This Week's Headlines Around Florida

April 7, 2025

House Proposes Repealing Seminole Revenue Formula Amid ‘Doom and Gloom’ Outlook | POLITICO Pro💲

The Florida House has introduced a proposal to repeal the existing revenue-sharing formula with the Seminole Tribe, citing concerns over projected fiscal shortfalls. The move could significantly impact state finances and tribal agreements.

Florida Lawmakers Wade Into ‘War at the Shore’ With Beach Access | Northwest Florida Daily News

State legislators are engaging in debates over public beach access rights, addressing conflicts between private property owners and the public. The discussions aim to clarify and potentially redefine access regulations along Florida’s coastlines.

FDEP Official Moves to US EPA | Florida Specifier

Teresa Booeshaghi, Deputy Director of the Division of Waste Management at the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, has announced her transition to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. She will assume the role of Deputy Assistant Administrator of Policy for the Office of Land and Emergency Management.

Wetlands Fight Teed Up for Arguments | Florida Trend

A federal appeals court is scheduled to hear arguments in May regarding the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s 2020 decision to transfer wetlands permitting authority to Florida.

Rescue the River of Grass: A Plan to Restore the Everglades and Protect Florida’s Waters | CBS12

Friends of the Everglades is working to acquire 100,000 acres of land south of Lake Okeechobee to restore the flow of clean water southward, aiming to improve water quality and ecosystem health in the Everglades. 

Miami-Dade Commissioners Vote to Ban Fluoride From Drinking Water After Ladapo’s Address | Local 10 News

Following remarks from Florida’s Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo, Miami-Dade County commissioners have voted to discontinue the addition of fluoride to the county’s drinking water. The decision marks a significant policy shift in the county’s public health approach. 

Winter Springs Moving Forward With Building New $100M Wastewater Plant | WESH 2 News

The city of Winter Springs is advancing plans to construct a new wastewater treatment facility estimated at $100 million. The project aims to modernize infrastructure and accommodate future growth.

1.4 Million Gallons of Wastewater Spilled Into Tampa Bay From Clearwater Plant | Tampa Bay Times

Approximately 1.4 million gallons of partially treated wastewater were discharged into Tampa Bay due to a mishap at a Clearwater treatment facility. City officials have stated that there is no immediate threat to public health following the incident.

Myakka Act Protects Wild and Scenic River Values | Your Observer

The Myakka River’s designation as a Florida Wild and Scenic River has led to preservation efforts that maintain its ecological integrity. The act restricts activities that could negatively impact the river’s natural values.

Lee County Buys 130-Acre Fort Myers for Conservation Effort | WINK News

The Lee County Board of Commissioners has approved the purchase of a nearly 130-acre parcel in East Fort Myers as part of the Conservation 20/20 program. The acquisition aims to protect natural habitats and promote environmental conservation.

Conserving Water Year-Round Protects Our Water Resources | Lake Okeechobee News

Emphasizing the importance of year-round water conservation, experts recommend practices such as fixing leaks and mindful water usage to safeguard Florida’s water resources. These efforts contribute to long-term sustainability and environmental health.

Sam the Snail Kite | Palm Beach Florida Weekly

Florida wildlife officials and scientists are working to protect the endangered snail kite, a bird native to the Everglades whose survival depends on healthy wetlands and an abundant supply of apple snails. 

Wasting Away: Rampant Pollution Caused Manatees to Starve. Florida Waters Are Getting Worse. | Tampa Bay Times

An investigative report examines how pollution in Florida’s waterways has led to significant seagrass loss, resulting in starvation among manatee populations. 


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