Contract talks in Pinellas County have turned into a showdown over affordability, with teachers warning an impasse is possible as school board races approach.

Local supervisors say public equipment tests, signature checks and audits will protect the 2026 vote across Tampa Bay and Florida.

A Polk City man was arrested after deputies say he traveled out of state to pick up a 16-year-old he met online. Authorities say the case involved alleged grooming and multiple felony counts.