Memorial Day is a solemn time of national reflection dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the United States military. It is a moment to pause, express deep gratitude, and remember the steep cost of our freedom. We take this time to remember the heroes who gave everything for our country. Their courage, selflessness, and ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten. Have a reflective and meaningful Memorial Day. | |
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, encouraging open conversations, and promoting resources that support emotional well-being. Established in 1949, this month serves as a reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
This year’s theme emphasizes connection, compassion, and community. Whether it’s checking in on a friend, practicing self-care, or learning more about mental health conditions, every action counts. By fostering understanding and empathy, we can create a culture where people feel safe to share their struggles and access the support they need.
| Memorial Day County Closures | |
Most County offices and facilities will be closed Monday, May 25, in observance of Memorial Day.
There will be no solid waste collection (including garbage, recyclables, and yard waste) in the unincorporated Hillsborough County Service Area, which also includes Tampa Palms, Hunter’s Green, and New Tampa. For customers whose collection day falls on Monday, normal service will resume on the next scheduled day for pickup.
CLOSED on Memorial Day
- Administrative offices of County government
- Hillsborough County’s main Customer Service Center at (813) 272-5900
- Solid Waste Disposal Sites: Southeast County Landfill, Northwest and South County transfer stations, Resource Recovery Facility, community collection centers, and yard waste processing facilities
- All County recreation centers
- SouthShore Sportsplex, 6110 Waterset Blvd., Apollo Beach
- Skyway Sports Complex, 3901 George Rd., Tampa
- All libraries in the Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative
- Water Resources customer service centers. Emergency calls regarding County water and wastewater service may be made to (813) 744-5600.
- Development Services
- Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center
- Sunshine Line transportation service
- Hillsborough County Community Resource Centers
- New Tampa Performing Arts Center
OPEN on Memorial Day
- All parks, including dog parks, skate parks (10 a.m. - 7 p.m.), conservation parks, nature preserves, trails, splash pads (9 a.m. - 6 p.m.), and boat ramps
- Carrollwood Village Park, 4680 West Village Dr., Tampa, is open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- A limited number of Animal Control Officers will be on call for emergencies only. The emergency telephone number is (813) 744-5660.
- Hillsborough County’s Veterans Memorial Park, 3602 N. U.S. 301, Tampa, is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. with free admission and parking. In observance of Memorial Day, Hillsborough County Consumer & Veterans Services and the Veterans Council of Hillsborough County invite the community to the County’s 28th Annual Memorial Day Observance at 10 a.m. Sunday, May 24, at Veterans Memorial Park.
| | Commissioner Cohen presented a proclamation to The Honorable Chief Judge Christopher Sabella, The Honorable Judge Katherine Essrig, The Honorable Judge Denise Pomponio, The Honorable Judge Michael Scionti, Hillsborough County State Attorney Suzy Lopez, Hillsborough County Public Defender Lisa McLean, Julia Schilling, Director of Problem-Solving Courts, and Angie Smith, Chief Deputy, Court Programs declaring May 2026 as Problem-Solving Court Month. | Commissioner Cameron Cepeda presented a proclamation to Hung Mai declaring May 2026 as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month. | | Commissioner Boles presented a proclamation to Tim Pearson, President of Hillsborough County Fire Fighters Local 2294, Jason Dougherty, Chief, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue (HCFR), and Jose "Pep" Prado, Deputy Chief, HCFR declaring May 17 through May 23 as Emergency Medical Services Week in Hillsborough County. | | |
1) The Board approved the non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Tampa Bay Rays' entities, the City of Tampa, and the City of Tampa's Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA); and in addition, authorize staff to pursue further negotiations with the Rays on various definitive agreements that contractually define the terms of construction, funding, ownership, use, and long-term maintenance and repair of a new ballpark and related development and redevelopment activity on the Hillsborough College Dale Mabry Campus.
2) The Board adopted a Resolution repealing and replacing Resolution 13-150 to make updates in conformance with amendments to Hillsborough County Red Light Camera Ordinance 13-19, establish a process for appointment of attorneys to serve as local hearings officers, and authorize compensation.
3) The Board adopted a Resolution amending Resolution 23-100 to make updates in conformance with amendments to Hillsborough County School Zone Speed Enforcement Ordinance 23-22, establish a process for appointment of attorneys to serve as local hearings officers, and authorize compensation.
4) The Board adopted a Resolution repealing and replacing Resolutions 91-197 and 93-182, to consolidate Resolutions and make updates to fees the Medical Examiner may charge for certain services to be consistent with amendments to Ordinance 91-18 regarding fees to be collected by the Medical Examiner.
5) The Board executed agreements with the three (3) highest-ranked firms for emergency debris management services for the Solid Waste Department at a total estimated cost of $125,867,331.79.
6) The Board approved a resolution allocating up to $317,100 in funding to Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center, Inc. for converting the septic systems at their facility, located at 405 Beverly Blvd., Brandon, to the County-owned central sewer system, respectively.
7) The Board conducted the second of two required public hearings to consider the adoption of a resolution expanding the geographic area of the County Seat.
8) The Board conducted a public hearing to consider amending Hillsborough County Code of Ordinances and Laws Chapter 50, Article III establishing the Red-Light Camera Program to update the minimum qualifications for local hearing officers and provide for compensation.
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Effort Launched to Promote
Pool Safety in Hillsborough
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With the school year almost over and swimming pool season about to hit full swing, Hillsborough County is teaming up with the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City and the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County for Safe Pools Day Tampa Bay.
On Friday, May 22, code enforcement officers from each jurisdiction visited condominium, subdivision, townhouse, apartment complex, and other common-area pools to ensure they meet safety standards, including those outlined in the Hillsborough County Code. Staff will look for appropriate fencing, signage, drain covers, sanitation, and more. Violations can result in citations and fines, but code enforcement officers’ emphasis is on education and compliance.
May is Water Safety Month, and at Friday’s event, the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County will give tips for water safety and how to help prevent pool injuries and drownings. Florida leads the nation in drowning deaths of children 4 years old or younger, and most of the deaths are preventable. With hurricane season starting June 1, the Children’s Board wants parents and caregivers to add pool safety to their hurricane safety check list, especially if a family needs to evacuate to a home with a pool.
The campaign kicked off at 9 a.m. Friday at Loretta Ingraham Center and Pool, 1611 N. Hubert Ave., Tampa.
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Commissioners Seek Applications from Attorneys
to Serve as Local Hearing Officers for
Red Light/School Zone Speed
Camera Hearings
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During the May 20th BOCC Meeting, the Board approved resolution R26-041 and R26-042. Both resolutions include Local Hearing Officers for Red Light Camera and School Zone Speed Camera Hearings.
The deadline to apply for these positions is June 11, 2026. View full press release below.
| | Jody Jenkins, Project Manager, Affordable Housing Services | | On Wednesday, April 29, 2026, the County's Well4Life team hosted a health fair at the Joe Chillura Courthouse Square in Tampa. The County's commitment to health and well-being was emphasized by the many community vendors who took the time to participate and provide County employees with helpful resources. I was impressed by the wealth of resources available to our employees, from health screenings to nutritional advice. | | Antoine Flowers' Graduation | | |
On Saturday, May 9, 2026, I had the pleasure of attending my nephew, Antoine Flowers', graduation from The School of Architecture & Construction Science at Tuskegee University in Tuskegee, AL with my 2 sisters Dorothy Flowers, grandmother and Rosalyn Wise, aunt.
Antoine graduated Cum Laude and had the privilege of designing several projects for the school which include a school bus, landscaping, and the incoming freshmen class T-Shirt. He also participated in several competition projects on behalf of the school in which his team earned 1st place or 2nd place.
Dr. Mark Brown, 10th President & CEO of Tuskegee University welcomed the commencement speaker, Earvin "Magic" Johnson, Jr.
Congratulations to Antoine as he continues his studies to become a licensed architect.
| | GuideWell-Florida Blue 2026 Board Event | | Phillip Lee, Market President, West Coast Florida | | Raelene Ohanesian-Pullan, Development Director, Tampa Museum of Art | | Brian Pieninck, President and CEO, GuideWell and Florida Blue | | Commissioner Gwen Myers, Honorary Teammate, Tampa Bay Lightning, took this picture during the GuideWell Florida Blue Reception. | | On Monday, May 11, 2026, I gave welcome remarks on behalf of the BOCC at the GuideWell - Florida Blue 2026 Board Event at the Tampa Museum of Art. The keynote speaker for the evening was Thaddeus Bullard, a remarkable Professional Athlete and Philanthropist. The event served as a platform for shared inspiration and collaboration to enhance overall health in our community. | | May is Older Americans Month | | |
On Friday, May 15, 2026, the County's Aging Services Department celebrated Older Americans Month. I was honored to be joined by my Aide, Wanda West as I presented a proclamation and by honoring two volunteers for their dedication and contribution to serving others. Recognized by the federal government and the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners, May is observed as Older Americans Month. Hillsborough County Aging Services celebrated with its annual event. This year’s theme, “Championing Your Health,” included a health fair, formal celebration, dance, and food. The goal was to recognize the value that seniors bring to our communities and to remind them to stay active and champion their health.
The event was held at the Oaks Senior Center, 101 E. Kirby St., and recognized Gloria Pate and Vyline Beaupierre as Hillsborough County Aging Services Volunteers of the Year for their role in assisting local seniors and the seniors at Hillsborough County Senior Centers.
Hillsborough County Aging Services offers a number of programs and services that benefit seniors and caregivers in Hillsborough County.
| | Teen Takeover Participant and Volunteer | | |
On Friday, May 15, 2026, The Tampa Police Department (TPD) hosted a free, supervised event at the Jackson Heights NFL YET Center in East Tampa. The goal was to provide a positive, safe space for teens, counteract the negative image of police, and steer youth away from trouble. This event followed a chaotic “teen takeover” at Curtis Hixon Park on May 8, 2026, which led to 22 arrests, including 18 minors. TPD quickly moved to address the situation with a community-focused alternative.
As school comes to a close, we want to make sure the County and City have enough parks and recreation centers open after hours to keep our teens off the street and out of trouble.
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Supervisor's Inaugural Worship Service
Celebration Honoring Rosemary S. Gadsden
| | Rosemary S. Gadsden, Supervisor, International Department of Women | | |
On Friday, May 15, 2026, I attended the inaugural worship service celebration held at the Brown Memorial Church of God in Christ in Tampa. This special occasion honored the remarkable contributions of Rosemary S. Gadsden, a leader whose impact resonates deeply within our community. The theme for the event, "For Such a Time as This," perfectly encapsulated the significance of the moment and the mission we all share. Rosemary's legacy is one of empowerment and advocacy. Her tireless work has paved the way for many, and her commitment to fostering the church's mission is truly commendable. It was an honor to celebrate her as the Supervisor of the International Department of Women.
Congratulations to my high school classmate, Rosemary S. Gadsden.
| | Fire Rescue, C.E.R.T., and Office of Emergency Management Proclamations | | |
Barbara Tripp, Chief, Tampa Fire Rescue and
Jason Dougherty, Chief, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue
| | On Monday, May 18, 2026, I was warmly welcomed to the Public Safety Operations Complex where I presented 3 proclamations. The first proclaimed June 22-28 as Amateur Radio Week, recognizing the vital role of ARES/RACES specialists. The second declared June 4 as CERT Day to honor our Community Emergency Response Team Volunteers. The third and final proclamation proclaimed May 3-9 as Hurricane Preparedness Week reminding all residents that now is the time to prepare before storm season arrives. It was my honor to recognize the dedicated volunteers, communicators, and emergency preparedness partners who help keep our community safe every day. | |
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for
Tax Collector's Newest Office at
MacDill AFB Exchange
| | Bob Henriquez, Property Appraiser; Aakash Patel, Founder & President, Elevate, Inc; Colonel Edward V. Szczepanik, Commander, 6th Air Refueling Wing, MacDill Air Force Base, and Nancy Millan, Tax Collector | | |
On Tuesday, May 19, 2026, I joined Hillsborough County Tax Collector Nancy Millan as she opened her newest office at MacDill Air Force Base Exchange. The new office is a strategic addition to our county’s resources, making essential services more accessible to those who serve our nation and their families. The location at MacDill Air Force Base Exchange allows us to better support the unique needs of our military community, ensuring they have convenient access to vital tax services.
Congratulations to Tax Collector Millan on your newest location!
| | Progress Village Town Hall | | Buddy Harwell, District 3 Constituent | | |
On Tuesday, May 19, 2026, my Aides Wanda West and Robbi Smith joined me in hosting a Town Hall for the communities of Progress Village at the Emanuel P. Johnson Recreation Center in District 3. We had an amazing turnout of active Progress Village residents who had meaningful and engaging questions. We had more than 30 departments and partner agencies set up to assist residents.
A special thanks to the Public Works Department for their tireless efforts in installing a new stormwater system that cost over $18M in the Progress Village Community. This new system should alleviate flooding in Progress Village. Also, residents of Progress Village had the opportunity to sign up for renovations with Rebuilding for Tomorrow of their homes due to flooding from hurricanes Helene and Milton.
| | Windhorst Commons Ribbon Cutting Ceremony | | County Staff and The Devan Mitchell Family | | |
On Thursday, May 21, 2026, the County's Affordable Housing Services Department partnered with Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County on a new single family home construction project in Brandon. The BOCC approved Habitat to receive $1,417,000 in HOME funds for the construction of a 23-home subdivision of which 11 homes will be set aside for households with incomes at or below 80% Area Median Income.
All homes will display 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms with a 1-car garage. Construction will be complete by late summer of 2026. The County is extremely excited to be bringing on another affordable housing project that hardworking residents need and deserve. Pastor Jerry Smith, Sr. gave the closing prayer officially welcoming the family to their new home.
Commissioner Myers gave remarks and gave keys to the homeowner along with Brenda Brackins, Director, Affordable Housing Services and Kathleen Yates, Aide to Commissioner Chris Boles. Commissioner Myers was presented the Hammer Award by Habitat for Humanity.
Congratulations to Devan Mitchell and son Steve as they enjoy their new home.
| | Meet & Greet with 7th Grade Civics Students | | Principal Oguz Tekin and students Jordan and Nora | | |
On Thursday, May 21, 2026, I had the pleasure of visiting the New Spring Schools, a remarkable institution dedicated to excellence in STEM education. This innovative environment is not only shaping young minds in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, but also fostering the civic engagement necessary for our future leaders. During my visit, I met with two enthusiastic seventh-grade classes studying civics. It was a joy to engage with these bright students, who are not only learning the fundamentals of government and citizenship but are also encouraged to think critically about their roles in our democracy.
Thank you for the invitation to visit and speak to these vibrant young students!
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