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What: ENCORE's Power Up for School Back-to-School
Date: Wednesday, August 5
Time: 5:30 to 6:30 PM
Where: Greenspace near Ella, located at 1201 Ray Charles Blvd., Tampa
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County to Unveil
Buffalo Soldiers Monument on August 29
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Veteran Community Services and Hillsborough County leaders invite the community to help dedicate the new Buffalo Soldiers Monument on Saturday, August 29 at 10 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park & Rear Admiral LeRoy Collins, Jr. Veterans Museum, 3602 N. U.S. Highway 301 in Tampa. A ceremony will be held at the outdoor amphitheater, followed by the official unveiling of the large bronze monument in the park.
Event Highlights:
- National Association of Buffalo Soldiers & Troopers Motorcycle Club, Tampa Chapter
- Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard and Mounted Patrol
- Keynote speaker Retired Army Brigadier Gen. Remo Butler
- Light refreshments and fellowship following the monument unveiling
- Free parking and admission; the park and monuments remain open until 5 pm.
For more information about the event or Veterans Memorial Park & Rear Admiral LeRoy Collins, Jr. Veterans Museum, call Hillsborough County Veteran Community Services at (813) 635-8316 or visit HCFL.gov/Veterans.
| | Commissioner Cohen presented a proclamation declaring July 26, 2026, as Americans with Disabilities Act 36th Anniversary Awareness Day. Janet Beyer, member, Hillsborough Alliance for Citizens with Disabilities and the Alliance’s Public Awareness Committee accepted the proclamation and gave remarks. | | |
1) The Board received a special appearance by the Commission on Human Trafficking to present their Semi-Annual Report.
2) The Board received a special appearance by Joseph Walsh, Ph.D., Executive Director, Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District, to present a Board requested report regarding the District's current and future funding requests, performance, and overall value to Hillsborough County taxpayers.
3) The Board adopted a resolution in the form as presented supplementing Resolution No. R03-112 heretofore adopted on June 4, 2003, as amended; providing for the issuance of the Hillsborough County, Florida, Subordinate Utility Revenue Note, Series 2026.
4) The Board received a report on a plan for a phased implementation of the African American Arts & Cultural Center project.
5) The Board approved and executed a Restrictive Covenant required by the State of Florida Department of State, for final reimbursement of $250,000 of $1,000,000 in State grant funds expended on the design and permitting of the African American Arts & Cultural Center on County owned property.
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The Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association named Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Chief Jason Dougherty as Fire Chief of the Year during its annual conference this week in Punta Gorda, Florida.
In December 2023, Chief Dougherty was named the seventh Fire Chief in Hillsborough County's history. Hillsborough County Fire Rescue (HCFR) is one of the largest fire departments in the state. Chief Dougherty began his career in 1999 in Thomasville, Georgia, and later served as training chief with Tampa Fire Rescue. He joined HCFR in 2016. Before becoming Fire Chief, he served as Deputy Chief of Operations and Deputy Chief of Administration for HCFR.
This prestigious honor recognizes Chief Dougherty's exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to public service, and dedication to advancing the fire service across Florida. Since taking the helm of HCFR, Chief Dougherty has championed innovation, strengthened the organization, invested in firefighters and paramedics, and remained focused on providing the highest level of service to the residents and visitors of Hillsborough County.
Chief Dougherty holds a bachelor’s degree in health science education from the University of Florida, a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Waldorf University, and is a graduate of the Fire Service Executive Development Institute. Chief Dougherty holds the following certifications: Chief Fire Officer, Executive Fire Officer, Fire Safety Inspector, Fire Investigator, Fire Service Instructor III, Live Fire Training Instructor, Pump Operator, Fire Officer I and II, and Hazardous Materials Technician.
Please join me in congratulating Chief Dougherty on this most prestigious honor!
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Commissioner Myers Appoints Sandra Farragut-Hemphill to Commission on the Status of Women | | |
The Honorable Sandra Farragut-Hemphill graduated cum laude from Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia. After graduating from Spelman, she attended the University of Florida School of Law where she received her Juris Doctor degree.
Judge Farragut-Hemphill is the first African American appointed to the Circuit Court bench in St. Louis County, Missouri. Judge Farragut-Hemphill was appointed as an Associate Circuit Judge in March 1991. Judge Farragut-Hemphill is a member of the Missouri Bar, the Mound City Bar Association, the National Bar Association, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and The Links, Incorporated. She is the immediate Past President of the Mound City Bar Foundation. She currently serves as the Chair of the Nominations Committee for the National Bar Association and is a former Co-Chair of the National Bar Association Audit Committee. Judge Farragut-Hemphill is the proud mother of two children and four grandchildren. On December 31, 2021, Judge Farragut-Hemphill retired from the Circuit Court bench of St. Louis County after almost 31 years of service. After retiring, she relocated to her hometown of Tampa, FL.
This Commission was created to study and make recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners on issues pertaining to the status of women, including; discrimination, employment, education, day care, and health care.
Please join me in congratulating Judge Farragut-Hemphill on her appointment!
| | Hillsborough Public School Math Team Finishes Among Nation's Best at National Competition | | |
Fifteen students from District 3's King High School represented Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) at the Mathematics Association of America’s Mu Alpha Theta (MAO) National Convention in Texas and returned home with one of the strongest national performances in school history.
Team Achievements
All three King High School teams finished in the top 10 nationally:
- Mu Division: 5th in the Nation
- Alpha Division: 9th in the Nation
- Theta Division: 10th in the Nation
The standout result came in the Mu Division, where King High School's calculus team earned a 5th-place national finish, making it the highest-placing public school calculus team in the nation.
The team's overall success also secured a 9th-place National Sweepstakes finish, placing King among the nation's elite Mu Alpha Theta programs.
National Individual Honors
Two King High School students placed among the nation’s elite in one of the competition’s most challenging events, where hundreds of students vie for top scores on individual exams:
- Alexander Heidrick — 10th Place Overall, Alpha Division Individual Competition
- Aiden Mathew — 17th Place Overall, Mu Division Individual Competition
The performance reflects months of preparation, dedication, and problem-solving excellence by the students and their coaches. With a strong group of returning leaders and momentum from this year’s success, King High School’s mathematics program is poised to continue its tradition of excellence on the national stage.
| | Vincent Lopez of the Multi-Cultural Heritage Club of Sun City Center Florida honored Commissioner Myers with a certificate of appreciation as part of the organization's 2026 Juneteenth Celebration. | | Black Business Month, observed in August, is an annual designation dedicated to celebrating the contributions, resilience, and economic impact of Black-owned businesses across the United States. It serves as a call to action for consumers and institutions to support Black entrepreneurs and address systemic disparities in access to capital. | | Town Hall Staff Appreciation Luncheon | | Joe Gross, Director, Code Enforcement | | |
On Friday, June 26, 2026, my aides and I hosted our annual Town Hall Staff Appreciation Luncheon to recognize the contributions of everyone involved in making our Town Halls a success. It's a real treat for me to personally cater this event for my staff.
To everyone who participated in bringing County government to the people, I would like to thank you for your hard work and dedication. You are appreciated!
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Gamma Theta Omega Chapters Honors Gold
and Silver Members
| Barbara White, Joyce Daniels, and Neosha Woodson | | |
On Saturday, June 27, 2026, the Gamma Theta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. hosted the Golden and Silver Celebration at the Beulah Baptist Institutional Church in Tampa honoring a lifetime of excellence, service and sisterhood. Silver status represents 25 years of service; Gold status represents 50 years of service. It was an inspiring evening of enchantment and a delight to witness my Sorority Sisters being recognized for their achievements.
I presented a proclamation to each member on their years of service.
Congratulations to the honorees!
| | Dorothy Flowers, Rosalyn Wise and Reeche Wise | | |
On Saturday, June 27, 2026, the Tampa Bay African American Arts and Cultural Center (TBAAACC) Board of Directors hosted its first inaugural fundraiser to benefit the Tampa Bay African American Arts and Cultural Center. The event was held at the Florida Aquarium. It was an evening of elegance and opulence where attendees enjoyed dinner, live music, a live auction, and performances by local ballet dancers.
The AAACC is a planned 50,000 square foot cultural hub in West Tampa at 2103 N. Rome Ave., designed to celebrate African American life and legacy in the Tampa Bay region. The facility will include galleries, studios, event spaces, an amphitheater, Heritage Trail, and cafe, and is intended to operate seven days a week for visitors and educational groups.
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Celebrating America's 250 Anniversary
on Carnival Paradise
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Susan Valdes, District 64, FL House of Representatives
and Carnival Cruise Line Staff
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On Thursday July 2, 2026, Carnival Cruise Line hosted a patriotic celebration honoring the nation's 250th anniversary aboard Carnival Paradise at Port Tampa Bay. Carnival welcomed local community partners, veterans, business leaders and government officials to commemorate the historic milestone and reinforce Carnival’s deep connection to the Tampa community. My aides and I attended the celebration. Each branch of our armed forces was recognized and military members in attendance received a commemorative challenge coin.
Thank you to Carnival Cruise Line for a wonderful celebration!
| | Freddy Barton, Executive Director, Safe and Sound Hillsborough | | |
On Thursday, July 2, 2026, Safe and Sound Hillsborough hosted the Safe Summer Series at the Sugar Shack in West Tampa. This initiative was designed to promote safety, wellness, and community engagement during the summer months. It was an event that showcased our collective commitment to ensuring that all residents can enjoy a safe and fulfilling summer.
Thank you to Hillsborough County Government and the Children's Board for their support in funding the Safe Summer Series!
| | Brandon 4th of July Parade and Funfest | | Commissioner Donna Cameron Cepeda | | |
On Saturday, July 4, 2026, I participated in the Brandon 4th of July Parade. This annual parade is a great way to celebrate Independence Day with the constituents of Hillsborough County. Due to South County Pipeline construction, the parade was moved to the Hillsborough Fairgrounds in Dover. The parade included traditional floats, marching bands, horseback riders, JROTC units, and emergency vehicles.
Congratulations to the Greater Brandon Action Network on a successful 4th of July Parade!
| | Boss Babes Breakfast Club Attendees | | |
On Monday, July 6, 2026, I attended the Boss Babes Collective Breakfast Club at Eggs Up Grill in Riverview where I gave remarks about Hillsborough County. We enjoyed a delightful breakfast while honoring the accomplishments of women in positions of leadership.
Special thanks to Priscilla Conyers, Owner, Eggs Up Grill Riverview; Chandra Peterson, Cici's Tutoring Services, and Theresa Davis Lyon, Co-Owner, Safe Haven Independent Living for coordinating this event.
| | Summer Career Civics in Action Week | | |
Commissioner Myers with Cheryl Howell, Assistant County Administrator,
Office of Community Impact and students
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On Tuesday, July 7, 2026, Cheryl Howell and Commissioner Myers participated in a meet and greet and gave remarks to the students who participated in Civics in Action week during the summer Career and Leadership Academy at the Skills Center in Tampa. We discussed the importance of local government and how local government works for the people.
Thank you to the County's Office of Community Impact for coordinating the meet and greet!
| | Serena Williams, Co-Owner, Medi-Weightloss Riverview | | |
On Wednesday, July 8, 2026, I was invited to tour the Medi-Weightloss Riverview clinic. The Riverview franchise is owned by Serena Williams and Crystal Wyatt. This location opened without a hitch. They are connected to the Medi-Weightloss® mission, having already experienced the success of the program. Now they too are empowering patients on their journey to wellness through weightloss! We couldn’t be prouder of these strong women making a difference in their community!
Congratulations Team Medi Riverview on their beautiful new clinic!
| | New Bus Shelter at N. 32nd St. and 21st Ave. | | |
On Friday, July 10, 2026, HART opened a new bus shelter at bus stop 6 in District 3. The new shelter includes a bench and is completely covered. This bus shelter's location increases accessibility for riders. The shelter is structured to keep riders out of the rain and protect them from the sun.
Congratulations to HART on another bus shelter to serve our community!
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On Sunday, July 12, 2026, I was invited to join the Barbers STRONG Movement in Tampa at the Skills Center. Barbers STRONG is a movement that brings men together to build brotherhood, strengthen community, and create space for honest conversations. The guest speakers served as panelists for discussions that dive into local support and wellness. The conversations have expanded from a men-only mentorship gathering to welcome spouses, children, parents, and neighbors.
This event was in partnership with the Hillsborough County Children's Board!
| | Students of iGrow Summer Initiative Program | | |
On Tuesday, July 14, 2026, I had the pleasure of visiting the Bible Truth Ministries Academy at the Hope Center on 22nd St. in Tampa for their iGrow Summer Initiative. Founded in 1999, Bible Truth Ministries International, Inc. (Bible Truth Academy) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. They are a Christian private school located in Tampa that provides private education for boys and girls from Daycare to 12.
Thank you to Davida Franklin for the invitation!
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Mercy Oaks II Apartments
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
| | Maggie Rogers, Executive Director, Catholic Charities | | |
On Wednesday, July 15, 2026, my aide, Robbi Smith attended the Mercy Oaks II Apartments Blessing Ceremony & Ribbon Cutting in Tampa. Mercy Oaks II provides income-qualified affordable housing, helping individuals and families achieve long-term housing stability through quality homes at below-market rents. This new phase consists of 15 1-bedroom units and 2 2-bedroom units. The unfurnished apartments include a refrigerator, range, dishwasher, water and sewer.
Congratulations to the families on their new homes!
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Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.
61st Biennial Boule Paver Presentation
| | Marcia Harris, International Grand Basileus, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. | | |
On Tuesday, July 21, 2026, the County alongside Visit Tampa Bay welcomed the Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. to Tampa's Riverwalk to unveil a permanent commemorative paver marking the sorority's first return to Tampa for an international convention since 1976. The sorority celebrated their 61st biennial Boule at the Tampa Convention Center. Over 5,000 sorority sisters, philos, and guests converged for leadership training, governance, and celebrations.
Congratulations to the members of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. on your 61st Biennial Boule!
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72nd Boule
Las Vegas July 18-24, 2026
| | Norma Solomon White, 25th International President; Charletta Wilson Jacks, 32nd International President and CEO (sworn into office on July 23 at the 72nd Boule); Attorney Carolyn House Stewart, 28th International President, and Dorothy Bucannan Wilson, 29th International President, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. | | Thuane B. Fielding, South Atlantic Regional Director, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (sworn into office July 23 at the 72nd Boule) | |
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. hosted their 72nd Boule in Las Vegas, Nevada from Saturday, July 18 through Friday, July 24, 2026. More than 27,000 registered members attended. The Boule was an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of our members and recognize those who have made extraordinary contributions to society. One of the highlights of the Boule was the swearing in of Charletta Wilson Jacks as 32nd President and CEO, and Thuane B. Fielding as South Atlantic Regional Director of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Congratulations to the members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. on a successful Boule!
| | Kenly Park Splash Pad Ribbon Cutting | | District 3 Youth who Attend Kenly Park Camp | | |
On Thursday, July 30, 2026, Parks and Recreation held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of a new, 1,600-square-foot splash pad that will offer children and families a fun and refreshing break from Florida’s muggy days.
The splash pad has multiple spray features, including a giant bucket that fills with water before overturning and splashing the children below. Additional amenities include rubber safety surfacing, synthetic turf, and shaded seating. The County invested $1.5m for the splash pad. The project also includes stormwater improvements and a new sidewalk. This is the County's 10th splash pad.
Additional splash pads in District 3 Parks and Recreation Centers include Emanuel P. Johnson, Kings Forest Park, Lesley "Les" Miller All People's Life Center, and Winston Park.
Congratulations to the Parks and Recreation Department and to the residents of Kenly Park in District 3 on another successful splash pad installation!
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Marissa Schwartz, CEO, Onbikes,
and BJ Santiago, Director of Operations, Onbikes
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On Friday, July 31, 2026, I was invited to attend and give remarks at the Onbikes Safety Day program at the Skills Center in Tampa. The event, geared towards children, featured workshops and seminars on bike safety, including how to ride, how to get fitted for helmets, how to perform a bike tuneup and more. As our community children learn to ride bikes, it's essential that they also learn how to be safe.
Thank you to Onbikes for offering this much needed program for the safety of our children!
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Self-Employment Workshop Program
Ready for Fall Applications
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The County’s popular Self-Employment Workshop Program has opened the application for fall classes.
The Self-Employment Workshop Program (SEWP) is a series of classes designed to teach budding entrepreneurs best practices to launch and run a successful small business. The SEWP program is no cost.
Each participant will receive in-depth business training and a dedicated small business consultant to help along the way.
Evening classes will be held online through Hillsborough County’s Entrepreneur Services.
An application is required, and space is limited.
This program is designed for individuals interested in self-employment and who meet the income qualifications below.
Applicants must provide proof (paystub, tax return, or other approved documentation) that their household income does not exceed the following maximum qualifying annual income for calendar year 2025 based on family size:
- 1 - $31,300
- 2 - $42,300
- 3 - $53,300
- 4 - $64,300
- 5 - $75,300
The program is accepting applications through August 20.
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South Hillsborough Pipeline
Constituent Resource
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Tampa Bay Water is making steady progress on two major projects designed to strengthen the region’s drinking water system: the South Hillsborough Pipeline and the Surface Water Treatment Plant Expansion.
South Hillsborough Pipeline Update
The 26-mile South Hillsborough Pipeline will deliver up to 65 million gallons of water per day to southern Hillsborough County.
Construction is advancing across the project, with several major tunneling crossings already complete and additional work underway at locations including State Road 60 and the Alafia River. Open-cut pipe installation—covering most of the route—has been completed along portions of South Kings Avenue and continues in other areas. Supporting construction activities, such as traffic control, tree trimming and erosion prevention, are also taking place to prepare work zones and maintain safety throughout the corridor.
Community outreach remains a priority, with 195 stakeholder interactions recorded in April, including business visits, media coverage and public updates. Community coordinators are also in the field to answer questions, provide updates, and assist with construction-related concerns.
Pipeline construction is currently 2.4% complete, with spending aligned at 14% of the $478.4 million construction budget, and remains on track for completion in fall 2028.
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