Manatee County Commission

Friends of the Everglades described the law as a "death knell for smart growth in Florida," and warned "it will effectively end citizen challenges to comprehensive plan amendments."

Satcher will have to resign as District 1 Manatee County Commissioner. Gov. Ron DeSantis, who appointed Satcher, will also decide who fills the now-vacant seat on the board of county commissioners.

Despite protests from a crowd of opponents, the Manatee County Commission voted 5-1 to roll back local wetland protections in favor of defering to state minimum standards.

County commissioners voted 6-1 to follow a consultant's recommendation to reduce local protections in favor of state minimum standards.

If the board amends the wetlands regulations, it will be without the approval of the Manatee County Planning Commission which voted 4-2 last week against recommending any changes.

Interim Transit Division Manager Chris Deannuntis says ridership has gone up 14% when compared to this time last year.

Real estate broker Raymond Turner will be sworn in Aug. 1.

In a letter to commissioners, Baugh said she is stepping down to spend more time with her family.

The commission voted to have the county attorney work on a proposal that would turn Manatee County into a "gun sanctuary."

According to a separation agreement, Scott Hopes resigned without cause and is leaving in good standing with Manatee County.

Earlier this month, Commissioner Mike Rahn proposed dropping the ordinance after hearing an update from Manatee County Attorney Bill Clague on a pending lawsuit regarding the ban.

Under a deal agreed to by the Florida Ethics Commission, Vanessa Baugh will pay an $8,000 fine and accept a public reprimand.