MANATEE COUNTY, FL (May 05, 2026) – The Manatee County Board of County Commissioners approved a series of measures aimed at strengthening support for seniors, investing in neighborhood improvements, and recognizing a local sports legacy.
Investing in Neighborhood Improvements and Preparedness: Through the Neighborhood Enhancement Grant Program, the County approved $14,974.50 in total funding for three community-led projects. Investments include up to $10,000 for entrance beautification in Rosedale, $3,975 for landscaping improvements in Braden Castle, and $999.50 for emergency communication equipment to support a local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), enhancing neighborhood identity, aesthetics, and preparedness.
Proposed naming King Middle Park to Nick Bollettieri Park: The Board also approved sending a formal letter to the Chair of the Manatee County School Board requesting that the park located north of Martha B. King Middle School be named “Nick Bollettieri Park.” The action authorizes the Board Chair to sign and transmit the request on behalf of the County.
A longtime fixture in the Bradenton community, Nick Bollettieri moved to Longboat Key in 1978 and later founded the Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy in the early 1980s. He pioneered the concept of a tennis boarding school and helped develop some of the sport’s most recognizable athletes, including Andre Agassi, Jim Courier, Monica Seles, Venus Williams, Serena Williams, and Maria Sharapova.
Supporting Seniors Aging at Home: The Board approved updates to the Home Care for the Elderly (HCE) program, supporting a total of $215,617 in state funding. The amendment expands available services to include specialized medical equipment, supplies, and material aid, helping caregivers meet daily needs while allowing seniors to remain safely in their homes.
Additional Funding Preserves Critical In-Home Services: Commissioners also approved a $73,529.51 funding increase for the Community Care for the Elderly (CCE) program, bringing total program funding to more than $2.26 million. This investment ensures continued access to essential in-home services such as case management, transportation, meal delivery, and personal care, preventing service reductions through June 2026.
Expanded Support for Alzheimer’s Caregivers: The Board approved an additional $10,000 in funding for the Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative (ADI), increasing total program funding to more than $1.17 million. The funding will sustain critical services including respite care, homemaker support, and personal care for individuals living with memory-related conditions and their caregivers.The three aforementioned items will return June 30 for Board approval for the 2026–2027 agreement period marking more than 40 years of the county being awarded this type of funding.
“These actions reflect our commitment to supporting residents at every stage of life, from helping seniors age with dignity in their homes to investing in neighborhoods and honoring the people who have shaped our community,” said Commissioner Mike Rahn. “We’re making thoughtful investments that strengthen quality of life across Manatee County.”