Wedding venue in Blue Ridge, GA for couples in North Port, FL

NORTH PORT – North Port city commissioners gave preliminary approval to a proposed $251.6 million budget for the next year – despite the pleas of several residents, who wanted to see the commission roll back the property tax rate to provide some financial relief.

Because of a 16.9% increase in property values, the current tax rate of 3.7667 mills – or about $3.77 per $1,000 of taxable property value − would generate about $4.3 million more than it currently does.

That accounts for a little more than $31 million of the $74.8 million general fund budget, which also draws funds from other sources of revenue, including an increase of the Florida Power & Light utility tax from 6% to 10% and introduction of a payment in lieu of a utility tax of 5% for city water customers.

The current rate, which has been in place for the past four years, represents a 12.12% increase compared with the rate of 3.3594 mills need to keep property tax revenue flat next year.

City Commissioner Phill Stokes called the increased property tax rate both a blessing and a curse, then added: “The actual costs of providing those services to a single-family property owner actually exceeds the amount of taxes that a single property owner pays.”

Public safety alone takes a $43.7 million bite out of the general fund, well over the amount generated by property tax revenue.

“We are you: we live here, we feel the same pressures you do,” Stokes said.

City Commissioner Debbie McDowell objected to the 4% increase in the FPL tax and the 5% fee assessed to city water users.

When the board met as the Road and Drainage District Governing Body, McDowell voted against a resolution to approve the district’s non-ad valorem assessment methodology and the overall budget, because the final methodology for the charges was not yet available from Stantec, the city’s consultant – though it should be ready when the city has its final budget hearing on Sept. 21.

The budgets for both the solid waste district and fire rescue district passed unanimously.

Denelle Winnan broke down in tears while speaking to the board.

"Our city can’t keep up; you get so overwhelmed with the new parts of town that you don’t give anything about anything for the ones of us who live in the older parts of town,” Winnan said.

She added that prior to Hurricane Ian making landfall last year, she and other neighbors who live between Pan American Boulevard and Biscayne Drive called with concerns about the nearby drainage ditches not being mowed.

“So, when the storm comes through and we get 26 inches of rain, it wasn’t the drainage ditch that came into my backyard and flooded my house, it was the streets that don’t have sewers and rely on both waterways to drain that couldn’t drain,” Winnan. “So that water in my little neighborhood – where we don’t have elevation … it came right up my front yard and right into the framing of my wood-framed house and we couldn’t stop it."

Winnan said she and her husband Richard sat in their bathtubs and watched their house flood then broke into tears as she talked about her insurance refusing to help because they didn't have flood insurance, “because I don’t live in a flood zone – I’ve lived here for 20 years – I've never had an issue with flooding and I never had it.

“All I’m asking is for you to look into it,” Winnan added after she partially regained her composure. “Figure it out, I’m not disabled, I’m not on a fixed income and we still can’t afford to live here – thank you very much for your time.”

With freshwater canals, a warm mineral spring, and a state forest, North Port, Florida is a great spot for your next nature-focused vacation.

Southerners have a special soft spot for big bodies of water. Lakes, oceans, even rivers—if we can dip our toes into it—or get a boat out on it—we’re happy. When most people think of water in Florida, the expansive coast is first to come to mind. Second only to Alaska for total miles of coastline, the Sunshine State is known worldwide for its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. But if you focus too hard on Florida’s beaches (as awe-inspiring as they are), you run the risk of missing out on some of its other treasures, including a healthy collection of stunning lakes and the outdoor enthusiast’s paradise of North Port.

A city of almost 90,000 in Southwest Florida’s Sarasota County, North Port is famous for its sparkling blueways, also known as 95 miles of freshwater canals. Take a trip to paddle these tranquil, scenic waterways, then stick around to discover all this growing city has to offer. Here’s how to spend a weekend in North Port, Florida.

Things To Do In North Port, Florida

There’s absolutely nothing more serene than an early morning paddle in North Port. Start on the Myakka River, the Myakkahatchee Creek, or on a freshwater canal and prepare to be transported by the stillness of the water, the natural beauty that surrounds, and the unmatched peace of the experience. There are plenty of places to rent a kayak, canoe, or paddle board, and still more places to put in. Glass Bottom Rentals offers guided kayak and paddleboard tour launching from McKibben Park. If you’ve got your own watercraft, you can put it at Marina Park and create a custom adventure following Sarasota County’s Paddling Blueways Guide. Along your route, you might spot manatees, mangroves, diving birds, and even alligators.

If paddling isn’t quite your speed, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy North Port’s aquatic amenities. North Port is home to the state’s only natural warm spring. The spring at Warm Mineral Springs Park stays at a balmy 85 degrees year-round and is thought to have one of the highest mineral concentrations of any natural spring in the U.S., making it the perfect location to take a dip. With nine million gallons of freshwater that replenishes itself every two hours, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind experience at this giant natural swimming pool.

North Port is also known for its excellent tarpon fishing. Let Captain Chris Conte of Cash Money Charters take you out for a fun-filled day of fishing on the Myakka River. There’s something to catch in every season, but if it’s tarpon you hope to hook, consider visiting in May, June, or July.

Another of North Port’s unique natural wonders, the Myakka State Forest is one of the country’s only state forests that’s encompassed almost entirely within city limits. Explore the 8,500-acre flatwood and longleaf pine forest via its 40 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. Camping, fishing, and small-game hunting are also common outdoor activities.

After quality time spent in the wilderness, the return to civilization is always extra special. If you visit North Port during the February or March, you’ll want to snag tickets to CoolToday Park, the spring training facility for the Atlanta Braves. The field is located in the lively Wellen Park neighborhood, so after the nine innings are up, you’ll have easy access to a modern downtown filled with dining, shopping, and entertainment options. You can even check out Kind Vibe Outfitters to rent a paddleboard or kayak from the floating dock, as well as bikes and e-bikes. Families love the waterfront splash pad, playground, and great lawn where kids can run around to their heart’s content.

Take the kids to cool off at the North Port Aquatic Center, which features a zero-entry pool, multiple water slides, and the Relaxahatchee Lazy River. The snack bar offers hot dogs, ice cream treats, and other basics to tide you over until its time to head out to dinner.

Where To Eat In North Port, Florida

A true community hub, Wellen Park is a top spot for dining out in North Port. For breathtaking views of the sun setting into the water, visit The Banyan House. The lunch and dinner spot features both indoor and outdoor seating, plus a creative menu of seasonal dishes emphasizing seafood. For another elevated experience, reserve a table at Villani & Co. The restaurant is known for its steak, seafood, and raw bar; if it’s stone crab season, we recommend ordering it with drawn butter.

For more casual eats in Wellen Park, head to The Yard, a waterfront food hall consisting of casual eateries housed in repurposed shipping containers. Options include casual fresh-caught Florida seafood, paninis, and rice bowls at Lakeside Bites; ballpark fare at PopDawgs; and New England-inspired seafood at Claw & Co.

Outside of Wellen Park, North Port offers a diverse range of dining options featuring cuisine from around the world. Since 2007, Greek Grille has been a local favorite for authentic Greek cuisine, from moussaka to lamb souvlaki. If you’re lucky, you may catch one of the restaurant’s Greek Wine Tasting Dinners that pairs four Greek wines with a four-course dinner. At Que Rico Colombian Flavors, located in an unassuming strip mall, you’ll find an uncomplicated and extremely affordable menu of delicious Colombian dishes. For an expansive introduction to the cuisine, order the Bandeja Paisa, a platter that includes grilled steak, Colombian sausage, fried pork belly, rice, beans, salad, eggs, arepas, and plantains.

For a Florida spin on traditional Texas barbecue, Marlowe’s BBQ and Smoked Meat Pizza is your spot. What started as a roadside barbecue stand in 2020 has evolved into an order-at-the-counter restaurant specializing in two things: house-smoked barbecue and homemade pizza. On the barbecue side of the menu, you’ll find smoked brisket, pork butt, chicken, ribs, and sausage, plus all the fixings (street corn, smoked pit beans, smoked mac ‘n’ cheese, potato salad, and coleslaw). If a Meat Lover’s is your go-to pizza order, you’ll love the pizza specials that eschew fresh veggies for carnivorous toppings like brisket, bacon, and pulled pork. The Texas Trio trades marinara for barbecue sauce and is covered with mozzarella and gouda, plus smoked brisket, smoked chicken, smoked pork, and housemade pickles.

Dessert or a sweet start to your day can be found at Abbe’s Donut Nook, a family-owned business that’s been serving its sinfully sweet bites of fried dough for more than 30 years. And because it wouldn’t be a Florida vacation without a frozen treat, head to The Shiver Shack for Hawaiian snow cones, ice cream, and milkshakes.

Where To Stay In North Port, Florida

It’s easy to set up a comfortable home base at The Hampton Inn & Suites in North Port, which is located just 15 minutes from CoolToday Park and five minutes from Warm Mineral Springs Park. North Port is also open to private vacation rentals, so there are plenty of options for Airbnb and VRBO homes to suit any group size.

NORTH PORT, FL - Thompson Thrift, a full-service nationally recognized real estate company and one of the nation's leading multifamily developers, announced the development of The Hadley, a new 268-unit luxury for-rent villa community in North Port, a booming city located on Florida's west coast between Tampa and Fort Meyers. Thompson Thrift plans to begin construction this month and welcome new residents in late 2024.

"North Port and the surrounding area added nearly 90,000 jobs during the past 10 years, which has really fueled housing demand," said Josh Purvis, managing partner for Thompson Thrift Residential. "We are excited to bring a new luxury living rental option that will provide a single-family living feel with a full complement of multifamily amenities."

Located at 3000 S Sumter Blvd. near Interstate 75 and U.S. Highway 41, the approximately 25-acre property will offer one-, two- and three-bedroom villas with luxury amenities, including 10' ceilings, stainless-steel appliances, timeless tile backsplash, designer fixtures and finishes, hardwood-style flooring, large walk-in closets, undermount sinks, private yards, detached garages, full-size washer and dryer, high-speed internet access and smart thermostat.

Community amenities at The Hadley will also include a fully equipped 24-hour fitness center, resort-style swimming pool, community grilling areas, pickleball court, one dog park, pet spa with grooming station, billiards and shuffleboard, Starbucks™ coffee bar, 24-hour emergency service response and user-friendly resident mobile app for rent payment, submitting service requests, community feed and more.

The development is adjacent to Heron Creek Towne Center, which is home to Publix, Walmart, and a handful of other retail and food options. Close proximity to I-75 and U.S. Highway 41 will provide residents with easy access to additional retail and dining options in nearby Sarasota and Fort Myers, as well as major employers such as Sarasota Memorial Health Care, Sarasota County School District, ShorePoint Health Port Charlotte and PGT Innovations.

The North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton MSA experienced rapid population and job growth over the past decade and has earned top spots on numerous lists, including #1 Best Places to Live on the Coast, #1 Best Quality of Life in America, #1 Beach in America, and #2 Most Entrepreneurial Area Among Midsize U.S. Metros.

During the past 30 years Thompson Thrift has developed more than $4 billion of ground-up development projects across the Midwest, Southeast and Southwest. The company made a name for itself by being one of the few developers to build high-quality, attractive Class A residential communities with a variety of conventional, luxury leased villa and townhome-style communities. In 2021, the company earned the distinction of being named one of GlobeSt. Real Estate Forum's Influencers of Multifamily Real Estate.

The Hadley is the third apartment community in the North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton MSA, and the 13th in the state for the company.

Source: Thompson Thrift

DALLAS, TX - Mill Creek Residential, a leading developer and operator specializing in premier rental communities across the U.S., announced the start of preleasing at Modera Trinity, a luxury mixed-use apartment community uniquely positioned along the west levee of the Trinity River. The...

NORTH PORT, Fla. - North Port is one of the fastest growing cities in the country, and its appeal includes everything it has to offer outdoors. As developers move in, though, city officials are working to ensure green space is preserved and actions are taken to protect the area.

From Gopher Tortoises to Scrub Jays, North Port is home to an array of Florida wildlife.

"It just helps enrich our lives I think to share the planet with these other creatures," said Edie Driest, the chair of North Port Friends of Wildlife.

As development has encroached on their territory, North Port Friends of Wildlife have been a voice to those who can’t speak out for the past nine years.

"We understand development is going to happen, but how can we strike a balance and that is the big key," said Driest.

That is what the city is working towards, and they've formed a natural resources division to help.

"We want to be able to focus on areas that we can protect," said Alaina Ray, the director of developmental services who will oversee the division. "We want to change tactics from what we did previously and require developers to preserve areas rather than simply clear-cutting everything. We want them to develop in a thoughtful way."

Permits for land clearing and tree removals are on the rise.

The soon-to-be seven-person department will be made up of arborists, a natural resources manager, urban forester, environmental planner and environmental specialist. They will oversee protection of critical habitats for endangered and threatened species while working to protect native forest areas.

The division plans to also boot tree protection efforts, while starting a city wide planting plan.

"Being able to stay on top of that growth and at the same time looking towards preserving areas that are critically important to us," said Ray.

Ray has a background in environmental sciences and planning and said their efforts will be vital for future generations. Some steps will help lessen impacts from future storms and higher temperatures.

"We all know the flooding that we had in Ian here. The more pavement you put down the more flooding you have, the hotter it becomes," she said.

Funding for the division comes not from taxpayers, but from developer fees for permit and mitigation to help ensure North Port remains green.

"We are literally taking the money that they are giving us to remove trees, and we are taking it right back and putting it into preserving the environment going forward. We want to make sure that we are able to dedicate the resources that are needed to ensure their protection," said Ray.

The City of North Port is also working to rewrite land development codes with additional environmental provisions. That's to ensure when developers come in, they design projects to preserve critically important areas.

All across the nation, many residents feel locked out of the housing market due to rising prices. But are some markets immensely better than others?

Housing website Realtor.com has tracked the top cities where homebuyers are making both the largest and the smallest down payments in the country.

To come up with the places with the highest and lowest down payments, experts looked into market data from financial technology firm Optimal Blue. They added that they looked at the average down payments as a percentage of the home sale price in the 150 largest metropolitan areas in the third quarter.

The company only used one metro area per state to ensure geographic diversity. Here's what Florida cities made the list and what to take from the study:

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What Florida residents are making the smallest down payments in the country?

Polk County's Lakeland nabbed the eighth spot on the list, with statistics such as:

In what U.S. city do residents make the lowest down payments on their homes?

The Texas town of Killeen grabbed the first spot. The city, about an hour north of Austin, is an Army town, home to Fort Cavazos, formerly called Fort Hood. It’s the largest military base in Texas with more than 53,000 soldiers and their families based here.

The study found that the:

"Many of the area’s buyers are either active service members or veterans and have access to popular VA loans that don’t require a down payment. Those loans pushed down the average down payment in the local housing market," officials explain.

Most of the homes for sale in Killeen are single-family houses, with buyers finding brick ranches for less than $200,000 and new construction for roughly $450,000.

Top 10 U.S. cities where homebuyers are making the lowest down payments on homes

In what U.S. city do residents make the largest down payments on their homes?

California's Santa Rosa residents make the largest down payments for housing in the country. Experts said that it was the most expensive metro on the list by a lot, adding that California housing markets would have taken six of the top 10 slots if they hadn’t limited the analysis to just one metro per state.

They found that:

Many of the buyers in the area are nearing retirement or seeking a vacation home or they are relocating to the area and using the proceeds from the sale of their previous homes to fund their new purchases.

“Prices are expensive, but they’re not as expensive as many surrounding counties,” real estate broker associate Daphne Peterson of Keller Williams Realty said. “It is attracting a lot of people from higher-priced areas who may be cashing out the equity of their home and deciding to retire here.”

Did any Florida cities make the list for largest housing down payments in the country?

North Port, on the southwestern coast of Florida along the Gulf of Mexico, took home the second spot on Realtor.com's list. Like Santa Rosa, experts say the city popular with retirees and vacationers looking to pick up an extra home, which makes it competitive when there are only a limited number of homes available.

The statistics found in the study were:

Top ten U.S. cities where homebuyers are making the largest down payments

What do homebuyers need to know when purchasing a home?

Clare Trapasso, the author of the report and Realtor.com's executive news editor, wrote that a general rule of thumb is buyers should aim to kick in at least 20%, which ensures a lower interest rate each month.

That totals $85,900 on the median-priced home of $429,500, which is the median price is according to Realtor.com data from September.

However, it is noted in the report that it's hard for many Americans to afford that, especially with additional expenses of closing costs, movers and buying furniture.

“When prices are rising so much faster than incomes, it’s hard to save more” for a down payment," Sean Moss, executive vice president of product and operations at Down Payment Resource said. “The goal post is always moving.”

Have down payments on homes fallen or risen nationally?

There's some good news for buyers, experts say.

Down payments have fallen over the past year as the housing market has become less competitive. Buyers put an average of 13.8% of the sale price down in the third quarter of this year, down from 14.7% last year, according to a Realtor.com analysis of data from real estate data firm Optimal Blue.