Healthcare, finance, real estate companies grew the fastest in South Florida
South Florida’s fastest-growing companies represent a host of different industries each year — but interest in certain sectors is enduring. The top five companies on the South Florida Business Journal’s list of fastest-growing companies with revenues of over $25 million were comprised of the same industries in both 2024 and 2025, primarily self-identifying as working in healthcare, construction and financial services. [Source: South Florida Business Journal]
Report: Tampa No. 2 retail real estate market nationwide
Tampa has the second best retail market in the country, trailing only Charlotte, North Carolina. That’s according to a report from CoStar, which ranked the top 43 U.S. retail markets with at least 100 million square feet of inventory. The real estate technology company took a look at several factors when compiling its findings: Percent of inventory leased; availability rate; market rent growth; change in sales volume; and total return for retail properties as measured by its market price index. [Source: Business Observer]
Battle for the beaches: Moody moves to lock down Florida drilling ban through 2032
Florida Senator Ashley Moody brought the fight for the state's coastline to the Senate floor today, seeking to fast-track legislation that would keep oil rigs out of sight for another decade. Moody requested unanimous consent for the American Shores Protection Act, a measure designed to codify a 2020 executive order by President Donald Trump and extend the current drilling moratorium from 2022 out to 2032. Fellow Florida Senator Rick Scott joined Moody in backing the request. [Source: AOL]
Hillsborough County to challenge Live Local Act in court
Since Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the bill in 2023, Hillsborough County has consistently opposed the bill. The Live Local Act removes local restrictions and approval processes for developers seeking to build affordable housing on sites zoned for industrial or commercial use. The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners unanimously supported directing the county attorney to challenge the court’s decision to “determine the constitutionality of Live Local Act or any other Florida Statute violations it may impose.” [Source: Tampa Bay Business Journal]
Lee County Public Safety expands availability of AED technology to select parks
Lee County is expanding lifesaving efforts by placing additional Automated Electronic Defibrillators (AEDs) in five parks and recreation locations. The county will now have 258 AEDs across various sites, including parks, libraries, and administration offices. This expansion means 73 AEDs are specifically for parks and recreation facilities. Lee County Emergency Medical Services responds to 20 to 30 cardiac-related calls at park locations each year. Quick intervention by the public can significantly increase survival rates from cardiac arrest. [Source: WINK]
ALSO AROUND FLORIDA:
› The University of Florida's journey for its next leader begins again
The Board of Trustees on Dec. 16 named a 15-member Presidential Search Advisory Committee tasked with guiding the national search for the university's 14th president.
› The first Florida trial against weed killer Roundup is set for March
Florida has scheduled its first trial over claims against the weed killer Roundup by a man in the Fort Lauderdale area who says long-term exposure led to a cancer diagnosis.
› Builder to bring 1,200-home community to Lakewood Ranch
One of the nation’s largest homebuilders closed on a land acquisition deal Tuesday in Lakewood Ranch with plans to transform it into a resort-style community.
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HCA unveils $26M Orange Park freestanding ER
HCA Florida Healthcare introduced its newest location in Orange Park this week, growing its network of more than 350 freestanding emergency rooms across the state.
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› Audit of Lee County Port Authority finds FAA rule violations
A recent audit of the Lee County Port Authority [LCPA] may raise concerns about how things are being managed at the airport.
› A taste of Italy is coming to St. Petersburg’s EDGE District
The restaurant, which will be located at 905 Central Ave., will focus on fresh pasta made daily, including carbonara, cacio and pepe and pesto di pistacchi.
› This South Florida skincare tech solution aims to redefine the med spa playbook
The through-line connecting Joseph Panetta and Jesús Reyes, and their path towards co-founding Trinity Aesthetics, is experience.
› Wish Farms celebrates Chuck Hollenkamp’s 40-year career and lifetime achievement award
International grower Wish Farms' Chuck Hollenkamp, Director of Strawberry Grower Relations, was recently honored with the Florida Strawberry Growers Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award at their annual gala.