25 Years Later

America Remembers

Commissioner Harry Cohen; Commisioner Gwen Myers;

Bonnie Wise, County Administrator, and

Jason Dougherty, Chief, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue

Present, but not pictured were Commissioners Donna Cameron Cepeda,

Chris Boles, and Joshua Wostal.

On Friday, September 11, 2026, the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attack of September 11, 2001, I had the honor and privilege of giving remarks at the "Remembering the Fallen 25 Years Later" event at the Veterans Memorial Park Rear Admiral LeRoy Collins, Jr. Veteran's Museum in Tampa to commemorate Patriot Day. In remembrance, a 135-pound steel beam from the World Trade Center was placed on a display table.

As we reflect on the lessons learned over the past 25 years, let us remember not only the tragedy but also the resilience of our communities. We have faced challenges before, and together, we will continue to overcome adversity. I urge each of you to find ways to honor the spirit of unity and service that emerged from the events of 9/11. Whether it’s through volunteering, supporting a local nonprofit, or simply reaching out to a neighbor in need, we can all contribute to a stronger, more connected Hillsborough County.

Awareness

National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually from September 15 to October 15 to honor the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a dedicated time to share vital resources, break the stigma, and support anyone affected by mental health crises or suicide.

Noteworthy News

Government Relations & Strategic Services Announces Appointment of Director of State Government Relations

Callie Rhodes serves as Director of State Government Relations for Hillsborough County. She brings experience across local, state, and federal government having previously worked with Hillsborough County Commissioner Christine Miller, the National Republican Congressional Committee, The Southern Group, Congressman Neal Dunn’s re-elect campaign, Congresswoman Laurel Lee, Senator Jay Collins, and Governor Ron DeSantis.

Callie earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Florida State University, studying media communication. Her professional background has focused on legislative affairs, stakeholder engagement, strategic communications, and building relationships across Florida’s political and governmental landscape.

Please join me in congratulating Callie on her new role!

On September 3, Tampa Electric asked the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) to approve a 1.5% reduction in residential customer bills beginning in January 2027. If approved, a residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt-hours a month would pay $154.13.

Just last month, Tampa Electric removed the storm recovery surcharge from utility bills, resulting in 11 to 12% savings for the average residential customer.

With lower prices on natural gas supplies, Tampa Electric realized an opportunity to again bring costs down for customers. The request submitted to the PSC on September 3 will be heard on November 3. If approved, the lower rates would take effect in January.

There’s no question that Florida families are struggling with the rising cost of essentials, and many are forced to make difficult financial choices. Tampa Electric is pursuing every opportunity to bring costs down, and are committed to pass that savings on to customers.

BOCC Recap 9/2/26

Board Recognition

On behalf of the Board, Commissioner Boles presented a commendation to the Mac Parkman Foundation founders, Bruce and Perri Parkman and CEO and President Travis Horn. The Mac Parkman Foundation’s mission is a vital one: to raise awareness of the effects that repeated head impacts and blast exposures have on the brain and mental health of children, athletes, and veterans. This mission serves as a profound legacy for Maconnell “Mac” Parkman, who tragically passed away on Sept. 24, 2020, after battling mental health issues that were related to a series of three known concussions he sustained in wrestling, football, and other concussive activities. 

Board Action

1) The Board adopted a Resolution providing for a fee schedule to implement the Hillsborough County Short-Term Vacation Rental Registration and Business Regulation Ordinance.

2) The Board adopted a Supplemental Resolution in the form as presented supplementing and amending Resolution No. R03-112 adopted on June 4, 2003, as amended, to authorize issuance of not to exceed $700,000,000 in aggregate principal amount of 1) the County's Utility Revenue Bonds, Series 2026A

3) The Board held a public hearing to consider the transfer of certain property rights on the Jeanie and Pete Johnson ELAPP Preserve, formerly known as the Ekker Preserve ("Project Site"), to the Hillsborough County Water Resource Department ("WRD") through a perpetual easement ("Perpetual Easement") and a temporary construction easement

4) The Board held a Public Hearing and adopted an ordinance providing for a requirement for the registration of short-term vacation rentals and for business regulations of short-term vacation rentals, to be codified in Chapter 10 of the County Code of Ordinances, Part A.

5) The Board held a public hearing to consider a draft ordinance to amend Chapter 121 of the Hillsborough County Code of Ordinances and Laws relating to Cross Connection and Backflow Control. These proposed amendments shall eliminate the Hillsborough County Backflow Control Board, give code enforcement officers authority to enforce Chapter 121, and provide that future amendments to the Cross Connection Control Plan will be approved by the Board of County Commissioners by Resolution.

6) The Board conducted a public hearing and adopt a Resolution that establishes the Stormwater Management Non-Ad Valorem Assessment Rates and Non-Ad Valorem Assessment Roll for Calendar Year 2026. Staff recommends that, pursuant to Section 197.3632, F.S., the Board adopt, at the Public Hearing, the annual stormwater assessment tiered rates as described in the Background.

7) The Board approved for inclusion in the FY 27 Budget, which will be considered by the Board for final adoption during its September 24, 2026 Public Hearing, the carryforward of $72,000 of unused FY 26 funding for the Urban League of Hillsborough County, originating from previous FY 22 and FY 23 flags, for the Urban League of Hillsborough County in FY 27.

You're Invited

In the Community

Dexter Barge, Assistant County Administrator, Compliance, Communities and Conservation Department; Horace Lynch, Manager, Strategic Planning Analyses, Commissioner Gwen Myers, and

Frank Strom, Director, Consumer & Veterans Affairs

On Saturday, August 29, 2026, I was honored to give remarks at the dedication and unveiling of the new Buffalo Soldiers Monument at the Veterans Memorial Park & Museum Amphitheater in Tampa. Also in attendance were Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, Commissioners Chris Boles and Joshua Wostal, State Attorney Susan "Suzy" Lopez and Tampa City Councilwoman Naya Young. Hillsborough County hosted over 30,000 troops in 1898, prior to their deployment to Cuba during the Spanish-American War. Among them were Black U.S. Army battalions monikered "Buffalo Soldiers."



The Buffalo Soldiers played a role in rebuilding America after the Civil War concluded in 1865. These troops, which were segregated, patrolled the American frontier and managed a portion of western national parks prior to the official establishment of the National Park Service. Buffalo Soldiers were also responsible for guarding the U.S. mail and for building roads and other infrastructure.

It was my pleasure to secure funding in the amount of $150,000 towards having the Buffalo Soldiers Monument in Veterans Park.

Wellness Day

On Sunday, August 30, 2026, I was invited to attend and give remarks at the Wellness Day event hosted by EnVision Resolutions at the Fair Oaks Park and Sports Complex in Tampa. I was thrilled to see so many families and individuals coming together to embrace a holistic approach to wellness. The event featured a variety of activities aimed at promoting physical, mental, and emotional health.

I would like to extend my gratitude to Envision Resolutions for organizing such a meaningful event and to all the volunteers who worked tirelessly to make it a success. Your dedication to promoting wellness in our community is truly commendable.

Clubhouse Tour

Cris Riviere, COO, ACTS;

Jennifer Mullins, Clubhouse Program Director, ACTS,

Commissioner Gwen Myers, and Asha Pereyra, CEO, ACTS

On Monday, August 31, 2026, I was invited to tour the Clubhouse at ACTS Tampa Mental Health. ACTS is deeply committed to providing exceptional care and support to the Tampa Bay community. With over 15 program locations across Hillsborough County and additional facilities in Pinellas and Polk Counties, ACTS is dedicated to being accessible and responsive to the needs of our community.

Groundbreaking Ceremony

Wanda West, Legislative Aide to Commissioner Gwen Myers, District 3 and

Jason Marlow, Former Legislative Aide, District 3

On the morning of Wednesday, September 2, 2026, my Aide, Wanda West represented my office at the groundbreaking ceremony for Urban ReWorx’s The Vicente, a transformative mixed-use development bringing quality housing and neighborhood retail to the Nebraska Avenue corridor near 21st Avenue. The event was a shining example of how local leaders are joining forces to address the affordable housing crisis and investing in meaningful solutions.

9/11 Remembrance Ceremony

Susan "Suzy" Lopez, State Attorney, Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Court

On Thursday, September 3, 2026, I had the profound honor of attending the 9/11 remembrance ceremony held at the Pat Frank Court Building on Pierce Street in Tampa. This solemn occasion brought together community members, first responders, and local leaders to pay tribute to the heroes and victims of that fateful day in 2001. I was moved by the remarks shared by Stephen Spelman, a retired EMT from the Fire Department of New York. His heartfelt words reminded us of the courage and dedication displayed by first responders during a time of unparalleled crisis. Stephen’s recounting of the events served not only as a reminder of the devastation but also as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

Additionally, John Lightsey, a retired fire alarm dispatcher from the Fire Department of New York, shared his unique perspective on that day. His insights into the coordination and communication efforts that were critical in the face of chaos highlighted the importance of teamwork among first responders. It was a powerful reminder of the many unsung heroes who played vital roles in ensuring the safety of countless individuals.

State of Florida Check Presentation

Nikki Foster, Board Member, Tampa Bay African American Arts & Cultural Center (TBAAACC); Darryl Rouson, Florida State Senator; Commissioner Gwen Myers; Michele Rayner, Florida State Representative,

and Craig Richard, Board Chairman, TBAAACC

On Tuesday, September 8, 2026, it was my honor to accept a check from the state for the Tampa Bay African American Arts & Cultural Center. The check was presented by Florida State Senator Darryl Rouson and Florida State Representative Michele Rayner. We appreciate Senator Darryl Rouson and State Representative Lawrence McClure's support over the past 5 years, ensuring that the Cultural Center received $11M in state funding. We also give thanks to the County's Government Relations staff in helping us to secure funding over the past 5 years.

Jose Prado, Deputy Chief, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue (HCFR);

Freddy Barton, Executive Director, Safe & Sound Hillsborough;

Commissioner Gwen Myers,

and Jason Dougherty, Chief, HCFR

On Wednesday, September 9, 2026, I joined members of the HCFR Command Staff for a donation of clothes, shoes and other necessities to the Safe & Sound Hillsborough recidivism program. The clothing donations will provide practical support to program participants, helping them dress for court appearances and other related activities. Many of these individuals face significant barriers when seeking employment, and having access to appropriate attire can significantly enhance their confidence and opportunities. It is a small but meaningful step that we can take together to show that our community cares and believes in second chances.

Thank you to HCFR for their contributions and for making a difference in the lives of these young people!

Rajiv Kalra, DMD; Juan Rodriguez; Clara Rodriguez; Commissioner Gwen Myers,

and David Frederick

On Thursday, September 10, 2026, I gave remarks and cut the ribbon at The Drop Clinic at the Pioneer Medical Foundation located at 6220 N. Nebraska Ave. in Tampa. The drop clinic is poised to be a vital resource, offering immediate, high-quality care to individuals who may not have access to traditional medical services. As we face an ever-evolving healthcare landscape, initiatives like this are crucial in ensuring that no one is left behind. The clinic will provide a range of services, including preventive care, urgent treatment, and health education, all aimed at promoting overall wellness within our community. Through a partnership with WellBuilt Cities, this new clinic represents an important step in expanding access to compassionate, high-quality medical and dental care for uninsured and underserved individuals throughout our community.

Congratulations to Pioneer Medical Group on the opening of The Drop!

In the Know

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Media Contact:   

   Doug Tobin 

   Marketing / Public Relations 

   TobinD@CareerSourceTB.com   

   (813) 397-2054   

 Staff Contact:   

   Leondra Foster 

   Director of Youth Programs 

     FosterLe@CareerSourceTB.com 

865 Tampa Bay Youth Explore Future Careers  

Through Summer P.A.Y.S. 

~CareerSource Tampa Bay connected low-income and underserved youth across Hillsborough and Pinellas counties with paid work experience, leadership training, and career exploration through Summer P.A.Y.S. ~ 

CareerSource Tampa Bay (CSTB) connected 865 low-income and underserved youth ages 15 to 24 throughout Hillsborough and Pinellas counties with paid work experience, leadership training, and career exploration through its Summer P.A.Y.S. (Preparing Area Youth for Success) program, equipping participants with the skills, experiences, and career awareness needed for future success.  

Through partnerships with employers, educators, and community organizations, Summer P.A.Y.S. provides hands-on learning opportunities that build workplace skills, expand career awareness, and prepare participants for high-demand careers. 

Summer P.A.Y.S. included:  

Paid Work Experience (PWE): 418 youth completed six-week paid internships with local employers, earning $15 per hour while developing workplace skills and exploring career pathways.  

Career Exploration Training (CXP): 365 youth completed a four-week online curriculum focused on career exploration, networking, and engagement with business leaders.  

Youth Leadership Training (YLT): 44 youth participated in leadership and entrepreneurship training, culminating in a community service project.  

University of South Florida (USF) Immersive Learning: 11 youth attended USF Youth Experiences camps, gaining exposure to college life and career pathways.  

St. Petersburg College (SPC) Immersive Learning: 27 youth attended SPC Career Exploration Camps, gaining hands-on skills and exposure to high-demand careers.  

Applications Now Open for

Annual Neighborhood Awards

Calling all healthy, safe, and engaged neighborhoods: Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Hillsborough County Neighborhood Awards. 

The Neighborhood Awards celebrate exceptional neighborhood projects, programs, and events that took place in unincorporated Hillsborough County between July 2025 and June 2026. 

Nominations are accepted in three categories: 

• Healthy – Promoting conservation, environmental stewardship, or healthy living 
• Safe – Enhancing safety or boosting disaster preparedness 
• Engaged – Building community spirit through volunteerism or communication 

Each neighborhood may submit one application and select any or all categories that apply by 5 p.m. September 11. 

For questions about the application process or registration in the Neighborhood Listing, contact Hillsborough County Neighborhood Relations at neighborhood-relations@HCFL.gov or (813) 272-5860. 

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