North Report

This week on North Port Now, we’re sharing important holiday updates, major transportation improvements, and a behind-the-scenes look at how everyday habits can impact our utility systems.We begin with holiday facility closures and solid waste collection changes so you can plan ahead during the Christmas holiday.Next, we look ahead to long-anticipated I-75 interchange improvements at Sumter and Toledo Blade boulevards. FDOT construction begins in January 2026, and residents are encouraged to attend an upcoming pre-construction meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 6, from 4–6 p.m. at Suncoast Technical College to learn more and ask questions.We also preview North Port Fire Rescue’s Open House at the Training Tower on Saturday, Jan. 10, a free, family-friendly event featuring live demonstrations, activities, and more.Plus, starting January 1, 2026, the City’s Social Services Division will expand to provide direct assistance with Florida Department of Children and Families programs—making it easier for residents to access h

This week on North Port Now, we’re highlighting holiday traditions, community generosity, and important safety information as we head into the winter season.The City’s 12 Days of Giving donation drive wraps up on Friday, December 12. Residents can support local families by donating food, clothing, shoes, and hygiene products at five drop-off locations: City Hall, the Morgan Family Community Center, the George Mullen Activity Center, the North Port Police Department, and the North Port Public Safety Building. Donations benefit 100 Church, the North Port Children’s Clothing Closet, and Back Pack Angels.We also take a look at the festive decorations inside North Port City Hall, where city employees and volunteers have once again transformed the building into a winter wonderland—complete with a new and improved holiday village and model train display.Then it’s time for some splashy holiday fun—Swim With Santa returns to the North Port Aquatic Center on Saturday, Dec. 20, starting at 10 a.m. Kids can enjoy crafts,

En este episodio de North Port Stories contamos con la participación de dos restaurantes locales que comparten su experiencia emprendiendo en North Port, ofreciendo consejos prácticos y motivación para quienes desean comenzar su propio negocio. Además, hablamos sobre los pasos esenciales para iniciar un pequeño negocio en North Port: desde aclarar tu idea y definir tu objetivo, hasta encontrar apoyo local, entender permisos y licencias, y aprovechar los recursos que la ciudad ofrece. Asi que, ya seas dueño de un negocio, un emprendedor en potencia o simplemente alguien interesado en cómo las pequeñas empresas dan forma a nuestra ciudad, este episodio está lleno de información valiosa que no querrás perderte.In this special Spanish episode of North Port Stories, we feature two local restaurants who share their experience starting a business in North Port, offering practical advice and motivation for anyone who wants to start their own business. We also talk about the essential steps to starting a small busines

This week on North Port Now, we’re celebrating big milestones and looking ahead to what’s coming next in our growing community.We start with the groundbreaking of Boca Chica Neighborhood Park, a new passive park designed to bring recreation opportunities to an area previously underserved. Follow construction progress at NorthPortFL.gov/CurrentProjects. Then we dive into the holiday season with everything you need to know about the Poinsettia Parade & Festival on Dec. 6—from craft workshops and live entertainment to shuttle details and parade routes. Get real-time event updates and safety alerts by texting PARADE25 to 888-777.We also share the latest on the Price Boulevard Widening Project, where the new double-barrel box culvert at the Blueridge Waterway is taking shape. Price remains closed between Main Street and Salford Boulevard during construction.Watch the Price Project video update here. Learn more at NorthPortFL.gov/Price, or contact the project team at pricewideninginfo@northportfl.gov or 941-240

This week on North Port Now, we’re covering everything from health care to environmental innovation in North Port.The long-awaited Sarasota Memorial Hospital North Port Campus has officially broken ground — marking a major step toward bringing full-service health care closer to home. We’ll also share details on the new citywide Outdoor Burn Ban, and how residents can do their part to keep our community safe.Plus, discover North Port’s natural side with an upcoming Nature Walk at Oaks Park, and learn how you can brighten a family’s holiday through the Adopt-N-Shop program.You’ll also hear about the City’s first Environmental Scorecard, a new data-driven tool measuring North Port’s progress in sustainability and resilience. And GIS Manager Jon Kalfsbeck joins us to explain how Geographic Information Systems impact everything from mapping to emergency response — and what you can expect at GIS Day.Finally, don’t miss the latest episode of On the Job with Jerome, where City Manager Jerome Fletcher visits North Por

This week on North Port Now, we’re digging into everything happening across our city — from roadwork to record requests!Public Records Technician Mike McDonnell joins us to explain what qualifies as a public record under Florida’s Sunshine Law, how residents can submit a request, and why transparency plays such an important role in local government. If you ever need to make a request, visit NorthPortFL.gov/PublicRecords or email PublicRecordsRequest@NorthPortFL.gov.We’ll also share updates on the Price Boulevard Widening Project, celebrate the first class of North Port University Teen Edition graduates, and reveal a fun new way to explore your city with the North Port Hidden Gems Scavenger Hunt. Plus, meet Tricia Wisner, the City’s newly appointed Utilities Director, as she steps into her new leadership role.Learn more:NorthPortFL.gov/PriceNorthPortFL.gov/NPUStay informed, stay engaged, and stay connected with North Port Now.

This week on North Port Now, we’re getting into the spirit of the season!

This week on North Port Now, we sit down with Sandra Boudreau, Senior Project Engineer for AECOM, to get the latest updates on the Price Boulevard widening project. She walks us through what’s happening at the Blue Ridge Waterway, what drivers need to know about traffic impacts, and how the project team is working with nearby residents.We’ll also share details on the North Port Police Department’s National Night Out on Friday, Oct. 3, the Public Works & Utilities Job Fair on Saturday, Oct. 4, and introduce the City’s newly appointed City Attorney and Finance Director.

Small businesses are at the heart of North Port’s identity, fueling our economy and shaping the character of our growing community. In this episode of North Port Living, we sit down with Michael Meerman, Economic Development Program Manager for the City, to talk about what makes North Port such an appealing place for entrepreneurs.We cover the impact of rapid growth on local businesses, the types of industries thriving here today, and the resources, programs, and incentives available to help business owners succeed. Michael also shares practical advice for those considering launching a business in North Port—from navigating licensing and permitting to finding the right support systems.Looking to the future, Michael gives us a glimpse into how the small business landscape may evolve over the next 5 to 10 years, and why North Port is uniquely positioned for continued entrepreneurial success. To learn more about resources and opportunities for businesses, visit DevelopNorthPortFL.gov.Whether you’re an establishe

This week on North Port Now, we’re diving into important updates and opportunities around our city:• Environment Panel – Don’t miss the next North Port Panel Series on Tuesday, Sept. 16, at 6 p.m. at Suncoast Technical College. This session will focus on Environmental Resiliency & Sustainability with insights from City staff, the Environmental Conservancy of North Port, and other regional experts. Free and open to the public—no registration required!• Hurricane Season Prep – The City’s sandbag station at 1602 Kramer Way remains open throughout storm season. Learn about bag limits, what to bring, and how to stay ready. More info at NorthPortFL.gov/Alerts.• Fall Programming – From Concerts in the Park to the Pumpkin Plunge, Parks & Rec has plenty of ways to celebrate the season. Find the full lineup at NorthPortFL.gov/Events.• Second Tote Stickers – Households with an additional solid waste tote need to renew their sticker before Oct. 1 to ensure continued service. Apply at NorthPortFL.gov/SolidWasteFor

 North Port Now: Sep. 3, 2025| Hurricane Preparedness: Special Ukrainian EditionУ цьому спеціальному україномовному випуску North Port Now ми ділимося важливою інформацією про те, як залишатися у безпеці до, під час та після урагану. Цей епізод створений спеціально для українськомовної громади Норт Порту, щоб кожен мав доступ до необхідних ресурсів і порад під час сезону штормів.Від зон евакуації та аварійних наборів до безпеки домашніх тварин і надійних джерел інформації — ми розповідаємо про практичні кроки, які може зробити кожна сім’я, щоб підготуватися. Ми також акцентуємо увагу на перевірені місцеві сповіщення, поради щодо захисту вашого дому від негоди та джерела офіційної інформації українською мовою.Будь ласка, поділіться цим епізодом із друзями, сусідами та членами родини, яким це може бути корисно — особливо з тими, хто віддає перевагу інформації українською мовою.In this special Ukrainian-language episode of North Port Now, we’re sharing critical information on how to stay safe before, during, and

This week on North Port Now, we’re covering important updates and events happening in our city:• Floodplain Management Plan – Matt Clemens, the City’s Floodplain Administrator, joins us to explain the plan, the committee behind it, and how you can take part in the upcoming meeting on Sept. 10 at City Hall or virtually. Learn more at NorthPortFL.gov/Meetings.• Patriot Day Ceremony – On Sept. 11, North Port will honor the victims and first responders of 9/11 with a community service at City Hall. All are welcome to join us beginning at 9:15 a.m. outside City Hall, 4970 City Hall Blvd.• City Budget Hearings – The Commission is preparing to adopt next year’s budget while keeping the millage rate steady for the sixth year in a row. View the full recommended budget at NorthPortFL.gov/Budget, and tune into the public hearings Sept. 4 and Sept. 18 at 5 p.m. in person, or online at NorthPortFL.gov/Meetings.• Parks & Recreation Awards – Our Parks team brought home multiple SUNsational Awards for their creativity an

This week on North Port Now, we’re talking about how we can all do our part to keep students safe as they head back to school. From slowing down in school zones to staying alert at bus stops, every action counts. We’ll also explore North Port’s refreshed Current Development Map, giving you an inside look at new projects from coffee shops to hospitals.Plus:• Skills for Life workshops to help you boost your career this September.• Try something new with Adult Archery this fall—equipment included!• Meet Laura Guasca, our summer intern with the Communications team.Links from the show:

In this episode of North Port Living "Getting to Know North Port: Your City Guide for Hispanics", we answer some of the most common questions from residents about how the City of North Port works and how you can get involved. Learn about our form of government, opportunities to participate in public meetings, volunteer programs, city resources, and upcoming events for you and your family. We’ll also share details about major projects shaping our community’s future.En este episodio de North Port Living "Conociendo North Port: Tu guía de la ciudad para hispanos", respondemos algunas de las preguntas más comunes de los residentes sobre cómo funciona la Ciudad de North Port y cómo puedes participar. Conoce nuestro sistema de gobierno, las oportunidades para involucrarte en reuniones públicas, programas de voluntariado, recursos de la ciudad y los próximos eventos para ti y tu familia. También compartimos detalles sobre los proyectos más importantes que están transformando el futuro de nuestra comunidad.

This week on North Port Now, we’re diving into important updates and opportunities around our community. Devon Poulos from Parks & Recreation joins us to talk about changes to the fee structure at Warm Mineral Springs Park and what’s in store for Discover Warm Mineral Springs Day. We’re also sharing details about upcoming free Hands-Only CPR classes offered by North Port Fire Rescue and what you need to know to register.Plus:• Learn more about the City’s response to the Governor’s DOGE Team.• Congrats are in order for Police Chief Todd Garrison on his appointment to the Florida Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission.Check the show notes for links and more info:

In this episode of Voices of North Port, we’re joined by local historian Chris Sterner for a fascinating journey through the history of the land we now call North Port. From the native peoples who first called this area home, to the early industries like turpentine stills, to the story behind some of our street names—you’ll hear how this community has evolved over time. We even touch on the city's path to incorporation and what makes our corner of Florida so unique. Whether you're a lifelong resident or new to town, this episode offers a deeper appreciation of the land beneath your feet.

In this episode of North Port Now, we’re helping you get storm-ready. Hear why now’s the time to finish major yard maintenance and how to properly use the City’s self-serve sandbag station. We’ll also talk about how to stay informed before and during a storm by signing up for emergency alerts at AlertSarasotaCounty.com.Plus, mark your calendar for Warm Mineral Springs Park Day on Aug. 9, where City of North Port residents can visit the Springs for free! And if you're part of a local nonprofit, learn how the NP² program can help fund your mission—details at NorthPortFL.gov/NP2.Subscribe to the City’s CommUNITY newsletter for updates like these and more at NorthPortFL.gov/Subscribe.

In this episode of North Port Living, we’re taking a different approach—hearing directly from residents who’ve seen the City from the inside out. We’re joined by two alumni of North Port University, the City’s free citizen academy designed to give participants a behind-the-scenes look at how local government works.First up is Doreen German, a graduate of Class I, followed by Pam Tokarz from Class II. Both share how the experience deepened their understanding of city operations and inspired them to stay engaged in the community.While Class III is already full, additional sessions are planned for Spring and Fall 2026. Learn more at NorthPortFL.gov/NPU.

This week on North Port Now, we’re talking about what’s happening across the city this July—from honoring our veterans to shaping the future of our parks and improving city services. We preview the upcoming groundbreaking for the Circle of Honor, a new space recognizing veterans of all U.S. military branches. Plus, find out how you can get involved in the Parks & Recreation Master Plan through two public workshops or an online survey. You’ll also hear how the City’s online permitting system, Accela, is streamlining services and cutting wait times for permits. And we check in with Deputy Public Works Director Tricia Wisner about a major debris removal effort along Myakkahatchee Creek that supports stormwater flow and flood prevention. Links and Resources:• Circle of Honor Project Info: NorthPortFL.gov/CurrentProjects• Parks & Rec Master Plan & Survey: NorthPortFL.gov/ParksAndRecMasterPlan• Online Permitting (Accela): NorthPortFL.gov/Permitting

In this special episode of North Port Now, we’re taking you behind the scenes of the City’s decision to postpone the annual Freedom Festival, originally scheduled for July 4, due to predicted inclement weather. We’re joined by Kim Lencki, Community Partnerships & Engagement Manager with Parks & Recreation, to talk about what goes into making that kind of call—from monitoring forecasts to coordinating with vendors and public safety teams—and why rescheduling a large-scale event is more complex than it may seem.The good news? The celebration is still happening. The Freedom Festival has been rescheduled for Friday, August 30, and the team is working hard to deliver the same great night of fun, food, music, and fireworks.For event details and updates, visit NorthPortFL.gov/FreedomFestival.