Dexter Barge

The Board of County Commissioners proclaimed January 26th as Human Trafficking Awareness Month, noting that Florida ranks third nationally for calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, and highlighted the work of the local Commission on Human Trafficking. The board also proclaimed January 21, 2026, as Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated Founders Day in recognition of their community service. Key approvals included an amended and restated arena renovation improvements agreement with Lightning Hockey LP and Tampa Bay Arena LLC, involving a county investment up to $358.5 million (an increase of $250 million) funded by tourist development tax revenues, and an extension of the arena lease through 2043. The board approved a partnership between Fire Rescue and MD Ally technologies to implement telehealth and care navigation services for low acuity 911 calls, aiming to reduce unnecessary EMS transports. Additionally, the board approved critical steps to implement the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery Program (CDBG DR), awarding three-year agreements to Arts and Young US LLP for infrastructure and program management, and BDO USA PC for housing programs, utilizing $61.6 million in federal funds. Finally, commissioners received a report on the progress of the $34 million Thenona Sassa Park expansion and library replacement project, scheduled for completion in late 2027.

The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting included key discussions regarding the extension of the state of local emergency enacted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which mandates face coverings in indoor business locations. Commissioners unanimously approved $4.5 million in federal CARES Act funding for Tampa General Hospital to repurpose a structure into a dedicated COVID-19 unit with 59 ICU beds and surge capacity. A presentation emphasized the importance of obtaining flu vaccinations early to mitigate potential stress on the healthcare system from a combination of COVID-19, flu, and other hospitalizations. County staff also reported on the status of the Rapid Response Recovery Assistance (R3) programs, noting that over $127 million has been allocated to small business, individual assistance (including rent and utility payments), non-profit support, and food relief services, leading to the closing of the application portals for some programs after reaching funding limits.

The document is a proclamation declaring February 26 - March 8, 2026, as Florida Strawberry Festival Days. Key discussion points emphasized the festival's role in honoring agriculture, farmers, and ranchers, highlighting its economic impact ($1.1 billion industry in Hillsborough County) and its function in building future community leaders through participation in activities like steer/pig shows and the Queen/Court competition. The speaker shared personal appreciation for the opening day prayer over visitors and the community aspect of the event, including support for youth in agriculture and non-profit contributions such as the Special Smiles Day for light and sound sensitive individuals. The proclamation also listed headline entertainment for the 91st festival.

The primary focus of this event was the presentation of a commendation by Commissioner Donna Cameron Cepeda to Hillsboro County Veterans Helping Veterans Incorporated. The organization, a 501c3 nonprofit founded by US Navy veteran Mike Odell, was recognized for its dedication to assisting hungry, needy, and underrepresented veterans. The commendation highlighted that the organization is run entirely by veteran volunteers, allowing 96% of received funds to go directly to veterans. In 2025, the organization assisted 179 veterans and their families, expending $95,25 in direct aid. Assistance areas included housing (50% of aid), utilities (40% of aid), and providing support for homelessness (e.g., buying plane/bus tickets). The treasurer noted that assistance to veterans has grown significantly since 2012. The organization also received a hometown hero award from the Tampa Bay Lightning.

The Board of County Commissioners declared February 26 through March 8, 2026, as Florida Strawberry Festival Days. The board approved the second modification to the construction management at risk agreement with Rick Man Construction Florida Incorporation, increasing the existing contract amount by $10 million for the Gibson septic to sewer conversion project. The board also directed the county attorney's office to process a resolution to expand the geographical area of the county seat beyond the limits of the City of Tampa, requiring statutory public notice and two public hearings. Additionally, the board approved a report detailing the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBGDR) funding, including a status update, an overview of a proposed single family housing program allocating over $211 million to assist homeowners impacted by hurricanes Helen and/or Milton, and an initial list of seven infrastructure projects addressing flooding impacts. The board received a report on the Mosy property development concept plan, a mixed-use project featuring hotels, housing, retail, office space, a fieldhouse, a movie theater, and an ice rink. Finally, the board approved naming a planned wall display in the county center lobby honoring Elart G. Simmons Good Government Award recipients after the late Richard Rich Reedi.