Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 10.1.25

Good Wednesday morning.

Longtime lobbyist Maria Zack just earned her spot on the Dec. 9 Special Election ballot that will determine who takes the open House District 90 seat to represent a coastal portion of Palm Beach County through 2026.

With all 107 precincts reporting, a complete tally of early votes and a partial count of mail-in ballots, Zack had 53% of the vote to defeat businessperson Bill Reicherter in a head-to-head Republican Primary, according to unofficial numbers from the Supervisor of Elections website.

Zack won by a margin of 159 votes.

She now advances to the race’s General Election, where she faces Delray Beach Commissioner Rob Long, a Democrat, and no-party candidate Karen Yeh. Just 8.6% of HD 90’s 31,208 voters cast ballots Tuesday.

Long is thought to have an edge in the December matchup to succeed late Rep. Joe Casello, a Democrat who died of a heart attack in July.

Nearly 55% of the voters in the district supported Kamala Harris in November, when Casello scored 56% of the vote there.

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“Ralph Massullo breezes in SD 11 Republican Primary” via Mike Wright of Florida Politics — Former state Rep. Massullo’s march to the Senate continues after an easy Republican Primary win over Anthony Brice. Massullo won the Senate District 11 Primary with 78% of the vote. Brice didn’t top 22% in any of the four counties that comprise the district. Massullo faces Democrat Ash Marwah, a civil engineer from The Villages, in a Dec. 9 Special General Election. The winner will succeed Blaise Ingoglia, who represented SD 11 before he was appointed Chief Financial Officer. “I’m very pleased and honored to be selected as the Republican nominee for Senate District 11,” Massullo said.

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Alex Anderson, a seasoned government relations strategist and attorney, is joining the Griffin Group as a Partner.

Anderson most recently served as vice president of Public Policy at the Alzheimer’s Association, where he led the Association’s state government affairs teams and served as the primary lobbyist in Florida, overseeing all grassroots engagement.

“Having worked with Alex for over a decade, I can attest to his deep understanding of the legislative process and his outstanding skill in building strong, trusted relationships with members,” said Senate Majority Leader Jim Boyd. “The Griffin Group is gaining a dedicated, well-connected, and honest advocate on their team. I have no doubt he will excel in this role, bringing tremendous value and success.”

Anderson began as a staff attorney for the Senate Committee on Community Affairs and later served in the House Majority Leader’s Office. He went on to hold senior roles within the Department of Education and the Office of Financial Regulation.

“During Alex’s tenure at the Office of Financial Regulation, I saw firsthand his exceptional ability to navigate the complexities of the legislative process with skill and precision,” said Office of Financial Regulation Commissioner Russell C. Weigel.

The Griffin Group, led by owners Keaton Alexander Griffin and Tom Griffin, represents clients across sectors including health care, education, agriculture, criminal justice, transportation, and technology.

“Alex knows how Florida works — not just the politics, but the people and the process and has built his career at the intersection of law, policy, and advocacy,” said Tom Griffin. “He has earned the trust of leaders in the Capitol and across the state, and that credibility will be invaluable to our clients.”

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Take Stock in Children, the statewide nonprofit known for pairing mentorship with scholarships to help break the cycle of poverty, has tapped Bethany Lacey as its new CEO.

Lacey succeeds Jillian Hasner, who led the organization for the past decade and helped cement its reputation as Florida’s flagship mentoring and scholarship program. Take Stock, now in its 30th year, has served more than 45,000 low-income, at-risk students across the state since its founding in 1995.

“Bethany embodies the vision, compassion, and energy that will ensure Take Stock in Children’s success into the future,” Board Chair Fontaine LeMaistre said in a statement. “Her decades of dedication to Florida’s children and families, paired with her proven ability to inspire communities and strengthen organizations, make her uniquely suited to lead Take Stock as we expand our reach and deepen our impact.”

John Locke, the group’s president, said Lacey’s experience and passion will help the nonprofit build on Hasner’s success.

“Bethany is a proven leader whose passion for serving children and families aligns perfectly with our mission,” Locke said. “I look forward to working alongside her as we expand opportunities for Florida’s students and build on the incredible foundation laid by Jillian. Together, we will ensure that every student in our program has the tools, mentorship, and support to achieve their dreams.”

Lacey became Executive Director of Boys Town South Florida in 2021, overseeing fundraising, Board management, licensing, and quality assurance while keeping children and families at the center of her work.

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Comcast is welcoming three new additions to its Government & Regulatory Affairs team for the Florida Region.

The telecommunications giant said Nicholas Alvarez and Samuel Waltzer each bring a strong track record in public service, policy, and community engagement, and will play a key role in strengthening Comcast’s relationships with local governments and stakeholders across the state. All three will report to Michelle Oyola McGovern, vice president of Government & Regulatory Affairs for Comcast’s Florida Region.

Alvarez, a Miami native and past honoree in INFLUENCE magazine’s “30 Under 30 Rising Stars,” joins the company as Director of Government & Regulatory Affairs for Miami-Dade and Monroe counties. He brings more than a decade of experience navigating government institutions and advancing policy initiatives across Florida. He also served as Campaign Director for House Speaker Danny Perez and Rep. Anthony Rodriguez, Chair of the Miami-Dade County Commission.

Vernon, another “30 Under 30 Rising Stars” alum, comes aboard as Manager of Government & Regulatory Affairs for the Tallahassee area and the Florida Panhandle. He most recently served as Director of Legislative Affairs at the Florida Lottery and has held several other key roles in state government. An active member of Florida Blue Key, Vernon was recently selected for Leadership Florida Connect Class 15 and appointed to the State Historic Cemeteries Program Advisory Council.

Waltzer, who first joined Comcast in 2016, has been named Director of Government & Regulatory Affairs for the Jacksonville area and Northeast Florida. He previously served as a senior project manager for Comcast NBCUniversal’s Military & Veteran Affairs team. Waltzer is also a Major in the U.S. Army National Guard and has led logistics teams in various domestic and international locations, including New Jersey, Florida, Iraq and the United Kingdom.

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KPMG’s Florida government services practice is expanding with the addition of a senior director and a slate of promotions in its Tallahassee office.

Savannah Jefferson has joined the firm as a Director. Jefferson most recently served as Director of External Affairs for Gov. Ron DeSantis, where she managed outreach and engagement on behalf of the Governor’s Office. She previously held senior roles at the Florida Hospital Association and Volunteer Florida, focusing on communications, legislative affairs and stakeholder engagement.

In addition to Jefferson’s hire, the Big Four firm is elevating five of its current team members.

Maggie Mickler was promoted to Principal. She has been with KPMG since 2018, advising state agencies on grants management, disaster recovery and operational efficiency. She previously held several senior posts in state government, including at the Department of Children and Families, the Department of Economic Opportunity (now FloridaCommerce) and the Department of Management Services.

Danielle Kosberg has been promoted to Managing Director. She specializes in finance transformation and large-scale project delivery, drawing on nearly two decades of experience in both public and private sectors. Before joining KPMG, she held leadership roles with Voyatek and ISF and was a key member of the Florida PALM financial system project at the Department of Financial Services.

Kelsi Snow has been promoted to Manager. She has been with KPMG for three years, focusing on account management and public-sector client relations. Before joining the firm, she worked at Bascom Communications & Consulting and held positions at the University of Florida.

Rounding out the list are Vincent Fetchero and Maxwell Thursam, both of whom were promoted to Senior Associate.

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@VeraMBergen: (Pete) Hegseth to his audience of hundreds of generals summoned to Quantico: “No more beards, long hair, superficial individual expression… We don’t have a military full of Nordic pagans.”

—@DOWResponse: @secwar “If the words I am speaking today are making your hearts sink, then you should do the honorable thing and RESIGN.”

Tweet, tweet:

—@ErikTrump: I am extremely proud to announce a UNANIMOUS vote by the Florida Cabinet for the conveyance of land for the @realDonaldTrump Presidential Library, which will be located in… MIAMI, FLORIDA! It will be the greatest Presidential Library ever built, honoring the greatest President our Nation has ever known. A large thank you to @GovRonDeSantis & @AGJamesUthmeier who have been incredible partners in this endeavor. Consistent with our family’s DNA, this will be one of the most beautiful buildings ever built, an Icon on the Miami skyline — rest assured, it will not look like President Obama’s “prison-like structure.”

—@GovGoneWild: Analysis: Orlando Sentinel is full of sh*t.

Tweet, tweet:

Tweet, tweet:

—@WatchinWisteria: Taylor (Swift) purposely picking late-night shows that have been targeted by Donald Trump. Go off, queen.

— DAYS UNTIL —

Taylor Swift’s new album ’The Life of a Showgirl’ drops — 2; Regular Session Committee Weeks begin — 5; Florida TaxWatch Annual Board Meeting — 5; ’Tron: Ares’ premieres — 9; ‘Six Kings Slam,’ featuring six of men’s tennis’ best players in the world, premieres on Netflix — 14; Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) Fall Board Meeting and Gala begins — 19; NBA returns to NBC, with 2025-2026 season Opening Day tipoffs including the Houston Rockets visiting the Oklahoma City Thunder — 20; ’Mayor of Kingstown’ season four premieres — 25; Future of Florida Forum (F3) & Florida Chamber annual meeting — 26; Miami Beach City Commission Elections — 34; ‘Landman’ season two premieres on Paramount+ — 46; ’Wicked: For Good’ premieres — 51; ’Stranger Things’ final season premieres — 56; Bears vs. Eagles on Black Friday — 58; Florida Transportation, Growth & Infrastructure Solution Summit — 63; Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit — 63; Special General Elections for SD 11 and HD 90 — 69; ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ premieres — 72; DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet — 77; ’Avatar: Fire and Ash’ premieres — 79; Broncos vs. Chiefs in Kansas City on Christmas Day — 85; Legislative Session begins — 104; Florida Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Fly-In — 104; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 128; last day of the Regular Session — 163; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup/Netflix’s first exclusive MLB stream — 175; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 176; Tampa Bay Rays will play their first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 187; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 196; First Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (Federal) — 201; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 205; F1 Miami begins — 212; ’Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 233; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 244; Second Qualifying Period for 2026 begins (State) — 250; State Qualifying Period ends — 254; FIFA World Cup begins — 253; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 276; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 281; 96th annual MLB All-Star Game — 286; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 288; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 292; Primary Election 2026: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 309; Primary Election 2026: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 311; Primary Election Day 2026 — 321; Yankees host the Mets to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 — 345; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 349; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 353; General Election 2026: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 358; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 365; General Election 2026: Deadline to register to vote — 369; Early Votion General Election Mandatory period begins — 388; 2026 General Election — 398; ’Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 443; Another untitled ’Star Wars’ movie premieres — 443; Tampa Mayoral Election — 517; Jacksonville First Election — 538; Jacksonville General Election — 594; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 612; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 674; ’The Batman 2’ premieres — 730; ’Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 807; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 1017; U.S. Presidential Election — 1133; ’Avatar 4’ premieres — 1533; ’Avatar 5’ premieres — 2264.

— TOP STORY —

“Donald Trump to build high-rise library ‘visible for miles’ after state gifts Miami land” via Alexandra Glorioso and Claire Heddles of the Herald/Times Tallahassee Bureau — President Trump plans to build a high-rise tower in downtown Miami to house his presidential library after DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet voted Tuesday to give his foundation 2.6 acres of prime public land next to the Freedom Tower. Eric Trump said the library will become a “bold landmark” visible from miles away, and the site — valued as high as $300 million — was transferred for free despite decades of failed attempts by other developers to secure it. The only condition is that construction on a presidential library, museum or center must begin within five years, leaving open the possibility of a hotel or other facilities alongside it.

The acquisition followed months of secret negotiations, with few details disclosed even to the Miami-Dade College Board of Trustees, which previously owned the land. Several Cabinet members admitted after Tuesday’s vote that they had no prior discussions with Trump’s team and were unaware of specific plans for the project. Attorney General James Uthmeier defended the deal, arguing it could offer job and educational opportunities for college students.

Supporters say the library could boost tourism and serve as an economic engine for downtown Miami; critics blasted the decision to memorialize a President known for hardline immigration policies at a site adjacent to the “Ellis Island of the South.” Protesters gathered Monday near the Freedom Tower to oppose the giveaway.

Some officials downplayed the controversy. Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson said the Cabinet’s vote merely authorized the library project, regardless of any additional amenities.

Chief Financial Officer Ingoglia dismissed concerns that the deal was politically motivated, calling them “hogwash” and saying critics were reacting to Trump’s populist agenda.

— STATEWIDE —

“Ron DeSantis, Cabinet OK $83 million land buy from GOP donor” via Gray Rohrer of the USA Today Network-Florida — Florida officials on Monday approved an $83.3 million purchase of four acres of prime waterfront land in Destin to expand Norriego Point Beach Access and Park — paying roughly 10 times what the property’s owner, Louisiana businessman and GOP donor Robert Guidry, spent for it in 2016 and 2017. The land, next to the existing park, will prevent future development and add beachfront and parking. The Cabinet’s unanimous vote came over objections from Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia, who voiced “concerns” about the deal. Agriculture Commissioner Simpson defended the purchase as a safeguard against a potential 250-condominium project. The property, owned by Guidry-controlled LLCs, was the lowest of two state appraisals.

“Florida Conservation Group locks in 8,500 acres to shield water, wildlife and working lands” via Peter Schorsch of Florida Politics — The Cabinet on Tuesday approved two major conservation projects championed by the Florida Conservation Group (FCG), securing permanent protection for 8,500 acres of working ranchland in Hardee and Okeechobee counties through the state’s Rural and Family Lands Protection Program. The deals include 2,559 acres at Bentley Ranch along the Peace River watershed — vital for water quality, aquifer recharge, and flood control — and nearly 6,000 acres in the Great Florida Prairie, a key Everglades headwaters region. FCG leaders praised the move as essential to preserving water resources, wildlife habitat, and Florida’s ranching heritage. “We want to conserve these natural resources, our agricultural legacy and the local agricultural economy,” said rancher Jason Bentley.

Buy, buy, buy — “‘Cause for concern’: DeSantis issues stock bubble warning” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — DeSantis on Tuesday voiced skepticism about a stock market he said is being driven more by speculation than real profits, warning that soaring valuations fueled by Big Tech and artificial intelligence could signal a looming bubble. Speaking at a Florida Cabinet meeting, DeSantis questioned how much of the rally is tied to a handful of companies. They noted even Berkshire Hathaway is stockpiling cash as it waits for a correction. State investment chief Chris Spencer agreed, describing “stratospheric” valuations reminiscent of the dotcom and fiber booms. While AI could boost productivity, Spencer cautioned the spending frenzy may already be excessive, with the so-called “Magnificent Seven” pushing markets upward “until it doesn’t.”

“Commercial break: Florida’s business rent tax sunsets for good” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Florida has stood alone for years as the only state charging a business rent tax. However, that ended on Wednesday morning as a tax reform package took effect. After years of gradually phasing out the unpopular tax, the Republican-controlled Legislature voted to eliminate it. It was a move celebrated by business advocates who long argued Florida made itself less attractive to businesses by collecting the levy on commercial leases. “The elimination of Florida’s business rent tax is a major victory for employers across the state,” said Brewster Bevis, Associated Industries of Florida president and CEO.

“‘Tristin Murphy Act,’ designed to protect mentally ill in jails, goes into effect” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — An emotional journey for legislation designed to protect incarcerated individuals suffering mental health issues enters its final phase as it takes effect Oct. 1. The measure is named after Tristin Murphy, who committed suicide in a Florida prison in 2021. The legislation calls for the state to establish probation conditions for defendants with mental illness, sets requirements for work assignments for those detainees and expands training options under the criminal justice, mental health and substance abuse grant programs. Sen. Jennifer Bradley, a Fleming Island Republican, crafted the Senate’s original bill (SB 168). Senate President Ben Albritton, a Wauchula Republican, personally championed the Tristin Murphy Act. When DeSantis finally approved it, he became emotional.

“Paw and order: Trooper’s Law to protect dogs during hurricanes now in effect” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — A new law to protect dogs in natural disasters is taking effect as hurricane season continues. “Trooper’s Law” creates a new enhanced animal cruelty offense for leaving a dog tied up outside during a hurricane, tropical storm, tornado warning or evacuation order. If convicted, a person could face up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. SB 150 was inspired by a dog’s dramatic rescue during Hurricane Milton that went viral last year. The 5-year-old bulldog terrier was tied up to a fence off Interstate 75 near Tampa as the floodwaters rose up to the dog’s chest.

“Florida to enforce tougher penalties for ankle monitor tampering” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — The next time someone cuts off an ankle monitor in Florida, they could be doubling the prison time they already face. Beginning Wednesday, a new state law will impose steep, graduated felony penalties on offenders who tamper with court-ordered electronic monitoring devices. The law (HB 437), signed by DeSantis in May, treats tampering with a GPS ankle monitor as seriously as the crime that warranted the device in the first place. Previously, all tampering cases were charged as a third-degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine, regardless of the severity of the underlying crime. Now, penalties scale to match the severity of the original offense.

“New law cracks down on gift card fraud starting Oct. 1” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Starting Wednesday, Florida is cracking down on gift card fraud under a law that defines the crime in statute and establishes a schedule of penalties, the least of which is a first-degree misdemeanor carrying a potential jail sentence of up to one year. The new law defines gift card fraud as acquiring or retaining gift card information without permission, tampering with cards or packaging, or using stolen card data to obtain goods, services or money. If the value of the ill-gotten goods or services exceeds $750 — or if prosecutors can show a series of smaller frauds adding up to that amount — violators face a third-degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Trump says a deal with Harvard is close” via Michael C. Bender, Michael S. Schmidt and Alan Blinder of The New York Times — Trump said his administration was close to reaching a multimillion-dollar agreement with Harvard University, which would end a monthslong standoff that had come to symbolize the resistance to the White House’s efforts to reshape higher education. Harvard, which would become the latest university to strike a deal with the Trump administration, has been seeking an end to a thicket of investigations that the government opened as part of its wide-ranging efforts to bring the university in line with Trump’s agenda. “We are in the process of getting very close,” Trump said in an appearance from the Oval Office. He added that the details were being finalized and said, “They would be paying about $500 million.”

“Environmental groups urge full funding for NOAA as hurricane season threatens, government shutdown looms” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Dozens of environmental and health organizations have signed a letter to Congress urging lawmakers to maintain robust funding for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). “NOAA saves lives and supports livelihoods in Florida. When a storm forms, when tides surge, when harmful algal blooms spread — Floridians turn to NOAA’s data, forecasts, and science,” the group wrote in a letter.. “We are encouraged that the House and Senate CJS appropriations bills rejected many of the NOAA cuts originally proposed in the President’s budget. But some damaging cuts remain in the Appropriations Committees’ draft bills.”

“Ashley Moody backs bill to guarantee federally funded American flags are made in the U.S.” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — U.S. Sen. Moody is backing new federal legislation to require that all American flags purchased or displayed by federal agencies be entirely made in the United States, closing loopholes left by a similar law passed last year. The “Make American Flags in America Act,” introduced by Sen. Ted Cruz, strengthens the 2024 “All-American Flag Act” by clarifying that flags must be 100% stitched, dyed, and manufactured domestically, and prohibits federal agencies from displaying or procuring flags produced abroad. Moody said the bill ensures taxpayer dollars support U.S. manufacturing while preserving national pride. The measure also tightens definitions of “made in the United States” and expands the law’s reach to eliminate previous exemptions for federal purchases.

“ICE says it deported former Cuban judge who sentenced anti-government protesters” via Nora Gámez Torres of the Miami Herald — The United States deported a former judge who sentenced anti-government protesters in Cuba, in a case that became a test of efforts by Cuban exiles to “out” former officials accused of human rights violations who have taken refuge in the United States. Melody González Pedraza was put on a deportation flight to Cuba last Thursday. González Pedraza arrived in Tampa in May under a humanitarian parole program created by the Joe Biden administration last year but was denied entry at the airport due to her role as a judge in Villa Clara, a province in central Cuba. She then claimed asylum on the spot, but an immigration judge denied her protection in May. She had been detained under ICE custody during the entire process.

— ELECTIONS —

“Paul Renner helped DeSantis mold Florida. Can he be Governor without his support?” via Claire Heddles of the Miami Herald — Former House Speaker Renner is pitching himself as the continuity candidate in the 2026 Governor’s race, telling voters he “stood shoulder to shoulder” with DeSantis in shaping the “Free State of Florida.” Renner, who spearheaded school vouchers, classroom content restrictions and a six-week abortion ban as speaker, promises similar policies if elected. He faces a crowded Republican Primary without endorsements from DeSantis or Trump, who called his run “ill-advised,” and will likely compete against Trump-backed Rep. Byron Donalds and Lt. Gov. Jay Collins. A Navy veteran and former prosecutor, Renner pledges to cut property taxes, curb emergency powers, roll back vaccine mandates and tighten immigration enforcement while emphasizing Latin American relations and regulating social media.

“ACLU of Florida sues DeSantis over Special Election inaction … again” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — The Florida chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union has filed a lawsuit on behalf of a Tampa voter against DeSantis over his failure to call a Special Election for Senate District 14. The Hillsborough County-based seat is open after DeSantis appointed former Sen. Collins as Lieutenant Governor on Aug. 12. A month and a half later, a Special Election to replace him has still not been called. The suit seeks to compel DeSantis to schedule one. “Tampa deserves full representation in the Legislature. By refusing to call a Special Election, the Governor is denying us that right and ignoring decades of established precedent. It’s illegal and wrong,” said Cort Lippe, the Tampa resident behind the legal complaint.

Happening tonight:

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Florida DOGE claims $190 million in Broward budget is excessive spending” via Rafael Olmeda of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Broward County government spending has outpaced both inflation and population growth to the tune of about $190 million — hiking the cost of living and artificially keeping the County Commission from offering real tax relief to its citizens, Florida Chief Financial Officer Ingoglia argued. At a news conference promoting the state’s analysis of spending by the Broward County government, Ingoglia called for property owners and taxpayers to put pressure on the County Commission to refrain from allowing the general fund budget to grow more than needed. As part of his presentation, Ingoglia pitched a referendum to eliminate taxes for homesteaded properties in the 2026 Election cycle.

“Broward schools must end Latino leadership course or lose $30M grant, feds say” via Amanda Rosa of the Miami Herald — Broward County Public Schools received an ultimatum from the U.S. Department of Education: end a Latino leadership course or lose a $30 million grant. Now, Latinos in Action courses have been canceled for the Spring 2026 semester. The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights sent a letter to Broward Superintendent Howard Hepburn that gave BCPS five days to cancel the Spring semester’s Latinos in Action courses, which the DOE called discriminatory against non-Latino students. On Friday, BCPS sent an email to parents regarding the decision to discontinue the popular course to comply with federal requirements. Latinos in Action, a nationwide educational program, was offered as an elective class or extracurricular club at 46 Broward middle and high schools and education centers. BCPS, which has a nearly 40% Hispanic student population, started offering the courses in 2015.

“Miami Gardens-North Miami Beach water feud boils over as county ‘follow the law’ vote nears” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A long-simmering fight over the rules and rates for water delivered from North Miami Beach to Miami Gardens boiled over again last week, this time at Miami Gardens City Hall, where recently approved discounts were rebuffed in favor of a call to “follow the law.” North Miami Beach Mayor Michael Joseph appeared at the Miami Gardens Council’s meeting to share what he called “an olive branch, or in this case, olive trees,” touting a new relief plan he said would directly help Miami Gardens customers who receive service from his city’s Norwood Water Treatment Plant, which sits inside Miami Gardens’ bounds. North Miami Beach this month approved a 10% discount on water bills — up to $100 per year — for customers who qualify for certain homestead exemptions, including seniors, permanently disabled veterans, deployed service members and surviving spouses of first responders and veterans killed in the line of duty.

“Mayor addresses Fort Lauderdale’s homeless crisis in State of the City speech” via Susannah Bryan of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — In his “State of the City” speech Monday night, Mayor Dean Trantalis acknowledged one of Fort Lauderdale’s most significant challenges — a homeless crisis that continues to challenge the city despite an ongoing renaissance inspired by a booming downtown and reimagined beachfront. The Mayor’s annual speech, which typically draws a crowd of both fans and critics, was delivered at The Parker. “We are in the midst of a great renaissance — one of the most remarkable transformations to occur in any city,” Trantalis said. “Fort Lauderdale is stepping boldly onto the world stage as people and businesses take note of this extraordinary rebirth.” He pointed to more than $10 billion in investment that has reshaped downtown in the form of modern residential towers, cosmopolitan offices and award-winning restaurants.

“Miami real estate is a tale of two markets — high-end condo sales lead the way” via Howard Cohen of the Miami Herald — Miami’s luxury condo market had another hot month in August, continuing a trend that finds fancy homes attracting big spenders. In addition to the high-end living demand — with the number of sales transactions of $5 million and up units jumping nearly 12% over last year — the median price of affordable older condos, considered 30 years and older, also remains strong, despite a $10,000 dip in value compared to a year ago. “Miami older condos represent affordability and opportunity,” Miami Association Chair Eddie Blanco said in a statement, noting that most of these units are in prime, built-out locations like Kendall, Kendall Lakes and Hialeah, with future potential for first-time buyers.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Central Florida schools could lose billions if state nixes property tax” via Steven Walker of the Orlando Sentinel — Central Florida’s School Districts stand to lose billions of dollars if the state goes through with DeSantis’ push to eliminate property taxes. DeSantis has said he wants to bring up eliminating property taxes to the voters for the 2026 Election, a proposition that some in local government have warned would virtually eliminate many crucial services — such as law enforcement, fire departments and local public schools. Others in the Governor’s circle have floated eliminating property taxes only for homesteaded properties, where the property owner resides for six or more months of the year. While Florida cities and counties have loudly decried the potential revenue loss, far less attention has been paid to the impact on public schools. A new Florida Policy Institute study has concluded that School Districts generated $21.4 billion in combined property tax revenue in 2024, approximately 36% of which came from homesteaded properties.

“Palm Bay to hold special meeting on remarks by Council member Chandler Langevin” via Tyler Vazquez of Florida Today — Local politicians took to social media to speak out against comments by Palm Bay City Council member Langevin’s social media posts attacking Indian Americans, and their support for the Indian community. Langevin himself is now facing at least one call to be suspended from office by the Governor after his comments, which the Council will discuss at its meeting on Oct. 2. “Our family stands with our local Indian community. Proud Americans who love our country. They always put family first, work hard, value education and are so generous to local charities,” Rep. Mike Haridopolos wrote. “These comments do not reflect the values of our state or our community,” state Rep. Brian Hodgers posted on Facebook. “Indian Americans are an integral part of Florida, contributing as business owners, professionals, and neighbors. I stand with my friends in the Indian community and denounce these harmful and divisive remarks.”

“Lawyer Ben Crump says Universal missed red flags that Stardust Racers was not safe” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — The attorney for the family of a man who died after riding an Epic Universe roller coaster says Universal missed warning signs that Stardust Racers was unsafe. Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, 32, died Sept. 17. Crump, his family’s lawyer, said Rodriguez Zavala suffered multiple blunt force trauma after hitting his head repeatedly on the coaster’s metal bar, starting on the first dip in the ride. Several people who rode the roller coaster at the Epic Universe have come forward to complain about the restraints and how they were thrown around the ride, Crump said. “Since the family went public, multiple riders have come forward reporting their own injuries on the Stardust Races Rollercoaster. These injuries are consistent — problems with restraints, riders being thrown forward, hitting in hard structures,” Crump said. “This shows that Kevin’s case was not an isolated incident.”

— LOCAL: TB —

“Ken Welch reverses course, will move forward with Science Center sale” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — St. Petersburg Mayor Welch will proceed with a previous agreement to sell the St. Pete Science Center to a private group seeking to revitalize it, after the City Council last week urged him to do so. “Given Council’s consensus request from last week’s meeting, I have directed my team to proceed with the previous Science Center agreement, identity the next-best alternatives to increase operational capabilities and Equalization Storage capacity at the NWWRF (Northwest Water Reclamation Facility), and estimate what the additional costs may be for land acquisition,” Welch wrote in a letter to the City Council obtained by Florida Politics.

“How much would it cost Clearwater to leave Duke Energy? City works toward answer.” via Emily L. Mahoney and Colbi Edmonds of the Tampa Bay Times —The city of Clearwater continued its evaluation of leaving Duke Energy on Monday, with a unanimous City Council vote to gather more information on the costs of taking over the utility company’s equipment. The Council voted to get an appraisal of Duke’s assets and create a potential timeline for a purchase offer. The move comes after the city received a study from consultants at NewGen Strategies & Solutions, which estimated that leaving Duke and forming a municipal-run electric utility could save residents millions on their electric bills.

“Clearwater City Commissioner wanted to rename Court St. after Charlie Kirk; he was the only one” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — A bid to rename a Clearwater street after conservative activist Kirk collapsed Monday when Council member Ryan Cotton’s proposal failed to draw a second. The motion — to rechristen Court Street as “Charlie Kirk Way” — sparked a tense, emotional public response. Speaker after speaker, many from Black and marginalized communities, condemned the idea as an attempt to honor a man whose rhetoric they described as racist and demeaning, citing comments questioning Black professionals’ competence and legitimacy. “As you try and deify Charlie Kirk, you are also deifying white supremacy,” one resident warned. Critics noted Kirk had no connection to Clearwater and urged the city not to legitimize bigotry. The debate may continue as officials review naming policies.

“Judge blocks St. Pete Beach from limiting restaurant’s outdoor music” via Beacon Media of the Tampa Bay Times — A federal judge dealt the city a setback Sept. 16 in its ongoing battle over noise control. The judge ruled that the city had violated the First Amendment by severely limiting the musical instruments a waterfront restaurant could play outdoors. U.S. District Judge Kathryn Kimball Mizelle issued a preliminary injunction blocking the city from enforcing restrictions that allowed the dockside restaurant Red, White & Booze to offer “only unamplified acoustic string instruments, except during a few hours on Saturdays and Sundays,” according to court documents.

“USF names sole finalist in presidential search” via Lucy Marques of the Tampa Bay Times —The University of South Florida’s presidential search is nearing its final stages. USF announced Tuesday that its Presidential Search Committee selected Moez Limayem, the University of North Florida’s current president, as the sole finalist for the position. Limayem has served as UNF’s president since 2022 and was the dean of USF’s Muma College of Business for 10 years before that. His selection breaks from the trend seen in other recent university president appointments in Florida, said Judith Wilde, a professor at George Mason University. Other recent hires have been political — people DeSantis pushed for, she said. Mike Griffin, the Chair of USF’s Presidential Search Committee, said the Committee is confident Limayen will accelerate the university’s momentum and bring a strong track record of success.

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“‘Bridge the divide’: Bernard Stevens vies for City Commissioner Dianne Williams-Cox’s seat” via Elena Barrera of the Tallahassee Democrat — Stevens is running for Tallahassee City Commission Seat 5, challenging incumbent Williams-Cox, with a campaign centered on transparency, stability and bridging political divides. After earning just 4% of the vote in a 2024 bid for a different Commission seat, Stevens says his main goal this time is to improve on that showing. A frequent critic of City Hall, he hopes to end the Commission’s persistent 3-2 split and bring officials “on one accord.” While some have labeled him antagonistic, Stevens says his passionate style is often misunderstood and that he’s reflected on past missteps to better connect with voters. He promises to work toward unity between the city and county and ensure the government listens to residents.

“Unfriendly skies: Name change doesn’t fly with Jacksonville Aviation Authority” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) is seeking to ground a proposed local bill that might be carried by state legislators in 2026. But all indications are that it’s ready for takeoff. JAA objects explicitly to language that would change its name to the Jacksonville Aviation and Aerospace Authority, “assign authority and responsibility that already exists with JAA for the economic development of Cecil Airport,” and require “at least one of the Mayoral appointees and one of the Governor appointees of the JAA Board be from the aerospace or related industry.” City Council Vice President Nick Howland, who is carrying the bill, has no plans to withdraw it.

“JAA approves resolutions opposing City Council budget changes” via Marcela Camargo of News4Jax — The JAA Board of Directors voted unanimously to approve two resolutions, one opposing proposed budget changes and another opposing a proposed bill. JAA stated that the first resolution opposes amendments proposed by the Jacksonville City Council to modify the organization’s 2026 budget. The Board of Directors also voted to oppose Resolution 2025-695, which seeks changes to JAA’s charter through the state Legislature. The first resolution in opposition to the City Council’s amendments to the JAA’s 2026 budget stems from a legal opinion the JAA received from the law firm of Lawson Huck Gonzalez, PLLC. The opinion, which was partially written by a retired Florida Supreme Court Justice, encouraged the JAA Board to pass a resolution rejecting the City Council changes.

“Marva Johnson backs TMH-FSU ‘partnership’ as pastor pushes adding FAMU, TSC to Board” via Elena Barrera of the Tallahassee Democrat — A day before the city meets to discuss whether Florida State University should be the new owner of Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, one of the most influential Black pastors in Tallahassee proposed a new model for the parties to consider. Rev. R.B. Holmes, Jr., pastor of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, called for FSU, TMH and the city to save a seat at the table for Florida A&M University, Tallahassee State College and the Apalachee Center.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Sarasota County approves $2.52B budget, with boosts for stormwater and sheriff” via Christian Casale of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — Sarasota County Commissioners have approved a $2.52 billion total budget, a 73% increase in spending from just three years ago, as property tax revenues have soared. Commissioner Tom Knight was the only Commissioner to oppose the budget in a roll call vote. County Commission Chair Joe Neunder and Commissioners Teresa Mark and Mark Smith voted in favor. Commissioner Ron Cutsinger was not in attendance. “The budget, to me, is increasing rapidly, and it has my concern,” Knight said. “The sheriff’s office budget is increasing rapidly – again.” The Commissioner said his most important gripe was the $23 million being drawn from county reserves to supplement the annual budget.

“Lee County teachers win raises, parental leave, consistent schedules in new contract” via Mickenzie Hannon of the Naples Daily News — Lee County teachers could see higher pay, expanded parental leave and more consistent work schedules under a tentative contract agreement between the School District and the teachers’ union. The School District of Lee County and the Teachers Association of Lee County, TALC, reached the deal Sept. 22 after months of bargaining. The union’s roughly 6,000 members will vote on the contract in October. Before the vote, each teacher will receive a personalized letter detailing their new salary. If ratified, the School Board will vote in November, with raises and benefits retroactive to July 1, meaning teachers could potentially see larger paychecks before the holidays.

“Bradenton Beach City Attorney retires amid corruption lawsuit, controversies” via Jesse Mendoza of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — Bradenton Beach City Attorney Ricinda Perry retired on Sept. 18 after 21 years of service following involvement in a lawsuit alleging corruption and other controversies during the 2024 hurricane season. Perry’s departure comes as the city faces a looming $100 million class-action lawsuit from condo owner Bob Bolus, Sr., who alleges a conspiracy of “political corruption and graft” involving city officials and prominent developer Shawn Kaleta, and other controversies that arose from the condemnation process following the 2024 hurricanes. Perry explained that she intended to retire at the end of 2024 and move out of state with her family but postponed her plans to help the city navigate the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

— TOP OPINION —

“Florida’s $67M gift to Trump library: Were taxpayers consulted? Of course, not” via the Miami Herald editorial board — In a single week, Florida leaders proposed and approved transferring a $67 million piece of taxpayer-owned land in downtown Miami to the Donald J. Trump Presidential Library Foundation with minimal public debate or transparency. The Republican-controlled Florida Cabinet voted unanimously for the deal, which imposes only one restriction: construction of a library, museum, or center must begin within five years. The move followed a quick, little-noticed vote by the Miami-Dade College Board of Trustees to relinquish the land without knowing its intended use.

Critics argue the giveaway is an egregious misuse of public property, especially given speculation that a high-rise hotel could be built alongside the library. They also question why taxpayers received nothing in return, breaking decades of precedent in which the college demanded community benefits from developers.

The site’s symbolism adds to the controversy. The planned library will sit beside Miami’s Freedom Tower — a historic refuge for Cuban immigrants — despite Trump’s hardline immigration policies. It will also occupy space once home to a newspaper, raising concerns about his history of attacking the press.

Supporters argue that the project could boost tourism and economic growth while fostering educational partnerships for students. Yet the editorial argues that the lack of transparency erodes public trust and mirrors Trump’s disregard for process.

It notes the broader pattern of presidential libraries displacing public land, as seen in Chicago with Barack Obama’s library.

Ultimately, the episode highlights how quickly public resources can be allocated to political allies when oversight and accountability are set aside.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“Not much will change in Six Gun Territory” via Bill Cotterell of the News Service of Florida — Six Gun Territory used to be a tourist attraction near Ocala where visitors could pretend to be back in the Wild West of fanciful frontier folklore. Now, it’s the whole state, and it’s for real. From the Flora-Bama lounge that straddles the state line on the far fringe of the Panhandle to that southernmost mile marker where tourists take selfies in the Florida Keys, it’s now legal for law-abiding citizens to openly carry guns like Matt Dillon in the title scenes of “Gunsmoke.” Conservative Republicans and other pro-gun forces attained their long-sought goal of legalizing “open carry” of firearms via a recent ruling by the 1st District Court of Appeal.

“The Obama Main Library lends St. Pete a very good day” via Stephanie Hayes of the Tampa Bay Times — On an overcast Saturday, the city’s eager beavers dropped cars in overflow lots. All this gleeful exuberance, all this getting out of bed on a weekend morning? It was for a public library. The President Barack Obama Main Library, to be exact, which reopened with fanfare, prayer and song after sitting shuttered for more than four years. “COVID to asbestos to supply chains to, of course, hurricanes,” Mayor Welch explained to the bursting crowd. The library closed for renovations in 2021, then never met an obstacle it didn’t like. But this? This was a happy day, a lovely day. The kind of day that makes one believe that public works can actually function for the public good. In a city where you can’t sit still without an $8 latte, in a state that has criminalized sleeping outside, the library represents a gleaming new third space for all.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“Saudi comedy festival draws big names and backlash” via Mikhail Klimentov and Ethan Beck of The Washington Post — A comedy festival underway in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, billed as the world’s largest, has drawn a list of big names to the Saudi capital, including Aziz Ansari, Bill Burr, Dave Chappelle, Louis C.K., Pete Davidson, Kevin Hart and Chris Tucker. But not everyone is laughing. The festival has drawn a wave of criticism from advocacy organizations, fans and, most vocally, other comedians — including Shane Gillis, Marc Maron and Stavros Halkias. It has exposed a rift over whether the mercenary ethos of performance for pay should extend to a kingdom that human rights advocates say is using the international cachet of celebrities to paper over its human rights record by building up its image as a hub of entertainment and modernization in the Middle East.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Celebrating today are Ryan Banfill, Rena Frazier, Kimberly Stone Kirtley, Danielle Ochoa, and Danielle Cone Scoggins.

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Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.