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Wednesday's Afternoon Update
What you need to know about Florida today
Florida CBD retailers worry statewide hemp legislation will crush them
Two pieces of legislations, one in the Florida House, one in the Senate, set caps on intoxicating levels of THC in hemp-extract products. The proposed reforms, expected to pass and become law, have brought significant industry pushback, especially from CBD retailers and businesses. More from the Business Observer and the Orlando Sentinel.
Tallahassee's mayor pushes back on the Florida Chamber's local economic forecast
Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey is taking issue with the less-than-stellar economic forecast offered by the Florida Chamber of Commerce for Leon County. He took his case directly to local business leaders. Florida Chamber of Commerce president Mark Wilson recently criticized city and county leaders for not having a common economic vision for the area. More from WFSU.
Orioles make big impact on economy in Sarasota County and statewide
Sarasota County government’s annual economic report found that the Baltimore Orioles generated more than $72 million in economic impact and created more than 970 jobs in Sarasota County during the most recent reporting period, July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023. In addition to the Orioles’ local impact, the report found that the organization generated more than $86 million in economic impact in the state of Florida, while also creating more than 1,000 jobs. More from the Sarasota Herald-Tribune.
'Brightline missed a hidden gem': Fort Pierce businesses disappointed Brightline may not stop there
Some people in Fort Pierce are disappointed to hear a Brightline station is set to be built in Stuart instead of Fort Pierce as city leaders have been working to get a station in their city for some time. Lawmakers, residents and business owners were looking forward to the impact it would bring to the local economy. More from WPBF.
St. Cloud hopes to offer ‘guidance’ for state-sanctioned affordable housing
The city of St. Cloud is the first in Osceola County seeking to exert some control over a bold state effort to fund affordable housing, an attempt that could have wide-ranging implications. St. Cloud officials discussed a draft ordinance that creates a process and some clear requirements for affordable housing developers looking to use what is known as the Live Local Act. Under the proposed policy, developers must disclose the height and density of their projects up front. More from the Orlando Sentinel.
Manufacturing
Gulf Cable expansion
Gulf Cable, one of Northwest Florida’s largest and fastest-growing manufacturers, is getting much larger. The Milton-based company, which makes insulated, high-voltage electrical cables for solar and wind energy farms, recently was deeded 30 acres for its expansion plans within the Santa Rosa Industrial Park. The $2.5-million price tag for the land was waived by county commissioners because Gulf Cable’s capital investment will far exceed $20 million and has the potential to create between 600 and 800 new jobs.
» More from Florida Trend.
Profile
Tampa’s ‘Blanket Guy’ provides for people sleeping on the streets
Before he searches for Tammy and Paula, who live in their car, or Jay, whom he last saw sleeping on a bench, or Shane and Leilani, who stay in a tent, “The Blanket Guy” drives his packed RAV4 to Chick-fil-A. Someone sent a stack of gift cards. Today, in addition to comforters and clothes, he will be able to share hot food.
» Read more from the Tampa Bay Times.
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