DeSantis seeks tax relief in proposed $114B budget

By Andrew Powell | The Center Square contributor (The Center Square) — Florida Governor Ron DeSantis held a news conference in Tallahassee Wednesday to discuss his “Framework for Freedom” budget. DeSantis’ proposed $114.8 billion budget contains some tax relief measures as the economy in the Sunshine State has performed far better than other states. Last year the state surplus was over...

Last call for Florida Fish Art Contest entries

The deadline is fast approaching for this year’s Art of Conservation Florida Fish Art Contest, hosted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). This contest is open to youths in grades kindergarten through 12th grade from across the state. The deadline to enter is Feb. 28 – start your entry today! Students from Florida can win top honors,...

CF invites students to a preview day

OCALA, Fla. (Jan. 30, 2023) — The College of Central Florida invites anyone thinking about college to attend an upcoming Preview Day event: Ocala Campus on Tuesday, Feb. 28, 5-7 p.m.; Jack Wilkinson Levy Campus on Thursday, March 2, 10 a.m-1 p.m.; or Wilton Simpson Citrus Campus on Thursday, March 9, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Preview Day is a chance for...

Multi-year FWC investigation ‘Operation Viper’ leads to numerous charges for venomous and prohibited snake traffickers

On Jan. 12, 2023, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Division of Law Enforcement (DLE) filed charges against eight individuals, ranging from second degree misdemeanors to third-degree felonies related to the illegal trafficking of venomous and prohibited snakes. The FWC has been receiving intelligence reports and complaints indicating that a black market exists for the sale and purchase...

DeSantis makes conservation a priority

During the past four years under Gov. Ron DeSantis’ leadership, Florida has remained one of the most sought-after destinations for world-class fishing, unique hunting opportunities and recreation. Gov. DeSantis’ focus on protecting our natural resources and his continued support, ensures that residents and visitors will benefit and enjoy our environmental resources for generations to come while remaining the Fishing and...

Affordable Housing Committee meets Jan. 18

The Citrus County Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (AHAC) will meet on Wednesday, January 18, 2023, at 5:00pm. The meeting will be held in the café at the Citrus County Resource Center, located at 2804 West Marc Knighton Court, Lecanto, Florida. For more information, call the Citrus County Housing Division at (352) 527-7520.

County offices close for Christmas holiday

Citrus County government offices will be closed Friday, December 23, and Monday, December 26, 2022, in observance of the Christmas holiday. Normal hours of operation and services will resume Tuesday, December 27, with the following exceptions: • Citrus County Animal Services (CCAS) will be closed to the public on Friday, December 23, and Saturday, December 24. Normal hours of operation...

Hurricane Ian derelict vessel removal efforts continue

Almost 12 weeks after Hurricane Ian made landfall the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and partner agencies continue their efforts to remove vessels rendered derelict by the storm in Charlotte, Collier, Lee and Monroe counties. Imagery from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has identified over 7,500 potentially displaced vessels. FWC officers have assessed over 4,200 vessels on...

DeSantis asks statewide grand jury to investigate COVID-19 vaccines

By Brett Rowland | The Center Square (The Center Square) – Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has announced new actions designed to hold the federal government and pharmaceutical companies accountable for decisions related to COVID-19 vaccines. DeSantis will establish the Public Health Integrity Committee, overseen by the state’s surgeon general, to assess federal public health recommendations and guidance. The governor also petitioned...

Citrus County Water Resources receives statewide award for best tasting water

Citrus County’s drinking water has officially been named “best of the best” in a statewide tasting competition. The “Best Tasting Drinking Water Contest” is held annually by the regions within the Florida Section of the American Water Works Association (FSAWWA) and brings together other utilities to compete for the title. Samples are judged on taste, color, odor, and clarity. The...