NORTH PORT NEWS

Fertilizer restriction in effect through Sept. 30

The city of North Port is reminding residents that fertilizer application on turf grass is prohibited from April 1 through Sept. 30 each year. Excess fertilizers in our waterways can cause detrimental algal blooms. These nutrient pollutants can also affect the regional watershed.

“Please help the city of North Port protect its water resources from excess fertilizers in rain runoff,” said Stormwater Manager Elizabeth Wong. “Everyone can do their part and join in the regional effort to improve water quality.”

The City Commission approved an updated fertilizer ordinance last year, with the restrictive period starting earlier to better coincide with the start of rainy season. The city also promotes voluntary non-use of fertilizer year-round to further protect our waterways and drinking water supply.

To learn more, view the video at www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqfZGgCtvu8, the city’s YouTube page ( www.youtube.com/@NorthPortFL ), or see NorthPort- FL.gov/Fertilizer.

Residents invited to prep for storm season at Hurricane Expo

With hurricane season beginning June 1, the city is looking ahead by hosting a Hurricane Expo to help prepare and educate residents. This free event is set for 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, April 20, at the George Mullen Activity Center (GMAC), 1602 Kramer Way, North Port.

Whether recovering from the lingering effects of Hurricane Ian or preparing for the future, the expo will have various experts on hand to assist. Presentations will be given by the National Weather Service and North Port Emergency Management, as well as the new Sarasota County Emergency Management chief, Sandra Tapfumaneyi. Stormwater management and other city departments will also be on hand to speak to their role in preparing for and responding to hurricanes. The Sarasota County Long-Term Recovery Group will have a presence at the expo, offering information about Hurricane Ian resources currently available to effected residents. See NorthPortFL.gov/Alerts for more information on storm preparation.

Along with the valuable information, the Community Foundation of Sarasota County granted Samaritan Counseling Services of the Gulf Coast funds to purchase a generator to raffle off along with some other prizes. All funds accrued will be donated to the Sarasota County Long- Term Recovery Group.

Once you’re done checking out the expo, make sure to stop by the City-Wide Job Fair, which is also taking place from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at GMAC. Attendees can meet city department representatives and even apply for a job on the spot. Find out what jobs are available at www.northportfl.gov/City-Government/Jobs.

City of North Port seeks nominations for annual Greenest Citizen Award

The city of North Port is seeking nominations for its annual Greenest Citizen Award, which recognizes a North Port resident who has gone above and beyond to protect the environment by creating a more sustainable household or community. The Greenest Citizen Award was created to allow residents to decide who they think should be recognized for outstanding environmental stewardship.

“In our division, protecting the environment is priority No. 1,” Natural Resources Division Manager Stefan Kalev said. “The Greenest Citizen Award gives us a chance to recognize a standout resident making a difference in the community.”

The award winner will be invited to plant a memorial tree at one of the city’s parks to commemorate the previous year’s winner. They will also be recognized at a future City Commission meeting. The nomination period is open until Friday, April 19, and nominees can be submitted online at NorthPortFL.gov/Greenest.

North Port launches NP² program to aid nonprofits

The city of North Port is announcing the launch of the NP² (North Port Non-Profits United) program, or “NP squared,” an initiative to foster collaboration between municipal government and local nonprofits to better serve North Port residents. NP²’s primary objective is to assist nonprofits by providing support that will continue to enhance and expand their mission.

“Since I arrived as the city manager, staff and I have committed to strengthening the relationship between the city of North Port and our nonprofit community,” said North Port City Manager Jerome Fletcher. “I believe this program reflects our commitment to supporting those who support our community.”

The NP² program, approved by the City Commission in Fiscal Year 2022/2023, offers North Port nonprofits an opportunity to apply for support items that directly contribute to their service to the community. Examples of eligible expenditures include but are not limited to essential equipment, appliances, machinery or tools, etc.

“We believe collaboration is key to building a stronger, more resilient community,” said North Port Social Services Manager Janet Carrillo. “NP² represents a proactive step towards supporting nonprofits and ensuring they have the resources to continue serving our residents effectively.”

To be eligible for support through NP², nonprofits must meet specific criteria, including being in good financial standing and providing essential documentation. Additionally, all agencies must be active on Sunbiz.org at the time of application and receipt of items.

Applications are open now until May 31. Nonprofits interested in applying are encouraged to see NorthPortFL.gov/NP2 to learn more about the NP² program.

For the public to get more information about NP² and how to get involved, call Janet Carrillo, Social Services manager, at 941-429-3704.

North Port tops financial prosperity list

The personal finance website moneygeek.com has named North Port No. 1 in its list of the 10 Most Up-and-Coming Small Cities for Financial Prosperity, both overall in the United States and in the South.

It was also named at the head of the list of Top Small Cities for Economic Growth.

According to the website, “To determine which up-andcoming small cities are the most promising for financial growth, MoneyGeek analyzed data for 211 metro areas across the U.S. with populations between 65,000 and 100,000. We compared these metros across 11 key metrics on growth indicators and community well-being.”

For details, see www.moneygeek.com/living/analysis/topemerging small-cities.

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