Floridians are growing more pessimistic about money, the economy
Floridians are feeling less confident about the economy as well as their own personal finances, according to the University of Florida's latest Florida Consumer Sentiment Index report. The results of the statewide survey released June 2 found overall consumer sentiment among Floridians declined in May for the third month in a row. More from UF News and the Sarasota Herald-Tribune.
Fort Myers may end minority, local vendor programs
Fort Myers City Council is set to consider ending programs that support hiring local and minority-owned businesses for city projects. City staff recommended ending the programs because they conflict with current or soon-to-be implemented state and federal rules. Currently, when the city seeks contractors for goods and services, part of the selection criteria includes their status as, or use of, minority-owned or local businesses and subcontractors. More from Gulfshore Business.
Jax Beach bars and restaurants can expand capacity on Jaguars game days
Jacksonville Beach city leaders narrowly passed an ordinance amendment Monday that will allow some bars and restaurants to temporarily expand their outdoor capacity on Jaguars game days. Mayor Chris Hoffman had previously said the proposal is aimed at easing pressure on local businesses as the Jaguars prepare for the 2026 season while EverBank Stadium undergoes the “Stadium of the Future” renovation project, a plan expected to reduce the number of fans who can attend games. More from Jacksonville Today.
Funding partially restored to Tri-Rail, but big budget deficit looms
Tri-Rail, South Florida's publicly funded passenger train, will regain state funding previously cut if Gov. Ron DeSantis approves Florida's annual budget, which state lawmakers passed on May 29. Tri-Rail will get up to $60 million from the Florida Department of Transportation, which would match previous subsidies the department granted the rail line that connects Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties. FDOT, however, can still choose to give Tr-Rail less than that. More from the Palm Beach Post.
Orlando seeks to loosen Downtown Historic District rules to juice development
Arguing the historic preservation efforts are impeding rather than enhancing downtown, Orlando is proposing to ease restrictions on building in its Downtown Historic District, which officials contend have left valuable properties vacant and underutilized. But preservationists are wary about the proposed changes, which could make it easier to tear down the city’s collection of classic pre-war buildings. More from the Orlando Sentinel.
Podcast
Executive Perspective: Shirl Penney
Shirl Penney, president and CEO of Dynasty Financial Partners, shares how his personal background has shaped his motivation and leadership style, and discusses his wealth management platform's metrics and methods.
» More from Florida Trend.
Out of the Box
Red Bull will bring 90-foot cliff diving to the St. Pete Pier
This weekend, pelicans won’t be the only ones plunging into the waters around the St. Pete Pier. The Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series is about to morph the downtown waterfront into an international extreme sport destination on Friday and Saturday. Two dozen adrenaline-seeking athletes from around the world will fling themselves off a 90-foot-tall platform into the North Yacht Basin.
» Read more from the Tampa Bay Times.