North River Residents Invited to Shape the Future at Community Conversations Events
Residents across Manatee County north of the river are being invited to take part in a series of Community Conversations designed to gather ideas, address challenges and build a shared vision for the area’s future.
The upcoming events aim to bring neighbors together to discuss what they want to see in their community, identify priorities, and explore how collective action can improve the quality of life. Organizers are encouraging open dialogue about both the strengths of the communities north of Manatee River and the opportunities for growth.
Participants will be able to share their thoughts on topics such as neighborhood development, public spaces, education, transportation and other issues impacting daily life. The goal is to turn community-driven ideas into meaningful collaboration and forward progress.
In addition to providing a platform for discussion, each session will offer free food and drinks, and attendees will receive a $25 gift card as a thank-you for their time and input.
Community Conversations will be held at multiple locations to make participation accessible:
On Sunday, February 22, sessions will take place from 3 to 5 p.m. at Ft. Hamer Park Pavilion in Parrish and from 3:45 to 5:30 p.m. at Blackstone Park in Palmetto.
On Monday, February 23, residents can attend from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Popi’s Place Restaurant Community Room in Ellenton, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Virgil Mills Elementary in Palmetto, or from 6 to 8 p.m. at Fifth Third Bank at Market Walk at North River Ranches in Parrish.
Organizers say the conversations are centered on a simple idea: this is your community. By coming together, residents can identify needs and work together to develop solutions that strengthen North River Manatee County for everyone.

