Balm Wimauma Road) was underwater during Hurricane Milton. David Cyrus, a licensed contractor and engineer owning adjacent property, also spoke in opposition, requesting larger buffers (100–200 feet), larger lots (minimum 1 acre), and expressing concerns about flooding and compatibility. Buddy Harwell, Vice President of the Balm Civic Association, echoed these concerns, asking for 50-foot buffers, half-acre lots, and road fixes. He also mentioned the Balm dark skies initiative and lack of right-turn lanes. - D6 (RZ-PD 26-1221): Spencer Dix, a resident of Lynette Drive, spoke in opposition via video, expressing concerns that the development would worsen existing flooding in the neighborhood. The applicant noted the development is on the western side of US 41, not the eastern side where Duke Road is located. Discussion Items - B1 (PD 26-0095) – Church Arbor Lux LLC / Jeff Sardisco: This was a remand from a previous hearing. The applicant proposed rezoning 2.49 acres from PD and RMC-20 to a new PD to allow 35 multifamily units (10 existing condos + 25 new units). The remand was to include parcels previously omitted and defer a design exception to site development. A speaker (Lise Garcia) raised questions about whether the HOA representative who signed the authorization had proper authority. Staff checked Sunbiz and found the signatory (Barbara Grate) was listed as president/director, but the speaker suggested internal HOA bylaws might require a board vote. The hearing officer held the application in abeyance after the first presentation to allow discussion, then closed the hearing with the application proceeding pending resolution of the affidavit issue. - C1 (RZ-STD 26-1434) – Todd Pressman: Request to rezone 19.01 acres from AS-1 to RSC-4 on Bonita Drive in Wimauma. No public comment. Staff and Planning Commission found it consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. Recommendation of approval. - C2 (RZ-STD 26-1442) – Gisselle Amparo: Request to rezone 2.79 acres from ASC-1 to RSC-2 on Whitehouse Drive in Riverview. No public comment. Staff noted the intent to subdivide and found the rezoning compatible with the area. No conditions of approval. - D1 (RZ-PD 26-0672) – Wimauma Grove, LLC: Request to rezone 69.2 acres from AR to PD for a 276-unit single-family subdivision in Balm. The site is within the urban service area and has a future land use of Res-4 (changed in 2024). The applicant proposed a 15-foot buffer with 6-foot fence and trees (20 feet on center) along the north, south, and east boundaries in response to neighborhood concerns. A design exception was approved for 11-foot travel lanes with 8-foot shoulders (7 feet paved) along Balm Wimauma Road, with connection to existing improvements to the north. Right-turn lanes were not warranted. The application had support from staff and Planning Commission. Opposition speakers raised concerns about density, buffering, road safety, flooding, and compatibility with the rural character. - D2 (RZ-PD 26-0957) – Ray D. Gustafson / Gustafson Engineer Co.: Request to rezone 2.53 acres from CG, CG-R, and CI-R to PD to allow an auto body repair shop and three existing single-family homes on Waters Avenue. No public comment. The proposal includes a 15-foot buffer with Type B screening between commercial and residential uses (a variation from the required 20-foot buffer due to site constraints). Staff recommended approval. - D3 (MM 26-1139) – Creation Acquisitions LLC: Major modification to IPD-2 (90-0121) for a 13.92-acre site on US 92. The request increases maximum floor area from 86,000 to 186,956 square feet, building height from 45 to 50 feet, and limits uses to warehousing/distribution. The building orientation was flipped to put loading areas away from adjacent residential properties. A 100-foot setback and enhanced Type C screening are proposed. Staff found the project compatible. No public comment. - D4 (MM 26-1141) – Symmes Development LLC: Major modification to PD (04-0054) on 7.47 acres on Symmes Road. The modification updates trip generation caps for CG uses (convenience store with gas). No changes to density or intensity. The proposal increases gross average daily trips from 4,083 to 4,864, with net new trips capped at 1,835 (internal capture). No public comment. Staff recommended approval. - D5 (RZ-PD 26-1146) – Jacob T. Cremer / Barbas Cremer PLLC: Request to rezone 16.68 acres from multiple zoning (PD 02-0215, PD 26-0070, RSC-4) to a new PD for 228,500 square feet of warehousing, distribution, and light manufacturing on Williams Road. The applicant proposed enhanced screening, a 6-foot fence along Ripley Road, and time restrictions on semi-tractor/trailer idling and loading/unloading (10 p.m. to 6 a.m.). One resident spoke in support via letter. Staff and Planning Commission found the proposal consistent with conditions. No public opposition. - D6 (RZ-PD 26-1221) – Barry Newberger: Request to rezone 10.15 acres from ASC-1 to PD for 40,000 square feet of CG uses (excluding gas stations, schools, auto repair) on US 41 in Lutz. The property has a 100-foot TICO easement and wetlands. The proposed development on the west side of US 41 would have a 190-foot setback from residential properties to the west. Staff recommended approval. Planning Commission staff opposed, citing inconsistency with commercial locational criteria (site is beyond the 75% threshold for CLC), inadequate transition to residential uses, and non-conformity with the Lutz Community Plan, which directs commercial development to three activity nodes (the site is not within them). One resident (Spencer Dix) spoke in opposition via video regarding flooding concerns. The applicant argued the buffer and setbacks provide adequate separation. Key Outcomes - B1 (PD 26-0095): Heard and pending recommendation. The application was held in abeyance during the hearing due to an affidavit question, then closed with the recommendation to proceed to the BOCC contingent on resolution of the authority issue. - C1 (RZ-STD 26-1434): Heard and pending recommendation to the BOCC Land Use meeting on December 8, 2026. - C2 (RZ-STD 26-1442): Heard and pending recommendation to the BOCC Land Use meeting on December 8, 2026. - D1 (RZ-PD 26-0672): Heard and pending recommendation to the BOCC Land Use meeting on December 8, 2026. The hearing officer noted the proposed buffer and road improvements as conditions. - D2 (RZ-PD 26-0957): Heard and pending recommendation to the BOCC Land Use meeting on December 8, 2026. - D3 (MM 26-1139): Heard and pending recommendation to the BOCC Land Use meeting on December 8, 2026. - D4 (MM 26-1141): Heard and pending recommendation to the BOCC Land Use meeting on December 8, 2026. - D5 (RZ-PD 26-1146): Heard and pending recommendation to the BOCC Land Use meeting on December 8, 2026. The hearing officer noted the correction regarding the fence vs. wall. - D6 (RZ-PD 26-1221): Heard and pending recommendation to the BOCC Land Use meeting on December 8, 2026. Staff recommended approval; Planning Commission staff recommended denial. - The hearing officer will file a recommendation for each application by November 9, 2026. The BOCC will render final decisions on December 8, 2026. Parties wishing to request additional evidence must file by November 19, 2026.

The Hillsborough Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) Board convened on October 14, 2026, addressing two major Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) amendments, receiving committee reports, and setting future directives for regional transportation oversight. The meeting began with a farewell to departing board member Nigel Joseph and featured detailed debate on project costs, funding sources, and regional coordination. Consent Calendar - The board adopted the consent agenda without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Andy Scaglioni: Unable to join the meeting due to technical issues; no public comment was given. - Alfonso Lopez (Submitted via email): Expressed support for both TIP amendments but urged careful attention to pedestrian and ADA access, bicycle and transit connections, utility coordination to avoid future disruptions, and distinguishing between public benefits and private gains. - Amanda Brown (Submitted via Facebook): Questioned the funding source for the Air Cargo Road and Tampa Bay Boulevard TIP amendment. - Brian Skorzowski (Submitted via Instagram): Expressed support for a grade-separated electrified rail network for the Tampa Bay metropolitan area. Committee Reports Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) Report – Rick Fernandez - Farewell: Recognized the service of departing member Clifford Reese. - I-4 Truck Park TIP Amendment: The CAC did not recommend approval. Members found the cost of $24.7 million for six charging stations to be “astronomically high”. A motion to recommend approval subject to requiring FDOT to explore a power purchase agreement or a public-private partnership to reduce costs failed by a vote of 5 to 10. Mr. Fernandez stated the CAC supports the project concept but not the cost structure. - Air Cargo Road and Tampa Bay Boulevard TIP Amendment: The CAC voted to recommend approval by a vote of 14 to 1, following discussion on sidewalk widths, linear park impacts, and project limits. - Scheduling: The CAC voted to cancel its November meeting. Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) Report – Harmony McGee (TPO Staff) - I-4 Truck Park TIP Amendment: TAC recommended approval. Discussion included Environmental Protection Commission support, establishing protocols to prevent overnight truck parking, and the need for accurate, current maps. - Air Cargo Road and Tampa Bay Boulevard TIP Amendment: TAC recommended approval. Discussion Items Action Item 1: FY26-30 TIP Amendment – I-4 Truck Park Facility Electric Truck Chargers - Presentation: Harry Walsh (TPO Staff) presented a $24.7 million federal NEVI grant amendment to install six brand-agnostic Level 3 electric truck charging stations at FDOT’s new 49-acre truck parking facility. The cost includes $10 million paid to TICO to harden the electrical infrastructure to 7.2 megawatts, allowing future expansion to 48 chargers. - Board Discussion: - Board Member Roderick Christian: Found the costs “in the realm of reasonableness” for such infrastructure. Confirmed the technology is brand-agnostic. - Board Member King: Described demand as a “chicken-or-egg scenario”. Inquired about user fees to cover costs (FDOT stated fees are not yet determined). Requested the total project cost without chargers ($36M facility + $11M ROW). - Board Member Gray: Asked about compatibility with other large EVs (buses, RVs) and the current extent of TICO’s cost sharing. - Chair (Mayor Ross): Clarified the funding is entirely new federal money, “use it or lose it”, and does not impact other local projects. - Vote: Motion carried 15-0. Action Item 2: FY27-31 TIP Amendment – Air Cargo Road and Tampa Bay Boulevard Operational and Safety Improvements - Presentation: Harry Walsh presented a $10.3 million project (increased from $3.4M) to widen roadways, upgrade the roundabout at Lois Avenue, install traffic signals, and improve drainage for a known flooding area. - Board Discussion: - Commissioner Cohen: Expressed full support. Successfully motioned to approve the amendment and requested a future board presentation on the comprehensive regional context of FDOT projects in the West Tampa, stadium, and airport areas. - Commissioner Wastel: Voiced concern over the stadium project’s viability and overlapping event schedules. Voted against the amendment. - Commissioner Bowles: Successfully verified the cost increase is from FDOT statewide reserves, not affecting local budgets. - Councilmember Clendenen: Emphasized the need for pedestrian safety improvements, including bridges and sidewalks. - Vote: Motion carried 13-2. (Commissioner Wastel and Board Member King voted no). Status Report: Prioritizing Transportation Tampa Bay Pilot - Presentation: Franco Saraceno (Kittelson and Associates) presented a $1.05 million federally funded pilot to create a unified regional project prioritization process in partnership with Pinellas and Pasco MPOs. - Board Discussion: - Commissioner Wastel: Expressed skepticism, citing “study fatigue” and predictable outcomes. Questioned the distinction from the Regional Infrastructure Accelerator (RIA). - Councilmember Clendenen: Concurred with Commissioner Wastel’s doubts. - Board Member Gray: Raised concerns about pursuing this before the regional MPO merger is finalized. - Chair (Mayor Ross) & Dr. Wong: Justified the study as a step toward harmonizing conflicting county methodologies and meeting federal performance-based planning requirements, serving as a potential fallback for regional coordination. Status Report: Trauma Prevention and Safety Programs - Presentation: Alex Roder (Tampa General Hospital) presented safety programs as part of the Vision Zero initiative. Key statistics shared include over 5,000 people trained in “Stop the Bleed”, and an average age of 44 for e-bike related injuries treated at TGH. The presentation did not require board action. Executive Director’s Report – Dr. Wong - West Tampa Benchmarking Study: Announced a new study (<$200,000) to establish a transportation baseline in West Tampa and Drew Park to assess the impacts of the RAISE stadium. Phase one begins in November. - Tri-County/Merger Update: Reported significant fatigue and a lack of quorum at the last TMA meeting. A special meeting is set for December 1st to address the merger study. - Upcoming Meetings: The November 4th regular meeting is canceled. The next regular meeting is December 9th. Key Outcomes - Decisions and Votes: - Approved the FY26-30 TIP Amendment for the I-4 Truck Park electric chargers (15-0). - Approved the FY27-31 TIP Amendment for Air Cargo Road and Tampa Bay Boulevard improvements (13-2). - Directives and Next Steps: - Regional Overview Motion Approved: The board adopted Commissioner Cohen’s motion to direct staff to schedule a comprehensive presentation from FDOT on all planned projects (West Tampa, Airport, I-275/SR-60) at the earliest practical meeting. - West Tampa Study Initiated: Staff to proceed with a benchmarking study in the West Tampa area. - Evaluation: Annual Executive Director evaluation forms to be distributed, with results expected at the December 9th meeting.

The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners held its regularly scheduled land use meeting on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 9:00 AM at the County Center, 2nd Floor. The board addressed a full agenda including consent items, vacation petitions, public hearings on land use modifications, regular agenda rezonings, agricultural enclave certifications, and an off-agenda discussion to schedule the Community Investment Tax (CIT) public hearing for the Tampa Bay Rays ballpark. Commissioners present were Hagan, Myers, Cameron Cepeda, Cohen, Wostal, Miller, and Boles. Consent Calendar - The board unanimously approved the consent agenda (items B.1–B.5): a major modification to a planned development (MM 26-0822, Pressman Todd); a standard rezone (RZ-STD 26-1168, Larry Poliner); and three plat finalizations—Conley Cove (accepting $2,969,732.34 performance bond, $142,584.99 warranty bond), Durant Ridge (accepting $24,138.38 warranty bond), and Meade Estates On-Site & Off-Site (accepting $3,562,942.50 performance bond, $129,194.40 warranty bond)—authorizing the Development Services Department to accept dedications and maintain public improvements. Public Comments & Testimony - Item F.4 (RZ-PD 26-0974 – Convenience store/gas station): Attorney Jonathan Bailey (representing Hillsdale Baptist Church and Christian Academy) opposed the project, citing incompatibility, traffic increase from 28 to 2,800 trips, wetland encroachment (38% of site, 8,700 sq ft impact), and potential alcohol sales near a church and school. Francine Silverman raised flooding risks due to aging infrastructure. Claudia Capiello (via phone) reported over 900 petition signatures in opposition. - Item F.5 (RZ-STD 26-1184 – Single-family residential): Resident Mary Ampieri expressed concerns about construction noise, street lighting, fence height, emergency egress, and inadequate communication from the developer; she clarified she is not in opposition but seeks mitigation. - Item E.8 (Agricultural Enclave 26-1535): Applicant attorney James Porter requested a continuance, stating that the 68-page staff report was received only six days prior (including only three business days), raising due process concerns, and noting active litigation. - CIT off-agenda item: No public testimony was taken. Discussion Items Withdrawals, Continuances and Remands All acted on unanimously: - A.1 (MM 26-0062) continued to Dec 8, 2026. - A.2 (PRS 26-0610) withdrawn by applicant. - A.3 (PRS 26-0614) withdrawn by staff. - A.4 (PRS 26-1151) continued to Dec 8 by applicant. - A.5 (PRS 26-1256) continued to Dec 8 per staff. Vacations of Rights-of-Way, Easements & Plats - C.1 (V26-0014): Adopted resolution vacating 860 sq ft public utility easement at 6706 Forrestvale Lane to resolve a shed encroachment (unanimous; no objections). - C.2 (V26-0018): Adopted resolution vacating 5,396.57 sq ft (0.12 acres) of unimproved Morrison Avenue right-of-way for RV parking and storage; a drainage easement reserved (unanimous; no objections). Public Hearing – Land Use (E.1–E.8) - E.1 – PRS 26-0962 (Lifestyle Communities): Approved – modify design requirements for large-scale retail building on 137.09 acres at Covington Garden Dr & Big Bend Rd (vote 7‑0). - E.2 – PRS 26-1077 (Hill Ward Henderson): Continued to Dec 8, 2026; staff recommendation not supported (unanimous continue). - E.3 – PRS 26-1147 (Diocese of St. Petersburg): Approved – increase building square footage for church accessory structure on 15.79 acres (vote 7‑0). - E.4 – PRS 26-1258 (LYVWELL Communities): Approved – remove mixed-use building requirement on 2.33 acres at 11810 N Dale Mabry Hwy; applicant stated no change in density or traffic (vote 7‑0). - E.5 – PRS 26-1264 (LIV Development): Approved – remove sidewalk requirement on 32.45 acres along Caniglio Drive; sidewalks provided elsewhere (vote 7‑0). - E.6 – PRS 26-1283 (Phillips Edison & Co.): Approved – clarify that minor motor vehicle repair is a permitted use on 3.7 acres (vote 7‑0). - E.7 – AG-ENC 26-1528 (Pine Tree Acres LLC): Approved – certify 58.29‑acre agricultural enclave at Gunn Hwy & Van Dyke Rd; staff confirmed criteria met (77% perimeter developed, 51% per other measure) (vote 7‑0). Commissioner Wostal noted the board’s role is ministerial. - E.8 – AG-ENC 26-1535 (Stephen Dibbs): Staff determined the 316.66‑acre parcel does not meet criteria (deemed developed, three parcels lack agricultural exemptions, only 31% perimeter developed, only 28% perimeter in urban service area). Applicant requested continuance; after discussion, board continued to the October 21, 2026 BOCC regular meeting (vote 5‑2; Commissioners Hagan and Boles opposed). Commissioner Wostal noted that if board fails to act within 90 days, state law provides automatic approval. Regular Agenda (F.1–F.5) - F.1 – RZ-PD 26-0445 (Todd Pressman): Approved – rezone 0.55 acres at 4020 W Waters Ave from CG to PD for office/medical uses, considered a compatible downzoning (vote 7‑0). - F.2 – RZ-PD 26-0671 (Balm Rd LLC): Approved – rezone 79.9 acres from AR/PD to PD for 220 single‑family dwellings (vote 7‑0). - F.3 – RZ-PD 26-0673 (Corp. to Develop Communities of Tampa): Approved – rezone 1.71 acres for 20 affordable housing duplex units (80% AMI). Board denied applicant’s request to introduce additional evidence (vote 7‑0 on both motions). - F.4 – RZ-PD 26-0974 (Leaders Companies LLC): Denied – 3.4 acres for a 4,852 sq ft convenience store with 12 fueling positions and underground tanks. Staff, planning commission, and hearing master all recommended denial due to wetland setback encroachment, lack of information on infrastructure impacts, and incompatibility. Applicant’s request for a remand was not taken up. Public opposition was extensive. Motion to deny passed 7‑0. - F.5 – RZ-STD 26-1184 (Mattamy Tampa/Sarasota): Approved – rezone 16.51 acres at Raulerson Rd from AS-1 to RSC-9(R) with restrictions (max 4 du/ac, 7,200 sq ft min lot, 60 ft min lot width). Staff noted access and other issues will be resolved at permitting stage. Vote 6‑1 (Commissioner Cameron Cepeda opposed). Related Items (G.1–G.2) - G.1A (RZ-PD 26-0363) & G.1B (PRS 26-1235): Approved together – rezone 4.11 acres to PD for 14 single‑family lots and remove the parcel from the parent planned development (vote 7‑0). - G.2A (PRS 26-0480) & G.2B (PRS 26-0483): Approved together – modify access points at US 301 & Cape Stone Ave to provide both vehicular and golf cart access (vote 7‑0). Staff Items - I.1 – Status Report on Live Local Act Development Projects: No new applications since last report; county attorney updated that the pending lawsuit motion to dismiss awaits hearing. Report accepted (unanimous). - I.2 – Status Report on Agricultural Enclave Projects: Provided status of prior approved enclaves and noted the two applications heard today. Report accepted (unanimous). Off-Agenda Item – CIT Public Hearing Scheduling Chair Hagan added an off-agenda item to discuss scheduling the Community Investment Tax public hearing for the Tampa Bay Rays ballpark. County Attorney Julia Mandel reported that a quorum for an evening meeting could not be obtained before November 5. Chair Hagan moved to authorize staff to schedule and advertise a public hearing on November 10, 2026, during the regular Board meeting. Commissioners Wostal and Cameron Cepeda argued for an evening meeting to allow greater public participation, citing past precedents and criticizing the process as rushed. Commissioner Boles inquired about bond validation documents. The motion passed 5‑2, with Commissioners Cameron Cepeda and Wostal opposed; Commissioners Hagan, Myers, Cohen, Miller, and Boles in favor. Commissioner Boles noted no objection to the November date. Key Outcomes - Consent items and vacations approved unanimously. - Land use items: E.1, E.3, E.4, E.5, E.6, E.7 approved unanimously; E.2 continued; E.8 continued to October 21 BOCC meeting (5‑2). - Regular agenda: F.1, F.2, F.3 approved unanimously; F.4 denied (7‑0); F.5 approved (6‑1). - Related items G.1 and G.2 approved unanimously. - Staff reports accepted unanimously. - CIT public hearing authorized for November 10, 2026 board meeting (5‑2).