Manatee County Commission to Address Budget Amendments, Infrastructure Projects and Community Recognitions at March 24 Meeting
The Manatee County Board of County Commissioners will convene for its regular meeting on March 24, 2026, at 9 a.m., with a full agenda that includes community recognitions, infrastructure investments, public safety funding, and multiple development-related actions.
The meeting will open with standard proceedings, including the call to order, invocation, pledge of allegiance, and public comment opportunities. Commissioners will also review agenda updates and hear general announcements before moving into scheduled business.
Several proclamations are set for adoption recognizing Developmental Disability Awareness Month, National Nutrition Month, and Sexual Assault Awareness Day, highlighting ongoing efforts to bring awareness to important community issues.
A large portion of the meeting will focus on the consent agenda, which includes a wide range of operational and funding items. Among the financial actions is a proposed settlement agreement totaling $645,784.53 related to a county circuit court case involving Duncan Seawall, Dock and Boat Lift, LLC.
Commissioners will also consider multiple budget amendment resolutions tied to infrastructure sales tax funding, as well as approve purchases and service agreements supporting county operations. These include the acquisition of heavy equipment for fleet services, engineering and geotechnical work for roadway improvements, and ongoing disaster planning and debris monitoring services.
Community and public safety initiatives are also on the agenda. The board is expected to adopt a resolution supporting the submission and acceptance of federal funding through the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant program, which helps fund local criminal justice efforts.
Numerous property management items will be addressed, including the acceptance of easements, land acquisitions, and right-of-way conveyances tied to current and future infrastructure projects across the county. These actions support transportation improvements and development planning in areas such as Ellenton, Palmetto, and eastern Bradenton.
Environmental and land management efforts will also be considered, including an agreement to support prescribed fire services on conservation properties managed by Big Waters Land Trust, aimed at maintaining ecological health and reducing wildfire risks.
In addition to routine business, commissioners will receive updates from advisory boards, including the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee and the Government Efficiency Liaison Committee.
Two public hearings are scheduled, both focused on naming community assets. One resolution proposes naming the Washington Park community center in honor of Lawrence C. and Clifford B. Livingston, while another would designate a preserve at the David J. Crane Park expansion as the Carol Ann Billberry Felts Preserve.
The board will also consider appointments to the Citizens Oversight Committee for the Infrastructure Sales Tax Advisory Board, selecting four residents from unincorporated areas to serve two-year terms.
Additional agenda items include citizen comment periods, commissioner discussions, and administrative reports before the meeting adjourns.
The March 24 meeting reflects the county’s continued focus on infrastructure improvements, fiscal management, environmental stewardship, and community engagement through both policy decisions and public input opportunities.