The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

B.C. Manion

Development agreement stalled on Land O’ Lakes project

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The Pasco County Commission is expected to discuss a proposed amendment to a development agreement involving a 108-home subdivision planned in Land O’ Lakes.

The development plans call for the housing development to be built on 50 acres on the south side of Bexley Road, about a mile west of the intersection of U.S. 41 and Wisteria Loop.

Board members continued the request during their Dec. 5 meeting, after Commissioner Kathryn Starkey refused to agree to proposed changes involving a trail near the project.

County planner William Vermillion told the board that a modification is needed because at the time when the development agreement was approved, it wasn’t yet known whether the trail was feasible because the engineering work had not yet been completed.

Since then, Vermillion said, it has been determined that the original plan can’t be pursued because of insufficient right of way.

Starkey balked.

“So, board members, we had quite a few meetings on this and I went out there with our county engineers and their engineers and Ray Gadd (an area resident),” Starkey said.

Chris Nocco, Jeremy Crouch and Gadd had appeared before the board at a public hearing when the rezoning was being discussed, pointing out issues regarding the need for a better road network before the request should be approved.

Starkey noted: “Part of this road is designed as an urban section and part of this road is a rural section. The multi-use trail is supposed to be on the north side of the road.”

She said an adjacent master-planned development had pledged to donate land to the county, which provided plenty of room for a multi-use trail, a trailhead and even a park.

“So, where is that land donation?” Starkey asked.

“If I’m hearing you right, we’re just getting little bits and pieces of the multi-use trail?

“And that was how this neighborhood was going to be able to get out on this trail,” Starkey said.

Vermillion responded: “Unfortunately they just don’t own or control any of the land.”

Starkey: “But we do because that was given to us. Where’s the bottom piece along Wisteria that was given to the county?”

Shelly Johnson, attorney representing the Renner developer, told Starkey that the engineers went and looked at it and discovered that the right of way is insufficient.

She said they have consulted with Gadd and Crouch and they don’t have objections with the current plan and she said she thinks Nocco is aware of it.

“Everybody has met out there and they discussed exactly what we’re proposing in these exhibits … And, everybody is in agreement with the changes,” she said.

The county’s staff also recommended approval.

But Starkey wouldn’t budge.

“Someone has dropped the ball on this because there’s plenty of room for a multi-use trail to go on that piece of land,” Starkey said.

Johnson responded: “As of right now, there’s not.”

Starkey: “No. There’s acres and acres. That piece was given to us, or pledged to us … I am 100% positive that they (nearby master-planned development) said that we could have that piece. So, I’m not buying that we can’t put the trail there. So, this is going to have to be continued. I won’t go for that one, when we have plenty of room for the trail.”

Johnson told Starkey: “We’ll be happy to go back and look at it. But I’m being told there’s insufficient right of way, currently. My understanding is the area you’re looking at now is being used for their stormwater, so what they gave us is what they could give us and there’s not any additional right of way there.”

The attorney also noted that the developer of the other master-planned development agreed to work with her client as a condition of their approval, but it did not result in sufficient land being provided for the trail.

Starkey responded: “Well, there’s a problem if they didn’t give us enough to fit the trail. We’re going to have to dig into this a little bit more. This is really important for that community because there’s no room on that road, and that’s going to be a busy road to ride anywhere. And, this is how they’re going to get over to the Orange Belt Trail.

“It was a whole condition of approval for me.”

“I went out there and met with Jeremy and Ray and our engineering staff and their engineers  and we walked it. There was plenty of room for the multi-use path and it didn’t have to be smushed up against the road.

“So, something has happened here,” Starkey said.

”I agree with Commissioner Starkey 100%. It shouldn’t be a problem and if that means we’ve got to bring the other developer in to have that conversation with them, it’s going to have to be our staff that’s going to have to lead that conversation,” said Commissioner Jack Mariano.

Starkey declared: “We can play the tape. We can roll back the tape.”

The request has been continued to the board’s Jan. 23 meeting.

Published December 27, 2023

Business Digest 12/27/2023

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RentCafe says Tampa is one nation’s hottest apartment markets
To identify the hottest rental areas of the year, RentCafe analyzed Yardi Systems apartment data for 139 rental markets based on occupancy rates, the number of renters applying for an available unit, vacancy days, the percentage of renewed leases, and the share of new apartments.

Based on these metrics, RentCafe then calculated a Rental Competitivity Index (RCI) score, which shows how competitive the rental market was in 2023. Here’s a breakdown of the findings on Tampa’s rental market:

• Apartment hunters in Tampa had a broader range of rental options this year, as the share of new apartments grew by 3% in 2023, far surpassing the national average of 1.89%.
• Compared to the previous year, fewer renters opted to stay put, yet Tampa’s 62.9% renewal rate still outperformed the national benchmark of 60.2%. Meanwhile, the metro’s occupancy rate stood at 94%, on par with the national average.
• An average of 11 renters competed for an apartment in Tampa, which was filled as fast as 36 days. For context: on average, nine renters were waiting in line for each vacant rental in America, with apartments flying off the market after 38 days, two days slower than in Tampa.
• Tampa is the fifth most competitive market in the Sunshine State, sandwiched between Southwest Florida and Jacksonville.

To read the full 2023 year-end report, visit https://www.rentcafe.com/blog/rental-market/market-snapshots/most-competitive-rental-markets-this-year/.

Hillsborough Tax Collector’s Office wins national award
The Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Office has received a national award for workplace excellence and employee satisfaction, according to a news release from the office.

For the second year in a row, national research firm Energage has awarded the Tax Collector’s office the 2023 National Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for its commitment to DE&I initiatives and exemplary leadership as a women-led organization. The award is based on employee feedback measuring 24 markers of employee satisfaction from companies nationwide. The Hillsborough County Tax Collector ranked in the top 5% in five categories: trusted leader, strong values, open-minded, innovation and company direction.

The office, led by Tax Collector Nancy C. Millan, has about 400 employees across nine offices in Hillsborough County. The office offers professional development programs and benefit incentives that prioritize the well-being and growth of employees, along with the organization’s success, the news release says.

“I’m incredibly proud of the culture of excellence we have developed within the Tax Collector’s office, where our team feels valued, represented, and empowered,” Millan says, in the release.

In January 2024, the Tax Collector’s office is launching a new Skill-Based Incentive Pay Program, which offers monthly stipends for language proficiency, certifications, and degrees — another example of Millan’s efforts to attract and retain talent to meet customer expectations for service delivery.

Trade mission focused on technology, health care
SelectFlorida, the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) and FloridaCommerce visited Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands as part of a trade and business development leadership mission focused on technology and health care, according to a state news release.

The mission aimed to generate export opportunities for Florida companies, to meet with leaders in the health care industry and to highlight Florida’s strengths in targeted industries, according to the release. It also promoted Florida as a leading hub for international business owners looking to expand their operations.

“Our trade mission to Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands opened new opportunities to collaborate with European industry leaders, strengthening Florida’s position on the global stage,” Deputy Secretary of Economic Development and President of SelectFlorida TJ Villamil said, in the release. “Many businesses have already recognized Florida’s thriving life science industry and this mission only solidified our future growth potential.”

“This trade mission was a critical step towards advancing health care integration and building partnerships with European companies that can help improve health care in Florida,” added AHCA Secretary Jason C. Weida, in the release. “We are confident these partnerships will create more opportunities for businesses to join our high-quality health care system and establish state-of-the-art care.”

Florida’s $1.5 trillion economy is the 14th largest in the world — bigger than those of the Netherlands or Mexico, and about the same size as Spain’s economy. 

With more than 22 million residents, Florida is now the third most populous state in the nation, with one of the fastest-growing economies. This vast, dynamic market offers tremendous business opportunities for European companies, the release notes.

Some of the highlights of the trade mission include:

  • Participating in MEDICA, the world’s largest medical trade fair, where a total of 5,233 companies exhibited for more than 81,000 health care professionals. Twenty-four Florida companies exhibited in the Florida Pavilion generating an estimated $103 million in total export sales.
  • Florida delegates met with representatives from Plug & Play Stuttgart located at Startup Autobahn for an insightful exchange centered on technology and innovation, including the recent announcement of the Plug & Play NeoCity location in Florida, scheduled for launch in January 2024.
  • In Munich, SelectFlorida hosted a Florida activation event in partnership with the U.S. Commercial Service to promote Florida as a Foreign Direct Investment destination to more than 30 multi-industry leaders and multiplier organizations. Delegates also met with leadership from Klinikum Rechts De Isar, the leading university hospital in Munich, to explore potential collaborations between hospitals, universities and the health care industry in Munich and Florida.
  • In Belgium, delegates toured Leuven and met with leadership from Health House — a center of expertise in the future of health care. Delegates discussed the growing impact of technology on the future of health care, exploring the integration of new practices and technologies. The delegation also met with leadership from the Interuniversity Microelectronics Centre (IMEC), an innovation hub and leader in nano-electronics and digital technologies with its sole U.S. location in Florida. Representatives discussed Florida’s semiconductor industry and IMEC’s presence in the state following Gov. Ron DeSantis’ announcement awarding more than $28 million to expand Florida’s semiconductor and chip manufacturing industries.
  • In Brussels, the delegation toured BeCentral, a tech hub backed by more than 60 investors that hosts digital schools, startups and nongovernmental organizations in an entrepreneurial ecosystem. Delegates also met with AGORIA  —  the largest federation in Belgium focused on technology companies from the manufacturing industry and digital and telecom sectors. AGORIA’s plans included a visit to Florida this month with several Belgian companies interested in better understanding how Florida is surpassing California as the new tech hub of the Americas.
  • In the Netherlands, SelectFlorida collaborated with the European-American Chamber of Commerce in Amsterdam to host an event promoting Florida to more than 50 foreign direct investment prospects and multiplier organizations. SelectFlorida also hosted a protocol roundtable with local dignitaries to discuss strengthening the commercial ties between Florida and the Netherlands. Florida leadership delegates attended the METSTRADE Show — the largest trade show of marine equipment, materials and systems in the world. More than 40 Florida companies exhibited, generating an estimated $60 million in export sales reports. Delegates also met with several Dutch maritime companies to reinforce Florida’s maritime opportunities.

Pasco firefighters ink a three-year deal with the county

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The Pasco County Commission has approved a new three-year contract with Pasco County Fire Rescue that makes the county’s pay more competitive and emphasizes firefighters’ well-being.

The contract calls for improving pay and adding services intended to support the mental health needs of emergency responders.

The pact, approved by the county board on Dec. 5, also calls for adding another shift that will result in shorter work hours, providing a better work-life balance for personnel.

J.J. Murphy told county board members: “One year ago, I was hired as your assistant county administrator for public safety. Little did I know what stood in front of me.

Pasco County and its firefighters’ union have agreed to a three-year contract that both sides believe will help entice firefighters to join their ranks, rather than leaving to work at higher-paying departments nearby. The contract includes more mental health support and, in 2026, a reduced work week schedule. (File)

“With Mike’s (County Administrator Mike Carballa) unwavering support, we tackled significant morale issues, a two-year mass exodus of fire personnel, recruiting challenges, internal fiscal challenges and a leadership change.”

At the meeting, Murphy stood in a unified front with the key parties in the contract: Barbara Hitzemann, the county’s human resources director and chief negotiator; Ryan Guynn, assistant fire chief; and Jon-Michael Morin, president of the IAFF Local 4420, which represents Pasco’s professional firefighters.

Murphy covered some of the contract’s substantive points.

During the first two years, it will bring salaries in line with the market area, he said.

“The third year brings in the transformational move to a D Shift,” Murphy added. “The contract and the D shift will allow us to address many items, including recruiting and retention; employee health and wellness; positive management initiatives; three-year cost certainty for the county and the employees.

“This collaborative effort led to a favorable vote of over 80% of the union members.”

Guynn, the assistant fire chief added: “As you’re well aware, the explosive growth that we’ve had over the last few years, actually within the last decade in Pasco County, has increased our work stress environment with our men and women in Pasco County Fire Rescue.

“Since 2020, if we continue at a pace like we are, as of this morning, we’re looking to close to a 30% increase in call volume, just since the last three years.

“That’s really put a toll on our men and women,” he said.

Keeping firefighters in Pasco
Retaining emergency responders has been an issue, Guynn said.

“We’re working 24 hours nonstop, not to mention that we’re working overtime more and more and more. We’re having difficulties keeping people in the seats. That has really elevated our issues within Fire Rescue,” he said.

Mental health is a major focus of the new deal.

A study done by a doctoral candidate involved fire rescue and corrections personnel.

“Out of all of those employees that he studied, 44.5% have either sought or considered treatment for depression; 40% have either sought or considered treatment for anxiety; 37.7 % have sought or considered treatment for PTSD; more than that, almost a full percent of them have sought or considered treatment for suicide.

“Some of the contributing factors to that, of course, are the long work hours, the sleep deprivation, the mandatory overtime, the high-stress work environment.

“We don’t need to re-address what kinds of calls the men and women are running every day – some of the most horrific things that we could see, especially over a 30-year career,” Guynn said.

Lightening the load
In fiscal year 2026, an additional shift will be added, reducing the hours worked from 2,704 to 2,184, the assistant fire chief said.

That transition will result in reducing the work week from 56 hours a week to 42 hours a week, he said.

“We’re hoping that balance is going to allow us to level out the stress,” he added.

The county also is aiming to reduce its overtime expenses.

“Of course, the other issue is employee retention,” Guynn said.

“We’ve been kind of the training ground for other departments around us.

“We’ve spent millions and millions of dollars training, educating, equipping and mentoring employees, just to turn around and watch them leave. 

“We’ve hired a lot of people over these past couple of years, but we’ve almost lost just as many as we hired.

“We’re looking to reset that, and that’s what this contract is going to do,” he said.

The fire union’s president said this contract puts Pasco into a different posture.

He said it will “make Pasco County Fire Rescue an employment destination in years to come.”

Commissioners Gary Bradford and Jack Mariano congratulated the negotiating teams for coming up with a contract that received an 80% vote of approval.

“That’s just unheard of,” Bradford said.

Mariano added: “Thanks for working together. We told you from the get-go that we heard your problems. It took time to get to where we’re at right now. As far as getting the fire stations built, listening to what we could do for scheduling, looking at what we could do to make it a better life for all of your people, helping them get themselves the protection they want, the help they need.”

The county’s extreme growth and the emergence of COVID slowed progress, but Mariano said new leadership made it happen.

“Similar things have been talked about before, how we could make this work better, but you guys brought it to fruition. You listened. You made it happen,” Mariano said.

Murphy responded: “For years, governments have asked public safety employees to do more with less. By your actions, we’ll be able to do more, with more — and that’s the definition of a premier county.”

Published December 20, 2023

Pasco’s firefighters, corrections officers to get mental health support

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The Pasco County Commission has approved a contract with Tampa Bay Psychology Associates Inc., to provide mental health care support for the county’s firefighters and correction officers.

The county board approved the $223,484.82 contract for fiscal year 2024 to the mental health care provider, which will perform mental health screenings and ongoing care to support the well-being of those public safety employees.

The item was part of the board’s Dec. 5 consent agenda, meaning that the board approved it as part of a package of agenda items without board discussion.

Jon-Michael Morin, president of the IAFF local 4420, which represents Pasco’s professional firefighters, called attention to the item during the public comment portion of the board’s meeting.

(Mike Camunas)

In his remarks, Morin noted: “Firefighters are at an increased for anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, alcoholism and suicidal ideations.

“Coupled with the stress of normal life, my members endure long work hours, sleepless life, tragedies of death and dismemberment, and an overall high-stress work environment,” Morin said.

To overcome the challenges, the union established programs that “facilitate proactive education about early recognition of mental and behavioral health crises,” he said.

“We provide additional defusing at the crew level, following certain call types, such as the death of a child or those emergency calls that involve great bodily harm.

“We collectively have changed the culture within the Fire Rescue Department that instigates open dialogue about the risk factors we face as first responders and encourage our members to seek professional help, proactively,” he added.

Morin also noted that the union, in collaboration with Fire/Rescue leadership, have continued to build upon the work that’s been done in the past.

That’s where the county board comes in, he said.

“Where we need your help is before you today on consent, as item C54, with a contract award to Tampa Bay Psychology Associates.

“This award will provide a singular, focused and comprehensive third-party plan for first responder-centric professional mental health counseling for our members and is the vitally important next step of the program design.

“By approving this item, you’ll be sending a clear message to your firefighters that your public safety priority is their well-being, both on and off the job,” Morin said.

Pasco County Commissioner Gary Bradford praised the rescue crews that he said he frequently sees zipping around the county in response to calls.

“I just want you to know that you’re appreciated, you’re prayed for and what you said about the mental health issues is very, very true. Get help. It is important.”

Published December 20, 2023

Property tax breaks are on the way for some Pasco seniors

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It won’t happen immediately and it won’t apply to all seniors, but some tax relief is on the way for Pasco County seniors with incomes below $35,167.

That figure is based on 2023’s eligibility, but it will likely increase before the property tax break becomes effective for Pasco residents over age 65.

The Pasco County Commission approved an additional $50,000 homestead exemption for those meeting age and income eligibility, and it will take effect in 2025.

To help senior citizens on limited incomes combat the high costs of living, the Pasco County Commission has adopted an additional $50,000 homestead exemption for those meeting income eligibility requirements. The tax break takes effect in 2025. (File)

Pasco County Commissioner Seth Weightman championed the tax break, as he and his county board colleagues debated issues during the board’s budget hearings for this fiscal year.

Weightman wanted to take a more measured approach regarding the county’s Fire Municipal Services Taxing Unit (MSTU). Ultimately, the board approved an increase in that rate which, despite a compromise, was higher than Weightman initially said he would support.

During the debate, however, Weightman advocated for doing something to help its seniors who are living on a fixed income and are battling against the high cost of living.

The additional exemption is authorized under the Florida Constitution and the state’s general laws, according to Pasco County Attorney Jeffrey Steinsnyder, who brought back the ordinance to the board at its Dec. 5 meeting for a vote.

The estimated annual fiscal impact from the tax break works out to be around $3 million, according to County Administrator Mike Carballa.

Those eligible for the additional exemption will need to fill out paperwork each year and the Pasco County Property Appraiser’s Office will process it.

During a previous board hearing, Pasco County Property Appraiser Mike Wells said it will require additional staff, but his office will be able to manage that.

He told board members: “We’re willing to do that. I think our seniors deserve it, especially the ones on the fixed incomes.”

At that same meeting, Weightman said: ”With the expense of the world and our senior population getting priced out of here. I am happy to support this.”

Pasco Tax Collector Mike Fasano was also at that meeting and he praised the board’s action.

Fasano told the board: “I think what you’ve done just now is going to help our seniors … We have so many seniors in this community that call us; they can’t pay their bill.

“They hear that their neighbor in another county has been getting that additional $50,000 homestead, (and they ask) ‘Is it available for me?’

“I tell them, it will be one day. We’ve got a commission that’s going to be working diligently for you, making sure you get it,’” Fasano said.

Based on the board’s Dec. 5 action, senior citizens are now a step closer to getting that relief, although it will be another year before they receive it.

Published December 20, 2023

Airports are expecting 7.5 million air travelers – a new record this holiday season

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If you’re jetting away or driving off for the holidays, join the crowd.

Airports are expected to be the busiest they’ve ever been throughout the Christmas and New Year’s travel period, according to a news release from AAA – The Auto Club Group.

“AAA has seen steady year-over-year growth in travel demand, culminating with what is expected to be the busiest year-end holiday travel season on record in Florida, and the second-busiest nationwide,” Debbie Haas, vice president of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group, said in the release.

Air travel is expected to hit a new record this holiday season, between Dec. 23 and Jan. 1. (Courtesy of Tampa International Airport)

An estimated 115.2 million travelers are expected across the nation during the holidays, a figure surpassed only in 2019. The figure also represents an increase of 2.5 million over last year.

Of those making a trip, the vast majority will travel by vehicle, coming in at an estimated 103.6 million, which represents an increase of 1.8 million more than last year.

About 4 million will travel by bus, train, cruise or other modes, which constitutes the largest number of travelers using those means since 2008. It’s also the fifth-highest on record and tops last year’s total by 394,000.

Nationally, AAA projects 7.5 million air travelers, surpassing the record set in 2019.

At Tampa International Airport (TPA), airlines are significantly increasing the number of available seats on routes to and from TPA this year, according to airport officials. 

In November, TPA experienced a record-breaking number of travelers, including its second-busiest travel day ever with 89,018 people visiting the airport on the Sunday after Thanksgiving, a TPA news release says.

The two heaviest days are expected to be the Saturday before and the Saturday after the Christmas holiday, when more than 90,000 passengers are expected to travel through TPA, and the weekend after New Year’s Day also will be extremely busy, the release says.

You can save time at Tampa International Airport by using apps to order food and drink online, so it will be ready for you when you arrive.

Following a record Thanksgiving last month, Tampa International Airport is now preparing for similar upcoming traffic as it expects around 80,000 passengers per day during the three-week Christmas and New Year’s holiday period.

Much like the Thanksgiving period, TPA’s parking garages are expected to reach capacity during peak times, so travelers are urged to book parking in advance online. Some garages could briefly close, so travelers without reservations could get bumped to alternative lots, hence the need to arrive early. All drivers with reservations will be guaranteed a parking spot, according to airport officials.

Arriving passengers using ride-share apps such as Uber and Lyft for pick-up on the Blue Side will be directed to use the Blue Express Curbsides to relieve congestion at the Blue Bag Claim level. Passengers using Uber and Lyft on the Red Side can either use the Red Arrivals drive or take the elevator up and over to the Blue Express Curbsides, where there is less traffic and passengers can be picked up more quickly.

Across Florida, AAA is reporting that nearly 357,000 of the state’s residents are expected to take a commercial flight. That’s 15,000 more than last year, and it’s the second-highest air travel volume on record, behind 2003 (399,000).

Overall, AAA expects nearly 218,000 more Floridians will be taking a trip for the holidays, in the period spanning from Dec. 23 to Jan. 1, according to a AAA news release. That doesn’t include those traveling to Florida from other states.

Make holiday travel smoother at Tampa International Airport

  • Plan ahead for parking. Reserve a spot so you’ll be sure to have one. Book in advance at TampaAirport.com/Park.
  • If you’re not checking baggage, choose the Blue Express Curbsides to get in and out of the terminal more easily. This is also where ride-share apps pick up arriving passengers on the Blue Side. Passengers on the Red Side can meet their Uber or Lyft outside of the Red baggage claim area.
  • Arrive at least two hours before departure; at least three hours, if you are traveling internationally.
  • Check your pockets and your carry-on baggage before leaving your house. Jams and jellies, cranberry sauce, gravy, bottles of wine and other holiday treats are commonly confiscated at TSA checkpoints, along with the usual prohibited items such as knives and firearms. 
  • Skip the lines: You can order a snack before you arrive and have it waiting for you when you get there. Use either TPA To Go or the Starbucks mobile app to order and pay, then swing by the counter and pick up your items without standing in line.

Source: Tampa International Airport

A few more parking tips to keep in mind

  • Remove valuables from your vehicle.
  • Lock doors and roll up windows.
  • Take a photo of your spot to remember where you parked.
  • Keep your ticket and receipt (if prepaid) to show when exiting.
  • If you park off-site from the airport, be sure to look for a reputable business and be sure there’s a shuttle to get you to the airport.
  • Opt for covered parking if you live in an area that is expecting inclement weather.

Source: AAA

Best/Worst Times to Drive
Here’s some information regarding best and worst times to drive during the holiday period from Dec. 23 to Jan. 1, based on transportation insights from INRIX, and courtesy of AAA:
Dec. 23: Best time to travel, before 10 a.m.; worst time to travel, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Dec. 26: Best time to travel, before noon; worst time to travel, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Dec. 27: Best time to travel, before noon; worst time to travel, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Dec. 28: Best time to travel, before noon; worst time to travel, 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Dec. 29: Best time to travel, before noon; worst time to travel, 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Dec. 30: Best time to travel, before noon; worst time to travel, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Minimal travel is expected on Dec. 24, Dec. 25, Dec. 31 and Jan. 1.

Published December 20, 2023

Pasco school district team tracks down ‘missing’ students

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It became obvious during a recent Pasco County School Board meeting that some of the district’s most important work occurs outside of its classrooms.

Thanks to the diligence of the school district’s social services coordinator team, 18 children under the age of 11 who had been “missing” have been located, according to Vanessa Hilton, chief academic officer for the school system.

(Mike Camunas)

The team began searching in mid-October for 22 students who had been coded W-22, which stands for “whereabouts unknown,” Hilton said.

By mid-November, the team had reduced the list of missing children to four, whom they were still trying to find, as of the Dec. 5 school board meeting.

“The 18 that were found were either re-engaged in Pasco, found enrolled in another county or state, or who have now been connected to Home Ed,” Hilton told board members.

“The success in this task is completely thanks to that team of social service coordinators, who utilized their determination, skills and creativity to look out for the safety of these younger students.

“At the end of the day, this is a huge win for the vulnerable age group for our students,” Hilton said, expressing her appreciation for the team and its leadership for their commitment.

The school district also has been involved in other efforts to engage the community, Hilton said.

“The Office for Career, Technical and Adult Education has been actively working to increase and enhance our business partnerships for school and district programs,” she said.

She cited some specific examples.

Bosco’s Italian Pizza in Wesley Chapel, for instance, demonstrated pizza-making to the students in the culinary program at John Long Middle School.

The owner of Monarch Media Designs in Wisconsin also got involved by sharing the process for wrapping vehicles to commercial arts students at Marchman Technical College. The expert then judged student designs, resulting in what Hilton described as “a very authentic experience.”

Hilton also thanked the “creative director and brand strategist of The Social Artist, who taught Pasco High School marketing students about the importance of creativity, strategy and technical skills, when developing online content.”

During its Dec. 5 meeting, the school board also:

  • Redefined the job descriptions for the district’s principals and assistant principals.
  • Added the position of civil rights compliance manager. This position reports to the general counsel to the superintendent and is responsible for managing and monitoring equal employment and educational opportunity activities, and ensuring compliance with applicable local, state and federal rules and regulations, including the Equal Opportunity Employment Act, the Florida Educational Equity Act (FEEA) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
  • Added the position of civil rights compliance investigator. This role is responsible for investigations into charges and/or complaints of unfair employment or educational practices that involve race, sex, color, age, religion, national origin, disability or marital status. It also involves preparing documentation, includes follow-up activities, and is responsible for assisting legal department administrators by preparing written reports, documents, case materials and other data as needed. 
  • Extended the closing date on a 15-acre property between Interstate 75 and Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, at the end of Dunham Station Road, for a charter school. The closing date on that transaction is now scheduled for Jan. 16.
  • Approved an amendment to the purchase of a school site within the Villages of Pasadena Hills, an area that’s located between Dade City, San Antonio and Wesley Chapel. The district is tentatively planning a K-8 school on a parcel that is part of the Evans family property. Closing on the property was expected on Dec. 8 and the amendment was needed, in order for closing to take place on time.

Published December 20, 2023

Business Digest 12/20/23

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Tampa named one of best metros for office-based employment
Yardi Cube has identified Tampa as an attractive market for office jobs in its latest study, “Top 10 Best Metros for Office Jobs in 2023.”

Tampa was named the top performer in office employment, with office workers representing 31% of the entire working population.

The region also boasted a mobility rate of 7.6%, according to the study. That indicates a dynamic job market where professionals actively seek and transition into office roles, says a news release summarizing some of the study’s findings.

The study also noted that Tampa’s median income is approximately $58,000 and its cost of living is about 1% below the national average, making it a financially viable option for professionals.

For more details regarding how Tampa compares to other major metros, visit the full study at

https://www.yardikube.com/blog/top-10-best-metros-for-office-jobs-in-2023/.

Pasco/Hernando SCORE Mentoring
Pasco Hernando SCORE offers free confidential small business mentoring. Our volunteer business experts will provide free assistance to small business owners to help solve their problems and grow their business. To request a mentor, visit SCORE.org/pascohernando.

Economic drivers in Pasco, Florida and across the U.S.
Learn about key economic drivers in Pasco County, Florida and across the United States during a luncheon presented by the Pasco Economic Development Council on Jan. 18 at the Hilton Garden Inn Suncoast Parkway, 2155 Northpointe Parkway in Lutz.

Check-in and networking is from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and the luncheon and presentation is from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Ben Friedman, economic development specialist at Duke Energy, will provide an overview on the economy in Pasco and across Florida, while Brian Barker, chief investment officer at SouthState Bank, will focus on a look back at the nation’s economy from 2023 and an outlook into 2024.

The cost is $35 and RSVPs are needed by Jan. 11. For more information, go to PascoEDC.com. 

Duke Energy Florida to reduce rates beginning in January
Duke Energy Florida is reducing customer bills beginning in January, according to a company news release.

A typical residential customer using 1,000 kWh will see a decrease in their January 2024 bill of $11.29, or about 6%, when compared to December 2023.

Commercial and industrial customers will see a bill decrease between 5.6% and 7.2%, but the specific bill impact will vary.

The bill reduction includes storm recovery costs combined with lower fuel and capacity costs for 2024.

“By combining Hurricane Idalia costs with the remaining balance of prior storms and previously filed bill reductions like lower fuel costs, we are able to provide some much-needed bill relief to our customers,”  Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president, said in the release.

The company encourages customers to take advantage of the numerous flexible billing and energy savings programs, including free home assessments, budget billing and usage alerts, to help customers save energy and money.

To learn more about these programs, visit Duke-energy.com/SeasonalBills, or call the Customer Care number listed on your energy bill.

GROW Pasco
Take advantage of the opportunity to learn about a wide array of business topics at Grow Pasco, which is set for March 14, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Saint Leo University Wellness Center, 12338 Priory Circle, in San Antonio. Grow Pasco features 15 breakout sessions, led by some of the best business minds in the area. Go to the Pasco Economic Development Council’s website to find out more about the topics, the speakers and how to register. The Pasco EDC’s website is https://pascoedc.com.

Amy Drury is Pasco County’s Literacy Teacher of the Year

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Winning awards is not exactly new for Amy Drury.

Recently, however, she added a big one.

She has been named Pasco County’s Literacy Teacher of the Year.

Drury was honored during the Pasco County School Board meeting on Dec. 5.

Tressa Lima, from the Office of Leading and Learning, shared Drury’s history and accomplishments with board members.

Amy Drury, forefront, was honored as the Pasco County Literacy Teacher of the Year for the 2023-2024 academic year by the Pasco County School Board. (Courtesy of Pasco County Schools)

She told the board it was with great pride and honor that she stood before them “to recognize this amazing educator, Miss Amy Drury,” the county’s Literacy Teacher of the Year for the 2023-2024 school year.

“Amy started her career in Polk County in 2003 as a substitute teacher. She quickly learned that teaching was her calling, and moved to Pasco County Schools, teaching second grade at Woodland Elementary, in 2004,” Lima said.

“She spent 14 years at Woodland Elementary, moving from a second grade teacher to a PLC (Professional Learning Community) facilitator and then moving into the role of the instructional trainer/coach.

“She was recognized as the Teacher of the Year in 2007 for both of her school sites, as well as recognized as the Sam’s Club and Walmart Teacher of the Year winner, as well.

“Since 2018, she joined the ranks at Raymond B. Stewart Middle School as a sixth grade language arts teacher, and then quickly became their instructional trainer/coach for literacy, in the following year.”

Lima continued: “She knows that developing caring adults will develop caring students, and she carries that mantra forward in everything she does.

“Her passion for literacy led both to her taking formal and informal leadership roles within her school, as she serves the community as well.

“I had the pleasure of serving as Amy’s district coach in 2017 and it was awe-inspiring to me to see her deeply ingrain herself in work, while keeping students at the forefront.  She’s truly one-of-a-kind.

“You couldn’t walk the hallways of Woodland Elementary without a student or staff member stopping her to say hello. It was like I was walking with a celebrity.

“She’s someone who anyone can, and does, go to for support because she assists in any way possible.

“She’s extremely knowledgeable and willing to help. She’s truly loved by students, teachers, staff, parents — all alike.

“Most importantly, she’s passionate about literacy for all, for all of her students.

“Prior to her moving to middle school, she told me she felt like she wanted to do more for her students and see them through the continuum of learning.

“She knew how they performed under her watch at Woodland, but wanted to impact them at that point after leaving her as well.

“She told me that she gained inspiration from watching Mrs. (Kimberly) Poe (former principal) hug her students on the graduation stage, as they beamed with pride and excitement, and she thought to herself: ‘This is what it’s all about — students, and joining in their success.

“Every professional development that Amy runs, she does it with her team — rooted in action, support for literacy across disciplines for each student.

“Amy is a true testament for passion and dedication. She’s never afraid to get her hands dirty with the right work. She would never ask anyone to do something that she hasn’t done herself, which makes her truly amazing among her peers and colleagues alike.

“Her forward-thinking and continuous desire to grow and learn makes her an asset to our system, in every aspect.

“She believes each student can be successful, if they have a champion in their corner — someone who is willing to fight for them and let them know that they are worth it and they can do it,” Lima said.

She told the school board that the district has submitted Drury’s name to represent Pasco at the state level.

Drury was asked if she would like to make some remarks.

She responded: “I’d just like to thank Tressa for her kind words. That was beautiful, and my team over here that continues to support me in everything that I do.”

Published December 13, 2023

Kirkland Ranch K-8 is ‘beehive’ of activity

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Crews are working hard, as Kirkland Ranch K-8 continues to make progress toward its August 2024 opening date.

Marcy Hetzler-Nettles, assistant superintendent of middle schools, told the Pasco School Board that she recently had a chance to tour the construction area, along with Betsy Kuhn, assistant superintendent for support services, and Julie Marks, the school’s first principal.

This rendering depicts what the new Kirkland Ranch K-8 is expected to look like, when construction is completed on the new school in Wesley Chapel. (Courtesy of Pasco County Schools/Hepner Architects)

Hetzler-Nettles told the school board that watching Principal Marks take in the sight was delightful.

“It was like Christmas morning, for a child unwrapping a gift, to see her eyes light up,” Hetzler-Nettles said.

Hetzler-Nettles also said crews at the work site are clearly focused on the tasks at hand.

“It is a serious beehive out there right now. It’s amazing the amount of crews that are all in – welding, electrical, they’re pulling cables. They’re putting up drywall, all over the place,” Hetzler-Nettles said.

“It looks fantastic and it’s coming together quite nicely. It’s going to be very exciting to see it, once it is done.”

The school, at 33137 Innovation Drive, in Wesley Chapel, will be on the east side of the campus of Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation.

During a previous presentation to the board, Peter Hepner, of Hepner Architects, offered details about the project. He said there will be play courts and a covered play area outdoors, as well as parking lots for staff and visitors, and a drop-off area for students.

The first floor will have spaces for administration, prekindergarten, primary classrooms, and elementary art, music and skills labs.

The student dining area includes a stage and there will be outdoor dining, too.

The second floor includes primary and intermediate classrooms, a media center and a teacher planning area.

On the third floor, there will be middle school classrooms, art and music areas, a STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) Center and science labs.

Creative Contractors is the construction manager for the Kirkland Ranch K-8 project.

The school has been described on the school district’s website as a “state-of-the-art dedicated magnet school experience for young creators, innovators and entrepreneurs located near the Epperson community.”

The website notes that the school will have the magnet themes of World Languages and Entrepreneurship woven throughout the student experience. 

Students will begin with their language acquisition in kindergarten and will have the opportunity to earn high school World Language credits in their middle school years, the website says.  

The website also notes that Kirkland Ranch K-8 is the only school in Pasco County that offers a magnet entrepreneurship program, from kindergarten through eighth grade. The course progression allows students to cultivate entrepreneurial mindsets and capabilities beginning in elementary school.

Those wishing to attend the school can apply during the Pasco Pathways Application Window, between Jan. 8 to Jan. 19.

Published December 13, 2023