Primary Election Is Tuesday

Marion County voters will head to the polls Tuesday for Florida's 2026 Primary Election.

Early voting concluded Saturday. On Election Day, polls will be open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m.

The ballot includes important local contests, including County Commission and School Board races. Voters can verify their assigned polling place through the Marion County Supervisor of Elections.

Development Review Committee Meets Today

The Marion County Development Review Committee is scheduled to meet at 9 a.m. today.

The committee reviews proposed developments for compliance with county requirements involving transportation, stormwater, utilities, and other infrastructure.

The meeting is held at the Office of the County Engineer.

329-Home Development Heads to County Commission

A final master plan for a proposed 329-home residential development in Silver Springs Shores is heading to the Marion County Board of County Commissioners.

Commissioners hold their regular meeting Tuesday at 9 a.m. at the McPherson Governmental Campus in Ocala.

The proposed development is among the growth and land-use matters facing county leaders as residential construction continues throughout Marion County.

County Moves Toward Data Center Moratorium

Marion County commissioners are moving toward a temporary pause on new data center permitting.

Commissioners have directed county staff to prepare a 12-month moratorium while the county develops regulations addressing data centers and their potential impacts.

The issue has generated significant discussion among commissioners as Marion County considers how to handle future large-scale data center proposals.

Marion County Traffic Fatality Rate Raises Concerns

A recent analysis of Florida crash data found Marion County with the state's highest vehicle fatality rate through early August.

The analysis reported 53 traffic fatalities through August 8, or approximately 1.16 deaths for every 10,000 residents.

The figures provide another reminder for motorists to slow down, avoid distractions, and use extra caution on Marion County roads.

No Injuries Reported in Marion County Helicopter Crash

Authorities are investigating after a helicopter crashed Wednesday night in northeast Marion County.

The Marion County Sheriff's Office and Marion County Fire Rescue responded shortly after 11 p.m. to the area of the 3200 block of Northeast 95th Street in Anthony.

The helicopter reportedly came down in an empty pasture. Authorities said no injuries were reported.

The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation.

Early Voting Enters Final Two Days

Marion County voters have today and Saturday remaining to vote early ahead of Florida's Tuesday, August 18 Primary Election.

Early voting is available today from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., with the early voting period concluding Saturday at 6 p.m.

The Marion County Elections Office is also scheduled to begin canvassing and duplicating vote-by-mail ballots at 9:30 this morning.

Marion County Offering Free Pet Adoptions

Marion County Animal Services is offering free adoptions as part of the nationwide Clear the Shelters initiative.

The promotion is designed to find permanent homes for animals currently being cared for at the county shelter.

Residents interested in adopting are encouraged to review available animals and adoption requirements through Marion County Animal Services.

Ocala Hosts Reverse Vendor Fair Today

The City of Ocala is hosting a Reverse Vendor Fair today from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.

Unlike a traditional vendor fair, city departments provide information to businesses about the products and services they purchase.

The event is designed to help local companies learn more about procurement procedures and potential opportunities to do business with the City of Ocala.

Weekend Entertainment Around Ocala

A variety of entertainment and community activities are scheduled across the Ocala area this weekend.

Among tonight's events is Ocala Comedy Night featuring Tim the Dairy Farmer, beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the Ocala Civic Theatre. Other weekend activities include outdoor events, live entertainment, and family activities throughout Marion County.

School Board Holds Budget Work Session Today

The Marion County School Board will hold a special work session today devoted to the district's General Fund budget.

The meeting is scheduled from 9 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at the Browne Greaton Cole Auditorium.

The session comes during the first week of the 2026-27 school year as district officials continue reviewing finances and spending priorities.

Marion County Schools Recruiting Bus Drivers

Marion County Public Schools will hold open interviews today for prospective school bus drivers.

Interviews are scheduled from 1 until 3:30 p.m. at the MCPS Transportation Department Compound.

The recruiting effort follows the opening of schools Monday. The district operates 251 buses covering an average of more than 31,000 miles each school day.

Early Voting Continues in Marion County

Early voting continues today ahead of Florida's August 18 Primary Election.

Marion County's early voting period runs through Saturday, August 15, with voting available from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.

On Election Day Tuesday, polls will be open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m.

Proposed Agreement Would Raise Ocala Firefighter Pay

A tentative labor agreement could bring significant increases in starting salaries for Ocala Fire Rescue firefighters.

According to the Ocala Gazette, the proposed restructuring would increase base pay by $14,250 for EMT classifications and $15,250 for paramedic classifications.

The changes are intended to make Ocala more competitive in recruiting and retaining firefighters and paramedics.

Code Enforcement Board Meets Tonight

The City of Ocala's Municipal Code Enforcement Board is scheduled to meet tonight at 5:30 p.m.

The board hears cases involving alleged violations of city codes and considers enforcement actions and other related matters.

Marion County Schools Settle Into First Week

Marion County Public Schools are moving through the first week of the 2026-27 school year following Monday's opening day.

District officials reported 40,072 students attended traditional schools on opening day. Nearly 22,000 students used school bus transportation, and officials acknowledged some buses experienced delays as routes and schedules settled into place.

The district also reported 63 teaching vacancies remained as the school year began.

School Board Continues Work on New Academic Year

The Marion County School Board met Tuesday evening, one day after the start of classes.

The board's schedule remains busy this week, with a special budget work session Thursday from 9 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at the Browne Greaton Cole Auditorium.

The session will focus on the district's General Fund budget.

Early Voting Continues Ahead of August Primary

Early voting continues in Marion County ahead of Florida's Primary Election on Tuesday, August 18.

Early voting gives registered voters the opportunity to cast a ballot in person before Election Day at an available early voting location.

The Marion County Supervisor of Elections also provides online tools allowing voters to verify their registration, locate voting information, and view a sample ballot.

County Considers 12-Month Data Center Moratorium

Marion County commissioners have directed staff to begin work on a proposed 12-month moratorium on data center approvals.

The move follows discussion among commissioners about how the county should regulate future data center development.

The temporary pause would give county officials time to develop policies and standards addressing the potential impact of large data center projects before additional approvals move forward.

School District Recruiting Bus Drivers

Marion County Public Schools continues recruiting school bus drivers as the new academic year gets underway.

The district will hold open interviews Thursday from 1 until 3:30 p.m. at the MCPS Transportation Department Compound.

The recruiting effort comes as transportation employees continue adjusting routes and schedules following the opening of school this week.

Schools Ready to Welcome Students

Marion County Public Schools are completing final preparations as students return to classrooms this week.

School administrators are encouraging parents to verify bus stop locations, review school procedures, and allow extra travel time during the first few days of school. Motorists are reminded to use caution in school zones and watch for students boarding and exiting buses.

Development Review Committee Meets Today

The Marion County Development Review Committee is holding its regular meeting today to review several proposed development projects.

Committee members will evaluate transportation access, stormwater management, utilities, and environmental impacts before making recommendations for future county consideration.

Early Voting Continues for Primary Election

Early voting is underway in Marion County ahead of Florida's August 18 Primary Election.

Election officials encourage voters to take advantage of early voting opportunities throughout the week or make plans to vote at their assigned precinct on Election Day. Voters are reminded to bring valid photo identification.

Residents Encouraged to Stay Hurricane Ready

Marion County Emergency Management continues reminding residents that August is one of the most active months of hurricane season.

Officials recommend maintaining emergency supply kits, reviewing family communication plans, protecting important documents, and staying informed through official weather and emergency information sources.

Tax Holiday Continues Through August 20

Florida's Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday remains in effect through August 20.

Families can continue saving on qualifying school supplies, clothing, footwear, backpacks, learning materials, and eligible computers as students prepare for the new school year.

School Orientation Events Continue

Marion County Public Schools are welcoming students and families to orientation events taking place across the district this week.

School administrators, teachers, and staff are helping students become familiar with their campuses, review schedules, meet instructors, and prepare for the first day of school. Parents are encouraged to verify transportation information and complete any remaining registration requirements before classes begin.

Vote-by-Mail Deadline Is Today

Today is the deadline for Marion County voters to request that a vote-by-mail ballot be mailed to them for Florida's August 18 Primary Election.

Election officials remind voters that requests submitted after today's deadline may require special circumstances. Early voting is scheduled to begin this weekend.

School Supply Drive Concludes

Marion County's Mission: Bus Brigade – Supply Their Success campaign is concluding after collecting backpacks, notebooks, pencils, and other classroom essentials throughout July.

The donated supplies will be distributed through Marion County Public Schools' Families in Transition program to help students experiencing homelessness or financial hardship begin the school year prepared for success.

Residents Encouraged to Stay Hurricane Ready

Emergency Management officials continue encouraging Marion County residents to prepare for the peak of hurricane season.

Residents should review emergency plans, restock disaster supply kits, secure important documents, and monitor reliable weather information throughout August and September.

Tax Holiday Continues Through August 20

Florida's Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday remains in effect through August 20.

Families can continue saving on qualifying school supplies, clothing, footwear, backpacks, learning materials, and certain computers while completing back-to-school shopping before classes begin.

Schools Nearly Ready for Students

Marion County Public Schools are in the final stages of preparing for the new school year.

Teachers continue organizing classrooms, school leaders are completing staff orientation, and transportation officials are conducting final bus inspections and route checks before students return next week.

Sheriff's Office Announces School Zone Enforcement

The Marion County Sheriff's Office is preparing for the start of the school year with increased traffic enforcement around local campuses.

Deputies are reminding drivers to obey school zone speed limits, stop for school buses with flashing lights, avoid distracted driving, and remain alert for students walking or riding bicycles to school.

Residents Encouraged to Prepare for Hurricane Season

Marion County Emergency Management continues encouraging residents to prepare for potential tropical weather.

Officials recommend reviewing evacuation plans, assembling emergency supply kits, securing important documents, and registering for emergency notifications as the Atlantic hurricane season reaches its most active period.

CF Registration Continues

The College of Central Florida is continuing registration for Fall semester classes.

Students are encouraged to complete admissions, financial aid paperwork, and class registration early to ensure the best selection of courses before the semester begins.

Downtown Businesses Benefit from Tax Holiday

Businesses throughout downtown Ocala are reporting increased customer traffic as Florida's Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday continues.

Retailers say shoppers are taking advantage of savings on school supplies, clothing, footwear, backpacks, and other qualifying purchases while supporting local businesses.

County Staff Begin Implementing Board Actions

Marion County departments are moving forward with projects approved during Tuesday's Board of County Commissioners meeting.

County staff will begin implementing initiatives involving infrastructure, development, and budget planning as officials continue preparing for the 2026-27 fiscal year.

Final Preparations Underway for School Opening

Marion County Public Schools continue making final preparations before students return to classrooms next week.

Teachers and staff are preparing classrooms, transportation personnel are finalizing bus routes, and school administrators are completing campus readiness plans to ensure a successful start to the academic year.

Health Department Reminds Parents About School Requirements

The Florida Department of Health in Marion County is reminding parents to verify that children have all required immunizations and health documentation before the school year begins.

Officials encourage families needing vaccinations or school physicals to schedule appointments as soon as possible to avoid delays during the busy back-to-school season.

Afternoon Storms Prompt Safety Reminder

Marion County Fire Rescue is encouraging residents to stay alert as daily thunderstorms continue throughout Central Florida.

Officials remind motorists never to drive through flooded roadways and advise residents to seek shelter immediately when thunder is heard, as lightning can strike well before heavy rain begins.

Tax Holiday Continues

Florida's Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday remains in effect through August 20, giving families additional time to save on qualifying clothing, footwear, school supplies, learning materials, and certain computers.

Local retailers continue reporting increased customer traffic as the first day of school approaches.

County Commissioners Meet Today

The Marion County Board of County Commissioners is holding its regular meeting today.

Commissioners are expected to review budget matters, zoning requests, infrastructure projects, and agreements involving county operations as work continues on the county's 2026-27 fiscal year budget.

School District Finalizes Back-to-School Plans

Marion County Public Schools continues preparing for the return of students next week.

Parents are encouraged to verify transportation information, complete online registration, and review school start times and supply lists. District transportation officials are conducting final bus route inspections and driver preparations before opening day.

Sheriff's Office Promotes School Zone Safety

The Marion County Sheriff's Office is asking motorists to use extra caution as the school year approaches.

Deputies remind drivers to obey school zone speed limits, stop for school buses, eliminate distractions, and remain alert for children walking or riding bicycles near campuses. Increased enforcement is planned during the first weeks of school.

Tax Holiday Continues to Benefit Families

Florida's Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday remains in effect through August 20.

Families continue saving on qualifying school supplies, clothing, footwear, backpacks, and many educational items as they prepare for the new academic year.

Registration Open for Fall Youth Sports

The City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Department is accepting registrations for several fall youth sports programs.

Soccer, volleyball, flag football, and additional recreational activities are scheduled to begin later this month. Parents are encouraged to register early, as enrollment is limited for several leagues.

Marion County Schools Enter Final Week of Preparations

Marion County Public Schools are making final preparations before students return to classrooms later this month.

Teachers and staff continue classroom setup, transportation planning, technology testing, and campus safety preparations. District officials encourage parents to verify student registration information, bus assignments, and school supply lists before opening day.

Development Review Committee Meets Today

The Marion County Development Review Committee is meeting today to review proposed residential and commercial developments.

Committee members will evaluate infrastructure, traffic impacts, drainage, utilities, and environmental considerations before forwarding recommendations through the county's planning process.

Residents Urged to Prepare for Peak Hurricane Season

Marion County Emergency Management is reminding residents that August marks the beginning of the most active part of the Atlantic hurricane season.

Officials recommend reviewing emergency supply kits, protecting important documents, planning for pets, and registering for AlertMarion emergency notifications to receive important updates during severe weather.

Back-to-School Tax Holiday Continues

Florida shoppers continue to benefit from the state's Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday, which remains in effect through August 20.

Eligible purchases include many school supplies, clothing, footwear, learning materials, backpacks, and qualifying computers, helping families save money as the new school year approaches.

College of Central Florida Continues Fall Registration

The College of Central Florida is continuing enrollment for the Fall 2026 semester.

College officials encourage students to complete admissions, financial aid applications, and class registration as soon as possible to secure preferred course schedules before the semester begins.