County administrator boasts 2014 accomplishments

Tourism and employment numbers are continuing to climb, and East County and other nearby areas are continuing on a prosperous path after a successful 2014, according to County Administrator Ed Hunzeker .

Hunzeker discussed a range of local government accomplishments during the Feb. 24 presentation of his annual report to County Commissioners.

He raved about last year's accomplishments and predicted the county will continue to grow in population and successes in 2015.

Last year's highlights include:

— Manatee County Emergency Management became one of five local governments in the state to achieve accreditation through the Emergency Management Accreditation Program.

— The Net Metering Project at Lena Road Landfill began transforming waste into energy that's later used to power the neighboring wastewater treatment plant. The project shows 53% boost in energy savings, which totals more than $375,000 in annual energy savings, Hunzeker cited.

— Lake Manatee Dam received low-cost repairs in "record time" compared to similar reservoir repairs. Hunzeker said the repairs will extend the life of the dam 50 years.

— Fort Hamer Bridge engineering and permitting was completed. Construction should being in the spring.

District 5 Commissioner Vanessa Baugh was impressed with the area's progress.

"We've got some of the best people working anywhere," Baugh said. "They're committed to the job and to this community." 

To view the complete report, visit www.mymanatee.org/home/government/county-administration.html.

Contact Amanda Sebastiano at [email protected].