News Briefs

+ Neal Communities plans for new development
Twenty vacant acres on the west side of Lockwood Ridge Road and south of Whitfield Avenue may soon house a Neal Communities development.

The Manatee County Planning Commission reviewed plans for Fox, a community of 37 single-family detached homes, during its May 8 meeting.

Officials said development of Fox would not interfere with wetlands or wetland buffers on the property.

The Planning Commission recommended approval of the project, which the Manatee County Board of County Commissioners will vote on during their June 5 land-use meeting.

The development’s name will change, if approved.

+ More retailers commit to Mall at UTC project
Fashion designer Michael Kors and the Z Galleria secured spots at The Mall at University Town Center, according to Sarasota County building permits.

Kors holds a reputation for high-end purses and accessories and has locations at nearby shopping centers, such as Ellenton Premium Outlets and Tampa’s International Plaza.

A Los Angeles-based home furnishings store known for its upscale home furnishings, Z Gallerie has more than 50 locations nationwide, including a store at Tampa’s International Plaza.

+ County earns accreditation for emergency management
The Emergency Management Accreditation Program (EMAP) approved Manatee County Government as an accredited jurisdiction for preparedness and response to community disaster preparedness May 14.

To achieve accreditation, emergency management programs must adhere to Emergency Management Standards. EMAP trained employees then review a community’s efforts to determine accreditation, a press release states.

Meetings & agendas
Manatee County Board of County Commissioners Meeting — 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., June 3, at the County Administrative Center, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

Manatee County Board of County Commissioners Land Use Meeting — 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., June 5, at the County Administrative Center, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.