North Report

This week on North Port Now, we’re talking about how we can all do our part to keep students safe as they head back to school. From slowing down in school zones to staying alert at bus stops, every action counts. We’ll also explore North Port’s refreshed Current Development Map, giving you an inside look at new projects from coffee shops to hospitals.Plus:• Skills for Life workshops to help you boost your career this September.• Try something new with Adult Archery this fall—equipment included!• Meet Laura Guasca, our summer intern with the Communications team.Links from the show:

In this episode of North Port Living "Getting to Know North Port: Your City Guide for Hispanics", we answer some of the most common questions from residents about how the City of North Port works and how you can get involved. Learn about our form of government, opportunities to participate in public meetings, volunteer programs, city resources, and upcoming events for you and your family. We’ll also share details about major projects shaping our community’s future.En este episodio de North Port Living "Conociendo North Port: Tu guía de la ciudad para hispanos", respondemos algunas de las preguntas más comunes de los residentes sobre cómo funciona la Ciudad de North Port y cómo puedes participar. Conoce nuestro sistema de gobierno, las oportunidades para involucrarte en reuniones públicas, programas de voluntariado, recursos de la ciudad y los próximos eventos para ti y tu familia. También compartimos detalles sobre los proyectos más importantes que están transformando el futuro de nuestra comunidad.

This week on North Port Now, we’re diving into important updates and opportunities around our community. Devon Poulos from Parks & Recreation joins us to talk about changes to the fee structure at Warm Mineral Springs Park and what’s in store for Discover Warm Mineral Springs Day. We’re also sharing details about upcoming free Hands-Only CPR classes offered by North Port Fire Rescue and what you need to know to register.Plus:• Learn more about the City’s response to the Governor’s DOGE Team.• Congrats are in order for Police Chief Todd Garrison on his appointment to the Florida Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission.Check the show notes for links and more info:

In this episode of Voices of North Port, we’re joined by local historian Chris Sterner for a fascinating journey through the history of the land we now call North Port. From the native peoples who first called this area home, to the early industries like turpentine stills, to the story behind some of our street names—you’ll hear how this community has evolved over time. We even touch on the city's path to incorporation and what makes our corner of Florida so unique. Whether you're a lifelong resident or new to town, this episode offers a deeper appreciation of the land beneath your feet.

In this episode of North Port Now, we’re helping you get storm-ready. Hear why now’s the time to finish major yard maintenance and how to properly use the City’s self-serve sandbag station. We’ll also talk about how to stay informed before and during a storm by signing up for emergency alerts at AlertSarasotaCounty.com.Plus, mark your calendar for Warm Mineral Springs Park Day on Aug. 9, where City of North Port residents can visit the Springs for free! And if you're part of a local nonprofit, learn how the NP² program can help fund your mission—details at NorthPortFL.gov/NP2.Subscribe to the City’s CommUNITY newsletter for updates like these and more at NorthPortFL.gov/Subscribe.

In this episode of North Port Living, we’re taking a different approach—hearing directly from residents who’ve seen the City from the inside out. We’re joined by two alumni of North Port University, the City’s free citizen academy designed to give participants a behind-the-scenes look at how local government works.First up is Doreen German, a graduate of Class I, followed by Pam Tokarz from Class II. Both share how the experience deepened their understanding of city operations and inspired them to stay engaged in the community.While Class III is already full, additional sessions are planned for Spring and Fall 2026. Learn more at NorthPortFL.gov/NPU.

This week on North Port Now, we’re talking about what’s happening across the city this July—from honoring our veterans to shaping the future of our parks and improving city services. We preview the upcoming groundbreaking for the Circle of Honor, a new space recognizing veterans of all U.S. military branches. Plus, find out how you can get involved in the Parks & Recreation Master Plan through two public workshops or an online survey. You’ll also hear how the City’s online permitting system, Accela, is streamlining services and cutting wait times for permits. And we check in with Deputy Public Works Director Tricia Wisner about a major debris removal effort along Myakkahatchee Creek that supports stormwater flow and flood prevention. Links and Resources:• Circle of Honor Project Info: NorthPortFL.gov/CurrentProjects• Parks & Rec Master Plan & Survey: NorthPortFL.gov/ParksAndRecMasterPlan• Online Permitting (Accela): NorthPortFL.gov/Permitting

In this special episode of North Port Now, we’re taking you behind the scenes of the City’s decision to postpone the annual Freedom Festival, originally scheduled for July 4, due to predicted inclement weather. We’re joined by Kim Lencki, Community Partnerships & Engagement Manager with Parks & Recreation, to talk about what goes into making that kind of call—from monitoring forecasts to coordinating with vendors and public safety teams—and why rescheduling a large-scale event is more complex than it may seem.The good news? The celebration is still happening. The Freedom Festival has been rescheduled for Friday, August 30, and the team is working hard to deliver the same great night of fun, food, music, and fireworks.For event details and updates, visit NorthPortFL.gov/FreedomFestival.

En este episodio especial de North Port Now, compartimos información esencial sobre cómo prepararse antes, durante y después de un huracán. Este episodio está diseñado específicamente para nuestra comunidad hispanohablante en North Port, con el objetivo de garantizar que todos los residentes tengan acceso a los recursos y la orientación necesarios durante la temporada de tormentas.Hablamos sobre zonas de evacuación, cómo armar un kit de emergencia, cómo proteger a sus mascotas y su hogar, y dónde encontrar fuentes confiables de información en español. Nuestra pasante Laura ofrece consejos prácticos paso a paso para que cada familia pueda estar lista y segura.Le invitamos a compartir este episodio con familiares, amigos y vecinos que prefieran recibir información en español.Recursos mencionados / Resources Mentioned:• AlertaSarasota – Regístrese para recibir alertas locales: www.alertsarasotacounty.com• Conozca su nivel de evacuación: Sarasota Know Your Level• Guía para Todos los Riesgos del Condado de Sarasot

In this episode of North Port Now, we’re sharing updates on major city projects and previewing some of the key events coming up this summer. We start with a Price Boulevard Widening Project update—explaining why you may not be seeing heavy construction just yet, what preliminary work is already underway, and how to stay informed throughout the process. We also highlight the upcoming Infrastructure Panel on June 25 at 6 p.m. at Suncoast Technical College, where residents can hear directly from City leadership and FDOT representatives. This is a great opportunity to ask questions, share feedback, and learn more about local transportation and development efforts. Looking ahead to July:Boots vs. Badges Blood Drive – July 12, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at City Hall. Donate blood and support your favorite team: Police or Fire.World’s Largest Swim Lesson – June 26 at the North Port Aquatic Center. Free sessions at 8–9 a.m. or 5–6 p.m.Learn to Swim – July 8–17. Classes for all ages, led by certified instructors through the Ame

In this episode of North Port Stories, we’re taking a sweet ride with the North Port Police Department’s “Treat Truck”—a repurposed police vehicle turned community ice cream truck. It’s more than just frozen treats: it’s a creative approach to community policing that’s helping build trust, spark conversations, and bring smiles across the city. We talk about how the project came to life, the generosity of community partners who donate all the supplies, and the powerful impact of simple, friendly connections between officers and residents. Whether you’ve seen the Treat Truck out and about or this is your first time hearing about it, this episode is a reminder that public safety is about more than just enforcement—it’s about showing up, listening, and building relationships.

In this powerful episode of Voices of North Port, we sit down with Jill Luke, a longtime resident, businesswoman, and former City Commissioner. From her first impressions of North Port and her role at Patriot Self Storage to her deep connection with Warm Mineral Springs, Jill shares what makes this city feel like home. We also reflect on some of the most defining—and difficult—moments of her public service, including the Gabby Petito case and the hiring of City Manager Jerome Fletcher. Through laughter, tears, and candid stories, Jill offers a moving portrait of resilience, leadership, and community spirit.

In this episode of North Port Now, we’re covering a wide range of updates around the city—from major infrastructure projects to community celebrations.

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we're joined by Casey Webb, CEO of North Port Behavioral Health, and Kelly Wilson, Chief Nursing Officer. They share how NPBH supports our community through compassionate, accessible mental health care—and what steps residents can take to seek help, support others, and reduce stigma around mental illness. Whether you’re looking for resources, support, or simply want to learn more about the role behavioral health plays in our community, this conversation is for you.

In this episode of North Port Now, we break down what’s ahead for the City’s budget, highlight important dates and details about the upcoming referendum vote, and share a roundup of events happening this month. Plus, Emergency Manager Stacy Aloisio joins us to preview the 2025 Hurricane Expo and offer crucial storm preparedness tips for residents. 

In this episode of North Port Living, we’re joined by Devon Poulos, Aquatics Manager for the City of North Port, to spotlight an important topic: Drowning Prevention Month. Devon shares expert tips on how families can stay safe around the water this summer and the steps the City is taking to promote water safety through education and outreach. We also chat about exciting upcoming events, including North Port’s Got Talent and the World’s Largest Swim Lesson—a global initiative with a local impact. Whether you’re looking to make a splash or stay informed, this episode is full of helpful info for North Port families.To watch the NPTV Cribs Video, visit https://youtu.be/TBE-XD3V6YQ

In this episode of North Port Now, we’re diving into some key updates across the City of North Port. First, we mark the start of the long-awaited Price Boulevard Widening Project, which kicked off with a ceremonial flip of a switch. The project will expand 2.8 miles of roadway between Sumter and Toledo Blade boulevards, with major construction beginning May 19. Learn more and sign up for updates at NorthPortFL.gov/Price. Next, we sit down with Michael McLellan, Business Retention and Expansion Coordinator, to talk about the upcoming Career Connect Job Fair happening May 21 at the George Mullen Activity Center. Find out what’s new this year and how both job seekers and employers can benefit. We also cover important referendum information ahead of the May 13 Special Election. The deadline to request a vote-by-mail ballot is 5 p.m. on May 1. Residents can renew or request their ballot at SarasotaVotes.gov or by calling 941-861-8618. To view sample ballots and learn more about the referendum questions, visit Nort

In this episode of North Port Living, we’re joined by Emergency Manager Stacy Aloisio to help you get storm-ready. Stacy shares insights from last year’s hurricane season, what to expect this year, and how the City of North Port prepares for potential storms. From emergency plans to resident resources, we cover everything you need to know to protect your family and home. It’s never too early to start preparing—and this episode is a great place to start.

In this episode of Voices of North Port, part of the North Port Stories series, we’re honored to feature former City Commissioner Alice White—a dedicated resident whose passion for community has left a lasting impact. Alice shares how she helped welcome new neighbors through the North Port Welcome Wagon, her efforts to protect our natural spaces with People for Trees, and why she continues to believe in the power of local connection. Her story is a heartfelt reminder of what makes North Port a special place to call home.