Government & Politics

Martin County MPO Approves $55K US 1 Study, Sidesteps Sidewalk Fight

A federal grant for Jensen Beach school sidewalks survived a rescission attempt — but the debate over who owns the neighborhood exposed a deeper tension in county planning.

By the Government Desk — Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Florida House Pulls Hometown Heroes Funding, Threatening First-Time Homebuyers on Treasure Coast

Senate wants $75M for the program; House has withdrawn its $50M offer, leaving the workforce housing initiative in limbo

By the Government Desk — Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Government & Politics

Port St. Lucie Selects Contractor for $31.8M Water Plant to Head Off 2030 Shortage

South Florida Water Management District identifies the city as the only system in the region unable to meet projected demand through 2045

By the Government Desk — Tuesday, May 12, 2026

A cityscape featuring high-rise buildings and a construction site with cranes under a cloudy sky.

Government & Politics

Indian River Veteran, School Board Alum Eyes HD 34 Seat in '100 in 100' Listening Push

Shawn Frost says he won't run against incumbent Robert Brackett — but is first to plant a flag if the Vero Beach lawmaker moves to Congress

By the Government Desk — Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Government & Politics

Florida Tax Bill Would Cost Local Governments $76.6M, Benefit Aerospace Firms

HB 7031-E, before lawmakers in a Special Session, would carve out $39M in annual breaks for Space Florida tenants — with counties bearing most of the loss

By the Government Desk — Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Government & Politics

Florida Lawmakers Weigh $800K Tax Break for Financially Struggling Brightline

A Special Session bill would expand rail tax credits to benefit only Brightline — even as auditors warn the company may not survive

By the Government Desk — Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Government & Politics

St. Lucie County Bets on Glass Manufacturing as Florida's Data Center Boom Cools

Project Orchid, a 1.3M-sq-ft facility promising 1,000 jobs, advances as new state law and stalled data center plans reshape Florida's economic development landscape

By the Government Desk — Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Government & Politics

Stuart Recovers $2.3M in New PFAS Settlements, But Bigger Fight Remains

City quietly finalizes deals with Tyco and BASF, but undisclosed defendants and cumulative litigation totals raise questions about full accounting of 'forever chemical' costs

By the Government Desk — Monday, May 11, 2026