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OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD

Record of Proceedings

Hillsborough County BOCC Meeting – July 15, 2026

Hillsborough County Archive View Page — Wednesday, July 15, 2026

BodyHillsborough County, Florida

SessionHillsborough County Archive View Page

DateWednesday, July 15, 2026

StatusFILED

Video Record

0:00 / 3:12:20

Transcript — VerbatimClick a timed line to jump · ⧉ to share it

0:04

Obviously when we pull up a brass and like hey, is your dog?

0:08

They said when they approached it, it started to growl at them.

0:10

They were obviously hesitant, but they're like, it doesn't look in good condition.

0:14

We found one dog in there that was barely alive.

0:16

It's literally skin and bones.

0:18

Oh my god.

2:14

Welcome to a meeting of your Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners.

2:19

Representing District One, Harry Cohen.

2:25

Representing District Two, Ken Hagen.

2:29

Representing District Three, Gwen Myers.

2:35

Representing District Four, Christine Miller.

2:39

Representing District Five, Donna Cameron Cepeda.

2:45

Representing District Six, Chris Bowles.

2:49

Representing District 7, Joshua Wolstall.

2:54

The County Administrator is Bonnie Wise.

2:59

The County Attorney is Julia Mandel.

3:03

Time is set aside at the beginning of each meeting for citizens to speak on any issue.

3:08

So we have time for everyone.

3:10

Speakers are asked to limit their comments to three minutes.

3:15

Today's meeting is brought to you with closed captioning by Hillsborough Television.

3:23

Good morning, and welcome to the July 15th, 2026 board meeting of the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners.

3:28

Would everyone please rise for the pledge and invocation given by our chaplain, Commissioner Gwynmyers.

3:40

And to the Republic for which you stand.

3:56

Thank you for those who are here today as we celebrate the thirty-sixth anniversary.

4:04

Father has a special blessing as our budget is being presented today.

4:08

Go with our county administrator and Kevin as they present the information to us on behalf of the citizens of Hillsburg County.

4:16

Bless our first responders and all of our employees.

5:00

Janet Byer, member Hillsboro Alliance for Citizens with Disabilities and the Alliance's Public Awareness Committee.

5:05

Maddie Wichorick, co-chair Hillsboro Alliance for Citizens with Disabilities.

5:12

Elizabeth Mueller, Chair of the Public Awareness Committee and Board Member Hillsborough Alliance for Citizens with Disabilities, Brenda Clark, At Large Board Member, Hillsborough Alliance for Citizens with Disabilities, Ben Ritter, Hillsboro Alliance for Citizens with Disabilities.

5:31

Raquel Pancho, ADA Coordinator, Office of the Chief of Staff of the City of Tampa.

5:38

Good morning.

5:39

Arizona Jenkins, member, Hillsborough Alliance for Citizens with Disabilities.

5:44

Jada Clark, Hillsborough County ADA office, Alder Alensworth, Advocate, Hillsborough Alliance for Citizens with Disabilities, and Cheryl Brown, President and CEO, Lighthouse for the Blind and Low Vision.

5:59

Thank you all for being here today, and good morning.

6:02

Ms.

6:02

Bayer, would you please join me at the podium?

6:05

The other members of your group will join us for photos in just a few minutes.

6:17

Thank you for coming today.

6:24

Since it was signed into law 36 years ago, the Americans with Disabilities Act has played an important role in raising awareness and establishing a comprehensive national mandate for eliminating discrimination against individuals with disabilities.

6:41

This legislation encourages all of us to celebrate one another's contributions and gifts in addition to learning about universal design, accommodations, and accessibility to dispel the myths and apprehension about different personal abilities.

6:59

This year's theme is celebrate, learn, share, impacting inclusion through the arts.

7:05

This celebration shines a spotlight on how the arts help build a more inclusive community for all of us to enjoy.

7:13

It is my pleasure to present this proclamation in honor of all people who live with disabilities as victors and never as victims.

7:22

And this proclamation reads, whereas July 26, 2026 marks the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, landmark legislation that was passed to ensure that people with disabilities have the same civil rights and opportunities as those who don't.

7:44

And whereas the principles of the act foster fairness and belonging for all people with disabilities by reducing barriers, changing perceptions, and increasing full participation in community life.

7:57

And whereas the law prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including employment, schools, recreation, transportation, and all public and private places that are open to the community.

8:14

And whereas the Americans with Disabilities Act mandates reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities, providing that everyone has full access to services, resources, and facilities.

8:28

And whereas the Hillsboro County Alliance for Citizens with Disabilities enhances local compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, raises awareness about the equity of people, and advocates on behalf of people with disabilities.

8:43

And whereas the 36th anniversary of the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act is celebrated with the theme ADA 36th, celebrate, learn, share, impacting inclusion through the arts, which recognizes the importance of ensuring opportunities for the full inclusion and participation of residents with disabilities throughout the community.

9:08

Now, therefore, be it proclaimed that the Board of County Commissioners of Hillsboro County, Florida, does hereby declare July 26, 2026, as Americans with Disabilities Act, 36th Anniversary Awareness Day in Hillsborough County, and urges all residents and visitors to celebrate the 36th anniversary of the passage of the law by reaffirming their commitment to its principles and supporting equity and inclusion for people with disabilities.

9:40

Executed this 15th day of July 2026, signed by all seven of the Board of County Commissioners.

9:48

Congratulations to you all for your hard work.

9:50

And Ms.

9:51

Bayer, would you like to say some words and accept the proclamation?

9:55

Thank you.

9:57

Thank you.

10:21

Signed and passed by President George H.W.

10:27

Bush in July 26th of 1990.

10:37

Thank you for supporting continue supporting the Hillsborough County Alliance for Citizens with Disability efforts to ensure equal opportunity and full inclusion and full participation for all citizens with disabilities.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting

Budget Equity Analysis██████████████14%

Environmental Protection████████████12%

Economic Development████████8%

Human Trafficking████████8%

Arts And Culture████████8%

Fiscal Sustainability███████7%

Procedural██████6%

Public Engagement██████6%

Strategic Planning██████6%

Summary of Proceedings

Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners Meeting – July 15, 2026

The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners met on July 15, 2026, to consider a wide-ranging agenda including a proclamation for the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, public comments on numerous topics, presentations from the Commission on Human Trafficking and the Soil and Water Conservation District, approval of funding for the African American Arts and Cultural Center, expansion of school zone speed cameras, and the county administrator's recommended fiscal year 2027 budget. The meeting ran from approximately 10:00 a.m. to after 12:00 p.m., with a lunch recess at 11:45 a.m.

Consent Calendar

Approved consent agenda (7-0) including routine approvals and deferred items.
Approved the issuance of Hillsborough County subordinate utility revenue notes (Series 2026) up to $650 million for the One Water Campus project (7-0).

Public Comments & Testimony

Tom Cobert expressed support for the African American Arts and Cultural Center and criticized county health care cuts and federal health policies.
Jeffrey Berger (Tampa JCCs & Federation) and Gary Gould (FIBA) spoke in favor of continued funding for the Florida Israel Business Accelerator (FIBA), citing job creation and technology transfer (e.g., OSIO, UC Care, STEMRAD).
Angel D’Angelo and Matthew Levine (Jewish resident) opposed FIBA funding, arguing it benefits foreign companies and supports alleged human rights abuses; they urged redirecting funds to local needs.
Gretchen Hoke (Soil & Water Conservation District) and Terry Park (SWCD Chair) urged continued investment in agricultural conservation, noting 81,000 acres of greenbelt land and a $704 million agricultural economy.
Connie Rose (Chair, Commission on Human Trafficking) advocated for funding to support anti-trafficking efforts, including emergency housing and the “Don’t Buy It” campaign.
Lynn Gray (School Board Member) and Chloe Royal supported the Human Trafficking Commission.
Denise Herndon raised a property easement dispute.
Megan Amir, Bianca Melendez, and Nadia Askar (virtual) opposed FIBA funding, citing concerns over drone manufacturer Extend and lack of local benefit.
Pam Miniati (FIBA co-executive director) reported that FIBA has assisted 105 companies, created over 60 high-wage jobs, and that Extend Defense (valued at $1.5B) employs 20 people locally.
Ferris Shaheen questioned FIBA's job creation claims, noting many jobs go to foreign nationals.

Discussion Items

ADA Proclamation: The board unanimously proclaimed July 26, 2026, as Americans with Disabilities Act 36th Anniversary Awareness Day.
Human Trafficking Commission Report: Chair Connie Rose presented the semi-annual report, highlighting 10 human trafficking arrests by HCSO and 4 by TPD, 355 hours of direct advocacy through emergency housing, and ongoing prevention initiatives. Commissioners commended the work.
Soil and Water Conservation District Report: Executive Director Joseph Walsh detailed the district’s history, current operations, and a proposed FY27 budget of $563,000 (14 cents per agricultural acre). Commissioner Bowles and others expressed concerns about lack of measurable outcomes and accountability. The board approved a motion requiring performance deliverables for future funding (7-0).
African American Arts and Cultural Center (AAAC): Presented a phased implementation plan: Phase 1 estimated at $39 million (core programming) with $28.6 million in secured or pending funds (including $2 million county realignment). A two-phase approach was recommended. The board accepted the report (7-0) and approved reallocating $2 million from the West Tampa Community Resource Center to AAAC (7-0). Commissioner Wistel stressed the need for a detailed operating pro forma before further capital commitments.
Speed Zone Camera Expansion: The board approved directing staff to draft an ordinance expanding automated speed enforcement to all Hillsborough County schools (7-0).
Meacham Ag Ed Funding: Approved $62,500 (from FY24 flag funds) for greenhouse improvements to increase food production capacity by 25% (7-0).
Reallocation to Matty’s Movement: Approved reallocating $62,500 (from remaining Meacham flag funds) to support young adults aging out of foster care (7-0).
FY27 Recommended Budget: County Administrator Bonnie Wise and Budget Director Kevin Brickey presented a $14.1 billion recommended budget (up $2.1B from FY26), with a $50 million increase in general fund operating budgets. Public safety accounts for 67.8% of the unincorporated fund. The budget assumes a millage swap (reducing countywide by 0.1 mills, increasing unincorporated by 0.1 mills). No action taken; next steps include a reconciliation public hearing on July 29, 2026.

Key Outcomes

Consent agenda approved 7-0.
Water revenue notes ($650M) approved 7-0.
Soil & Water Conservation District – Motion passed requiring deliverables/outcomes for future funding (7-0).
AAAC – Report accepted; $2M realigned; separate motion to direct staff to develop operating model (lease/management agreement) within 90-120 days (approved unanimously).
Speed cameras – Motion to draft ordinance passed 7-0.
Meacham Ag Ed – $62,500 approved 7-0.
Matty’s Movement – $62,500 reallocation approved 7-0.
Board appointments – Five local hearing officers for red-light and speed cameras confirmed (7-0, though Commissioner Hagan appeared to vote no but official tally was 7-0).
Future items – Commissioner Cohen announced a short-term rental ordinance to be introduced August 5; Commissioner Wistel proposed removing school impact fees on farm worker housing.

Meeting Transcript

Obviously when we pull up a brass and like hey, is your dog? They said when they approached it, it started to growl at them. They were obviously hesitant, but they're like, it doesn't look in good condition. We found one dog in there that was barely alive. It's literally skin and bones. Oh my god. Welcome to a meeting of your Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners. Representing District One, Harry Cohen. Representing District Two, Ken Hagen. Representing District Three, Gwen Myers. Representing District Four, Christine Miller. Representing District Five, Donna Cameron Cepeda. Representing District Six, Chris Bowles. Representing District 7, Joshua Wolstall. The County Administrator is Bonnie Wise. The County Attorney is Julia Mandel. Time is set aside at the beginning of each meeting for citizens to speak on any issue. So we have time for everyone. Speakers are asked to limit their comments to three minutes. Today's meeting is brought to you with closed captioning by Hillsborough Television. Good morning, and welcome to the July 15th, 2026 board meeting of the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners. Would everyone please rise for the pledge and invocation given by our chaplain, Commissioner Gwynmyers. And to the Republic for which you stand. Thank you for those who are here today as we celebrate the thirty-sixth anniversary. Father has a special blessing as our budget is being presented today. Go with our county administrator and Kevin as they present the information to us on behalf of the citizens of Hillsburg County. Bless our first responders and all of our employees. Janet Byer, member Hillsboro Alliance for Citizens with Disabilities and the Alliance's Public Awareness Committee. Maddie Wichorick, co-chair Hillsboro Alliance for Citizens with Disabilities. Elizabeth Mueller, Chair of the Public Awareness Committee and Board Member Hillsborough Alliance for Citizens with Disabilities, Brenda Clark, At Large Board Member, Hillsborough Alliance for Citizens with Disabilities, Ben Ritter, Hillsboro Alliance for Citizens with Disabilities. Raquel Pancho, ADA Coordinator, Office of the Chief of Staff of the City of Tampa. Good morning. Arizona Jenkins, member, Hillsborough Alliance for Citizens with Disabilities. Jada Clark, Hillsborough County ADA office, Alder Alensworth, Advocate, Hillsborough Alliance for Citizens with Disabilities, and Cheryl Brown, President and CEO, Lighthouse for the Blind and Low Vision. Thank you all for being here today, and good morning. Ms. Bayer, would you please join me at the podium? The other members of your group will join us for photos in just a few minutes. Thank you for coming today. Since it was signed into law 36 years ago, the Americans with Disabilities Act has played an important role in raising awareness and establishing a comprehensive national mandate for eliminating discrimination against individuals with disabilities. This legislation encourages all of us to celebrate one another's contributions and gifts in addition to learning about universal design, accommodations, and accessibility to dispel the myths and apprehension about different personal abilities. This year's theme is celebrate, learn, share, impacting inclusion through the arts. This celebration shines a spotlight on how the arts help build a more inclusive community for all of us to enjoy. It is my pleasure to present this proclamation in honor of all people who live with disabilities as victors and never as victims. And this proclamation reads, whereas July 26, 2026 marks the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, landmark legislation that was passed to ensure that people with disabilities have the same civil rights and opportunities as those who don't. And whereas the principles of the act foster fairness and belonging for all people with disabilities by reducing barriers, changing perceptions, and increasing full participation in community life. And whereas the law prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including employment, schools, recreation, transportation, and all public and private places that are open to the community. And whereas the Americans with Disabilities Act mandates reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities, providing that everyone has full access to services, resources, and facilities. And whereas the Hillsboro County Alliance for Citizens with Disabilities enhances local compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, raises awareness about the equity of people, and advocates on behalf of people with disabilities. And whereas the 36th anniversary of the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act is celebrated with the theme ADA 36th, celebrate, learn, share, impacting inclusion through the arts, which recognizes the importance of ensuring opportunities for the full inclusion and participation of residents with disabilities throughout the community.

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