Ken Welch

A bill that would ban cities and counties from actively participating or funding DEI — diversity, equity and inclusion events — passed the state Senate Thursday.

Lakeland residents face higher electric bills, while a Senate bill transferring USF Sarasota-Manatee land to New College vanishes — leaving both energy costs and campus plans in uncertainty.

On "Florida Matters Live & Local," St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch took listeners' calls and addressed several topics, including the redevelopment of the historic Gas Plant District.

"Florida Matters Live & Local" sits down with Mayor Ken Welch, examines how immigration verification rules would reshape local services in Manatee County, and explores efforts to restore a historic Tampa landmark.

Mayor Ken Welch said now is not the time to stop any progress that has been made in what would become the largest redevelopment project in the city's history.

The number of submissions is down to eight after the city of St. Petersburg website listed a development from Tempo Novus as withdrawn.

A collaboration with Moffitt Cancer Center is now part of one plan to reimagine the area around Tropicana Field. However, the renowned cancer institution already has a home in St. Petersburg.

Mayor Ken Welch reiterated Monday that the city has spent over a decade planning for the Gas Plant’s future. Those efforts included two studies, “both with a stadium and without a stadium.”

His reelection campaign will focus on evolving climate threats, increasing neighborhood investments, accelerating housing solutions, providing economic opportunities and strengthening public safety.

“There’s pushback on any government spending right now," Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector said.

The proposed drilling area is “dangerously close” to Florida, and roughly the size of South Carolina.

“You can’t let that deter you from doing the job,” St. Petersburg's mayor said after his former treasurer stands accused of stealing more than $207,000 in campaign money.