B.C. Manion

Business Digest 12/06/2023

December 5, 2023 By B.C. Manion

Pulte Homes expands it presence
Pulte Homes has acquired a partially developed property in Pasco County that is now known as Riverwood, according to a news release.

Pulte Homes has acquired a partially developed property in Pasco County. With this latest acquisition, now known as Riverwood, Pulte will showcase the distinctive character of natural Florida environs with oak tree and crepe myrtle lining the boulevards and future homesites that will be extra-wide and designed to underscore the open spaces. (Courtesy of Pulte Homes)

The master-planned community, coming to Wesley Chapel and Zephyrhills in 2024, will offer convenient access, with extra-wide homes and stunning natural views, the release says.

Riverwood sits adjacent to the Hillsborough River corridor and Crystal Springs Preserve and among Cypress canopies and wetlands. The distinctive character of this community is reflected in the 14-year-old oak and crepe myrtle that line the boulevard entryway and winding roads, the release notes.

Riverwood’s amenities will include a clubhouse, resort pool, cabana, fitness center, nature trails, shared green spaces, pickleball courts and a dog park.

The development is being built along U.S. 301, south of the State Road 56 intersection.

Riverwood was partially developed in the early 2000s when the original developer installed the winding entry road and landscaping. With maturity, that landscaping has created an authentic Florida

appeal that is uncommon in new home communities, the release adds.

Other benefits include extensive access to everyday conveniences, restaurants, retail, employment, schools and medical facilities. The Shops at Wiregrass and Tampa Premium Outlets also are within 10 miles, according to the release.

“Riverwood is a community that was ahead of its time when it was originally conceived. However, now it is a location that is nearly impossible to beat,” Sean Strickler, president of Pulte’s West Florida Division, said in the release. “Riverwood’s gorgeous trees and landscaping have flourished. With our enhancements and improvements to the original infrastructure, we are confident it will be one of the Tampa Bay Region’s most sought-after and naturally lovely master planned communities.”

For more information, visit Pulte.com/Riverwood.

Reopening for tax collector office
Hillsborough County Tax Collector Nancy C. Millan hosted a grand reopening and ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the 5,000-square-foot expansion of the tax collector’s North Tampa Branch, at 3011 University Center Drive, in Tampa. The building also was dedicated to the late Mary Alice Dorsett, a civil rights advocate who lived in Tampa. The event, which included a tour of the building and reception, was held on the morning of Nov. 29. The facility now offers more lobby seating, more customer service stations and written driving test stations.

Dollar General has new layout
A recently remodeled Dollar General Store, at 34464 Cortez Blvd., in Dade City, now has a new layout and is offering fresh produce, too, according to a news release. The produce section offers about 80% that most grocery stores carry, including tomatoes, onions, apples, strawberries, potatoes, sweet potatoes, lemons, limes, salad mixes, and more. The store also will continue to offer frozen and refrigerated food items, in addition to the same categories, brands and products familiar to Dollar General customers.

Florida ranks fifth best state for job-seekers
The personal finance website WalletHub has released its report on 2023’s Best & Worst States for Jobs. The report comes at a time when the unemployment rate is 3.9% and labor force participation is at the highest level since the onset of the pandemic. WalletHub compared the 50 states across 34 key indicators of job-market strength and economic vitality. The data set ranges from employment growth to the median annual income to the average commute time, according to a WalletHub news release:

Finding a Job in Florida (1=Best; 25=Avg.):

Overall rank for Florida: 5th

6th – Employment Growth

10th – Job Satisfaction

12th – Monthly Average Starting Salary

16th – Unemployment Rate

23rd – Job Opportunities

27th – Avg. Length of Work Week (in Hours)

Security in the Workplace
Come learn from Thomas Giella, owner of Complete IT Services, about using technology to deter risks to your business. Giella will discuss safety practices ranging from cyber to digital to physical at the session set for Dec. 13 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the SMARTstart Entrepreneur Center. 15029 14th St., in Dade City. To register, go to the events tab at SmartStartPasco.com.

Grow Pasco 2024
GROW Pasco 2024 has been scheduled for March 14, 2024 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Saint Leo University Wellness Center. To find out more, visit PascoEDC.com.

Free business advice
Business owners who need advice in establishing their business, taking it to the next level or dealing with a particular issue may find the free help provided by SCORE mentors to be of value. SCORE mentors are volunteers who can offer their expertise on a wide range of topics. To find out more, visit SCORE.org.

Workers’ compensation insurance rates go down
Florida Insurance Commissioner Michael Yaworsky has granted final approval to the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) for a statewide overall workers’ compensation insurance rate decrease of 15.1%. The rate decrease applies to both new and renewal policies, effective Jan. 1, according to a news release.

“I’m pleased to announce that Florida businesses will see a reduction in workers’ compensation rates for the seventh consecutive year,” Yaworsky said, in the release. “It’s clear the workers’ compensation market in Florida is stable and competitive; I’m confident lower workers’ compensation rates will assist in ensuring that all of Florida’s businesses have the opportunity to succeed in our state.”

Red Roof’s The Spot X – Tampa Bay opens in Wesley Chapel
The Spot X – Tampa Bay, part of Red Roof’s The Red Collection, is designed to deliver an upper-midscale experience, providing value for guests, in its 77 rooms that boast amenities such as free expanded cable, a pool, free coffee in the lobby, a snack center, a pool, Wi-Fi, guest laundry and free continental breakfast.

Guestrooms also offer a microwave and a mini refrigerator.

The hotel, at 5703 Oakley Blvd., in Wesley Chapel, is owned by QDI USA Developments LLC.

The news release also says a $1.2 million renovation is slated to begin in December.

Pasco officials clear the way for a regional children’s hospital

November 28, 2023 By B.C. Manion

The Pasco County Commission has approved a rezoning that will allow a mixed-use development including a regional children’s hospital, a hotel, residential, commercial and office development.

County board members approved a rezoning request on 176 acres at the northeast corner of McKendree and Overpass roads to make way for the proposed projects.

Specifically, the approval allows:
• 1,275 multi-family dwellings

155,000 square feet of retail
150,000 square feet of office
250,000 square feet of medical office
365,000 square feet of hospital
250 hotel rooms

Clarke Hobby, an attorney representing All Children’s Hospital, said it should be a day of celebration for Pasco County because the hospital has selected to locate in Pasco.

But not everyone is overjoyed by that fact.

Tonya Riddlesworth, who lives next door to the planned development, spoke against elements of the mixed-use project during the county board’s Nov. 14 public hearing.

The Pasco County Commission has approved a rezoning that will allow a mixed-use development including a regional children’s hospital, a hotel, residential, commercial and office development at the corner of McKendree and Overpass roads in Wesley Chapel. The site is in an area that’s been designated as Connected City. (Mike Camunas)

She told county commissioners that she wasn’t seeking a reduction in density, but did want the development to be staggered back away from her property to diminish its impacts on her quality of life.

She detailed a number of objections in a letter of opposition she submitted to the board.

In her letter, she wrote: “I am deeply troubled by the proposed addition of 1,275 apartment homes and a helipad in our community.”

She cited concerns about overcrowding in area schools, increased traffic congestion making the roads even more dangerous, and an incompatibility between the proposed uses and those that are already there.

“Multi-family homes are inconsistent with this rural farm area on a dirt road with chickens, cows, horses, goats, etc.,” she wrote.

Riddlesworth’s husband, Patrick Gant, also spoke out against the rezoning.

Dissatisfied by the response to their concerns, the couple hired attorney Jane Graham to represent them.

During the public hearing, Graham presented a long list of legal arguments regarding why the request should be denied, or at the very least delayed.

She claimed there are significant flaws in the traffic study for the rezoning, and the request is inconsistent with multiple sections of the county’s comprehensive plan.

Graham also suggested conditions to help mitigate the impacts and improve compatibility.

Other area residents also raised concerns about increased traffic and traffic safety, and asked for limitations on the number of users on the site’s lake.

The project site is within the Connected City Corridor, a state-initiated pilot program adopted by the Florida Legislature in 2015, which spurred a special planning area in Pasco County — bounded by State Road 52, Overpass Road, Interstate 75 and Curley Road.

The county adopted the Connected City plan in 2017 — envisioning a place that would harness the power of high technology, generate jobs, offer myriad housing choices and create special gathering spaces.

Before the board considered the proposed rezoning, it voted on another item — called a development agreement — that spells out road improvements that will be constructed by the developers before the hospital and associated projects proceed.

Hobby pointed to that agreement, in response to concerns about a lack of infrastructure to serve the project.

“The neighbors are alleging that we’re not putting the infrastructure in place to serve development in Connected City, and that is just flat-out wrong.

“The purpose of this development agreement is for us to build what is likely to be a four-lane, and transitioning to a two-lane road, in advance of development. A very extensive and expensive roadway,” Hobby said.

He also disputed testimony regarding insufficient school capacity. He said the school board does a good job of planning to address the impacts of growth.

Hobby also said the proposed development will benefit the county.

“We all know that we need hospitals — we’ve got a major growth spurt that’s ongoing in the county, and there are general hospitals that serve the general population,” Hobby said.

“But this is a regional facility that we expect may draw people from as far as 100, 150 miles away. And we’re very, very lucky, not only having it wanting to come to Pasco County, but in the exact location that we need it.

“So, in my mind, this is a day to be celebrated and the issues we’re discussing today — we’ve already put a great foot forward with our neighbors, but we’ll look back years from now and the only thing we’re going to remember is that this board voted to approve this project, the hospital and other uses that go with it.

“And, you’ll be proud of that for the rest of your life,” Hobby said.

Starkey said she believes that property values will greatly increase for the large-lot landowners in the area.

Hobby also noted that the hospital will be converting a great number of the multifamily units listed in its original application to other hospital uses.

Commissioner Ron Oakley, whose district includes the hospital site, welcomes the project to Pasco.

“The fact that the children’s hospital is coming there is great for Pasco County and the citizens of Pasco County.

“There’s a lot of hospitals coming to this area and the benefactor of all these hospitals coming here — they’re going to be competing against each other to give the best service to our citizens, and our citizens are the benefactors of all that service they’re going to get — and better health care for everybody,” the commissioner added.

“All Children’s Hospital is a great hospital,” Oakley said.

Published November 29, 2023

Nearly $50 million proposed for resurfacing portion of Suncoast Parkway

November 28, 2023 By B.C. Manion

Two resurfacing projects — proposed on the Suncoast Parkway — would make road conditions smoother for motorists using the toll road to drive through Pasco County.

The first project calls for resurfacing the Suncoast Parkway, from milepost 17.5 to milepost 28.5, in fiscal year 2025, at an estimated cost of $25.3 million.

The second project calls for resurfacing the Suncoast Parkway from milepost 28.5 to milepost 37.3, in fiscal years 2025 and 2026, at a cost of $24.1 million.

Resurfacing projects proposed in Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise’s five-year work would give motorists traveling on the Suncoast Parkway a smoother driving experience. (File)

The first project starts at the Hillsborough/Pasco county lines and the second one ends at the Pasco/Hernando county lines.

Siaosi Fine, with Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise, briefed the Pasco Metropolitan Planning Organization about the two projects when he presented the Turnpike’s five-year work plan, covering fiscal years 2025 through 2029.

Fine shared the highlights during the board’s Nov. 9 meeting.

The board is Pasco’s lead transportation planning agency and its board is made up of elected officials from Pasco County, Zephyrhills, Dade City, New Port Richey and Port Richey.

Fine also told the Pasco MPO board that the Turnpike Enterprise system has an active Project Design & Environment (PD&E) study going from Van Dyke Road in Hillsborough County to State Road 52 in Pasco County.

“The primary work base that we’re looking at is widening the Suncoast Parkway, but we’re also looking at other improvements to incorporate,” he said.

Pasco County Commission Chairman Jack Mariano asked the Turnpike’s representative if the off-ramp at State Road 54 can be reviewed because traffic coming from the north at State Road 54 has a tough time getting off, backing up traffic.

Fine told Mariano he would pass along that comment to a Turnpike Enterprise project manager.

Mariano also asked if it would be possible to look at doing an interchange at Crews Lake.

It was reviewed before, but new development is emerging in the area, Mariano said.

Fine told Mariano that applications are made to seek interchange studies.

“I can forward you that application,” he told Mariano.

Mariano responded: “You’ve studied it already. It was a few years ago. It’s now changing, what’s going on out there.

“That corridor is going to get busier. A lot of acreage has changed out there. A lot of development is coming in. So, the numbers you were using before won’t be the same.

“You’ve got a lot of data already. I want you to use the new data, to take another look at it.

“If you want to get us the application, that would be great. You could just add onto what you’ve done, kind of update it.”

“The application would probably be the best way to handle it,” Fine said.

“I think if Commissioner Kathryn Starkey was here, she’d say, let’s go look at the Tower Road, Rangeland. She’d say, let’s look at that one (interchange), too,” Mariano said.

Fine replied: “That will be part of the active PD&E study I brought up before.”

Published November 29, 2023

Annexations prompt changes to Pasco election precincts

November 28, 2023 By B.C. Manion

The Pasco County Commission approved numerous changes to election precinct lines, as submitted by Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley, during its Nov. 14 meeting.

Here are the changes, as explained by Corley, in a letter to the county board, contained in the board’s agenda packet:

The following precincts have modifications:

Precinct 6 and Precinct 115: Precinct 69 previously was split by an annexation to the City of Zephyrhills. The portion of Precinct 69 that was subject to the annexation was combined into Precinct 6. However, due to contiguity issues, it will be combined with Precinct 115.
Precinct 114 and Precinct 74: Precinct 114 was split by an annexation to the City of St. Leo. The portion of Precinct 114 that was subject to the annexation will be combined into Precinct 74.

Precinct 86 and Precinct 6: Precinct 86 was split by an annexation to the City of Zephyrhills. The portion of Precinct 86 that was subject to the annexation will be combined into Precinct 6.
Precinct 63 and Precinct 19: Precinct 63 was split by an annexation to the City of Dade City. The portion of Precinct 63 that was subject to the annexation will be combined into Precinct 19.
Precinct 54 and Precinct 23: Precinct 54 was split by an annexation to the City of Port Richey. The portion of Precinct 54 that was subject to the annexation will be combined into Precinct 23.
Precinct 63 and Precinct 19: Precinct 63 was split by an annexation to the City of Dade City. The portion of Precinct 63 that was subject to the annexation will be combined into Precinct 19.
Precinct 69 and Precinct 6: Precinct 69 was split by annexations to the City of Zephyrhills. The portion of Precinct 69 that was subject to the annexations will be combined into Precinct 6.
Precinct 6 and Precinct 64: Precinct 6 was split by a contraction from the City of Zephyrhills. The portion of Precinct 6 that was subject to the contraction will be combined into Precinct 64.
Precinct 113 and Precinct 36: Precinct 36 was modified to accommodate a portion of 113 that was not affiliated with its respective Community Development District.

On another item, the county board passed a resolution declaring November as National Hospice and Palliative Care Month and commended Gulfside Healthcare Services for its outstanding service to Pasco County and its residents.

In other action, the board approved:

Approved a rezoning to permit the Hamilton Oaks master-planned unit development, which calls for 240 detached single-family dwellings on 61.04 acres at Billmar Road, about 1,750 feet east of the terminus of Zephyrhills Bypass
A task order in the amount not to exceed $551,042 with CPH Consulting LLC, to perform architectural, engineering and related services for the design of the Utilities Environmental Lab, located at 19434 Central Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes, and for related construction administrative services following the design
An interlocal agreement to enable Pasco County Fire/Rescue and the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office for a SWAT Medic program dedicated to heightened safety measures during critical incidents where the safety of first responders may otherwise be in jeopardy
Approved a multi-year contract with Crosscreek Environmental Inc., in the amount not to exceed a total of $720,000 for as-needed aquatic weed control. The contract covers fiscal years 2024 through 2026, with optional one-year renewals at $240,000 a year for fiscal year 2027 and 2028. The approval is retroactive to Oct. 1, 2023.
Approved a task order with SiteOne Landscape Supply LLC for ongoing and as-needed topdressing sand for athletic fields. The contract is a not-to-exceed amount of $150,000, which covers $50,000 a year for fiscal years 2024 through 2026.
Approved a task order with Freese and Nichols Inc., for a potable water master plan update project in an amount not-to-exceed $498,700 for fiscal year 2024, which includes an allowance of $30,000, if needed. The update will provide a 20-year plan for the Pasco County Potable Water System, with planning periods of five years, 10 years and 20 years.
Authorized and instructed the retained legal counsel to not opt out of the settlement of litigation involving aqueous film forming products liability, and authorized the county attorney and county administrator to take all necessary steps for Pasco County to participate in the claims process associated with the settlements.

Published November 29, 2023

Business Digest 11/29/2023

November 28, 2023 By B.C. Manion

(Courtesy of Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant)

Cooper’s Hawk opens
Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant officially opened in Wesley Chapel on Nov. 20, at 28963 State Road 56. The restaurant brings the essence of Napa Valley’s wine country to the heart of Tampa Bay and celebrates the fusion of food and wine, according to a news release. The restaurant features an indoor and outdoor dining area, full-service bar, Napa-style tasting room, and retail gift store.

Spectrum helps Sunrise
More than 20 Spectrum employees and volunteers turned out to help do landscaping work and renovations at Sunrise Pasco County, and to deliver more than 20 laptops to the Spectrum technology training room.

Sunrise, which assists survivors of domestic violence, received a $50,000 contribution from Spectrum Community Center Assist, the company’s $30 million philanthropic initiative, according to a Spectrum news release. It also will have 1GB Spectrum going forward.

The $50,000 to be used for job skills training includes expanding the resources offered to clients to enable their independence, according to a news release. Additionally, because broadband is a critical component of a community center’s infrastructure, Spectrum will provide Sunrise Pasco its advanced 1 gigabit-per-second internet service, for the life of the program.

“Nearly 99% of abusive relationships have elements of economic or financial abuse,” Kelly Sinn, CEO of Sunrise of Pasco County, said in the release. “The support from Spectrum will allow Sunrise to strengthen our Economic Empowerment Program by providing survivors with the necessary tools, resources and education to gain financial independence. Often, survivors stay in abusive relationships or return because of the financial isolation and abuse. It is our hope, that the opportunity that Spectrum has provided us, will help survivors to achieve personal success and build a future free of abuse.”

Spectrum launched Spectrum Community Center Assist in 2021 and will invest $30 million to benefit 100 community centers and job training programs in underserved areas across the company’s 41-state footprint. At each location, Spectrum invests in the community center’s job training efforts with cash grants and in-kind contributions, improves physical classroom spaces, sponsors rebuilding events with volunteers to repair and enhance the physical buildings, and provides new equipment, including laptops and furniture.

SMARTstart scholarships
Veterans should be sure to check out scholarships that are available through the Pasco Economic Development Council’s SMARTstart program. The Santander Scholarship is now open to veterans and can be applied toward incubator membership, entrepreneurs and the CO.STARTERS program. There’s a veterans cohort in the CO.STARTERS program beginning in January. For more information, visit the SMARTstart website at SmartStartPasco.com.

Brochure Exchange
The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce has its Land O’ Lakes Brochure Exchange on the second Thursday of each month , from 11:30 to 1 p.m. at New Beginnings, 18935 Michigan Lane, which is one-fourth mile north of State Road 52, off U.S. 41. The event is hosted by Judi Fisher of Architectural Signage & Printing. Those attending can order a barbecue lunch catered by Hungry Harry’s. Attendance is free for chamber members, plus the cost of food. Non-members pay $10, plus the cost of food. If you would like to attend this event to find out more about it, the chamber offers a one-time free entry. To arrange that, call 727-842-7651 or 813-909-2722.

Weichert’s new team members
Weichert® affiliated offices in the Tampa area have recently added Martina Cheverez, Haiden Gabbard and Marquies Johnson to the team at 11734 N. Dale Mabry Highway, in Tampa. For more information, contact Hector Contreras at 727-344-9325 or

Restaurant & Lodging awards
The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) named U.S. Foods and area president Pat Monile as Supplier of the Year during the 2023 Hospitality Starts of the Industry Gala.

They also were inducted into the FRLA Hall of Fame during the ceremony, which was held recently at the Opal Grand Resort in Delray Beach, according to a news release.

“Florida’s hospitality industry could not succeed without our amazing suppliers like U.S. Foods – reliable food distributors who enable our restaurants to produce innovative food and create memorable experiences for our guests,” Carol Dover, president and CEO of the FRLA, said in the release. “They are an important partner in hospitality, and we are proud to recognize them as our Supplier of the Year.”

The Hospitality Stars of the Industry Gala pays tribute to operators and suppliers from across the Sunshine State for their remarkable work in hospitality. The Hall of Fame distinction is reserved for those who have dedicated decades to providing excellent service and leadership in hospitality.

Hometown Heroes Program reopened
The Florida Housing Finance Corporation recently announced that the Hometown Heroes down payment assistance program will reopen with $36 million available to families looking to purchase their first home, according to a news release.

The Hometown Heroes program received $100 million from the Florida Legislature in July 2023 to help Florida families purchase their first home in the community where they work.

Within two months, the funds were fully committed — helping more than 6,400 families purchase a home.

Due to increased demand and the rapid speed at which the previous funding was reserved, Florida Housing has redirected additional resources to allow for the program to be reopened with more funding to assist Florida’s homebuyers.

The Hometown Heroes program is available to all full-time workers in Florida who earn less than 150% of their county’s area median income (AMI). The maximum down payment assistance available to each homebuyer is $35,000, or up to 5% of their first mortgage loan amount. To get started, homebuyers must connect with one of Florida Housing’s participating loan officers, have a minimum credit score of 640, and be a first-time homebuyer (veterans are exempt from this requirement).

For more information on the Hometown Heroes program or to connect with a loan officer in your area, visit FloridaHousing.org/hometownheroes.

NFIB Jobs Report: Tight Labor Market Continues to Hinder Main Street
In October, 43% (seasonally adjusted) of all owners reported job openings they could not fill in the current period, according to a news release citing NFIB’s monthly jobs report.

NFIB is an advocacy organization for small and independent businesses.

The percentage of small business owners reporting labor quality as their top small business operating problem remains elevated at 23%, the news release says.

“The labor market has not eased up much on Main Street,” NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg said in the release. “Labor demand is still strong and small business owners are working hard to maintain competitive compensation to retain workers and fill critical open positions. Labor quality is still a top problem among small businesses.”

“Filling open positions continues to pose a serious challenge for small businesses,” Bill Herrle, executive director of the NFIB in Florida, added, in the release. “Without qualified applicants, it’ll be difficult for Main Street to maximize their sales during the holiday season. Small business owners will do everything they can to retain their current employees and meet their customers’ needs.”

For more information, visit NFIB.com.

Pasco road improvements outlined in tentative five-year plan

November 21, 2023 By B.C. Manion

Road widenings, resurfacing projects and sidewalk construction are all part of the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) five-year tentative work program in Pasco County.

Brian Hunter, a planning manager for FDOT’s District 7 office gave members of the Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization an overview of what’s in the plan, and he also talked about some shifts in priorities.

The Pasco MPO is the lead transportation planning agency for Pasco and its board is made up of elected leaders from Pasco County, Zephyrhills, Dade City, New Port Richey and Port Richey.

Hunter explained that the tentative work program essentially lays out the work that FDOT plans to do in Pasco County — and includes the work it plans to do with partners, such as GoPasco and the Zephyrhills Municipal Airport.

Timing for improvements to the intersection of State Road 54 and U.S. 41 remain uncertain. The Florida Department of Transportation’s tentative five-year work plan calls for delaying right of way acquisition until 2028 to make sure that FDOT has the clearance it needs to acquire the land. (Mike Camunas)

“It includes all of the phases, from planning, to design/right of way/construction and maintenance on some of those facilities,” Hunter said.

The state transportation department is wrapping up the five-year plan that ends in fiscal year 2028 and will be adding fiscal year 2029.

The FDOT also receives comments from the public and the MPO, then makes any adjustments necessary before submitting the tentative work plan to the Legislature, Hunter said. The deadline for comments from the MPO was Nov. 20.

Once the Legislature approves a plan and it gets signed by the governor, the plan takes effect on July 1, 2024, becoming the adopted 2025 through 2029 work program, Hunter said.

He explained how FDOT determines its priorities.

“Our first priority is to always preserve our existing projects. If something has a cost change, our first priority is to add funds to that; or, if there’s a scope change, our first priority is to add funds to it, to make sure that project is whole.”

“The second is, we move on to the next phase of a project.

“If we had design funding and we need to add right of way funding to it, and it’s the appropriate time to do so, we move those projects forward — with the hopeful goal of moving to construction on those.

“The third priority is to add those new projects.”

The priorities are based on the MPO priorities, regional priorities and FDOT priorities.

“If there was a project that was in the previous work program presentation that I don’t mention today, that doesn’t mean that it has been removed or anything like that. It just means that there was no significant change,” Hunter told the Pasco MPO board, noting there are about 500 projects in District 7.

One project that has been of major interest in Pasco County involves the improvement of the State Road 54/U.S. 41 interchange, in Land O’ Lakes.

“We deferred the right of way to fiscal year 2028 on that,” Hunter said.

The department did that because it needs to have the appropriate documents to purchase right of way for the project and, until it does, it made sense to delay the funding into the year it would actually be used, Hunter said.

But a discussion during the board’s meeting may spur FDOT to consider early acquisition of a portion of the necessary right of way, to ensure that it’s not used for a different use before the intersection improvement project can move forward.

That issue is expected to be discussed again at the Pasco MPO board’s meeting in January.

Hunter also noted that Collector/Distributor roads previously in the five-year plan for the I-75/I-275 also have been shifted out of the five-year plan because of changing priorities.

Plans that are being recommended include:

Widening U.S. 301. The tentative work program calls for right of way acquisition for that project in 2029
Widening of Old Pasco Road. Right of way was added in fiscal year 2026 and construction was added in fiscal year 2028. Pasco County will be delivering that project, with some assistance from FDOT.

The plan also includes a number of resurfacing projects, some pedestrian/bicycle improvements and improvements at Zephyrhills Municipal Airport.

Other items of note include $5 million for enhancements at Zephyrhills Municipal Airport and $54 million for GoPasco.

Pasco County Commission Chairman Jack Mariano also raised an issue relating to the design for pedestrian/bicycle overpasses.

Traffic frequently backs up at U.S. 41 and State Road 54. It’s the intersection where much of the traffic heading east and west through Pasco County meets up with much of the taffic moving north and south.

Two overpasses are planned in Pasco — one at the Suncoast Expressway and State Road 52, and another at the Suncoast Expressway at State Road 54.

Mariano asked if the state could look into a simpler design, which might enable the projects to be done more quickly and at a lower cost. If that happens, he said, funding might be available for more projects.

He pointed to a specific overpass in the Kissimmee area as an example.

“We can take a look at this,” Hunter said.

Mariano also noted that U.S. 41 runs from Miami to Detroit and there’s only one section of the road that’s two lanes.

“That section runs from State Road 52 all of the way up to (Hernando) County Line Road,” Mariano said.

Mariano said a study was done years ago, taking a look at that section.

He said he’d like for the FDOT team to take a look at it again.

Hunter replied: “We’ve heard a lot recently about the (U.S.) 41 and the two-lane section.

“We can take a look at it, see if there’s any way we can move that project forward.

“It’s the same problem we have with every project, it’s all funding constraints. But we can see if there’s any way to kind of piece it together and make it work,” Hunter said.

Major Pasco County projects

These are some of the projects in the Florida Department of Transportation’s District 7’s tentative work program, Fiscal Year 2025 through Fiscal Year 2029:

Add lanes and reconstruct State Road 52, from east of U.S. 41 to Ehren Cutoff
Add lanes and reconstruct U.S. 301, from south of State Road 56 to south of State Road 39
Design work to address sidewalk gaps and construction of sidewalks at various locations
Add lanes and reconstruct U.S. 301, from State Road 39 to County Road 54
Add lanes and rehabilitate pavement on Old Pasco Road, from County Road 54/Wesley Chapel Boulevard to north of Sonny Drive
Resurface State Road 56, from Bruce B. Downs to Meadow Pointe Boulevard
Sidewalk at (Pasco Elementary) on Fort King Road, from Hester to north of Coleman
Bike/path trail on Perrine Ranch Road, from east of Grand Boulevard to Mountain Ash Way
Transportation planning for Pasco County, for fiscal year 2029-2030
U.S. 19 pedestrian crossings at various locations
Interstate 75 landscaping, from State Road 54 to south end of Overpass Road, southbound on ramp
Resurfacing of U.S. 41, from Washington Lane to County Line Road
Resurfacing of Interstate 275/Interstate 75, from the Hillsborough County line to County Road 54.
Resurfacing of U.S. 41, from Bell Lake Road to east of Ehren Cutoff
Resurfacing of Alternate U.S. 19, from Pinellas County line to U.S. 19
Resurfacing State Road 54, from Bruce B. Downs Boulevard to east of Curley Road
Resurfacing of U.S. 98/U.S. 301, from north Long Avenue to south of U.S. 98
Signage/pavement markers for wrong way drivers at various interstate ramps
Traffic management system, U.S. 41 from Hillsborough County line to Hernando County line
Aviation capacity project, Zephyrhills Municipal Airport

Source: Florida Department of Transportation, District 7

Published November 22, 2023

Neighbor complaints force delay on proposed commercial rezoning

November 21, 2023 By B.C. Manion

A request that initially had received a recommendation for approval by county planners drew considerable controversy at a public hearing and has been continued until Dec. 7.

Neighbors raised objections to a proposed rezoning that would convert a property currently zoned for neighborhood commercial and residential uses to a general commercial site, which allows a more expansive list of potential commercial uses.

Testimony during the Pasco County Commission’s Nov. 2 public hearing on the request also prompted a county code compliance officer to order an investigation to determine whether code violations have occurred on the property.

A proposed rezoning at the southeast corner of State Road 54 and Shaw Drive in Zephyrhills drew controversy at a Nov. 2 public hearing. (Mike Camunas)

The request was filed in the name of Dawood Hany and Neamataud Nermeen. It involves about 0.86 acres at the southeast corner of State Road 54 and Shaw Drive, in Zephyrhills.

The item had been part of the planning board’s consent agenda — meaning it was not considered to be controversial and would have been approved, along with other requests in a single vote, without public testimony.

But as soon as planners became aware there was opposition, the item was pulled from the consent agenda.

The opponents made it clear that they don’t want the applicants to receive permission to move forward with their plans for a 5,000-square-foot maintenance shop for auto repairs.

Jimmy Nelson, who owns the property immediately behind the proposed rezoning, told the planning board: “I think most of the residents who are here do object to them changing this into a commercial district.

“There’s more cars and concrete. The roads are not done. My road floods already as it is when it rains. My yard gets so flooded, it’s unreal. This is something that me and my wife don’t want.”

His wife, Christina, then proceeded to give the planning board an earful about activities that she said already have occurred on the site.

A home on the site already has been demolished and trees were cut down.

She reported the tree removal, and the property owner was fined, she said.

“There’s two homes over here. I’m guessing that’s what he wants to demolish and use it as a mechanic shop,” she said.

Towing activities have occurred there, too, she said.

“We all work. We’re all blue-collar workers, and there’s children.

“I’m opposed to it. This is not OK. We were a nice quiet neighborhood,” she said.

Her husband showed the planning board a photo on his phone that appears to be a building under construction on the site.

Addressing negative impacts

Neighbors claimed that the applicant’s site has been used for car storage and also for a towing business, which are not allowed under current zoning.

Planning board member Jon Moody asked: “Is there a towing business on the property?”

County planner Liam Devine responded: “No, there isn’t.”

Christina responded: “Yes, there is.”

Devine added: “It looks like there are cars there being stored, when I did a drive-by survey of the property. But I didn’t see towing.”

Moody added: “Is his storage operation in compliance?”

Devine responded: “That would not be.”

Richard Kujawa, who lives on Shaw Drive, told the planning board: “He has been using the property for AAA services, though he says he hasn’t. The gates are still open. He’s got the trucks in there.

“There’s been significant damage done to the road, from him coming in and out,” he said.

Another opponent, who has property on Huron Street, told the planning board: “When I bought the property, there were two houses on the lower end of his property. And then he fenced it in, took the houses down, so that made it all commercial. Took down all of the trees.

“He doesn’t pay attention to the rules.

“It says no trucks on either street, he takes down the signs.

“He’ll do what he wants. We’re just bringing it to your attention,” the Huron Street property owner said.

David Goldstein, chief assistant county attorney, asked the neighbors if the applicant agreed to put up a fence on the south side of the property and prohibit access onto Waverly, if that would address their concerns.

Planning board members discussed a number of ways to address potential impacts — by using deed restrictions or requiring the applicant to bring the final site plan back for the board’s review.

Christina said she would still object because of the noise that would be caused by an auto mechanics shop.

Planning Commission Chairman Grey told his colleagues: “I’d be very reluctant to approve this under the circumstances that have been presented here, mainly because this particular applicant evidently has done a lot of things under the radar. I don’t want the residents to have to come back here every time there’s a violation and report it and then to wait for somebody to deal with it. You know, we don’t need those kinds of activities.

“It’s a matter of trust,” Grey said.

Attorney Shelly Johnson, representing the applicant, suggested delaying the issue until Dec. 7.

She said she wasn’t aware of any issues raised by the neighbors before she came to the meeting. The delay would allow time to meet with neighbors and her client, she said.

“We’re a little flat-footed on it right now,” she said.

The planning board granted her request for continuance, which also will provide time for them to get a report from the county’s code compliance office, regarding the alleged code violations.

Published November 22, 2023

Pasco eyeing expansion of Villages of Pasadena Hills

November 21, 2023 By B.C. Manion

The Pasco County Planning Commission has recommended expansion of the Villages of Pasadena Hills.

The proposal also calls for shifting entitlements from one village in VOPH to another.

The proposed changes, which would be made to the county’s comprehensive plan, also call for improvements to enhance the area’s road network.

The planning board held a public hearing on the item, which now goes to the Pasco County Commission for final action.

The inclusion of additional parcels will help facilitate the construction of essential vision roads of the VOPH Master Roadway Plan, according to background materials in the planning board’s agenda packet.

The additional parcels would be along the current alignment of the Zephyrhills Bypass.

A related action, recommended for approval by the planning board and county planners, calls for a future master-planned unit development, called Hamilton Oaks, to construct a portion of the road for mobility fee credits.

Additionally, the proposal calls for shifting the boundaries in VOPH’s Village B and Village F to enable Prospect Road to be extended by a developer and to create a connection to the existing Curley Road.

The proposed Hamilton Oaks MPUD allows for up to 240 single-family residences. That application also requests for the development to be included within the boundaries of VOPH.

In other action at its Nov. 2 meeting, the planning board:

Recommended approval of a change to the county’s comprehensive plan that would increase allowable residential development on 28.23 acres at the southeast intersection of Ashton Oaks Boulevard and State Road 54. The current land use designation calls for three dwellings per acre. The new designation would allow six units per acre. The applicant is proposing 140 platted townhomes at the site.
Recommended approval of a zoning change that would change the zoning on about 19.82 acres of industrial land at the southwest corner of State Road 52 and Ehren Cutoff from general industrial to light industrial. The change would allow light industrial uses on the portion of the site fronting State Road 52, while preserving general industrial uses on another portion of the property. In essence, the intensity of uses would decrease.
Approved a request for the Cherry Hills West master-planned unit development that will rezone land now zoned for agricultural residential to a designation that would allow a maximum of 160 single-family detached residences on 34.07 acres on the east side of VFW Road, south of County Road 52.

Published November 22, 2023

Thanksgiving travel traffic is expected to be up this year

November 21, 2023 By B.C. Manion

Experts are predicting that holiday traffic will be up this year, as travelers seek to spend time with loved ones during the Thanksgiving break.

AAA is forecasting that 87,000 more Floridians — an uptick of 3% — will travel at least 50 miles during the Thanksgiving holiday travel period.

If you plan to park at Tampa International Airport, it’s wise to reserve your parking online before heading out to the airport. Parking spots could be in short supply at some points during the holidays. (Courtesy of Tampa International Airport)

This year’s forecast for Florida is the second-highest since 2001, the AAA news release says.

Obviously, with more people out and about, the roads will be more congested and the lines will be longer at transportation terminals.

Nationwide, more than 53.3 million Americans are forecast to travel for Thanksgiving, the AAA reports. That marks the third-largest travel volume on record, with nearly 1.3 million — or 2.3% more than last year. Those figures are surpassed only by 2019 and 2005, according to AAA.

Of 3 million Floridians making a trip, about 2.77 million will be traveling by automobile, about 210,000 will be taking to the skies and about 50,500 will be by other means, AAA says.

On average, nearly 80,000 passengers a day are expected to pass through Tampa International Airport (TPA) in the 11-day holiday travel period surrounding Thanksgiving, between Nov. 16 and Nov. 26, according to Emily Nipps, the airport’s director of communications.

The Tampa International Airport expects to see an uptick in travelers this Thanksgiving holiday travel season.

Passenger projections suggest the two busiest days will likely be the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday following Thanksgiving. An estimated 84,000 to 87,000 passengers are expected to pass through TPA on each of those two days, according to airport figures.

By comparison, last year an average of 75,000 travelers per day passed through the airport during the Thanksgiving holidays, Nipps said.

New this year, guests who are using ride-share apps like Uber and Lyft for pick up after arriving on the Blue Side will be directed to use the Blue Express Curbsides to relieve congestion at the Blue baggage 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, according to an airport fact sheet.

You can save time at Tampa International Airport by ordering coffee or snacks through mobile apps. Check the airport’s website to find out more.

Nipps said her biggest tips to make life easier for travelers are these: Pre-book parking online and use the Blue Express curbs for easier and faster pick-ups and drop-offs.

Nationwide, about 49.1 million will be traveling by auto and those road trips are expected to be cheaper because of falling prices at the pump, AAA says.

Before setting out, AAA urges motorists to be sure their vehicles are roadworthy — so they won’t be late, or miss their holiday feasts.

The auto club expects to rescue over 360,000 stranded motorists over Thanksgiving weekend. The three most common reasons for service calls are flat tires, dead batteries and lockouts, AAA says.

Are you flying for the holidays?Here are some air travel tips.

The folks at Tampa International Airport offer these pointers:

Arrive early: Passengers are encouraged to arrive at the airport at least two hours before departure. Those traveling internationally are encouraged to arrive at least three hours before take-off.
Plan ahead for parking. It’s likely the parking garages could reach capacity at various points throughout the holiday season, but you can guarantee a space by booking your parking online, in advance of travels.
Take advantage of Blue Express Curbsides, if you can. Those who are traveling with carry-on luggage only and don’t need to go to ticketing can use the Blue Express Curbsides. They offer a less busy alternative than the regular Departures and Arrivals curbsides. Drivers should follow signs for Blue Express. Blue Express Curbsides are also where ride-share apps pick up arriving passengers on the Airport’s Blue Side. Passengers on the Red Side – where the Red Express Curbsides are currently under construction – can meet their Uber or Lyft outside of the Red baggage claim area.
Check your pockets before going through security: Jams and jellies, cranberry sauce, gravy, bottles of wine and other Thanksgiving treats are commonly confiscated at TSA checkpoints, along with the usual prohibited items such as knives and firearms. To keep things flowing smoothly through screening, be sure to check your pockets and carry-on luggage before leaving home.
Skip the lines: You can order ahead and have a latte or burger or other snack waiting for you when you arrive. You can use TPA To Go or the Starbucks mobile app to order and pay, then swing by the counter to pick up your goods without standing in line.

And now, some additional air travel tips from AAA:

Check-in early online.
Monitor your flight status using your air carrier’s mobile app.
Pack medications and an extra set of clothes in your carry-on bag, just in case your flight is delayed or canceled.
If you haven’t booked your flight yet, book a flight that leaves early in the day. Flights in the afternoon and evening are more susceptible to delays and cancellations.
Book a direct flight or build in extra time for connections, in case your first flight is delayed.
Consider traveling on Thanksgiving Day. This could offer the best combination of availability and price.

Best times to travel

Are you doing a Thanksgiving road trip? AAA says these are the best/worst times:

Nov. 22: Best time, before 11 a.m.; worst time, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Nov. 23: Best times, before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m.; worst time, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Nov. 24: Best times, before 11 a.m. and after 7 p.m.; worst time, from noon to 4 p.m.
Nov. 25: Best time, before noon; worst time, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Nov. 26: Best time, before noon; worst time, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

AAA suggestions for your Thanksgiving road trip-

Prevent vehicle breakdowns:

Check your tires at least once a month and before taking a long trip. Pay attention to tire inflation pressure and tread depth.
Check your battery: If your engine is slow to start and/or your lights are dim, your battery may be nearing the end of its life. Look also for damage, corrosion or other signs of deterioration.
Listen to and feel the brakes: If you hear a grinding sound or feel a vibration when applying the brakes, take your vehicle to the shop for a brake inspection.
Replace wiper blades and replenish windshield cleaner: Most manufacturers recommend replacing wiper blades every six months to 12 months.
Top off engine oil and other fluids: Check the oil, coolant and brake, transmission and power steering fluids. When adding fluids, add the correct levels and make sure they meet the specifications listed in the owner’s manual.
Replenish emergency kit supplies: Be sure you have a flashlight and extra fresh batteries, first-aid supplies, drinking supplies, nonperishable snacks, battery booster cables, emergency flares or reflectors, a rain poncho, a basic tool kit, duct tape, gloves and shop rags or paper towels.

Leave early, be prepared, stay safe

Leave early and allow extra time to get to your destination, so you are not in a rush.
Identify alternate routes in case you encounter congestion or road closures.
Avoid distractions while driving. Program your GPS before your drive.
Ensure everyone in the vehicle wears their seatbelt.
Never drive impaired.
If you have to pull over, go as far as possible on the shoulder, turn on your hazard lights and call for help.

Published November 22, 2023

Dry conditions prompt declaration of a ‘Phase 1 Water Shortage’

November 21, 2023 By B.C. Manion

Lower-than-normal rainfall has led the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s governing board to declare a Modified Phase 1 Water Shortage.

The restrictions apply to all of Citrus, DeSoto, Hardee, Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota and Sumter counties; portions of Charlotte, Highlands and Lake counties; the City of Dunnellon and The Villages in Marion County; and the portion of Gasparilla Island in Lee County from Nov. 21, 2023 through July 1, 2024.

The area within the Southwest Florida Water Management District has received lower than normal rainfall during its summer rainy season and currently has a 9.2-inch districtwide rainfall deficit compared to the average 12-month total, according to the Water Management District’s news release.

Water levels in the Water Management District’s water resources, such as aquifers, rivers and lakes, also are beginning to decline, the release says.

The Modified Phase I Water Shortage Order does not change allowable watering schedules for most counties, however it does prohibit “wasteful and unnecessary” water use and twice-per-week lawn watering schedules remain in effect except where stricter measures have been imposed by local governments.

Residents are asked to check their irrigation systems to ensure they are working properly. This means testing and repairing broken pipes and leaks, and fixing damaged or tilted sprinkler heads.

Residents should also check their irrigation timer to ensure the settings are correct and the rain sensor is working properly.

Also, beginning Dec. 1, Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties will be limited to once-per-week lawn watering. These additional restrictions are needed because Tampa Bay Water, which supplies water to most of the three-county area, was unable to completely refill the 15-billion-gallon C.W. Bill Young Regional Reservoir this summer due to the lower-than-normal rainfall.

Once-per-week lawn watering days and times are as follows, unless your city or county has a different schedule or stricter hours in effect (Citrus, Hernando and Sarasota counties, and the cities of Dunedin and Venice, have local ordinances that remain on one-day-per-week schedules):

If your address ends in:

0 or 1, water only on Monday
2 or 3, water only on Tuesday
4 or 5, water only on Wednesday
6 or 7: water only on Thursday
8, 9 and locations without a discernible address, water only on Friday

Also, unless your city or county already has stricter hours in effect, properties under 2 acres may only water before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m.

For properties larger than 2 acres, unless your city or county already has stricter hours in effect, watering may only occur before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.

Low-volume watering of plants and shrubs, through micro-irrigation, soaker hoses and hand-watering is allowed any day and any time.

The order also requires local utilities to review and implement procedures for enforcing year-round water conservation measures and water shortage restrictions, including reporting enforcement activity to the Water Management District.

The water management district continues to work closely with Tampa Bay Water to ensure a sustainable water supply for the Tampa Bay region, the release says.

For more information, WaterMatters.org/Restrictions.

For tips on conserving water, visit WaterMatters.org/Water101.

Published November 22, 2023