Hillsborough County Commission

Hillsborough County Commissioners agreed to add six years to the hockey team's lease in exchange for major renovations to Benchmark International Arena.

The proposed Fieldhouse complex would feature up to 12 basketball courts and 24 volleyball courts, with the possibility of adding a privately funded ice rink. The adding investment will come from tourist taxes.

Commissioners also approved spending another $3 million to design a major indoor sports facility at the Museum of Science and Industry site on Fowler Avenue.

Hillsborough County currently provides about $850,000 in money, but will reduce it by 25% until 2029, when it will zero out.

At a public hearing before the vote, around 30 residents urged commissioners to vote against an ordinance repealing the local affordable housing act.

The plan, which would include several basketball and volleyball courts, will be discussed at a future workshop.

The Hillsborough County Board of Commissioners voted to end its contract with the company that operates the Cross Bay Ferry early.

Hillsborough County and HMS Ferries have operated the service between St. Petersburg and Tampa since 2021. An unexpected change of vessel could lead to the service ending permanently.

Because both referendums address public schools, voters may feel like they have to choose between the two taxes.

This year, affordable housing efforts will get only $2 million, with the remainder being reallocated towards reduced property taxes, sidewalk repairs, and other investments.

In a last minute budget change, Hillsborough County commissioners could vote to siphon affordable housing dollars toward nonhousing related projects. The final budget hearing is on Sept. 19.

If you're a Hillsborough County resident, there are three commission races worth watching in Tuesday's primary election.