News

Hernando County Building Division Staff to Attend Continuing Education Training

Hernando County Building Division Staff to Attend Continuing Education Training Brooksville, FL – The Hernando County Building Division plans to conduct continuing education training for its Plans Examiner and Inspection staff on Wednesday, December 18th. As a result, plans review and inspection services will be limited on that day. While plans review and inspection services will experience minimal availability, all other services provided by the Building Division will remain operational as usual. The

Hernando County Extends Local State of Emergency

Hernando County Extends Local State of Emergency  (Brooksville, FL) – Hernando County Emergency Management continues to monitor current weather conditions from Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene. PROCLAMATION NO. 2024-16 Declaration of State of Local Emergency, has been enacted by the Hernando County Board of County Commissioners. This declaration is for the eleventh extension of the Local State of Emergency for Hurricane Helene and the ninth extension of the Local State of Emergency for Hurricane

Hernando Arts : Holiday Newsletter 2024

     Hernando ArtsHoliday Newsletter 2024This holiday season, spread some extra joy by shopping small and supporting the talented local artists and makers right here in Hernando County! Let’s keep the holiday cheer local and celebrate creativity close to home!       The Hernando Beach Front Porch Art Walk is returning tomorrow, December 7!         Next Saturday, join us in Hernando Beach for the return of the 1st Saturdays Hernando Beach Front Porch Art

FEMA Mitigation Experts Offer Rebuilding Advice in Hernando County

FEMA Mitigation Experts Offer Rebuilding Advice in Hernando County TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – As Floridians rebuild, survivors of Hurricanes Milton, Helene and Debby can get free advice on how to rebuild stronger and safer against storms. FEMA mitigation specialists will be available to answer questions and offer free home improvement tips and proven methods to prevent and lessen damage from future disasters. This information is geared for do-it-yourself work and general contractors. Mitigation is an effort to

THE CITY OF BROOKSVILLE CEMETERY ANNOUNCES IT WILL BECOME AND OFFICIAL LOCATION FOR THE 2024 NATIONAL WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA DAY

THE CITY OF BROOKSVILLE CEMETERY ANNOUNCES IT WILL BECOME AND OFFICIAL LOCATION FOR THE 2024 NATIONAL WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA DAY Brooksville, Florida (Dember 6, 2024) – National nonprofit Wreaths Across America (WAA) recently announced that Brooksville Cemetery in will be joining in the mission to Remember, Honor, Teach, as an official location for 2024. This is the first year that the cemetery will participate in this national program. Wreaths Across America started as a simple gesture of thanks that

HERNANDO COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR AMY L. BLACKBURN C.F.C.A.

HERNANDO COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR AMY L. BLACKBURN C.F.C.A. (Brooksville, FL) – Thursday, December 12, 2024, the Hernando County Tax Collector offices will close at 11:30 a.m. Both offices will reopen on Friday, December 13, 2024, 8:00 a.m. Office locations are as follows: • Main Office Hernando County Government Center (Brooksville Courthouse) 20 North Main St., Room 112 Brooksville, FL 34601 • Spring Hill Branch Office Westside Government Center 7489 Forest Oaks Blvd., Spring Hill, FL 34606 For ONLINE

CITY OF BROOKSVILLE GOVERNMENT OFFICES WILL BE CLOSED FOR DECEMBER HOLIDAYS

CITY OF BROOKSVILLE GOVERNMENT OFFICES WILL BE CLOSED FOR DECEMBER HOLIDAYS Brooksville, Florida (December 4, 2024) City of Brooksville government offices will be closed on various days throughout December. City of Brooksville government offices will be closed on Tuesday, December 24, 2024, and Wednesday, December 25, 2024, in observance of the Christmas holiday. Normal operations will resume on Thursday, December 26, 2024. Commercial garbage collection that usually occurs on Tuesdays will proceed as

Annual Sponsorship Opportunities with the Florida SBDC Network

           Annual Sponsorship Opportunities with the Florida SBDC Network  Create Connections, Build Relationships and Support Small Businesses  The Florida SBDC Networkis excited to announce our annual sponsorship opportunities to partners and stakeholders for 2025. Organizations and companies interested in working with the Florida SBDC Network to create a better Florida for all by helping businesses grow and succeed can become a

Florida’s KidCare Expansion Approved: A Major Victory for Cutting Florida Childhood Poverty in Half

Florida’s KidCare Expansion Approved: A Major Victory for Cutting Florida Childhood Poverty in Half and a Big Win for Families and Economic MobilityExpanded Eligibility Provides Thousands of Children Access to Affordable Health Insurance While Supporting Families Working Their Way Up the Economic LadderThe Florida Chamber of Commerce applauds the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) approval of Florida’s expansion of the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), called KidCare. This is a

Make a difference with Hernando Arts today! 

This Giving Tuesday, help us on our mission to encourage, promote, and support all of the creative arts in Hernando

December 12, Regular Monthly Meeting of the Hernando County Fine Arts Council

December 12, Regular Monthly Meeting of the Hernando County Fine Arts CouncilThe regular monthly meeting of the Hernando County Fine Arts Council will be held:Thursday, December 12, 2024 from 5:30 - 7 PM atBrooksville City Hall, 201 Howell Ave, Brooksville, FL 34601 The purpose of this meeting is to consider routine business matters of the Hernando County Fine Arts Council. All meetings of the Hernando County Fine Arts Council are open to the public and guests are welcome.  Regularly scheduled business

Warming Center to Open Overnight in Hernando County

Warming Center to Open Overnight in Hernando County(Brooksville, FL) – In response to forecasted low temperatures, Hernando County Emergency Management, in partnership with the American Red Cross and the City of Brooksville, is opening a Warming Center to provide warmth and comfort to those in need.The Warming Center will be located at the Brooksville Enrichment Center, located at 800 John Gary Grubbs Blvd, Brooksville, FL 34601, and will open tonight, December 3, 2024, at 8:00PM to 8:00AM. The center will

THE CITY OF BROOKSVILLE RECOGNIZES OUTGONG BROOKSVILE CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS FOR THEIR SERVICE

THE CITY OF BROOKSVILLE RECOGNIZES OUTGONG BROOKSVILE CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS FOR THEIR SERVICE Brooksville, Florida (December 3, 2024) – At a regular City Council meeting on November 18, 2024, the City of Brooksville recognized Mayor Blake Bell, Councilman David Bailey, and Councilwoman Jody Young, for their hard work and dedication to bettering the City of Brooksville over the time they have served.Mayor Blake Bell: Mayor Blake Bell served on the City of Brooksville City Council from December 2020 through

DOH-Hernando Encourages a Safe 2024 Holiday Season

DOH-Hernando Encourages a Safe 2024 Holiday SeasonHernando County, Fla.— The Florida Department of Health in Hernando County (DOH-Hernando) encourages residents and visitors to enjoy a safe and healthy holiday season. From traveling to decorating and cooking, the holidays are time for family and friends to come together and celebrate. DOH-Hernando advises Floridians to follow these tips to ensure their safety.  Food Safety   Thaw meat in the refrigerator or in a sink filled with cold water before

Accepting Applications for the Economic Development & Airport Technical Advisory Committee (EDA-TAC)

Accepting Applications for the Economic Development & Airport Technical Advisory Committee (EDA-TAC) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Hernando County Board of County Commissioners is accepting applications from individuals wishing to serve on Economic Development & Airport Technical Advisory Committee (EDA-TAC), pursuant to Board Policy No. 42-01 amended and adopted on July 13, 2021. The EDA-TAC shall act in an advisory capacity to the County’s economic development and airport staff regarding the economic

Hernando County, Florida Office of Economic Development Welcomes Industry Veteran, John Walsh to the Team

Hernando County, Florida Office of Economic Development Welcomes Industry Veteran, John Walsh to the Team (Brooksville, FL) - John Walsh has been an economic development professional for more than 30 years in the Tampa Bay Region. His industry expertise and area insight instill confidence in business leaders considering relocation and expansion options. As Economic Development Manager, Walsh will focus on attracting target industries while supporting the expansion and retention of existing

Santa Claus Is Coming To Town

Hernando County Extends Local State of Emergency

Hernando County Extends Local State of Emergency  (Brooksville, FL) – Hernando County Emergency Management continues to monitor current weather conditions from Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene. PROCLAMATION NO. 2024-14 Declaration of State of Local Emergency, has been enacted by the Hernando County Board of County Commissioners. This declaration is for the ninth extension of the Local State of Emergency for Hurricane Helene and the seventh extension of the Local State of Emergency for Hurricane

FEMA Extends Applications After Hurricane Helene and Milton

Deadline Extended for FEMA Applications After Hurricanes Helene and Milton in FloridaTALLAHASSEE, Fla.– The deadline for Floridians to apply for FEMA assistance after Hurricanes Milton and Helene has been extended to Jan. 7, 2025. Homeowners and renters with losses from Hurricanes Milton and Helene may be eligible for FEMA financial assistance for displacement, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses. Homeowners and renters are encouraged

THE CITY OF BROOKSVILLE CITY COUNCIL HONORS THE FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE METHODIST SCHOOL CENTER

THE CITY OF BROOKSVILLE CITY COUNCIL HONORS THE FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE METHODIST SCHOOL CENTER Brooksville, Florida (November 21, 2024) – The City of Brooksville City Council honored the 50th anniversary of the Methodist School Center at a regular board meeting on November 18, 2024, at 7:00 PM. The Methodist School Center’s mission is to “Care, Share, and Prepare our children for the future.” The school provides a Christ-centered education alternative for kindergarten through eighth grade. The 50th

HOLIDAY NOTICE Trash, Recycling and Yard Waste Collection

HOLIDAY NOTICE Trash, Recycling and Yard Waste CollectionLandfill closures and Republic Services curbside schedule changes due to holidays: • All Solid Waste Facilities are closed and there will be NO Republic Services curbside trash, recycling or yard waste picked up on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 28, 2024. • All Solid Waste Facilities are closed and there will be NO Republic Services curbside recycling or yard waste picked up on Christmas Day, Wednesday, December 25, 2024 • All Solid Waste

Thanksgiving Office Closures for Hernando County Government

Thanksgiving Office Closures for Hernando County Government(Brooksville, FL) – The following Hernando County offices/services will be closed on Thursday, November 28, 2024 and Friday, November 29, 2024 in observance of Thanksgiving: • All Hernando County Government offices • Animal Services • Library ServicesHernando County Transit Services - TheBus: Hernando County Transit will not be providing service on Thursday, November 28, 2024 in observance of Thanksgiving – services will be provided as normal on

Bilirakis and Other Lawmakers Request Extension of Deadline for Florida Small Business Owners to Apply for Federal Aid and Urge SBA Fund to Be Quickly Replenished

Bilirakis and Other Lawmakers Request Extension of Deadline for Florida Small Business Owners to Apply for Federal Aid and Urge SBA Fund to Be Quickly Replenished  Washington, DC:  Representatives Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) and Laurel Lee (FL-15) are urging federal officials from the Small Business Administration (SBA) to grant additional flexibility that would allow local small business owners more time to file for federal aid.  In the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the residents and businesses of

Oak Hill Hospital recognized with forty-one clinical achievements from Healthgrades for 2025

Oak Hill Hospital recognized with forty-one clinical achievements from Healthgrades for 2025  BROOKSVILLE, Fla.– November 19, 2024 – HCA Florida Oak Hill Hospital has achieved 41 accolades for clinical excellence from Healthgrades, the #1 site Americans use when searching for a doctor or hospital. Among Oak Hill Hospital’s awards are One of America’s 50 Best Hospitals for Surgical Care™ in 2025, placing it in the Top 5% of hospitals nationally and earning four Top 10% specialty recognitions as one of

THE CITY OF BROOKSVILLE CELEBRATES TOM VARN STADIUM RIBBON CUTTING AND GRAND REOPENING

THE CITY OF BROOKSVILLE CELEBRATES TOM VARN STADIUM RIBBON CUTTING AND GRAND REOPENING Brooksville, Florida (November 19, 2024) – The City of Brooksville celebrated the reopening of the newly renovated Tom Varn Stadium with a ribbon cutting on November 15, 2024. The stadium is the home of the Hernando High School (HHS) girls' softball team and is also home to the Hernando County Youth League (HYL) Softball. During the event, Mayor Blake Bell welcomed guests, gave an account of stadium renovations, and

On-site D-SNAP Locations for Charlotte, Franklin, Hardee, Hernando, and Sarasota Counties ??

   On-site D-SNAP Locations for Charlotte, Franklin, Hardee, Hernando, and Sarasota Counties    TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Department of Children and Families (Department) Secretary Shevaun Harris announced Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP) locations for Charlotte, Franklin, Hardee, Hernando, and Sarasota counties. D-SNAP provides food assistance for Florida residents impacted by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton who are not receiving food assistance through the

Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Hernando, Polk and Suwannee County Disaster Recovery Centers to Close on Sundays

Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Hernando, Polk and Suwannee County Disaster Recovery Centers to Close on SundaysTALLAHASSEE, Fla.– The Disaster Recovery Centers in Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Hernando, Polk and Suwannee counties will be closed on Sundays starting Sunday, Nov. 17.Center locations:Citrus County West Citrus Community Center 8940 W. Veterans Drive Homosassa, FL 34448 Open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-SaturdayColumbia County Lake City Reporter 180 E. Duval St. Lake City, FL 32055 Hours: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Hernando County Extends Local State of Emergency

Hernando County Extends Local State of Emergency  (Brooksville, FL) – Hernando County Emergency Management continues to monitor current weather conditions from Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene. PROCLAMATION NO. 2024-13 Declaration of State of Local Emergency, has been enacted by the Hernando County Board of County Commissioners. This declaration is for the eighth extension of the Local State of Emergency for Hurricane Helene and the sixth extension of the Local State of Emergency for Hurricane

FloridaCommerce Announces Four Consecutive Years of Statewide Unemployment Rates Below the Nation Rate

 For Immediate Release: November 15, 2024FloridaCommerce Announces Four Consecutive Years of Statewide Unemployment Rates Below the Nation RateTALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, FloridaCommerce announced that Florida’s statewide unemployment rate has remained lower than the national unemployment rate for four years, marking a milestone of 48 consecutive months. Florida’s statewide unemployment rate remains steady at 3.3%, and in October 2024 alone, the state added 107,600 private sector jobs over-the-year.“Under

Hernando County Government Launches Strategic Planning Process with Community Engagement Opportunities

Hernando County Government Launches Strategic Planning Process with Community Engagement Opportunities(Brooksville, FL) – Hernando County Government is excited to announce the initiation of a comprehensive Strategic Plan aimed at guiding the county’s development and improving the quality of life for its residents. The plan will serve as a roadmap for the county’s growth and the delivery of services over the next several years. Hernando County has engaged the USF Florida Institute of Government and SPC

THE CITY OF BROOKSVILLE AND THE KIWANIS CLUB OF BROOKSVILLE CELEBRATE SPLASH PAD RIBBON CUTTING

The West Entrance to the Judicial Center will be Temporarily Closed

The West Entrance to the Judicial Center will be Temporarily Closed(Brooksville, FL) – The West Entrance to the Hernando County Judicial Center at 20 N. Main Street, Brooksville, FL 34601, will be closed for maintenance on Monday, November 18th and Wednesday, November 20th-Friday, November 22nd. The West Entrance will be open on Tuesday, November 19th and will not interfere with the Board of County Commissioners meeting that begins at 9am on the first floor in the John Law Ayers Commission Chambers, Room

Hernando County Extends Local State of Emergency

Hernando County Extends Local State of Emergency (Brooksville, FL) – Hernando County Emergency Management continues to monitor current weather conditions from Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene. PROCLAMATION NO. 2024-12 Declaration of State of Local Emergency, has been enacted by the Hernando County Board of County Commissioners. This declaration is for the seventh extension of the Local State of Emergency for Hurricane Helene and the fifth extension of the Local State of Emergency for Hurricane

Florida SBDC Network Bolsters State’s Economy

Florida SBDC Network Bolsters State’s Economy  Florida SBDC Network State Office (Pensacola, Fla.) – The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network, the state’s principal provider of small business assistance, has released its 2024 Annual Report, which highlights the achievements and impact of the network over the last fiscal year.       With more than 40 locations across the state, the Florida SBDC Network has been the first choice for businesses in

Hernando County Update on Local Resources After Recent Storm Events

Hernando County Update on Local Resources After Recent Storm Events  (Brooksville, FL) – Effective Friday, November 1, 2024, Hernando County Emergency Management will be demobilizing the Comfort Stations on the West Side of the County located at Aripeka Baptist Church (18731 Aripeka Road) and at 4054 Shoal Line Boulevard (old R Beach location). The County will also be demobilizing the mobile office for Emergency Permitting located at Linda Pederson Park, along with all associated bathrooms and ancillary

Hernando County Government Opens a Disaster Recovery Center

Hernando County Government Opens a Disaster Recovery Center  (Brooksville, FL) – Hernando County Government opens a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) at the West Hernando Library Branch (6335 Blackbird Ave., Brooksville, FL 34613) daily from 9am-6pm, until further notice.  Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida state agencies, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance and disaster loans, update

SBA Disaster Loans Available in Florida for Private Non-Profit Organizations

SBA Disaster Loans Available in Florida for Private Non-Profit Organizations ATLANTA -The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today that certain Private Non-Profit organizations (PNPs) in Florida that do not provide critical services of a governmental nature may be eligible to apply for low-interest disaster loans for damages as a result of Hurricane Milton. Eligible PNP organizations in the counties of Brevard, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry,

Behind the Digital Curtain: How Women Entrepreneurs Build Success with Adobe Acrobat

This October, in honor of Women's Small Business Month, it's essential to acknowledge the cutting-edge tools that enable women entrepreneurs to optimize their workflows and fuel growth. Adobe Acrobat provides a robust set of features aimed at boosting efficiency, simplifying document management, enhancing team collaboration, and streamlining crucial business processes. For women entrepreneurs eager to save time and concentrate on expanding their businesses, these solutions can be transformative in the

U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION FACT SHEET - DISASTER LOANS

U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION FACT SHEET - DISASTER LOANS in the Florida counties of: Charlotte, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Franklin, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Leon, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota, Suwannee, Taylor, and Wakulla; for economic injury only in the contiguous Florida counties of: Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Collier, DeSoto, Gadsden, Glades, Gulf, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Liberty, Marion, Polk, Sumter, and Union; and for

FloridaCommerce Announces More Than $60 Million Available through Local Government Emergency Bridge Loan Program to Communities Impacted by Hurricane Helene

 For Immediate Release: October 3, 2024FloridaCommerce Announces More Than $60 Million Available through Local Government Emergency Bridge Loan Program to Communities Impacted by Hurricane Helene~ Recent legislation signed into law by Governor DeSantis increased the loan repayment period to 10 years ~TALLAHASSEE, Fla.  — Today, FloridaCommerce announced the availability of $60 million to support local governments recovering from Hurricane Helene through the local government emergency bridge loan program. In

Scheduled Road Closure on Old Spring Lake Road Between Neff Lake Road and Spring Lake Highway Effect

Scheduled Road Closure on Old Spring Lake Road Between Neff Lake Road and Spring Lake Highway Effective Immediately(Brooksville, FL) – Hernando County’s Department of Public Works will be immediately closing Old Spring Lake Road between Neff Lake Road and Spring Lake Highway for a period up to six months. This is due to excessive erosion and possible shoulder failure, it’s with an abundance of caution and public safety this decision has been made. Please understand the situation is being evaluated and the

HCA Florida Oak Hill Hospital announces 2024 and early 2025 expectant parents’ classes for patients

MEDIA CONTACT: Denise E. Rader                                                                               Denise.rader@hcahealthcare.com352-597-6317  HCA Florida Oak Hill Hospital announces 2024 and early 2025 expectant parents’ classes for patients  Hernando County, Fla. (9/6/24) – HCA Florida Oak Hill Hospital is pleased to announce its fall and winter expectant parents’ class, tours and support groups class schedule for hospital patients.  Class registration is required and classes are provided at

Crisis Management: Building a Robust Plan for Business Continuity

When your business encounters tough times, having a solid strategy is crucial for navigating the challenges ahead. This article explores practical and actionable strategies to help your business weather the storm and emerge stronger. From optimizing financial management to enhancing operational efficiency, these tips will equip you with the tools to turn adversity into opportunity, ensuring your business remains resilient and adaptable in the face of hardship.Devise a Strategic Plan for Gradual Resource

Disaster Field Operations Center East

Disaster Field Operations Center EastRelease Date: July 22, 2024Contact: Mark Ihenacho (404) 331-0333 Mark.Ihenacho@sba.govRelease Number: 24-507, FL 20413/20414Follow us on X, Facebook, Blogs & InstagramSBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Miami Gardens, FL Extends Closing Date to Monday, July 29Atlanta – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today it will extend the closing date for the Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) in Miami Gardens, FL. The Center was originally scheduled to

Hernando County Business Owners: Avoid These Critical Financial Mistakes

Small business owners have a lot going on. In addition to running the day-to-day operations of their businesses, they also have to assume a lot of other company positions, from marketing and sales to HR and finance. It's no wonder, then, that financial mistakes are all too common. To help you avoid making some costly errors, the Greater Hernando County Chamber of Commerce put together a list of the ten most common financial mistakes small business owners make — and how to avoid them.1. Poor Budgeting

Create Organizational Change For Your Business With These Essential Steps

As a business owner, it is inevitable that you’ll have to manage organizational change at some point. Whether it is due to the introduction of new technology, changes in customer demand, or simply staying ahead of the competition, making sure your business stays up-to-date and relevant can be a challenge. That said, there are strategies you can use to make the transition smoother and more effective, and the Greater Hernando County Chamber of Commerce has put together a few of them for your