Daily News Roundup: July 17, 2025
Manatee Community Foundation Celebrates Independence After 27 Years of Impact and Growth
The Manatee Community Foundation (MCF) has reached a significant milestone: as of July 1, the foundation is now operating as a fully independent charitable organization, no longer under the administrative umbrella of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County.
Bradenton Police Arrest Suspected Drug Trafficker, Seize Guns in Multi-Agency Raid
Bradenton Police have arrested a suspected drug trafficker following a coordinated search warrant operation carried out this week by the department’s Crime Reduction Team (CRT), with support from SWAT, Homeland Security, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Bradenton Beach Approves Fee Increases to Address $350K Budget Shortfall from Hurricane Tax Exemptions
BRADENTON BEACH – In response to a $350,000 budget shortfall caused by a decline in property tax revenue following post-hurricane exemptions, city commissioners have unanimously approved a series of new revenue measures that include higher fees for short-term rental licenses, building department services, and parking violations.
Manatee School Board to Discuss Superintendent Search July 22; 14 Applicants Are in the Running
The Manatee County School Board will hold a public discussion on Tuesday, July 22, at 5:30 p.m. regarding the district’s ongoing search for a new superintendent. The meeting marks the next step in a process that began earlier this year and has now drawn 14 candidates from across the country.
Coach Willie Taggart Launches Bold Initiative to Empower Palmetto Youth Through School Partnership
PALMETTO – Football coach and hometown hero Willie Taggart has returned to Manatee County with a powerful new mission: to invest in the future of Palmetto youth. On Tuesday, the School District of Manatee County announced a collaboration with the Taggart Family Foundation, aiming to provide expanded educational and enrichment opportunities for students …
Bishop-Parker Foundation Invests $5M in Spring Grants to Empower Manatee County’s Youth
Bradenton’s legacy of quiet generosity continues to shape the future of Manatee County, as the Bishop-Parker Foundation awards $5 million in spring grants this year, several of which focus on youth development through education, mentorship, and mental health support.
Manatee County Seeking Applicants for Affordable Housing Advisory Committee
Manatee County Government is now accepting applications from residents interested in serving on the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (AHAC), a citizen-led board that makes development and accessibility of affordable housing recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC).