Battling rising concerns about the homeless, Bradenton DDA seeks to tighten downtown security

BRADENTON — The proposal to develop a community policing plan for downtown Bradenton is garnering a wider audience. Tightening downtown security has the attention of Manatee County officials, the Bradenton Downtown Development Authority, the Manatee Chamber of Commerce, downtown businesses and other agencies. While Old Main Street has its nightlife issues, the predominant point of…

Eagle Lake Commission looks to future

EAGLE LAKE — Ending blight and positioning the city to take advantage of opportunities for growth were major topics during the City Commission’s retreat Saturday. City Manager Luke Lewis began the discussion of the city’s future by talking about blight in the 3.2-square-mile city and ways to generate revenue. “There are areas in this city…