A private Polk County utility asked regulators for a 479% wastewater rate increase, worrying homeowners already hit with triple‑digit bills and repeated outages.

A house that was a foundation in January is now move‑in ready under Tampa’s Infill Housing Program, a sign of Phase III progress.

A South Tampa dog owner warned neighbors after finding an invasive Bufo (cane) toad in the yard. Experts and vets outline the signs, emergency steps and prevention tips for pet owners.

Body‑cam video shows Tampa officers freeing a child locked in an SUV at a gas station; officials urge parents to call 911 and never leave kids unattended.

A beloved West Hillsborough Korean market is closing after 35 years; its kimchi and counter dishes will be sold at a Temple Terrace stall and inside the incoming H Mart food court.

A veteran Irish restaurant team opens Delany's Public House this Thursday in Lakewood Ranch, promising imported furnishings, classic pub food and live music.

The Florida Retail Federation endorsed Byron Donalds for governor, citing his pro‑business record and the retail sector’s economic weight.

Pasco County’s 40‑day scallop season draws tens of thousands and pumps nearly $11 million into the local economy, boosting marinas, charters and restaurants.

USF President Moez Limayem announced a broad leadership reshuffle July 17, moving research and national-security units under new oversight and naming interim leaders.

A Brandon woman was arrested and faces first‑degree murder and child‑abuse charges after a 3‑year‑old died at Brandon Regional Hospital; the death was ruled a homicide.

Polk County deputies say 51-year-old Rey Caballero Alarcon attacked a woman in a U.S. 98 N parking lot on July 19 and resisted arrest before being secured. The sheriff’s office lists multiple misdemeanor and felony charges.

Sarasota police are investigating reported gunshots in the Booker High parking lot; no injuries were reported and detectives are asking for tips.

Polk County staff presented a $3.91 billion FY 2026–27 proposal that holds the millage rate and lists a $764.3M general fund and a $297.3M sheriff’s request.