Mark Schantz

I am a freelance journalist, web reporter, media critic, political watchdog, blogger, columnist, photographer, creative cook, humorist, supporter of Israel & US

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Articles

Attracting economic development high on Treasure Island's agenda

1 week ago | tbnweekly.com | Mark Schantz

TREASURE ISLAND — Fostering economic development emerged as the top priority during a recent work session where city commissioners outlined their goals. Vice Mayor Tammy Vasquez identified development as both “the one opportunity, but also challenge” facing the city. “We know that we have to come to a rather quick plan on future development,” she said. “We have a downtown that is nonexistent,”she explained. “We have several hotel-motels with fencing around them.
Tarpon Springs seeking developer for prime downtown property

1 week ago | tbnweekly.com | Mark Schantz

TARPON SPRINGS — City commissioners unanimously issued an invitation to negotiate developing the Forbes property at 144 E. Tarpon Ave., though what the city wants remains open to interpretation.
St. Pete Beach seeks solutions for hurricane-damaged landmarks

2 weeks ago | tbnweekly.com | Mark Schantz

ST. PETE BEACH — City officials are exploring creative ways to save two beloved local landmarks destroyed in recent hurricanes: the Pass-a-Grille shuffleboard court building and the Merry Pier Bait Shack. During their April 22 meeting, commissioners heard a troubling assessment of damage inflicted on both structures by hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Treasure Island considers future of storm-damaged golf course

2 weeks ago | tampabay.com | Mark Schantz

TREASURE ISLAND — The future of the Treasure Bay Golf Course remains uncertain following severe damage from hurricanes Helene and Milton last year. Recreation director Cathy Hayduke told city commissioners April 15 that while the living shoreline project is back on track and limited tennis and pickleball play has resumed, the facility was largely destroyed by the storms. Commissioners directed City Manager Charles Anderson to schedule a work session to discuss reimagining the property.
Treasure Island considers future of storm-damaged golf course

3 weeks ago | tbnweekly.com | Mark Schantz

TREASURE ISLAND — The future of the Treasure Bay Golf Course remains uncertain, following severe damage from hurricanes Helene and Milton last year. Recreation director Cathy Hayduke told city commissioners April 15 that while the living shoreline project is back on track and limited tennis and pickleball play has resumed, the facility was largely destroyed by the storms. Commissioners directed City Manager Charles Anderson to schedule a work session to discuss reimagining the property.
Treasure Island advances $12M public safety bldg.

1 month ago | tbnweekly.com | Mark Schantz

TREASURE ISLAND — City commissioners decided to consider design and engineering bids for a new Public Safety Building, while taking time to determine if the city can afford the project now estimated at $12 million. The current police and fire buildings were largely destroyed in recent hurricanes. Some residents told commissioners the estimated price was too high and could lead to property tax increases. They proposed build a free-standing fire station while relocating police to City Hall.
New Tarpon Springs Mayor John Koulianos ready to tackle major issues

1 month ago | suncoastnews.com | Mark Schantz

TARPON SPRINGS — Newly seated Mayor John Koulianos plans to advance a healthy lifestyle by championing Tarpon Blue Zone certification for the city while forging ahead with economic development and tackling aging infrastructure issues. Koulianos, who ran on a platform of bringing common sense back to government, is no stranger around City Hall. He was elected to serve a three-year City Commission term beginning in April 2023 and ran unopposed for the mayor’s seat in the March election.
Treasure Island’s purchase of Isle of Palms Park clears final hurdle

1 month ago | tampabay.com | Mark Schantz

TREASURE ISLAND — City commissioners cleared the final legal hurdle allowing the purchase of Isle of Palms Park, with 70% of funding coming from a Florida Communities Trust grant. Parks and recreation director Cathy Hayduke presented the item at the April 1 meeting, requesting approval for the city manager to execute the Dedication to Public Use and Declaration of Restrictive Covenants with the Florida Communities Trust.
Tarpon Springs gives green light to food trucks at Sponge Docks, downtown

1 month ago | tampabay.com | Mark Schantz

TARPON SPRINGS — After much debate, city commissioners unanimously approved allowing food trucks at the Sponge Docks and downtown, with special conditions that will be revisited in six months. City manager Charles Rudd on March 25 told commissioners that many rules were waived following the hurricanes.
Isle of Palms Park purchase clears last remaining hurdle

1 month ago | tbnweekly.com | Mark Schantz

TREASURE ISLAND — City commissioners cleared the final legal hurdle allowing the purchase of Isle of Palms Park, with 70% of funding coming from a Florida Communities Trust grant. Parks and Recreation Director Cathy Hayduke presented the item at the April 1 meeting, requesting approval for the city manager to execute the Dedication to Public Use and Declaration of Restrictive Covenants with the Florida Communities Trust.