Council Corner: Lisa Gonzalez Moore: Ward 4

A few things on my mind today ... Earlier this month, I joined the Legislative Committee of the Manatee Chamber of Commerce at its Legislative Lobby Days. Chamber staff was able to procure appointments with many members of our Manatee Delegation, including Rep. Will Robinson, Rep. Tommy Gregory, Sen. Jim Boyd, and Sen. Joe Gruters.

We also met with staff of the Florida Department of Transportation and the Department of Environmental Protection. The meetings were informative, and I believe that the group was able to convey the importance of tackling affordability issues in Manatee County by focusing on sustainability and resiliency efforts.

• FDOT is moving forward with the DeSoto Bridge replacement project, which should not be confused with the study of options for alleviating traffic congestion by looking at alternatives for north-south traffic movement. The study is called the Bradenton-Palmetto Connector Alternative Corridor Evaluation ("ACE"), and FDOT has public engagement underway. More information regarding ACE, including any upcoming public meetings and the ability to provide written comments, can be found here.

• The City has a couple of events scheduled to help residents get into the holiday spirit. On December 9, Winter Wonderland will return to Old Main Street, an event for all ages and one loved by everyone. Additionally, the City will be ringing in the new year with a Live on Main event on Old Main Street - watch for more details on this event. As a friendly reminder, please note that all beverages must be in non-glass containers unless you are inside an establishment.

• Finally, the City loses two key team members next year with the retirements of Jeannie Roberts, the Public Information Officer, and Jim McLellan, Director of Public Works & Utilities. It has been a pleasure working with both Jim and Jeannie this past year, and I wish them all the best in their retirement. I look forward to welcoming fresh faces in the new year.

• I hope to schedule a town hall early in the new year so that residents can tell me what is on their minds. This time of year always reminds me of the hope for a better future, and Bradenton has much to look forward to in 2024. Happy New Year, Bradenton!