Hillsborough

Pickleball Controversy: Hillsborough Homeowners Take HOA to Court Over Noise Concerns

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HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. — The burgeoning popularity of pickleball is raising noise concerns among some residents in Hillsborough County, where a legal dispute has emerged over the conversion of tennis courts to accommodate this fast-growing sport. In Apollo Beach, ten homeowners have taken legal action against the Andalucía Master Association Board, arguing that the switch to pickleball courts will introduce noise that disrupts the tranquility of residential areas. Concerned resident Lori Sessano expressed disapproval, stating that “pickleball does not belong in residential areas.” Homeowner Greg Jolly echoed those sentiments, noting that the noise from the … Read more

Controversial Hillsborough Judge Resigns Following Disciplinary Panel’s Recommendations Amidst Contentious Campaign

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TAMPA, Fla. — Hillsborough Circuit Judge Nancy Jacobs announced her resignation effective May 31, following a disciplinary panel’s recommendation for her removal. The decision comes in the wake of findings by the Florida Judicial Qualifications Commission that Jacobs exhibited unprofessional behavior during her contentious campaign against Judge Jared Smith in 2022, a race that became notably divisive over issues surrounding abortion rights. The commission’s investigation revealed that Jacobs violated ethical standards meant to guide the conduct of judges and candidates. Although judicial races in Florida are traditionally nonpartisan, the campaign between Jacobs and Smith devolved … Read more

Hillsborough Commission Clashes With School Board Over Blocked Teacher Pay Tax Measure

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TAMPA, Fla. — A legal battle is unfolding in Hillsborough County as the Board of County Commissioners fires back in court against the School Board over the exclusion of a proposed tax increase from November’s ballot. This measure, intended to boost teacher salaries, is at the center of a contentious lawsuit filed by the school board. The controversy began when the county commission prevented the school board’s proposed tax from being voted on this fall. This tax aimed to raise $177 million annually by increasing property taxes by $1 for every $1,000 of assessed value, … Read more

Hillsborough Showdown: County Commissioners vs. School Board Over Proposed Tax Hike for Teacher Raises

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Tampa, Fla. — In what has emerged as an unexpected legal showdown, the Hillsborough County School Board finds itself at odds with the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners over a proposed tax increase aimed at boosting the pay of teachers and other school staff. The escalating dispute has captured the local community’s attention, focusing on the fate of the planned ballot measure set for November. Earlier this year, the school board made a pivotal decision to propose a tax initiative designed to increase revenue for educators’ salaries. This move came in response to growing … Read more