Thursday, June 16, 2011

Manatee County to hold public hearing tonight on its budget

The sheriff is asking for county commissioners to raise taxes so he can hire new deputies. Some commissioners are even considering a bigger tax increase for raises for deputies. At the same time commissioners are considering cuts to other areas, including animal services and park projects.

The county has already eliminated 54 positions and is using its reserves to meet some county obligations. 

Anyone who wants to weigh in on these issues can speak out at a public hearing at 6 p.m.today in  the county commission chambers. The meeting are held in the county administration building 1112 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton.

Friday, June 10, 2011

Manatee's fleet services garners national recognition


MANATEE -- Mike Brennan, fleet services manager for the county, knows trucks and cars. But it might be surprisong to some that he knows trolleys and busses too. 

He knows them so well that he and his department have been recognized for the past eight years in a national trade magazine dedicated to public sector vehicles. (Yes, it seems, there is a magazine for everything).
    
 Government Fleet magazine  ranked Manatee Fleet Services number 14 out of the top 100 fleets in North America Tuesday during the Best Fleets at the Government Fleet Expo and Conference in San Diego.

Taking number 14 is no small feat.  Manatee County Fleet Services is one of   an estimated 38,000 public sector fleets across the country.

"We are very proud of Team Fleet as they continue to achieve national recognition for the value each member brings to our community,” said Public Works Director Ron Schulhofer.

Fleet Services Manager Mike Brennan credits the technicians, material management staff and administrative professionals that make up his department.

“Being ranked in the Top 100 for the eighth consecutive year clearly defines this team’s dedication and commitment to provide the best, most cost effective fleet maintenance and management service support to our community,” Brennan said. “It is an honor to lead such a team of outstanding professionals, and I congratulate each and every one of them for their combined successes and national recognition.”