North Port

North Port to host town halls on upcoming referendum questions

WGCU Staff

North Port’s City Commission is hosting three Town Halls for residents on referendum questions placed on the ballot for the May 13 Special Election.

North Port is asking voters this fall to allow the city to borrow large sums of money for major projects and infrastructure. North Port never has had the authority to do that. It's had to save up tax money to pay for large expenditures.

Community redevelopment

North Port -- from cow pastures to booming: Here’s what that means

Katie Souza

Just 65 years ago, North Port was called home by 21 individuals. Today, it is the second fastest-growing city in the United States.North Port is one of the largest cities in Florida with a land area of 104.1 square miles. This has facilitated its speedy growth. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, North Port’s population in July 2023 was 88,934. That is an 18.9% increase from April 2020 and a 55% increase from 2010.

Elections

North Port seeking voter approval on loans to fund large projects

Mike Walcher

The City of North Port in Sarasota County is asking voters to change the charter, and allow taking on debt up to $15 million a year for each large project. North Port has not been allowed to take on large debt since the city was founded in 1959. A referendum on debt is on the November ballot.

Government & Politics

North Port referendum to approve borrowing for emergencies, public safety set for second reading

WGCU Staff

A second reading will be July 23 on an ordinance to put a referendum on the November ballot amending the North Port City Charter.If approved it would allow the commission to issue debt to respond to emergencies or pay for safety and public health projects.