The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

B.C. Manion

Pasco board honors Wilton Simpson for his leadership, contributions

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If you’ve lived in Pasco County for a while, chances are you’ve heard Wilton Simpson’s name.

He’s the guy who grew up In Trilby, played football at Pasco High and went on to become president of the Florida Senate and is now Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture.

The Pasco County Commission recently cast a spotlight on Simpson, to thank him for his continuing contributions to improve the quality of life both in Pasco County and around the state.

Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson is honored by the Pasco County Commission during its June 6 meeting. The board noted Simpson’s many accomplishments through the years and members said they expect more to come. From left: Heather Grimes, chief administrative officer for the Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller’s Office; Pasco Commissioner Seth Weightman; Pasco Commissioner Ron Oakley; Simpson; Kathy Simpson (his wife); Pasco Commissioner Kathryn Starkey; Lauran Monbarren (Simpson’s daughter); Kenton Monbarren (son-in-law); Caroline Simpson (daughter-in-law) Wilton Simpson Jr. (son); and, Pasco Commission Chairman Jack Mariano. (Courtesy of Pasco County)

Simpson has used his influence to help bring state funding for needed infrastructure and health care projects in Pasco County and he has supported a number of programs such as PACE Center for Girls, Habitat for Humanity, and CARES, which stands for Community Aging and Retirement Services.

In fact, Simpson donated 1.7 acres of land in Dade City for a new 6,000-square-foot CARES Center there.

He and his wife, Kathy, founded the Simpson Breast Health Center, which is at AdventHealth Zephyrhills, and is led by an independent team of board-certified physicians, according to the county board’s resolution.

Simpson was singled out when ground was being broken for SperosFL, which is the Moffitt Cancer Center’s Pasco Campus.

In acknowledgement of his advocacy for Moffitt and for scientific research, in general, the first 75 acres of Moffitt’s Pasco campus will be called the W.E. Simpson Concourse for Cures, and the road leading into it will be known as Wilton Way.

Pasco County Commissioner Ron Oakley, who sponsored the resolution, told Simpson: “You don’t look old enough to have done all of these things.

“Really, you’ve done a great job.”

Oakley also freely expressed his affection and respect for Simpson.

“Wilton, I cherish your friendship. I love and care for your family, as if they were mine.

“I just can’t say enough for all of the things you’ve done for Pasco County and I certainly want to thank you for every little bit.”

At the same time, Oakley said he thinks that Simpson will continue to do great things to benefit the people he serves.

“We have greater expectations for you in the future,” Oakley said.

Oakley’s board colleagues also expressed their appreciation for Simpson’s efforts.

Commissioner Seth Weightman put it this way: “It’s amazing to see the work that you’ve done and to see how it’s going to carry on to another generation.

Board colleague Kathryn Starkey added: “When we had some others in the Senate that were reluctant to file for appropriations, we can always count on Senator Simpson, and now (Agriculture) Commissioner Simpson. He carried a lot for us that I think a lot of people in this county don’t realize.

“You saw what our needs are here, in the county, and they’re big. All of your help that you gave us during that time is greatly appreciated. Thank you.”

Pasco County Administrator Mike Carballa also weighed in: “From an administrator’s perspective, your team and yourself are just fantastic to work with. I really appreciate all of the support you’ve given to the county. You’ve really helped us get a lot of things done.

“It’s just been a phenomenal partnership, so we thank you for all of it.”

Commission Chairman Jack Mariano praised Simpson’s ability to make things happen.

“I want to say, commissioner, that you’ve been the most impactful elected official that Pasco County has ever had,” Mariano said, adding that Simpson’s overall thinking benefits the entire state.

In accepting the board’s honor, Simpson expressed appreciation for their tribute and also thanked his family, who accompanied him to the meeting, for their support.

Simpson told the commissioners: “It was such an honor to serve the last 10 years in the Florida Senate and to be the Senate President during the pandemic, and keeping Florida open and getting our kids back in school and making sure our businesses were able to run and operate.”

Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson addresses a small crowd on Jan. 31 during the groundbreaking of the CARES Wilton Simpson Senior Center, in Dade City, which will be built on 1.7 acres of land Simpson donated. Simpson was surprised to learn his name would be part of the building’s name. (File)

He said he’s pleased with the work that has been done to ensure protection for the state’s wildlife and agricultural interests through the Florida Wildlife Corridor.

“It was one of my major priorities that we had, you know, in my last two years as president,” he said.

Simpson is also pleased by the opportunity to serve in his current role.

“To be elected Commissioner of Agriculture is clearly an honor of a lifetime,” Simpson said.

“Two weeks ago, in our Cabinet meeting, we approved almost $70 million — almost 40,000 acres of land to be preserved in the state of Florida. In this year’s budget, there’s over $30 million to preserve 1,000 acres of land in the Wesley Chapel area.”

He’s excited about the potential of Moffitt’s Pasco campus. 

“Moffitt is going to revolutionize cancer care in the world. The research facility that they’re building — not only will bring thousands of jobs to our area of the state, but the world will travel to the Tampa Bay area, now, to receive care,” he said.

He said he knows people are already traveling here, but he expects more to do so as Pasco’s new project comes online.

He doesn’t expect that to be too long down the road, either.

“In two or three years, I think, we’ll have some of the first buildings open,” he said.

His focus now is on “making sure our food supply remains robust, in the country, but in this state, in particular.

“As Ag Commissioner, it’s all about safe, affordable, abundant food,” Simpson said.

Published June 14, 2023

Nest Hockey Academy approved for up to 150 students

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Pasco County Commissioner Ron Oakley wasn’t pleased with the way Nest Hockey Academy got its start in the district he oversees, but ultimately he made the motion to support the unique new school at 9175 McKendree Road, in Wesley Chapel.

Oakley complained that the initial approach used by the school to set up operations didn’t have adequate oversight by the county.

“The main issue with this project — is No. 1 — it was put in a residential area,” Oakley said.

The Pasco County Commission voted 4-0 to approve Nest Hockey Academy, at 9175 McKendree Road in Wesley Chapel, for up to 150 students. The approval came despite concerns raised by some area residents over potential impacts the hockey academy will have on their neighborhood. (FIle)

The applicants built the academy, after receiving a special exception for a school. However, the use was restricted to no more than 20 people on the site.

County planners said the applicants, Russ and Leann Henderson, were informed they would need a master-planned unit development rezoning, in order to use the site for 150 students.

The Hendersons then filed an MPUD request.

Planners and the Pasco County Planning Commission recommended approval of the request.

Neighbors, however, raised objections.

John Parlapiano, who lives on McKendree Road, told the county board: “I’m not against them, but I’m for my quality of life.”

He also noted that he’s a retired law enforcement officer and has concerns about the potential impacts of allowing alcohol sales at the site — which could be a possibility in the future.

County planners said the academy is an appropriate use for the site because it’s in the business core of Connected City — an area expected to attract a considerable amount of growth and a mixture of uses.

About a dozen students from the academy, dressed nicely, sat politely in the audience, while the county board deliberated the request.

During the public comment portion, one student told the board that this academy goes beyond teaching math, science, reading and social studies, and helps to shape students into good people.

The student’s mom, speaking on behalf of parents who support the request, said the Hendersons are providing a unique opportunity and she asked for the board’s support.

Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey noted that the area where the academy will operate is in the midst of massive change. 

In approving the request, the board also required the applicant to improve McKendree Road up to county standards, between the school and Tyndall Road.

The applicant also is required to provide right of way for a future vision road, known as Boyette Road.

Published June 14, 2023

What is the best path for the Orange Belt Trail?

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The Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) — Pasco’s lead transportation planning agency — is expected to get an update on planning efforts for the Orange Belt Trail in July.

As envisioned, the 37-mile Orange Belt Trail will stretch from Trinity to Trilby and will provide regional connectivity.

It’s also expected to enhance the existing and planned regional trail network by providing key connections to the Coast-to-Coast Trail, Starkey Trail, Suncoast Trail and Withlacoochee Trail, according to information on the Orange Belt Trail’s website.

As work continues on developing a plan for the Orange Belt Trail, a desire has voiced for amenities such as wayfinding, trail heads including restrooms and water fountains, and paths that are away from busy roads. (File)

The 12- to 14-foot multi-use trail is expected to link communities such as Trinity, Odessa, Land O’Lakes, Wesley Chapel and Dade City to help fuel economic transformation.

It will be open to pedestrians and bicyclists, and possibly for equestrian use in some areas.

Generally, it will follow the path of the Orange Belt Railway, but deviations are expected.

Although planners have not honed in on the exact path yet, there’s been considerable discussion on what should be included and there’s been pushback from some areas that do not want the trail.

Tina Russo, a transportation planner for the Pasco MPO, recently gave that board an overview of some of the thoughts that have been surfacing — including input from public meetings held in December and April. She also shared suggestions from the MPO’s Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) and its Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC).

The project is being led by Sam Benick, a Pasco County project manager, along with county staff and consultants.

“We had an in-depth conversation with our CAC committee and our BPAC on this alignment,” said Russo, who devotes much of her time to seeking ways to improve safety for pedestrians and bicyclists.

Russo said she spent more than an hour discussing the issue with BPAC members.

“These guys have waited years to provide these comments,” she said.

She expects Beneck and the consultants to have an informal conversation about the Orange Belt Trail planning efforts during the MPO board’s July meeting.

“That (Orange Belt) rail line is what the Pinellas Trail is on and what the Coast-to-Coast is on,” Russo said. “That line has been on Pasco mapper for quite a few years and, now, we’re finally getting to study it.”

Providing access to natural areas is another thing that trail planners are keeping in mind, as they work on the alignment for the Orange Belt Trail.

During public sessions on the project in April, questions arose about the potential alignment in certain parts of West Pasco, Land O’ Lakes and Dade City, Russo said.

While the trail alignment is not yet clear, there’s obviously considerable interest in the project.

Russo estimated more than 150 people attended public meetings on the project in December and a considerable number of comments have been submitted on the Orange Belt Trail’s website.

Public input is being used to help determine such things as where trailheads should go and the locations of trail crossings, Russo said.

“We got a good idea of what people want and don’t want,” Russo said.

“We found out that people wanted a paved trail and they wanted it kind of in the woods,” she said.

They’d like to keep a separation between the trail and traffic, to help keep trail users safe.

In a perfect world, the trail users would like 100 feet of right of way, consisting of a clear zone and trees, Russo said.

“We can do that in some places,” the transportation planner said.

In some places, though, the right of way will be smaller.

There may be some places, where the trail is on a road, with a separation from cars, Russo said. That may be necessary, in order to make a desired connection, she explained.

For instance, there’s a trail in New York that traverses the entire state, but portions of it are on the road, Russo said.

Members of the public also have weighed in on amenities they’d like to see.

“They wanted trailheads with restrooms. That’s always a big one,” Russo said.

Other requests include water fountains, wayfinding (directional signage) and grade-separated crossings.

Finding ways to connect with existing trails is another element being considered by planners of the Orange Belt Trail, which ultimately is expected to stretch across Pasco County, from Trinity to Trilby.

Planning can make a real difference in creating an effective trail system, Russo said.

“If we build a trail correctly, in a community, you need less trailheads.

“If we build this right, we want you to be able to ride from your house and not have to build trailheads, if possible,” she said.

Proper planning also can reduce the need for overpasses, Russo added.

“Overpasses are expensive. They’re about $15 million. And not everybody uses them.

“We want to try to actually design a trail that we can cross the road safely, without planning to build an overpass that might take 10 or 15 years to build,” Russo said.

Pasco County Commissioner Ron Oakley said property owners from Blanton to Trilby don’t want the trail to align with the Orange Belt Trail because portions of the former rail line are now on private land.

Oakley suggested looking at a different route, perhaps further to the east.

Oakley said he would love to see a trail that would accommodate equestrian users.

He also envisions the possibilities of having camp spots for equestrian trail users, on the west side of the county, on the east side and in the Green Swamp.

“We haven’t done much for equestrian, but we do have a lot of people who love horses and love riding horses,” Oakley said.

Orange Belt Trail
The Orange Belt Trail is intended to be a trail that crosses Pasco County, linking Trinity to Trilby and providing connections to the Coast-to-Coast Trail, the Starkey Trail, the Suncoast Trail and the Withlacoochee Trail. It also will link such communities as Trilby, Odessa, Land O’ Lakes, Wesley Chapel and Dade City. For additional details on the Orange Belt Trail project, visit OrangeBeltTrail.com.

Published June 14, 2023

Business Digest 06/14/2023

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Capital Tacos partnership
Capital Tacos has announced a monthlong campaign in partnership with Make-A-Wish Foundation, running from June 5 through July 5. During that time, all Capital Tacos locations across Tampa and Orlando will introduce the Make-A-Wish Mac N Queso Kids Meal to the menu and will donate 100% of the profits to support the wish-making efforts of the foundation, according to a news release.

Chamber awards banquet
The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce is set to have its annual awards banquet on June 22, at Spartan Manor, 6121 Massachusetts Ave., in New Port Richey. Cocktails and games begin at 5:30 p.m. The banquet program is from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets are $60 per person, or $450 for a reserved table of eight. Reserve your seat at GreaterPasco.com.

Florida’s economy
WalletHub compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia across 28 key indicators to determine America’s top economic performers. The data set includes such as change in gross domestic product, startup activities, share of jobs in high-tech industries, and other factors. Here’s a look at some of Florida’s results with ranking of 1 being the best and 25 being average:

  • 1st: Unemployment rate
  • 2nd: Startup activity
  • 3rd: Change in gross domestic product
  • 3rd: Change in nonfarm payrolls
  • 24th: Government surplus/deficit per capita
  • 33rd: Percentage of jobs in high-tech industries
  • 34th: Annual median household income
  • 37th: Exports per capita

Visit WalletHub.com/edu/states-with-the-best-economies/21697, for a full report.

Tax office under renovation
The Pasco Tax Collector’s Office at the West Pasco Government Center, is undergoing renovations. Work began June 1 at the office, 8731 Citizens Drive, in New Port Richey. The office is expected to return to full service on Oct. 16, according to a news release.

Throughout the remodel, all services, except driver license services, will be available during normal business hours. Customers who may need driver license assistance are encouraged to visit the Gulf Harbors office, at 4720 U.S. 19, in New Port Richey.

For more information about services and locations, visit PascoTaxes.com, or call the Centralized Call Center at 727-847-8032, 813-235-6076 or 352-521-4338. 

Protect your business
Businesses need to have a plan to protect their property, their data and their employees during Hurricane Season, which runs from June 1 through Nov. 30. The Pasco Economic Development Council Inc. (PEDC) has put together a list of reminders to help businesses prepare for severe weather, to operate in the aftermath and to recover from any damages.

Here’s a synopsis of the PEDC’s advice:

Before a storm hits:

  • Know the best way to contact your employees.
  • Establish a mass notification system so you can notify and get in touch with employees quickly and easily.
  • Protect your business assets. (Take steps to protect your equipment, supplies, products, networks, data and so on. Cover your property and raise it above floor level, when possible.)
  • Identify how you will protect important business documents and inventory that is vulnerable to water damage.
  • Have an emergency business plan that enables operations with various employees at different locations.
  • Backup your data offsite and consider using Cloud based systems. This should include payroll and other systems.
  • Keep employees and customers aware of your plan.
  • Identify a list of available post-disaster resources that you may need to call upon if you need help in reopening your business or obtaining emergency funding to repair damaged property.
  • Be sure you know the address of all of your buildings, including storage facilities.
  • Be sure you have an evacuation plan for each facility.
  • Use sandbags to prevent flooding at all entrances.

Know the potential for damage at each facility and which ones are at higher risk for damage. For more information, visit Pasco County’s website to download a copy of the county’s disaster guide, which contains a substantial amount of useful information.

WUSF Public Media wins three awards
WUSF Public Media has received three Edward R. Murrow Regional Awards in the Large Market Radio Division for Excellence in Diversity/Equity/Inclusion, Excellence in Sound and News Series, according to a news release. WUSF competes in a region that includes Florida, Georgia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The regional winners will vie for national awards, which will be announced later this year.

Cyber breach of Hillsborough Elections Office affects 58,000

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The Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Office has sent out notices to 58,000 people whose personal data appears to have been breached through criminal cyber activity.

The elections office initially reported on May 3 that it was working with federal, state and local law enforcement officials to investigate an illegal data breach.

The office released an update on that investigation last week.

“The investigation has determined that an unauthorized user appears to have illegally accessed and copied files containing personal identification information, such as social security or driver license numbers, primarily from files used to conduct voter registration list maintenance,” according to a news release from Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer’s office.

“Voter registration list maintenance is the state-mandated process by which the office continually reviews its voter roll to identify necessary updates,” the release adds.

“It’s important to note that the voter registration system and the ballot tabulation system, which have additional layers of security, were not accessed,” the release continues.

Notification letters went out last week to alert those affected.

Since this is an ongoing criminal investigation, no additional information can be shared at this time, the release added.

When the office initially reported the criminal cyber activity, Latimer informed the public, by saying: “We learned that an unauthorized user illegally accessed files on a shared drive on our network and we immediately notified federal, state and local law enforcement partners, including the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the FBI, MS-ISAC, the Florida Department of State, and the cybersecurity division of Hillsborough County’s Information and Innovation Office.”

At that time, Latimer also said: “It’s very important to note that the unauthorized user did not have access to our voter registration system or our ballot tabulation system. Our voter registration system has multiple layers of protection, monitoring and redundancy. Our tabulation system does too, and uses a stand-alone, air-gapped server that is not connected to anything else. That server has not been compromised in any way.”

Published June 07, 2023

Pasco keeps the focus on creating nicer-looking neighborhoods

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The Pasco County Commission is continuing its discussions regarding new rules for residential development of small lots and for townhomes.

The issues were thoroughly discussed at the county board’s May 23 meeting and the board expects to take up the issues again at its first meeting in July.

In the interim, county staff and stakeholders will continue to refine proposed rules, and individual board members are expected to go on tours with representatives from the Tampa Bay Builders Association (TBBA) to see what can be achieved with design and landscaping.

County board members have been pushing hard for developments with less concrete, and more green space and trees. They don’t want rows of houses or townhomes that all look the same.

Standards are being drafted in Pasco County, in an effort to create better-looking neighborhoods. The Pasco County Commission is calling for residential developments to have more green space, trees and parking, plus variety in architectural features. (File)

Instead, they want the use of architectural details, landscaping and improved parking to create more aesthetically pleasing neighborhoods.

A new law passed by the Florida Legislature has preempted local control over architectural features.

The county board can’t dictate them, but developers can voluntarily include them. They don’t have to, but the board doesn’t have to approve 40- and 50-foot lots, said David Goldstein, Pasco’s chief assistant county attorney.

County board members have made it clear that they want developers to build a better-looking product, if they want permission to build on smaller lots.

Nectarios Pittos, director of the county’s planning and development department, said county staff has been meeting with stakeholders and have discussed issues involving lot standards, enhanced landscaping requirements, rights of way, driveways and parking.

At the same time, the development community has been busy coming up with standards they believe will address the county board’s concerns.

County board members have expressed displeasure with the appearance of communities where houses are on 40-foot lots.

“Why don’t you just do away with the 40-foot lots and make it 50s?” Commissioner Ron Oakley asked. But the county board member acknowledged that he’s aware that lots that are 40-feet wide can work in some communities.

Commissioner Kathryn Starkey said she won’t approve 40-foot lots for houses with the garage out front, but would approve them when the garage is out back.

Rear-loaded homes are more expensive to build.

“I am on record. I cannot support a 40-foot front-load,” Starkey said.

But she added, efforts continue to address the additional cost of that type of development. For instance, talks continue on the required width of alleys to accommodate fire trucks.

Commission Chairman Jack Mariano told the stakeholders if they are building in other jurisdictions that have different rules, the county would appreciate that information.

In general, county staff has been looking at the possibility of minimum lot widths of 45 feet, or 42 feet with enhanced landscaping requirements.

Martin Frame, incoming president of the TBBA, told the board that the hope is to have a minimum lot width of 42, with enhanced landscaping requirements.

“I’d love to be able to tour each one of you through some of these projects, so I can show you real-life examples,” he told board members.

Increasing the minimum lot width size to 45 feet, from 40, would result in a reduction of about 10% to 15% of the lots in a community, depending on the configuration, Frame said.

“You’re probably talking about $15,000 of costs that would be added for each additional lot by expanding this out to a 45-foot lot, versus the current 40-foot lots today.

“That cost goes directly to the consumer, so there’s an affordability aspect to this,” he said.

“With the 42-foot lot, what we’re trying to do with the enhanced landscaping package, we’re trying to give a very attractive street appearance and create a nice streetscape, which I think is a lot of the issues that the board has had over the past couple of years when a lot of these communities have been built.

“A lot of the examples that I’ve seen have got sparse trees, sparse landscaping, a lot of parking – the townhomes, where all you see is concrete and cars.

“What we did here was create some standards, over and above where we are today,” Frame said.

Requiring shade trees — not ornamentals — will have a greater visual impact, he said.

Frame told the board that many stakeholders have been involved in drafting proposed standards and they spent about 200 hours in the effort.

Commissioner Seth Weightman told his colleagues he’d like the board to decide what the side yard setbacks should be, rather than leaving that open to negotiation, project by project.

Doing that would eliminate a lot of the back-and-forth, Weightman said.

The board also discussed a need to change townhome standards.

Many of the steps recommended for improving the appearance of townhomes are the same steps as those suggested for single-family developments.

Attorney Clarke Hobby, who specializes in land use and zoning issues, said “we’re hoping that some of this greenspace and landscaping stuff will find its way into the code very quickly.”

Hobby also thanked the stakeholders who spent many hours trying to come up with standards that address the board’s concerns.

Chairman Mariano also expressed appreciation for the stakeholders’ efforts.

“I think we’re all trying to build a great county here, with the best products we can,” Mariano said.

Published June 07, 2023

Pasco’s library system is honored as Florida’s ‘Library of the Year’

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There was a time when the Pasco County Commission — facing tough financial times — made deep spending cuts to the county’s library system.

But the economy has improved, allowing increased funding for libraries.

Plus, taxpayers chose to invest in Pasco’s libraries by overwhelmingly supporting the passage of a general obligation bond issue to pay for major upgrades.

Readers attending a ‘Novels on Tap’ session enjoy discussing the reading selection at Wicked Pour in Odessa during the monthly meetup. The book club, held at a local brewery and organized by the Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, gives readers age 21 and over a chance to get together and share their thoughts on the book, over a few adult beverages. (Mike Camunas)

Beyond new furniture, redesigned spaces and improved technology, the system also has continued to hone its programming to offer a vast array of activities, space for community meetings and other offerings that go far beyond the old-fashioned notion that a library is just a place to go to check out books.

Of course, patrons continue to check out books, but they also take advantage of wide-ranging opportunities to learn and have fun.

Patrons aren’t the only ones who recognize what the system has to offer.

The Florida Libraries Association (FLA) recently named the Pasco County Libraries system as the state’s Library of the Year, during the 2023 FLA awards ceremony.

On its website, the FLA reported that: “The Pasco County Library System provides innovative services, materials, programs, instructional classes, and informational events relevant to their populations.

“Most notably, the creative development of their library spaces has earned them the Library of the Year award. 

“An ambitious makerspace initiative with heavy citizen input has added a custom makerspace to almost every library branch in the system. From ‘The Foundry’ woodshop at the Land O’ Lakes Library to the ‘Regency Fresh Test Kitchen’ in New Port Richey, citizens now have open access spaces to gather, learn new skills, and share ideas. 

“The system’s newest branch, the Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center (in Odessa) has multiple makerspaces and a 250-seat theater shared with the K-8 school next door.

“These unique spaces and their top-quality staff promote access to information, community, education, and culture throughout Pasco County and provide a blueprint of the 21st century Florida library.”

The popularity of Pasco’s libraries is evident.

Patrons couldn’t wait for the completion of renovations at the New River Branch Library, in Wesley Chapel; the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library, in Land O’ Lakes; and, most recently the Hugh Embry Branch Library, in Dade City.

The Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, referenced in the state award, is a very busy place — offering a steady stream of activities and learning opportunities for people of all ages.

Pasco County Administrator Mike Carballa shared the news of the library system’s award during the Pasco County Commission’s May 23 meeting.

Carballa was clearly delighted by the recognition that his staff and the county’s system received.

“We’re very, very proud of the work that our library team does.

“We’re really happy and proud for those folks to win this great honor. Hats off to the team, there,” the county administrator said.

Published June 07, 2023

Business Digest 05/31/2023

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NTBC business breakfast
Rebecca Schulkowski, president of BayCare Hospital Wesley Chapel, will be the featured speaker at the North Tampa Bay Chamber’s business breakfast on June 6 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. The new hospital opened in March. The breakfast will be at Pasco-Hernando State College’s Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch, 2727 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel. Admission is $25 for members and $30 for non-members. Pre-registration is required. Reach out to for more information, or visit NorthTampaBay Chamber.com to register.

Low unemployment, high tourism
Florida’s unemployment rate of 2.6% in April is lowest among the nation’s top 10 largest states, according to news released by Gov. Ron DeSantis’ office. The news release also noted that the state had a record 37.9 million visitors between January 2023 and March 2023, the largest volume of visitors ever recorded in a single quarter. Florida’s statewide unemployment rate has remained lower than the national rate for 30 consecutive months since November 2020.

Coffee cafe has new location
Foxtail Coffee Co., opened its newest location at 10907 N. Dale Mabry Highway, with a grand opening and ribbon-cutting on May 27 (after press deadline). Foxtail has been brewing craft coffee since opening its first café and roasting facility in Winter Park, in 2016, according to a news release. Since then, Foxtail has continued to grow, today offering more than 50 locations in Florida, one in Georgia and more openings in the southeast and the west. Adrian Lojo is the franchisee of the new shop.

EoS celebrates new gym
EoS Fitness has opened a new location at 17634 Harpers Run, in Lutz. The 42,000-square-foot facility features the latest in smart fitness technology and recovery, providing what’s needed for users to achieve health, fitness and wellness goals, according to a news release. The Lutz location features EoS Smart Strength Equipment, a seven-piece smart technology line that personalizes each member’s workout to their individual goals and fitness levels. For more information or to join, visit EoSFitness.com.

Local business celebrations
These business celebrations were announced by the North Tampa Bay Chamber:

  • Wesley Chapel Harley-Davidson had its grand opening/ribbon-cutting on May 20. The event was held at the new dealership at 25245 Wesley Chapel Blvd.
  • Crumbl Cookie had a ribbon-cutting on May 19, at 15718 N. Dale Mabry Highway.

Tampa Downtown Partnership survey
The Tampa Downtown Partnership’s 2022 Downtown Worker and Resident survey  revealed that workers are not fleeing downtown offices, but do want to see Tampa’s Riverwalk extended, according to a news release. The survey gathered more than 2,000 responses.

According to some key results: 

  • Just 8% of downtown Tampa’s workers are working fully remote from home, compared to 28% in 2020.
  • Regardless of where they live, they want Tampa’s Riverwalk to be extended, with 93% of workers and 91% of residents supporting that idea.
  • The survey also showed that 37% of workers and 35% of residents consider the Riverwalk as Tampa’s greatest asset.

The survey has been conducted every two years since 2008.

East Pasco Networking Group
The East Pasco Networking Group (EPNG) meets on the second Tuesday of the month (except for December), at 7:30 a.m., at IHOP, at 13100 U.S. 301, in Dade City.  The group’s meetings feature speakers from a wide array of backgrounds. Here is its upcoming slate of speakers:

June 13: Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano and Pasco Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley
July 11: Billy Poe, city manager for the City of Zephyrhills
Aug. 8: Peter Castellani, founder of Oasis Pregnancy Care Center and Amy Yarborough director of Pregnancy City Center
Sept. 12: Todd Vande Berg, director of planning, City of Zephyrhills
Oct. 10: Nikki Alvarez-Sowles, Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller

For more information about EPNG, contact Nils R. Lenz at 813-782-9491 or

Governing board elects officers
The Southwest Florida Water Management Board District Governing Board has elected officers for the 2023-2024 term, according to a news release from the district. Those elected are: Ed Armstrong, chair; Michelle Williamson, vice chair; John Mitten, secretary; and, Jack Bispham, treasurer. Governing Board members are unpaid, citizen volunteers, appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Florida Senate. The Governing Board sets policy for the water management district, which seeks to protect water resources, minimize flood risks and ensure that public water needs are met.

Hillsborough Supervisor of Elections wins award
The Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Office has been honored with a national Clearinghouse Award for “Outstanding Innovations in Elections – Large Jurisdiction,” according to a news release from the elections office.

The awards, also known as the “Clearies,” are presented by the U.S. Election Assistance Commission to celebrate excellence and hard work of election offices across the country.

During the 2022 election cycle, the Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Office developed an application that contributed to a very quick turnaround when reporting election night results, with 100% of precinct-level results reported by 8:40 p.m. election night for the 2022 General Election, according to the news release.

“We’re very proud to be recognized for this achievement,” Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer said, in the release. “Managing 247 Election Day polling places and serving the fourth largest electorate in Florida is a challenge, so we are constantly working to be innovative and improve our processes.”

Hillsborough’s elections office was one of 24 programs recognized with a Clearie Award.

More information on the Clearies and each awardee is available on EAC.gov.

New communications director
Kiran Malik-Khan has been named the senior communications director at the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA.

Experts forecast 2023’s hurricane season

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Projections released last week by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center predict a near-normal hurricane season.

NOAA forecasters predict a 40% chance of a near-normal season; a 30% chance of an above-normal; and, a 30% chance of below-normal season.

The forecasters, who are with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, expect 12 to 17 named storms, with wind speeds of 39 mph or higher. Of those, five to nine could become hurricanes, with wind speeds of 74 mph or higher, and one to four of those could become Category 3, Category 4 or Category 5 storms, with wind speeds exceeding 111 mph.

Hurricane Ian caused destruction and death, as it made its way through Florida and continued its path across several states. Tampa Bay officials had feared a direct hit, but the hurricane veered south, making landfall near Fort Myers. (File)

Colorado State University (CSU) researchers released their initial hurricane season predictions in April — putting the 2023 Atlantic basin hurricane season as having slightly below-average activity.

The CSU weather researchers forecast 13 named storms, of which they expect six to become hurricanes and of those, two to become major hurricanes.

Regardless of the amount of activity there is, Floridians know that hurricanes can be destructive, deadly — and unpredictable.

Last year, Hurricane Ian appeared to be headed straight at the Tampa Bay region — prompting elected officials and government leaders to take a series of actions to reduce potential death and destruction.

But instead of slamming into the Tampa Bay area, Hurricane Ian veered south. It flattened downtown Fort Myers, cut off Sanibel Island from the mainland, caused billions of dollars in damage and resulted in at least 149 deaths, according to published reports.

Ian made landfall on Cayo Costa Island at 3:05 p.m., on Sept. 28. Its estimated wind speed topped 150 mph.

Along its path of destruction, boats stacked up in marinas; cars and trucks floated down roads; high winds tore through mobile home parks, floodwaters filled buildings and trees toppled.

Cellphone videos and television news footage revealed the fury of Ian’s wrath.

Hurricane Ian also took a toll on its survivors’ mental health, said Andy Fossa, Pasco County’s emergency management director. 

He spent weeks in Lee County providing assistance in Ian’s aftermath and he remembers counselors coming to shelters to help people cope because they ““got stuck … in a doom and gloom mentality,” Fossa said.

While there’s no way to know when, if or where a hurricane will strike — being prepared for the possibility is always a good idea, Fossa said.

And, there’s no time like the present, since a new hurricane season begins on June 1 and runs through Nov. 30.

Get organized now, to avoid chaos later
This year, Pasco is beginning its messaging about the need for preparations earlier than it did in the past, Fossa said.

“We have to grab the citizens’ attention. They are complacent. You’d think (Hurricane) Ian would have opened the eyes of the citizens — ‘When we say evacuate, we mean evacuate,’” Fossa said.

Despite those warnings, though, some people refuse to leave.

Sandbags can help to keep unwanted water from seeping into your house.
Check your county’s website for more information.

Fossa urges residents — whether new to Florida or not — to educate themselves on their potential risk, develop a plan for whether they’ll evacuate or stay, and begin making preparations around their home or business to reduce potential damage.

There are steps you can take right now, to better position yourself in case severe weather threatens, he said.

For instance, If you have a generator, check to see that it’s functioning properly.

Inspect your windows and roof to be sure they’re in good shape.

Begin stocking up on basic necessities, such as water, food, snacks and personal hygiene items, too.

Take photographs of your residence or business now and of the items inside. The photos could come in handy, if you need to file an insurance claim.

Make a plan now for evacuating, or sheltering in place.

When a storm is approaching, be sure your yard is cleared of lawn furniture, garden décor and other objects that could act like projectiles during high winds.

Be sure your hurricane plan takes into account all of the members of your household, including pets.

If you live in an evacuation zone, know which route you’ll take. Have a plan for where you’ll go and be sure to let a loved one know where you plan to be.

If you live in an evacuation zone, leave when officials say you should leave.

Help can’t be sent in, during the middle of the storm, Foss said.

“When the wind hits 39 mph, all emergency functions cease,” he said. The sheriff’s office gets off the road, as do fire/rescue crews.

“So, you’re pretty much stuck until the back half of the storm comes through,” Fossa said.

When evacuating, the emergency management expert recommends you travel 10s of miles away, not 100s of miles.

He  suggests you stay with a family member or friend, or at a hotel. Public shelters should be viewed as a shelter of last resort. Those staying there are allotted a small space, a cot, a pillow and a blanket, he said.

If you evacuate early enough, you might be able to find clear roads ahead of you, like this one, instead of the predictable traffic jams.

“If you can get with family or friends, we prefer you do that. You’re more comfortable. You’re in a sociable setting,” Fossa added. 

Pasco has shelters designated for people who have special medical needs and has some pet-friendly shelters, too.

Take precautions
If you are riding out the storm at home, Fossa has these suggestions.

“Stay inside. Don’t go near exterior windows. Try to stay within four walls. 

“Don’t be fooled when the eye of the storm passes over. People think it’s safe to go outside and venture around. They’ve got to remember the back half of the storm is still coming. Do not go outside.”

After the storm, don’t venture out to sightsee.

Do not wade through water, it can be contaminated or there could be snakes or alligators.

Don’t drive in areas where you can’t see the bottom of the road — you could end up in a canal, or your vehicle could begin floating.

Steer clear of downed power lines, they may still be electrically charged.

If you’re using a generator, be sure that it is well-ventilated, to avoid the potential for carbon monoxide poisoning.

Don’t use charcoal grills in an enclosed space, either. The fumes can become lethal.

If you need repairs, be careful who you hire, Fossa said.

Get two or three estimates, to avoid price gouging. Also, be sure to hire contractors who are licensed to work in your county.

Before, during and after the storm, it’s a good idea to stay tuned into local news, check county websites and social media sites for updated information, Fossa said.

When citizens do that instead of calling into the emergency operations center, the personnel in that center can focus more of their efforts on coordinating the response to community needs from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Red Cross and other organizations, Fossa said.

Published May 31, 2023

This handy guide aims to help you in Hurricane Season 2023

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It’s a perennial plea by emergency management experts — and yet, a certain percentage of people never seem to believe that a hurricane can strike where they live.

Until, of course, it does.

Pasco County didn’t emerge entirely unscathed from Hurricane Ian, but the damages were relatively minor compared to communities to the south of the Tampa Bay region that were devastated by the Category 4 hurricane.
(File)

This list of tips is intended to help our readers to be prepared for Hurricane Season 2023, which begins June 1 and runs through Nov. 30.

The idea is to be ready, in case something happens — and to hope, at the same time, that nothing does.

With that in mind, here are some practical suggestions aimed at helping those who live or work within The Laker/Lutz News coverage area.

As Pasco and Hillsborough counties continue to grow, more people are streaming into the area and it’s important to remember that for most of them, this will be their first experience with a hurricane season.

It’s a good idea for newcomers — and for local residents who have moved into a new community — to familiarize themselves with the risks associated with where they live.

Do you live in an evacuation zone? If you must leave, do you know the way out?

All Floridians, regardless of their address, face risks of significant disruptions and potential damage from tropical storms and hurricanes.

Stephanie Francis, right, and her daughter, Siena Bracciale, load up a U-Haul with generators, cases of water, food and other supplies on Sept. 30, at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, for delivery to MidWest Food Pantry in Fort Myers. Many local citizens, neighborhoods, churches, schools, businesses and organizations in Pasco County organized donation drives and supply runs to help the victims of Hurricane Ian.

A wealth of information is available on your county’s website to help you before, during and after severe weather strikes. Government social media apps, county websites and local news stations are other ways to stay informed.

This page is intended to provide a quick reference of useful tips. It has been compiled from disaster guides from Pasco and Hillsborough counties, as well as from The Laker/Lutz News archives.

Be careful. Stay safe out there.

Before severe weather threatens

  • Trim trees and shrubs.
  • Clear clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
  • Repair roof leaks.
  • Make an inventory of your property and valuables. Jot down specifics. Take photos.

It’s also good time to stock up food and other supplies

  • Water: One gallon is recommended for each person for three to seven days.
  • Food: Have enough food on hand for at least three to seven days. The foods should be nonperishable packaged or canned food and beverages, snack foods, juices. The supplies should be easy to store and prepare, including protein bars, dried fruit, canned pastas, soups, canned tuna, peanut butter and jelly, crackers, raisins, beef jerky. Don’t forget the baby formula and baby food.

Plan for your pets
If you need to evacuate with your pet, be sure to bring sturdy leashes, harnesses and/or a carrier; pet food, drinking water, bowls, cat litter, a litter pan; pet health records, current photos of your pets, in case they get lost; pet beds and toys.

Helpful supplies and tools

  • Books and games to help pass the time
  • A non-electric can opener, paper plates, plastic utensils, plastic cups
  • A grill, cooking tools, fuel, charcoal
  • Hand tools, automotive repair tools
  • Duct tape and heavyweight garbage bags or plastic sheeting (for shelter-in-place)
  • A wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
  • Blankets, pillows, sleeping bags
  • Sunscreen, aloe, bug spray
  • Personal care items for babies, the elderly, people with disabilities
  • Toiletries, hygiene items and sanitary wipes
  • Moist towelettes for sanitation

Personal safety items

  • A battery-operated or hand-cranked radio, NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Weather radio
  • Flashlight and batteries
  • Medications, a first-aid kit
  • Filter masks to protect your mouth and nose
  • A whistle to signal for help
  • Seasonal rain gear, sturdy shoes or boots

Prepare a go-kit
Have a kit you can take with you, which includes food, medications and important documents, such as insurance papers, birth certificates, bank account records and so on. How much you take will depend on how far you are going and how long you expect to be gone.

Other practical pointers

  • Avoid gas lines: During hurricane season keep your tank full, or at least 3/4 full.
  • Have cash on hand, in case banks are closed and ATMs lose power.
  • Have a phone charger that doesn’t need electricity.
  • Print a list of  important telephone numbers, including county emergency management office, evacuation sites, doctors, bank, area schools, veterinarian, etc.

When a hurricane threatens
Protect your property

  • Cover windows with pre-cut plywood or hurricane shutters.
  • Store outdoor furniture, wind chimes, garbage cans, potted plants, garden decorations and other items that could become projectiles in high winds.
  • If you own a boat, determine how and where to secure it.

Protect yourself

  • Know if you live in a mandatory evacuation zone and if you do, be sure your evacuation plan includes transportation routes and destinations.
  • If evacuating, think in terms of 10s of miles, not 100s of miles. Reach out to family or friends, now, to see if you can stay with them.
  • Be sure to share your plans, whether sheltering in place or evacuating, with someone outside of the danger zone.

If sheltering in place

  • Close all interior doors. Secure and brace exterior doors. Take refuge in a small interior closet, or hallway on the lowest level. Lie on the floor under a table or another sturdy object.
  • Fill bathtubs or buckets with water to use for cleaning and toilet flushing.
  • Stay away from windows and glass doors.
  • Don’t be fooled by a lull in the storm. It could be the eye of the storm and the winds could resume.

After the storm

  • Drive only if necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges. Watch out for objects in the road, downed power lines and weakened walls, bridges, roads and sidewalks that might collapse.
  • Do not drive into water when you can’t see the bottom of the road; your car could be carried away and you could drown.
  • Do not walk through flooded areas, fast-moving water could carry you away. Also, the water could be contaminated with oil, gasoline, raw sewage and other contaminants. It also may be electrically charged from a downed wire.
  • Be careful about the foods you eat. If the power is out for a prolonged period, your food may have spoiled.
  • Do not burn charcoal in your house or garage, the fumes can be deadly.
  • Never use a portable generator inside your house or garage. Carbon monoxide poisoning is one of the leading causes of death after storms.
  • If you’re using a generator, do not plug it into a building’s wiring. This can cause generator back-feed, which is extremely dangerous for utility workers and for anyone in the public who comes into contact with a downed electrical wire.
  • If you have been evacuated, don’t return home until authorities say that it’s safe to do so. Watch the local news and check local government emergency apps to stay informed.

If you have damage

  • Call your insurance agent.
  • Take photos of damage.
  • Make emergency repairs to avoid additional damage and keep receipts for the tarps, lumbers and other materials you purchase.
  • Be wary of scams and price gougers. Use licensed contractors to make repairs.

For substantially more information to help you during Hurricane Season 2023, visit HillsboroughCounty.org and PascoCountyFl.net and check out the disaster guides prepared by each county. 

Visit each county’s emergency operations department to download the guides, sign up for alerts and find out information that can help you prepare for and weather the storm.

Published May 31, 2023