Winter Break

As we approach the winter season, we would like to take a moment to express our gratitude for your continued engagement with the Commissioner Gwen Myers District 3 Newsletter. Your interest and support are vital to our mission of keeping our community informed and connected.

In light of the upcoming holidays and in order to give our team a well-deserved break, we will be taking a winter hiatus. The newsletter will pause publication until January 16, 2026. We encourage you to take this time to enjoy the festivities with family and friends, and to reflect on the past year’s accomplishments in our district.

We look forward to returning in the new year with fresh content, updates, and insights that matter to you. Until then, please feel free to reach out with any questions or suggestions you may have as our office will still be open to serve the community. Your feedback is always appreciated.

Wishing you a joyous holiday season and a prosperous New Year!

Warm regards,

Commissioner Gwen Myers and Aides Wanda West, and Robbi Smith

Hillsborough County District 3

Office Closures

Holiday Closures

Most County offices and facilities will be closed for Christmas and New Year's Day. For the most updated information, please visit the links below.

BOCC Recap

Dr. Charles Sand, Andrew Emerton, and Commissioner Boles

On behalf of the Board, Commissioner Boles presented a commendation recognizing Andrew Emerton.

Commissioner Miller and Sun City Emergency Squad

On behalf of the Board, Commissioner Miller presented a commendation recognizing The Sun City Center Emergency Squad.

1) The Board approved a Mobility Fee Alternative Satisfaction Agreement providing for intersection improvements and the realignment of Old Big Bend Road and the extension of Simmons Road from Big Bend Road to the realigned Old Big Bend Road.

2) The Board authorized staff to proceed with advertising a Request for Proposals with a substantially similar draft scope for the construction of a new equestrian facility at the County-owned Northwest Equestrian Park, located at 10711 South Mobley Road.

3) The Board held a public hearing to consider the transfer of certain property rights within the Stacy R. White Preserve ELAPP Site to the Water Resources Department ("WRD") in support of the One Water - South Wastewater Conveyance and Treatment Project ("Project") and adopted a Resolution designating a portion of the Stacy R. White Preserve ELAPP Site for the Project in accordance with the conditions stipulated in the Resolution. The transfer of the Property Rights provides WRD with the rights necessary to construct the Project.

4) The Board held a public hearing and approve by a two-thirds vote the impact fee increase ordinance and the Water and Wastewater Rate Resolution which increases water and wastewater impact fees in both the Northwest Service Area and the South/Central Service Area.

5) The Board approved the County's sponsorship, in the amount of $100,000, for the "2026 Biennial Boule" to be held July 21 through July 26, 2026, at the Tampa Convention Center, 333 S. Franklin St. in Tampa, and produced by Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. - Initiated by Commissioner Myers.

6) The Board approved the County's sponsorship, in the amount of $5,000, for the "Be Out Day Tampa Bay" produced by FAMULY, Inc. Funding for this item is available in the FY 26 Adopted Budget in the Countywide Non-Profit Allocation. - Initiated by Commissioner Myers.

In The Know

In the Community

Marsha Lewis Brown, 17th South Atlantic Regional Director, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and Tangela DuPree, President, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Gamma Theta Omega Chapter

On the morning of Saturday, December 6, 2025, I had the distinct honor of attending the 85th anniversary charter day celebration of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Gamma Theatre Omega Chapter. The event took place at the Motor Enclave in Tampa, and it was a fitting venue for such a momentous occasion, filled with joy, reflection, and a renewed commitment to service. Gamma Theta Omega awarded $85,000 in scholarships to high school seniors during the celebration.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have participated in this inspiring celebration. The Gamma Theatre Omega Chapter’s dedication to service, sisterhood, and leadership continues to make a profound impact on the Tampa community and beyond.

Here’s to many more years of excellence and sisterhood, scholarships and service as we look forward to the next chapter in this remarkable journey!

Marcellina Adonis and Reverend Essie Sims

On Sunday, December 7, 2025, the Calvary Community Clinic held its fifth annual fundraising gala at their facility in Tampa, a night dedicated to raising awareness and support for the vital healthcare services they provide. I had the distinct honor of serving as the keynote speaker for this remarkable event, where we gathered to celebrate the progress made in our community and to discuss the future of healthcare accessibility for underserved populations. As I addressed the attendees, I emphasized the importance of our county’s healthcare services plan, designed to bridge the gap for those who have historically faced barriers to receiving quality care. This plan aligns with the mission of the Calvary Community Clinic, which has tirelessly worked to provide essential medical services to individuals who often fall through the cracks of traditional healthcare systems. I extend my deepest gratitude to the Calvary Community Clinic for their dedication to serving our community and for the opportunity to share my vision for an inclusive healthcare landscape. As we move forward, let us remain united in our mission to ensure that every individual has access to the care they deserve.

Thank you to all who attended and contributed to this important cause. Your support is invaluable in our journey toward a healthier community!

Jane Castor, Mayor, City of Tampa

On Monday, December 8, I had the privilege of attending the Mayor Jane Castor’s Merry Mingle, held at the picturesque Bob Buckhorn River Center. Hosted by Mayor Jane Castor and Ana Cruz, the event brought together community leaders, local businesses, and residents for an evening of festive cheer and meaningful connections. Throughout the evening, it was inspiring to see so many individuals and organizations come together in the spirit of camaraderie and support. The Merry Mingle serves as a reminder of the strength of our community and the positive impact we can achieve when we unite for a common purpose.

Thank you to Mayor Jane Castor, Ana Cruz, and everyone involved in organizing this wonderful event. Here’s to a joyful holiday season and a prosperous year ahead for all!

Meet & Greet

Local Business Owners and Entrepreneurs

On the evening of Monday, December 8, 2025, I attended the Nebraska Avenue Business Association’s (NABA) meet and greet, held at the welcoming atmosphere of Mr. B's Restaurant in Tampa. The evening proved to be an invaluable opportunity for networking, collaboration, and community engagement among local business leaders, entrepreneurs, and residents. The meet and greet featured a diverse group of individuals, from seasoned business owners to aspiring entrepreneurs. This blend of experience created a rich environment for sharing insights and best practices. I had the pleasure of giving remarks and connecting with several local business leaders who shared their journeys, challenges, and successes. These discussions illuminated the unique dynamics of our community and underscored the importance of collaboration in driving local economic growth.

Thank you to Jason Marlow and the members of NABA for the invitation and the warm welcome! I am excited to see what the future holds for the business owners on Nebraska Avenue!

Kiwanis Club of Tampa

Children's Christmas Party

Wanda West, Legislative Aide, District 3

and Van Ayres, Superintendent, Hillsborough County Public Schools

Thanks to Dave Rogoff, former County Director of Health & Social Services, for inviting one of my Legislative Aides, Wanda West, to attend the Kiwanis Club of Tampa’s 84^th Annual Children’s Christmas Party held at TPepin’s Hospitality Centre on Tuesday, December 9th. The area’s most needy children were treated to a special visit by Santa and piles of gifts. Mr. Rogoff sponsored gifts for siblings: sister (4^th Grade) and brother (2^nd Grade) from Town and Country Elementary School. The students enjoyed lunch, holiday cookies, and a fun-filled program that included holiday sing-a-longs. Excitement and smiles filled the room when it was time for each child to open their bag of gifts, which included $5.00 cash. The 4^th grader wanted to know if the money was real, and she was super excited for everything that she received. The Kiwanis Club of Tampa has been helping children and seniors in the local community since 1919. Kiwanis strives to improve the world one child and one community at a time.

Mr. Dave Rogoff, thanks for all you do for our community and congratulations on being honored as the 2025 Tampa Kiwanian of the Year!

Marissa Schwartz, CEO, onbikes

On Tuesday, December 9, 2025, my Aides, Wanda West and Robbi Smith joined me at Benchmark International Arena. We were invited to volunteer with the onbikes team for their annual Santa's Bike Shop event. This heartwarming initiative brings joy to children in our community by providing them with bicycles and helmets, ensuring that every child can experience the thrill of riding.

Volunteering at the Santa's Bike Shop event was a fulfilling experience that reinforced the value of community collaboration. I am grateful to have participated alongside Wanda, Robbi and other volunteers, and I encourage everyone to consider volunteering for future events. Together, we can continue to support initiatives that uplift our community and bring joy to those in need.

Congratulations to Marissa Schwarts and her team on a successful Santa's Bike Shop Event. We look forward to volunteering with you again next year!

2025 ReliaQuest Bowl Contract Signing Party

Commissioners Chris Boles and Ken Hagan

I am delighted to share my experience at the contract signing party for the 2025 ReliaQuest Bowl, which took place at the iconic Raymond James Stadium on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. It was an event brimming with excitement, camaraderie, and a shared passion for college football. The event was not only a celebration of college football but also a reminder of the economic impact and community spirit that events like these bring to Hillsborough County. From local businesses benefiting from increased traffic to the joy of our residents rallying behind their teams, the ReliaQuest Bowl is a shining example of how sports can unite us all. With the bowl game scheduled for December 31, 2025, anticipation is building for what promises to be a thrilling matchup between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Vanderbilt Commodores. 

Let’s cheer on our teams and make this event one for the history books!

Rick Lott, Former Mayor of Plant City, and Commissioner Christine Miller

On Friday, December 12, 2025, I attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly established Rick Lott Technical College in Plant City. The ceremony was a gathering of educators, local leaders, students, and community members, all eager to celebrate the opening of this state-of-the-art institution. Rick Lott Technical College stands as a testament to our commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education that equips our residents with the skills necessary to thrive in today’s evolving job market. I invite all residents to explore the programs offered at Rick Lott Technical College and consider how they might benefit from this exceptional resource. Mr. Rick Lott is a champion of workforce development and adult education. He is a proud graduate of Plant City High School and the longest serving mayor of Plant City. The school's motto is Find Your Future.

Thank you for your continued support and engagement as we work collectively to enhance the quality of life in Hillsborough County!

Mrs. Boles, Commissioner Chris Boles, Jen McDonald,

and Commissioner Harry Cohen

On Friday, December 12, 2025, I had the privilege of attending the 2025 Hillsborough County Firefighters Holiday Celebration held at the Firefighters Hall in Tampa. Joined by my dedicated aide, Robbi Smith, I was honored to celebrate the hard work and commitment of our local firefighters, whose bravery and service to our community are truly commendable. As we celebrate the holiday season, let us also remember the importance of supporting our first responders throughout the year. Their work does not stop during the holidays, and neither should our appreciation for their efforts. It is through these gatherings that we can strengthen our bonds and foster a sense of community.

I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the Hillsborough County Firefighters Association for organizing such a wonderful event and for the continuous support they provide to our firefighters!

Commissioner Christine Miller

On Saturday, December 13, 2025, I participated in the Brandon Christmas Parade in Brandon. It was great to see so many community members come out to support the parade and its participants. Wishing everyone a joyous holiday season.

Dianne "Ms. Dee" Hart, FL State Representative,

and Jane Castor, Mayor, City of Tampa

On Monday, December 15, 2025, I attended the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Fair Oaks Community Center. The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was a significant event in Tampa's community development and marks the official opening of the Fair Oaks Community Center, a $34.7 million investment in the city's parks and community infrastructure. The event was attended by city leaders, community members, and local representatives, celebrating the completion of this major project that aims to enhance the quality of life for East Tampa residents. 

Naya Young, Tampa City Councilwoman

On Wednesday, December 17, 2025, my staff and I hosted a 509 Community meeting at my church, Greater Bethel Missionary Baptist Church. We approved minutes from the previous meeting, heard updates from various committees and remarks from Tampa City Councilwoman Naya Young. We were grateful to have Black Treasures Investment youth in attendance.

Commissioners Donna Cameron Cepeda, Harry Cohen, and Christine Miller

On Thursday, December 18, 2025, my staff and I attended the BOCC Holiday Luncheon hosted by Commissioner Miller and her Aides Casaundra Marion and Meagan Moser. The luncheon was held at the beautiful Varlow Farms in Plant City and catered by Mission BBQ. The District 4 team planned exciting games with amazing prizes donated by local businesses and encouraged everyone to eat, dance, and be merry. A great time was had by all.

Congratulations to the District 4 team on a successful holiday luncheon!

On Thursday, December 18, 2025, my Aides, Wanda West and Robbi Smith and I hosted the 2nd annual Gwen Myers Food and Toy Drive-Thru Giveaway at my church, Greater Bethel Missionary Baptist Church. We donated hundreds of meal boxes to local families, hundreds of bags of toys, household items and more than 150 bicycles.

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