In a recent move by the Manatee Board of County Commissioners, a new Government Efficiency Liaison Committee has been appointed to ensure transparent and cost-effective public service. The committee, comprising David Otterness, Benjamin Heavener, John Settineri, Mark Stanoch and Don Berg, is part of the county’s effort to align with Florida’s Executive Order No. 25-44 and Manatee County Resolution No. R-25-072. As reported by Manatee County, this team will be working alongside Stephanie Garrison, Manatee County Director of Government Relations, and Brent Anderson, Government Relations Manager.
Commission Chair George Kruse emphasized the board's importance, stating, "The intent was to have a broad swatch of people with IT, HR and finance experience. Backgrounds and experience are important." This move is seen as part of a broader strategy to quickly adopt and enhance government efficiency and citizen engagement.
Alongside the establishment of this committee, the Manatee County Commissioners voted unanimously to secure several parcels of land for conservation. A 10-acre tract at 950 Rye Road in Parrish was acquired using Environmental Lands Management and Acquisition Committee (ELMAC) funds, totaling $858,000. The acquisition reflects over 70% voter support from the November 2020 Conservation and Parks Referendum. The parcel includes precious pine flatwoods, considered vital for strategic habitat conservation and will be integrated into the expanded Rye Preserve.
Another major purchase discussed was the former Mixon Fruit Farms property. Acquired for $13.5 million, the 39-acre site is situated in Bradenton at 27th St. E and 26th Ave. E. Manatee County District 2 Commissioner Amanda Ballard called the purchase a "once-in-a-generation opportunity to preserve a piece of Old Florida within the urban core." Plans are still to be solidified for the property, but there's potential it will give homage to the county's agrarian roots and provide opportunities for new farmers.
An additional element of these acquisitions is the intended role of these lands in community education and event hosting. A proposed plan involves assigning a Natural Resources Program Manager to develop programs focused on important issues such as water-quality education and conservation practices. Furthermore, a Sports & Leisure Services Event Supervisor would be responsible for managing wedlock and other events, potentially bringing additional revenue to the area. Lastly, a Property Management Parks Maintenance Technician and Custodian will ensure that the newly acquired land is adequately maintained.
