Niagara Bottling to Permanently Close Ocala Plant, Eliminating 57 Jobs
A longtime Ocala manufacturing operation is preparing to close permanently.
Niagara Bottling has announced that it will shut down its facility at 2445 Northwest 42nd Street, eliminating the plant's remaining 57 positions.
The facility was formerly operated as Silver Springs Bottled Water Company, a local business with roots dating back to 1991.
Niagara purchased the operation in September 2025 for approximately $25.7 million.
Shortly after the acquisition, the company announced significant workforce reductions affecting approximately 85 positions.
At the time, company representatives indicated that the facility would continue operating with a smaller workforce.
However, a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification dated October 31 confirms that the plant will now close entirely.
The final layoffs are scheduled to take effect December 31, 2026.
Affected positions include production employees, forklift operators, maintenance technicians, quality-control personnel, warehouse supervisors and management.
The company cited organizational restructuring as the reason for the closure.
Niagara continues to operate other Florida manufacturing facilities, including locations in Groveland and Jacksonville.
Marion County Sheriff Warns of Major Budget Reductions Following Property-Tax Amendment
Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods is warning that the newly approved Florida property-tax amendment could create significant financial challenges for local law enforcement.
During comments Wednesday, November 4, Woods estimated that his agency could face approximately $61 million in reduced funding over the next two years.
The concern follows voter approval of Amendment 3 in Tuesday's statewide election.
Woods explained that approximately 98 percent of the revenue supporting the Sheriff's Office's law-enforcement Municipal Service Taxing Unit comes from property taxes.
Because personnel costs account for a substantial portion of the department's budget, the sheriff says replacing that revenue could be difficult.
He indicated that potential reductions could affect technology, jail mental-health services and substance-abuse programs.
Woods expressed concern about cutting deputies and the possible consequences for public safety.
Meanwhile, Governor Ron DeSantis announced plans to call a special legislative session to address implementation of Amendment 3.
The governor said the Legislature may consider measures to prevent local governments from replacing reduced property-tax revenue with other taxes.
He also discussed the possibility of state grants to help local governments maintain essential services.
No final reductions have been adopted, and the details of the state's implementation legislation remain unresolved.
Second Target Store Proposed Along State Road 200
A second Target retail store is being proposed for southwest Marion County.
The proposed development would be located near State Road 200 and Southwest 80th Avenue, adjacent to an existing Walmart Neighborhood Market.
The new store would be approximately nine miles from Ocala's current Target location.
The proposal has generated mixed reactions among nearby residents.
Supporters say an additional Target would provide more convenient shopping options and reduce the need to travel across Ocala.
Opponents are concerned about traffic congestion, increased development and the potential loss of open space.
According to reporting by News 6, the proposed site would not have direct access from State Road 200.
Instead, customers would use surrounding roads, raising questions about traffic impacts on Southwest 80th Avenue.
The Marion County Development Review Committee has provided preliminary clearance for the project.
Developers must submit signed building plans and satisfy additional requirements before construction can proceed.
An opening date has not been announced.
Missing Ocala Senior Found Safe Following Purple Alert
Ocala Police have reported a positive outcome in the search for an elderly resident who disappeared earlier this week.
Sylvester Cotto, 82, was reported missing and endangered after he was last seen Tuesday morning, November 3.
Cotto had been traveling northbound on North Pine Avenue near Northwest 35th Street in a gray Dodge Ram pickup truck.
Police issued a Purple Alert and requested assistance from the public.
The alert prompted local news coverage and widespread sharing of the man's description and vehicle information.
On Wednesday, police reported that Cotto had been located safely.
The department has not publicly disclosed additional circumstances surrounding his disappearance or recovery.
Ocala and Marion County Declare November 14 'Put Down the Phone Day'
Ocala and Marion County officials are encouraging residents to spend more time connecting with family, friends and neighbors without electronic distractions.
During meetings Tuesday, November 3, both local governments proclaimed Saturday, November 14, as Look Up Marion, Put Down the Phone Day.
The initiative encourages residents to reduce cellphone and screen use and spend more time participating in face-to-face activities.
Organizers hope the observance will promote stronger relationships and community engagement.
Residents are encouraged to use the day for family outings, outdoor activities, community gatherings and other experiences that do not depend on electronic devices.
Adults With Disabilities Participate in Ocala Fun Olympics
Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities gathered Wednesday for the third annual Fun Olympics at Kenny's Place Nursery in Ocala.
Participants represented four local organizations.
The event featured recreational competitions and activities designed to encourage teamwork, physical activity and social interaction.
Organizers say the gathering provides an opportunity for participants to celebrate their abilities, develop friendships and enjoy an inclusive community experience.
The annual event continues to highlight organizations serving adults with disabilities throughout Marion County.
