archiveBudgets and Funding

Habitat for Humanity of Collier County progresses on new Naples communityScenes from Habitat for Humanity of Collier County's Majestic Place community. When construction is complete, it will have 109 single-family homes.Collier County's preliminary property values increased by roughly 3% to $229.3 billion in 2025.Taxable property values saw a larger increase of 8.2%, reaching $164.5 billion, largely due to new construction.While market value growth slowed, new construction added $4.18 billion to the tax rolls.The final tax roll will be submitted to the state on July 1st, with TRIM notices sent to...

Aerial video along the Swannanoa River reveals the wrath of Tropical Storm HeleneAerial video along the Swannanoa River between Black Mountain and Asheville reveals the devastation of Tropical Storm Helene.Buncombe County’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2026 includes a 3.26-cent property tax increase to offset revenue shortfalls in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene.The budget prioritizes essential services, including $122 million for education, though still short requests from Asheville City Schools and Buncombe County Schools.ASHEVILLE – Described as a “break-even budget” focused on essential government services and recovery in the...

House and Senate budget and tax cut negotiators are running out of time to reach a deal and end the legislative session on time.Local cheerleaders with Special Olympics show their skills at CapitolSpecial Olympics athletes demonstrate their cheerleading skills during Annual Law Enforcement Torch Run and ceremony at Capitol courtyard.The House and Senate disagree on tax cut plans, with differing approaches and overall amounts.The legislative session's deadline is approaching, with budget and tax cut negotiations still ongoing.One of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ main gripes with the House in his ongoing feud...

The governor lambasted House GOP lawmakers for not addressing 'pressing issues that Floridians care about.'DeSantis wants repeal of red flag laws and supports open carryDeSantis wants repeal of red flag laws and other restrictions on Second Amendment RightsFlorida Governor Ron DeSantis criticizes the Florida House's decision to reinstate four budget items he vetoed last year.DeSantis urges the legislature to prioritize issues like condo insurance reform, medical freedom, and E-Verify instead.The Senate has yet to decide whether to support the House's budget veto overrides.Gov. Ron DeSantis isn’t happy with Florida House...