Public Hearing Scheduled on Tree Protection Regulations
The Marion County Land Development Regulation Commission is scheduled to hold a public hearing Wednesday evening regarding proposed changes to county tree protection and replacement regulations.
County officials say the proposed ordinance updates are intended to address development standards while preserving natural resources throughout Marion County. The hearing will be held at the McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium.
South Marion High School Continues Hiring Ahead of Opening
South Marion High School remains on schedule to open in August 2026.
School officials continue recruiting teachers, support staff, and administrators for the new campus, which is expected to serve up to 2,000 students. The school is the first new public high school to open in Marion County in more than 25 years.
Water Restrictions Remain in Effect
The City of Ocala and Marion County residents remain under Phase Three Extreme Water Shortage restrictions due to ongoing drought conditions.
Current restrictions limit irrigation to one day per week and prohibit watering during certain daytime hours. Officials are encouraging residents to conserve water whenever possible.
School District Recruiting Bus Drivers
Marion County Public Schools continues hiring efforts ahead of the 2026-27 school year.
The district has additional bus driver recruitment events planned this month as officials work to ensure transportation staffing needs are met before classes begin in August.
Summer Activities Continue Across Marion County
Summer reading programs, youth camps, and educational activities continue throughout Marion County.
Library branches and recreation facilities are offering a variety of programs designed to keep students engaged and active during summer break.

