Suncoast Searchlight

DeSoto County officials had been moving aggressively to approve plans for a massive data center, but that momentum could come to a halt amid a proposed moratorium on the agenda next week. 🔗 in comments

It's stark reminder that efforts to return the area to a sense of normalcy after a rash of major storms remains a work in progress. 🔗 in comments

The move comes after a third-party investigation found leadership at Riverview High School and district investigators mishandled complaints of cheating, sexual harassment and misuse of school resources. 🔗 in comments

We're thrilled to share that Suncoast Searchlight has won first place nationally for explanatory journalism in the Institute for Nonprofit News' 2026 Nonprofit News Awards. 🎉

Our Power & Profit investigation earned the Insight Award for Explanatory Journalism (Small Division). The series examined how developer-controlled special districts are reshaping growth in Florida — and what that means for homeowners and taxpayers.

We also were finalists for Best Investigative Journalism Award!

Nearly all said the showdown over property taxes is the clearest example yet of the state asserting power over local governments. They worry the ramifications will be devastating for years to come. 🔗 in comments

The lawsuits come amid a rush of new Live Local applications — including one by D.R. Horton to build near Celery Fields — before a July 1 deadline, after which new state restrictions take effect. 🔗 in comments

On Sunday, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver cited Suncoast Searchlight stories by Alice Herman in its segment on New College of Florida.

The segment also drew from broader local reporting on the decisions reshaping New College. It’s a reminder that reporting can start in one community and help inform a national conversation.

Links in comments.

The race comes as Sarasota County confronts mounting concerns about traffic, flooding, infrastructure and property taxes — issues many residents tie to years of rapid growth. 🔗 in comments

Some teens notice birds. Sophia Haakman wanted to know whether local habitat restoration efforts are actually helping them survive. Her answer is now headed to a national publication. 🔗 in comments

The plan would strip $380M in tax revenues from Sarasota, Manatee and DeSoto counties combined over the next two years alone. 🔗 in comments