North Report

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.

Welcome to North Port Now! In this episode, we’re joined by City Manager Jerome Fletcher to discuss key topics impacting our community. We talk about the upcoming town hall for the referendum, how the city is working with the Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO), updates on the Price Boulevard Widening Project, and a look ahead at the upcoming budget. Stay informed about city projects and decisions that matter to you. For more details and links to everything mentioned, check out the show notes. Don’t forget to subscribe and follow us for the latest updates—thanks for tuning in!Click here to view the City's Youtube channelTo read the City's letter to the Executive Office of the Governor's DOGE team, visit NorthPortFL.gov/DOGETo learn more about the Price Blvd Widening Project, head to NorthPortFL.gov/PriceRead more about the FY 26 budget, visit NorthPortFL.gov/Budget  

Welcome to a special episode of North Port Now! Last week, the City Commission approved the contract for the long-awaited Price Boulevard Widening Project—a major step forward for North Port’s infrastructure. In this episode, we’re joined by Tricia Wisner, Deputy Director of Public Works, to discuss what this project means for the community, the timeline, and what residents can expect as construction begins. Stay informed about city projects and updates that matter to you. For more details and links to everything mentioned, check out the show notes. Don’t forget to subscribe and follow us for the latest updates—thanks for tuning in!To learn more about the Price Boulevard Widening Project, visit NorthPortFL.gov/Price

Welcome to North Port Now, your go-to source for the latest news, updates, and important happenings in the City of North Port. In this episode, we cover upcoming events for Spring Break, the Community Yard Sale, are joined by Michael Drennan, Water Superintendent for the City of North Port, to discuss the upcoming chlorine conversion—what it is, why it’s happening, and what residents need to know. Stay informed about city projects, upcoming events, and community updates that matter to you. For more details and links to everything mentioned, check out the show notes. Don’t forget to subscribe and follow us for the latest updates—thanks for tuning in!To sign up for Binglo, visit NorthPortFL.gov/BingloFor a list of events happening during Spring Break, head over to NorthPortFL.gov/EventsIf you’re interested in being a food or seller vendor or want more information about the event, visit NorthPortFL.gov/YardSaleTo watch the City Commission Town Hall, visit the City's YouTube channel at YouTube.com/NorthPortFLTo l

Welcome to North Port Living, your guide to making the most of life in our vibrant city! From family-friendly activities and local events to helpful home tips and ways to stay active, we cover everything that makes North Port a great place to live, work, and play. In this episode, we’re talking about how to recycle right here in North Port. Be sure to check the show notes for more details, and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!To learn about hazardous waste, visit NorthPortFL.gov/HHW

Welcome to North Port Now, your go-to source for the latest news, updates, and important happenings in the City of North Port. In this episode, we cover the upcoming town halls, the burning ban in effect, and recognizing city employees who went above and beyond during a time of need. Stay informed about city projects, upcoming events, and community updates that matter to you. For more details and links to everything mentioned, check out the show notes. Don’t forget to subscribe and follow us for the latest updates—thanks for tuning in!To stay up-to-date on the current buning ban, check our social media channels:City of North PortNorth Port Fire RescueLearn more about Hazardous Waste, visit NorthPortFL.gov/HHWTo learn more about the HOusehold Hazardous Waste event on March 15th, 2025, head to NorthPortFL.gov/Event-Directory/Household-Hazardous-Waste-Drop-offTo learn about the referendum questions, visit NorthPortFL.gov/Referendum