Five Arrested for Trespassing at Marion County Quarry
Five people have been arrested after Marion County Sheriff's deputies say they were caught trespassing at the Stavola Lime Quarry on West Highway 326.
Authorities say this is at least the third time in the past month deputies have broken up groups at the quarry.
The Sheriff's Office previously issued a warning after social media posts reportedly encouraged people to enter the property and swim in the quarry.
Authorities emphasize that the location is an active mining site and that trespassing there is a felony.
Data Center Debate Continues Following Ocala Workshop
The debate over data center development in Marion County continues following a citizens workshop Monday night.
Residents and other participants raised questions about potential water consumption, electricity demand, noise and environmental impacts, while supporters discussed the potential economic benefits of the facilities.
Marion County commissioners have scheduled a September 1 workshop as they continue considering how future data center projects should be regulated.
Marion County School Board Meets Tonight
The Marion County School Board holds its regular meeting tonight at 5:30 p.m. at the Browne Greaton Cole Auditorium.
One item facing board members is a requested $18,705 increase in the cost of cafeteria milk supplied by Borden Dairy.
The increase would bring spending on four primary cafeteria milk products to approximately $1.49 million. The supplier says higher packaging costs are driving the requested adjustment.
Two-Hour Early Dismissal Wednesday
Parents of Marion County Public Schools students should prepare for an abbreviated school day Wednesday.
The district calendar calls for a two-hour early dismissal on August 26.
Families should make arrangements for students to arrive home earlier than usual and should check with their individual school regarding specific dismissal and transportation times.
BJ's Preparing for New West Ocala Store
BJ's Wholesale Club is moving closer to opening its new west Ocala location.
The company is opening a membership center ahead of the new warehouse club, giving area residents an opportunity to enroll before the store opens.
The new Ocala club is expected to open this fall.
