Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Manatee County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
2 issues in schools with high priority
Children's Services Dedicated Millage nonprofit funding
The board topped up the advisory board's recommendations by about $1.3 million, funding reading tutoring, after-school programs, and Big Brothers Big Sisters from the voter-approved children's millage, with over $3 million of headroom available.
Suncoast Prosper college tuition initiative
State College of Florida wants the county to fund a program that removes financial barriers for local students pursuing AA/AS degrees or certificates — about $1.5 million the first year and nearly $3 million in years two and three. Commissioners floated using the Children's Services Dedicated Millage and possibly a 2028 ballot measure.