Clearwater is pitching a plan to convert underused Main Library space into an arts destination as a new hotel, tower and parking garage reshape downtown. City staff are pre-marketing the opportunity to museums and cultural partners.

PSTA board discussed using insurance proceeds to hire outside counsel after last year’s deadly Clearwater Ferry crash. The agency floated authorizing up to $500,000 to handle claims and lawsuits.

Progressive is returning excess profits to Florida auto policyholders who had coverage on Dec. 31, 2025; average rebates are near $300 and will arrive automatically in early 2026.

Lawmakers removed a contested "food libel" clause from HB 433 after activists warned it would chill speech and expose critics to big legal bills.

The sheriff’s office says reported crime fell 19.7% in 2025, with large drops in vehicle theft, robbery and violent crime. Local measures and staffing shifts are cited as possible factors.

Jeff's Bagel Run has opened in South Tampa, serving scratch-made bagels, rotating daily specials and an array of whipped spreads for the morning crowd.

UF researchers retooled tomato carotenoids with a pepper gene, producing orange fruit higher in beta‑carotene that could help address vitamin A deficiency.

Manatee County commissioners approved a 14‑year extension to Mosaic’s Four Corners mining plan, allowing operations through 2044 and setting reclamation for 2055 amid local pushback. The move split the board and revived long‑running environmental and jobs debates.

Manatee County Commissioner Carol Ann Felts, 68, died Tuesday; county officials called the passing sudden. The Board will honor her at a March 3 meeting and the sheriff's office is investigating.

Senators advanced "Meg’s Law," a bill to limit where flavored nitrous‑oxide canisters can be sold and to impose felony penalties on retailers who sell them. The measure now heads to final floor votes in both chambers.

Hillsborough County detectives posted a Warrant Wednesday alert seeking tips to locate 19‑year‑old Tyree Boone Jr., who is wanted for aggravated domestic assault.

A Pasco County school employee was federally indicted on charges alleging possession of child sex abuse material, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced Tuesday.

Clear, cool morning in Tampa with a high near 70°F this afternoon. Frost advisory inland through 8 a.m.; rain and storms likely Friday–Saturday.