Community News
Wednesday, May 13, 2026 · Lecanto
Collier County Celebrates Picayune Strand Everglades Completion
A cornerstone Everglades restoration project spanning 55,000 acres in Collier County has reached full completion, restoring natural water flows and revitalizing wetlands. The Picayune Strand Restoration Project marks another victory in Florida's massive Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan. Officials hailed the milestone as a model of federal-state collaboration.
Florida Bills Slash No-Fault Auto, Shield Homeowners from Roof Hikes
Florida's 2026 insurance reforms repeal the state's no-fault auto system and protect homeowners from coverage denials over old roofs, aiming to curb skyrocketing premiums amid hurricane risks. Effective July 1, new laws mandate fault-based liability for crashes and require human review of AI claim denials. Drivers and residents from Miami to Tampa face a transformed market promising rate relief.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Florida's Heat Wave Eases Slightly Friday After Record-Breaking Thursday
South Florida and Central Florida residents get a brief respite from scorching temperatures Friday, with highs dropping into the upper 80s at the coast and low 90s inland—but forecasters warn the dangerous heat pattern will persist through the weekend. Thursday's near-record temperatures set the stage for what meteorologists are calling one of the hottest stretches of the year so far.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
DeSantis Signs 2026 Farm Bill in Sebring, Boosting Rural Florida
Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 290 into law Monday in Sebring, delivering wins for Florida farmers with protections for gas-powered equipment and farmland preservation. The measure bans local bans on gasoline tools, makes the Farmers Feeding Florida program permanent and curbs high-density rural development. Critics decry potential sprawl from related land-use changes.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Citrus County Breaks Ground on New Animal Services Facility
Citrus County hosts a groundbreaking ceremony June 15 for a new Animal Services facility in Lecanto, with construction expected to wrap up in fall 2027.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Citrus County Wins State Awards for Growth Planning, Economic Development Website
Citrus County won state recognition for its data-driven growth forecasting model and redesigned economic development website, citrusadvantage.com.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Citrus County Lifts Burn Ban as Drought Conditions Ease
Citrus County lifted its burn ban May 28 after improved drought conditions and recent rainfall reduced wildfire risk. Outdoor burning remains regulated under Florida law.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Citrus County Lifts Burn Ban as Drought Conditions Ease
Citrus County rescinded its burn ban May 26 after improving drought conditions and lower fire danger readings. Residents may resume outdoor burning of natural yard waste under state guidelines.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Citrus County Wins Awards for Growth Planning Tool and Economic Website
Citrus County received two regional awards for its Interactive Growth Model forecasting tool and its new economic development website, citrusadvantage.com.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
New Year’s Eve Dinner at Toro Toro Miami
Toro Toro Miami will offer a four-course prix fixe menu with live entertainment for New Year’s Eve 2024, featuring dishes like Wagyu Short Rib and Pan Seared Chilean Sea Bass.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Burn Ban Continues in Unincorporated Citrus County
Citrus County maintains a burn ban in unincorporated areas due to severe drought and elevated wildfire risk.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Citrus County Launches New Website, Seeks Public Input
Citrus County launched a redesigned website April 8 at citruscounty.gov, replacing the previous domain with improved mobile access and clearer navigation for residents.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Burn Ban Takes Effect in Unincorporated Citrus County
Unincorporated Citrus County enters a burn ban as drought conditions spike. The restriction takes effect April 1 and may lift once conditions improve.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Citrus County Voters Guide: How Judicial Elections and Merit Retention Work
The Florida Bar's "The Vote's in Your Court" guide explains how judicial elections and merit retention work in Florida. Printed copies in multiple languages are available through the Citrus County Supervisor of Elections.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Citrus County Releases 2026 Road Improvement Plan
Citrus County released its 2026 road improvement plan May 13, allowing residents to search which county roads will be repaired this year.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Citrus County Launches Direct Notification System for Residents
Citrus County residents can now sign up for direct email and text notifications on burn bans, water restrictions, development updates, and other county services.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
CF Woodwind & Brass Performance Scheduled for April 27 at Webber Center
Lecanto residents can attend a free performance by the CF Woodwind and Brass ensemble on Monday, April 27, at 7:30 p.m. at the Webber Center.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
DeSantis Rejects Florida Gas Tax Pause Amid $4/Gallon Spike
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis shot down calls to suspend the state's 25-cent gas tax, warning drivers won't feel relief at pumps hitting $4 a gallon. Despite pleas from Democrats and Palm Beach County leaders, he cited past failures and oil market volatility. As global tensions rise, Florida motorists brace for pain at the pump.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
DeSantis Signs 9 Key Florida Laws on Safety, Schools and Traffic
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed nine new laws Thursday in Tallahassee, tackling unlicensed drivers, church security and body camera privacy amid rising public safety concerns. Most take effect July 1, joining nearly 60 others passed this year. From stricter traffic penalties to expanded school guardians, the measures aim to bolster security across the Sunshine State.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Florida's Lab-Grown Meat Ban Survives Federal Court Challenge
Nearly two years after Governor Ron DeSantis signed legislation banning cultivated meat sales in Florida, a federal appeals court upheld the controversial law as constitutional. The 11th Circuit Court of Appeals rejected a challenge from California-based Upside Foods, cementing Florida's status as the first state to prohibit lab-grown meat—a move critics say protects the traditional livestock industry rather than consumers.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Florida Launches Mandatory Hurricane Drills Across All 67 Counties
With hurricane season looming just weeks away, Florida's Division of Emergency Management has rolled out mandatory public safety drills statewide to sharpen readiness. The initiative targets all 67 counties, urging residents to stock seven days of supplies and master evacuation protocols. Officials warn that recent storms underscore the need for swift action amid rising threats.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
DeSantis Greenlights UFC, Colleges in Florida's New License Plates
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed a bill unleashing eight new specialty license plates, from UFC fighters to South Florida high schools and military academies. Drivers can start pre-ordering Oct. 1, but only if 3,000 vouchers sell in two years. With over 2.3 million special tags already on roads, these could boost scholarships, mental health and more.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026