Community Announcements

Pothole Portal Goes Live

As part of an ongoing effort to improve pothole repairs, Alachua County has contracted with PSD Portal’s “Citywide” software and is launching its Pothole Portal. The user-friendly platform allows residents to report potholes online and will replace rbmaintenance.gov as the preferred way to report pothole issues. Residents can create an account or submit a report as a guest. The portal includes an interactive map that allows residents to pinpoint the exact location of a pothole. Go to the Pothole Portal. When a pothole is reported, it is entered into the county’s digital system and automatically routed to the appropriate road file. County staff will use the portal’s analytics to help prioritize repairs, allocate resources, and improve service delivery. “Along with our new crews and machinery, this is part of a concerted effort to improve our pothole repair effort,” said Public Works Director Ramon Gavarrete. “We will continue to look for efficiencies and innovative ways to address this issue.” For more information, contact Alachua County Communications Director Mark Sexton at 352-283-2317 or [email protected].

Alachua County Commissioner Anna Prizzia receives Bob Graham Award

Alachua County Reminds Residents Water Shortage Restrictions Remain in Effect Despite Recent Rainfall

The Water Management District’s Extreme Water Shortage Orders are still in effect throughout Alachua County. Recent rainfall has provided welcome relief across North Florida but does not immediately restore groundwater levels following extended periods of below-average rainfall. Water shortage restrictions apply to landscape irrigation regardless of the water source, including municipal water, private wells and surface water. Landscape irrigation is limited to one day per week, with Saturday for odd-numbered addresses, Sunday for even-numbered addresses, and Tuesday for nonresidential properties. Residents should continue following the watering restrictions and conservation measures currently in effect. Water shortage restrictions also extend beyond landscape irrigation. Outdoor washing of streets, driveways, sidewalks, structures, and other impervious surfaces for aesthetic or other nonessential purposes is prohibited. Washing is permitted when necessary for health, safety, maintenance, construction, or other essential purposes. Residents should use water-efficient methods when washing vehicles, machinery, or other mobile equipment. These restrictions apply regardless of whether the activity is described as pressure washing, soft washing, or another type of exterior cleaning. Recent rainfall has improved conditions in some areas, but groundwater levels remain affected by prolonged dry conditions. Residents are encouraged to check irrigation timers, repair leaks, avoid unnecessary outdoor water use, and postpone discretionary water-intensive activities when possible. “Rain is welcome, but a few significant rainfall events do not immediately reverse the effects of a prolonged rainfall deficit,” said Senior Environmental Specialist Luke Sekula. “Residents may notice our traffic signs reminding everyone to conserve water.” For information about current watering restrictions and water conservation in Alachua County, visit www.AlachuaCountyWater.org or contact Luke Sekula at 352-264-6822 or [email protected].

Road Closure Planned for Northeast County Road 1471

Alachua County Public Works is advising residents that Northeast County Road 1471 will close to all traffic near the Santa Fe River beginning Monday, Sept. 28, 2026, as Watson Construction begins demolition of the existing box culvert bridge. The closure is expected to last approximately 11 weeks, with construction scheduled for completion by Dec. 11. Residents living along CR 1471 and on CR 325 will continue to have access to their homes throughout the project. A marked detour will direct motorists around the closure. Northbound traffic from Alachua County to Bradford County: Take NE CR 1469 to northbound U.S. 301. Continue north on U.S. 301 to SE CR 18. Turn right onto SE CR 18 and travel east to SE CR 325. Southbound traffic from Bradford County to Alachua County: Take SE CR 18 to southbound U.S. 301. Turn left onto U.S. 301 and continue south to NE CR 1469. Turn left onto NE CR 1469 and travel east to NE CR 1471. Motorists should follow posted detour signs, use caution and allow additional travel time through the area. Drivers should also maintain safe speeds and following distances. For more information, contact Alachua County Construction Inspection Superintendent Aaron Burke at 352-548-1240 or [email protected].

Eastside High School twins selected for prestigious Honor Band of America

Eastside High School students Caleb and Joshua Johnson have been selected to perform with the prestigious Honor Band of America. This national recognition means the twins are among the top high school musicians from across the country. They will participate in a national music festival in Indianapolis, culminating in a performance at Butler University. Joshua is a percussionist, and Caleb plays the French horn. Both are members of the Eastside High School Band, under the direction of Band Director Michael Brown. They were selected for this honor through a highly competitive audition process that included submitting recordings of their playing. The twins have received several accolades for their musical talents, including earning spots in the All-State Band, superior ratings at solo and ensemble festivals, and various leadership positions within their school band. “We are incredibly proud of Caleb and Joshua for this outstanding achievement,” said Superintendent Shane Andrew. “Their dedication and talent are truly inspiring, and we are thrilled they will be representing Alachua County Public Schools on such a prestigious national stage.”

Eastside High School senior wins National Merit Corporate Scholarship

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Governor Ron DeSantis Reappoints Nicholas Patronis to the Northwest Florida Water Management District

Governor Ron DeSantis Reappoints Nicholas Patronis to the Northwest Florida Water Management District | Executive Office of the Governor Skip to main content Governor Ron DeSantis Reappoints Nicholas Patronis to the Northwest Florida Water Management District August 28 2026 TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the reappointment of Nicholas Patronis to the Northwest Florida Water Management District. Nicholas Patronis Patronis is the Vice President of Captain Anderson’s Restaurant. Active in his community, he has served as a member of the National and Florida Restaurant Associations. An avid sportsman, Patronis enjoys spending time outdoors and participating in a variety of sporting activities. Patronis attended Gulf Coast State College. This appointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.

Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Two to the Southwest Florida Water Management District

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Robert Boos and the reappointment of Robert Stern to the Southwest Florida Water Management District. Robert Boos Boos is the Co-Founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Boos Development Group, Inc. Active in his community, he is a member of The Florida Council of 100 and a long-standing member of the Young Presidents' Organization and the International Council of Shopping Centers. Boos earned his bachelor’s degree in marketing from Florida State University and his master’s degree in business administration from the University of South Florida. Robert Stern Stern is a Shareholder at Trenam Law. Active in his community, he has served as a member of the University of Florida Board of Trustees, the Florida Postsecondary Education Planning Commission, and the Tampa Civil Service Board. Stern earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration and his juris doctor from the University of Florida. These appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.

ACPS students win more National Merit scholarships

Alachua County Public Schools is celebrating the achievement of five additional students who have won National Merit Scholarships. That brings the total number of ACPS National Merit Scholarship winners to nine for the 2023-24 school year. The latest winners include: Buchholz High School: Kira Thomas, who plans to study neuroscience Aaron Sun, who plans to study computer science Gainesville High School: Abigail Rice, who plans to study political science Isaac T. Kim, who plans to study computer science PK Yonge Developmental Research School: Anna B. Kaplan, who plans to study public health These students join four other ACPS students who won National Merit Scholarships in an earlier round of announcements: Buchholz High School: Joshua Joseph Kevin R. Liu Hailey H. Wang Gainesville High School: Samuel V. Zhang National Merit Scholarships are highly sought-after scholarships awarded to high school students who excel on the PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT) and meet other rigorous academic and essay requirements. The scholarships are worth up to $2500 each and are intended for students who plan to attend college.

Recent Ft. Clarke grad competing in national history contest

Aditi Bhat, a recent graduate of Ft. Clarke Middle School, will represent Alachua County Public Schools at the National History Day national competition in Washington, D.C. Bhat's project, 'Breaking the Silence: The Fight for Women's Suffrage,' focuses on the impact of the 19th Amendment, which gave women the right to vote. She won the district-level competition and then placed first in the senior individual website category at the state competition to qualify for the national event. “It’s about how much effort you put into it,” Bhat said of her project. “It’s about your passion for the topic.” Bhat said she was inspired by her social studies teacher, Mary Ryals, to participate in the History Day competition. Ryals also coached her throughout the process. “Aditi is an excellent historian, a great writer and a gifted researcher,” Ryals said. “She has done a phenomenal job representing our district at the state and national level.” Superintendent Dr. Carlee Simon also commended Bhat on her accomplishments. “We are so proud of Aditi for her hard work and dedication,” Dr. Simon said. “Her success is a testament to the importance of encouraging our students to engage in civics and history.” Bhat said she hopes to continue studying history and civics in high school and college. She plans to attend Buchholz High School in the fall. About National History Day: National History Day is a non-profit educational organization that promotes the study and appreciation of history among students. Each year, more than half a million students participate in the National History Day program, which culminates in a national competition in Washington, D.C.

Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Seven to the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Peter Crocitto, Jo Culberson, Nan Jeffcoat, and David Vincent and the reappointment of Christopher Nebbeling, James “Randy” Reaves, and Edgar Rosa to the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission. Peter Crocitto Crocitto is the Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer at Keiser University. Active in his community, he has served as a member of the Commission for Independent Education, the Career College Association, and the Southern Association of Student Financial Aid Administration. Crocitto earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting from Fort Lauderdale College and his master’s degree in business administration from the New York Institute of Technology. Jo Culberson Culberson is the Director of the Northwest Florida State College Public Safety Training Center. Previously, she served as the Law Enforcement Training Coordinator and Sergeant of Police at Northwest Florida State College and a Deputy Sheriff and School Resource Officer for the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office. Culberson earned her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of West Florida. Nan Jeffcoat Jeffcoat is a Warden for the Florida Department of Corrections. Previously, she served as an Assistant Warden for the Florida Department of Corrections and a Victim Advocate for the Eighth Circuit State Attorney’s Office. Jeffcoat earned her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Central Florida. David Vincent Vincent is the Citrus County Sheriff. Active in his community, he is a member of the YMCA of the Suncoast Board of Directors and is a Graduate of the FBI National Academy. Vincent earned his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Florida Gulf Coast University. Christopher Nebbeling Nebbeling is a Patrol Officer, Instructor, and Range Master with the West Palm Beach Police Department. He is a Florida Department of Law Enforcement Firearms Instructor, Master Taser Instructor, Driving Instructor, and Defensive Tactics Instructor. A veteran of the United States Army, Nebbeling earned his bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Phoenix. James “Randy” Reaves Reaves is a Sergeant with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. He has been in law enforcement for over 20 years and currently serves as the President of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 5-30 in Jacksonville. Reaves earned his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Auburn University. Edgar Rosa Rosa is a Correctional Sergeant with the Orange County Corrections Department. He is currently the President of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 86 where he has been a member since 2004. Rosa earned a Corrections Officer Certification from Valencia College.

Governor Ron DeSantis Reappoints Three to the North Broward Hospital

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the reappointment of Stacy Angier, Ray Berry, and Jennifer Nicole to the North Broward Hospital District. Stacy Angier Angier is the Owner of A Plus Educational Consultants. Additionally, she serves as a part-time Finance Person for Ocean Fresh Seafood of Central Florida and as a consultant for Precious Promise Academy and Christian Life Academy. Active in her community, Angier has served as a member of the League of Christian Schools Accreditation Commission and the Broward Health Foundation Board of Directors. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Miami Christian College and her master’s degree from Oral Roberts University. Ray Berry Berry is the Founder and Chairman of Health Business Solutions. Active in his community, he serves on the Habitat for Humanity of Broward Board and previously served as the Chair of the Jack and Jill Children’s Center, the Vice Chair of the Joe DiMaggio Foundation Board, and the Health Care Chair of the Broward Workshop. Berry earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Florida. Jennifer Nicole Nicole is a Shareholder at Gunster Yoakley. Active in her community, she previously served as a member of the Broward County Housing Authority. Nicole earned her bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Miami and her juris doctor from the University of Virginia.

Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Four to the Children's Trust of Alachua County

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Robert Page and Lisa Denning Tate and the reappointment of Dr. Nancy Hardt and Charles “Lee” Pinkoson to the Children's Trust of Alachua County. Robert Page Page is the Senior Vice President of SouthState Bank. Active in his community, he is a member of the National Association of Enrolled Agents and a former member of the Independent Community Bankers of America Board of Directors. Page earned his bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Florida. Lisa Denning Tate, DNP Denning Tate is a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist for Malcolm Randall Veterans Hospital. Active in her community, she is a member of the American and Florida Associations of Nurse Anesthetists. Denning Tate earned her bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration, her master’s degree in health sciences administration, and her master’s degree in business administration from the University of St. Francis, her master’s degree in nursing anesthesiology from Bradley University, and her doctorate in anesthesiology from Florida International University. Dr. Nancy Hardt Dr. Hardt is currently retired and previously served as a Professor at the University of Florida’s College of Medicine. Active in her community, she has served as a member of the Rotary Club of Gainesville Board of Directors. Dr. Hardt earned her bachelor’s degree from Sweet Briar College and her Doctor of Medicine degree from Loyola University. Charles “Lee” Pinkoson Pinkoson is currently retired. Active in his community, he previously served as an Alachua County Commissioner and as a member of the Florida Association of Counties Board of Directors. Pinkoson earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Florida.

Governor Ron DeSantis Reappoints John Rood to the Florida Prepaid College Board

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the reappointment of John Rood to the Florida Prepaid College Board.John RoodRood is the Chairman of The Vestcor Companies and the former United States Ambassador to the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. He has served on numerous boards including the Board of Governors of the State University System, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and the Jacksonville Port Authority. Rood earned his bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Montana.This appointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.

Governor Ron DeSantis Makes Four Judicial Nominating Commission Appointments

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announces four appointments to the First District Court of Appeal Judicial Nominating Commission. First District Court of Appeal Judicial Nominating Commission Jeff Aaron, of Tallahassee, is a Founding Shareholder at DownsAaron. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Florida Gulf Coast University and his juris doctor from the University of Florida. Aaron is appointed for a term ending July 1, 2030. Jason Hilborn, of Tallahassee, is a Deputy Attorney General for the Florida Office of the Attorney General. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and his juris doctor from Harvard Law School. Hilborn is appointed from a list of nominees recommended by the Florida Bar for a term ending July 1, 2030. Lazaro Fields, of Tallahassee, is a Partner at Continental P.L.L.C. He earned both his bachelor’s degree and his juris doctor from Florida State University. Fields is appointed from a list of nominees recommended by the Florida Bar for a term ending July 1, 2030. Benjamin Gibson, of Tallahassee, is a Partner at Shutts & Bowen L.L.P. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and his juris doctor from Florida State University. Gibson is appointed for a term ending July 1, 2027.

Governor Ron DeSantis Reappoints Four to the South Broward Hospital District

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the reappointment of Brad Friedman, Douglas Harrison, Steven Harvey, and Diana Taub to the South Broward Hospital District. Brad Friedman Friedman is the President and Owner of Artisan Foods Catering, Inc. Active in his community, he has served as a member of the James Beard Foundation. Friedman attended Broward College. Douglas Harrison Harrison is the General Counsel for Blue Mountain Analytics, LLC. Active in his community, he is a member of the Meadow Pines Community Development District Board of Supervisors and is the recipient of the 2019 Hall of Fame Distinguished Alumni Award from the Broward Education Foundation. Harrison earned his bachelor’s degree in political science and his juris doctor from the University of Florida. Steven Harvey Harvey is the Assistant Dean of Operations and Administration at Nova Southeastern University. He has over 30 years of educator and management experience at Nova Southeastern University. Harvey earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration from Nova Southeastern University. Diana Taub Taub is a Self-employed Consultant in the areas of Advertising, Design, Education, and Insurance. Active in her community, she is a member of the Florida Association of School Administrators and the National Association of Secondary School Administrators. Taub earned her bachelor’s degree from the Pratt Institute and her master’s degree from Nova Southeastern University.

Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Patriot Day

TO: Brian Fienemann, Director of Real Estate Management and Development FROM: Governor Ron DeSantis DATE: Thursday, September 10, 2026 RE: Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Patriot Day It has been 25 years since the United States of America was attacked by radical Islamic terrorists on September 11, 2001. Our Nation stands united in remembrance of the 2,977 lives lost on that day, including many first responders, local law enforcement, and military personnel who demonstrated selfless courage in the face of terror. To honor and remember those who were lost on that day, I hereby direct the flags of the United States and the State of Florida to be flown at half-staff at all local and state buildings, installations, and grounds throughout the State of Florida from sunrise to sunset on Friday, September 11, 2026. To view the Patriot Day Proclamation, Click Here.

Governor DeSantis Celebrates Florida’s History of Communism Standards

Governor DeSantis Celebrates Florida’s History of Communism Standards | Executive Office of the Governor Skip to main content Governor DeSantis Celebrates Florida’s History of Communism Standards September 10 2026 MIAMI, Fla.— Today, Governor DeSantis celebrated the implementation of Florida’s History of Communism standards, the most comprehensive in the nation. With the implementation of these standards, Florida continues to set the national benchmark for civic and historical education, ensuring students gain a comprehensive understanding of the consequences of communist ideology, including the erosion of individual rights, concentration of government power, and human suffering, while fostering a stronger appreciation for the freedoms and opportunities afforded by America’s Constitutional Republic.“As the new school year gets underway, Florida’s new History of Communism education standards ensure that students receive comprehensive instruction on the historical reality of communism,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Thanks to legislation I signed, all high school students are now required to learn about the damage that this ideology has caused around the world and the experiences of those who suffered under communist regimes. It is our duty to make sure that the next generation understands the truth about communism, so they are less susceptible to the false promises of “socialists” who seek to subvert our way of life in service of a radical and dangerous agenda.”“Governor DeSantis has ensured Florida students learn the truth about one of history’s most devastating ideologies and the immense human suffering it has caused around the world,” said Commissioner of Education Henry Mack. “By studying the atrocities committed under communist regimes, including political oppression, forced migration, famine, and the suppression of basic freedoms, students gain a deeper understanding of the consequences of concentrated government power and the loss of individual liberty. Just as importantly, Florida’s History of Communism standards help foster a stronger appreciation for the freedoms, opportunities, and constitutional protections that define the American way of life. An informed understanding of history is essential to preserving liberty, strengthening civic responsibility, and preparing the next generation to safeguard the freedoms we hold dear.”In 2022, Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 395, creating Victims of Communism Day and requiring Florida schools to provide at least 45 minutes of instruction on the history of communist regimes and the suffering they inflicted through poverty, famine, forced migration, political violence, and the suppression of fundamental freedoms, including speech and religion.Building on that effort, Governor DeSantis signed Senate Bill 1264 in 2024, expanding the requirement to ensure students receive a more comprehensive understanding of communism's history and its impact around the world. Continuing Florida's leadership in civic and historical education, the State Board of Education approved new History of Communism standards in November 2025. The standards were revised to include the indictment of Raúl Castro and the collapse of the Maduro regime in Venezuela to provide students with relevant, real-world examples that illustrate the ongoing atrocities committed by communist governments.

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Utility Rate Tariff

SMRU's goal is to provide all of our customers with affordable utility rates. View rates and fees (PDF) that we charge to our water and sewer customers. Seasonal Absences If you are planning an extended absence from your home, you may request that your meter be locked to insure against high water bills due to leaking pipes or running toilets while you are gone. Locking your meter will cease all water flow to the property so please consider irrigation or swimming pool requirements before requesting the meter be locked. A $30 fee will include locking and unlocking the meter on the dates you provide. You will continue to receive bills for base fees in your absence. Please contact customer service at 772-546-2511 to request this service or if you would like additional information.