Chambers, Changes & Conversations - the official podcast of Manatee County Government

Manatee County Government
  • 5.0 (6)
  • GOVERNMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Chambers, Changes and Conversations is the official podcast of Manatee County Government on the West Coast of Florida. Our region includes the cities of Bradenton, Palmetto, Anna Maria Island, Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach, Myakka, the town of Longboat Key and the communities of Lakewood Ranch, Parrish, Tallevast and Terra Ceia. It's your go-to source for updates on what's happening with our Board of County Commissioners, ways to get involved, public services, and the people shaping our community. Each episode features real conversations with county leaders, staff, and community members as we break down the decisions and initiatives impacting residents every day. Whether you’re a long-time local or new to the area, tune in to stay informed, engaged, and connected to your local government brought to you by Casey Zempel and Stephanie Garrison.

  1. Episode 29: Charlie Hunsicker, Director of Natural Resources

    3D AGO

    Episode 29: Charlie Hunsicker, Director of Natural Resources

    Meet Charlie Hunsicker, the longest-serving employee at Manatee County, to discuss his impactful role as Director of the Natural Resources Department. For decades, Charlie has been at the forefront of efforts to protect wildlife, beaches, and natural preserves, all while ensuring the sustainable management of the county's precious resources. In part one of our conversation, Charlie takes us behind the scenes of the Natural Resources Department, which is dedicated to protecting and preserving the region’s diverse ecosystems through programs focused on water quality, wildlife conservation, and the restoration of natural habitats. We dive into how Charlie’s leadership has shaped key initiatives, including advocacy, the management of over 1,500 acres of public preserves, the restoration of vital wetlands and coastal habitats, and the ongoing efforts to ensure clean water for future generations. Charlie also sheds light on the department’s work to support educational outreach programs that engage the community in protecting local wildlife and natural spaces. Whether it’s maintaining the health of the county’s iconic beaches or advocating for responsible land use policies, Charlie’s influence continues to ensure a sustainable and vibrant future for the residents and wildlife of Manatee County. Stay tuned for part two, coming soon! For more on the incredible work being done by the Natural Resources Department, check out our website. Other helpful links: Mixon Farm Natural Resources Education Opportunities Calendar Sign up for the EcoEvents Newsletter

    47 min
  2. Episode 28: Manatee County Day

    FEB 6

    Episode 28: Manatee County Day

    We took Chambers, Changes & Conversations on the road for the very first Manatee County Day in Tallahassee! We had great conversations with Operation Warrior Resolution, SeaPort Manatee, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ), Forristall Enterprises, Inc., The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, The Manatee County Government Relations Department, The School District of Manatee County, Jacki Dezelski from The Manatee Chamber of Commerce, and District 4 Commissioner Mike Rahn. Together, we discussed the challenges facing our local businesses and the real solutions that can come from working side-by-side with our state legislators.

    32 min

  3. JAN 27

    Ep 27: Drew Richardson, Director of Information Technology Services

    What does forward-thinking local government technology really look like in 2026? In this episode we talk with Drew Richardson, Director of Information Technology Services for Manatee County, about how his department is redefining public sector IT with cybersecurity strategy, artificial intelligence, data management, digital infrastructure, and real-world tools residents and professionals can use. Drew shares how his team obsesses over securing and modernizing the county’s IT infrastructure to protect data and deliver reliable services, while keeping systems agile and future-ready. We look at how they are leading with advanced data integration through Peregrine technology to unify information and empower faster, smarter decision making in emergency management and daily operations. We also explore how Manatee County’s Geographic Information System (GIS) delivers powerful spatial data and interactive maps that help people understand trends, property data, utility infrastructure, zoning, evacuation zones, and more through online tools like the Property Locator map, utility infrastructure map, and story map gallery. This conversation goes beyond tech jargon. It highlights a customer-focused, solution-oriented IT team that finds ways to get to yes, collaborates with departments across the county, and builds systems that work for people. If you want an inside look at cybersecurity in government, AI strategy in the public sector, GIS mapping and data tools, and how local IT is making life better for residents and staff, this episode is for you. Learn more: Manatee County ITS Email Drew Geographic Information Services (GIS)

    43 min
  4. Ep 26: Nicole Knapp, Director of Development Services

    JAN 20

    Ep 26: Nicole Knapp, Director of Development Services

    What actually happens after someone says, “I want to build something”? We talk with Nicole Knapp, Director of Development Services, for a candid and surprisingly fun conversation about how development really works in Manatee County. Nicole shares her path into this industry and pulls back the curtain on the divisions she oversees: building, planning, zoning, permitting, and impact fees to name a few. If you have ever been confused, frustrated, or curious about the development process, this episode is for you. We talk about her team and the reality of their workload, including a nearly 10x increase in cases following three hurricanes in late 2024. It is a behind-the-scenes look at public servants navigating growth, recovery, and complexity at the same time. Nicole walks us through the full development journey, from pre-application to application, to planning commission, and explains why only about 4 percent of cases ever make it to the Board of County Commissioners. Along the way, she explains common misconceptions, why the process exists, and what factors are key to consider before a public hearing. We also dig into bigger ideas: why “smart growth” is an overused phrase, why an updated Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code matter, and what her staff is doing to support this top priority of the Board's in 2026. Clear, honest, and full of insight, this is a must-listen episode for anyone who wants to better understand how development decisions are made and why the process looks the way it does.

    43 min
  5. Ep 25: Elliot Falcione, Director for Tourism and the Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB)

    JAN 5

    Ep 25: Elliot Falcione, Director for Tourism and the Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB)

    Tourism touches more than vacations — it shapes our economy, our infrastructure, and our quality of life. In this episode of Chambers, Changes & Conversations, we talk with Elliot Falcione, Executive Director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, about what tourism really means for Manatee County residents. We break down the day-to-day role of the CVB, how tourism marketing is funded, and why that funding model matters to locals, not just visitors. Elliot explains how tourism dollars support community assets, local businesses, and long-term economic stability, and why understanding that connection is key to quality of life in Manatee County. We also dive into some of the region’s most talked-about projects, including the Gulf Islands Ferry, and how initiatives like this are transforming Bradenton from a place you visit into a place you truly experience. From regional connectivity to reimagining how residents and visitors explore the area, these projects are reshaping our destination story. Tourism goes beyond beaches, too. Elliot shares why the Bradenton Area Convention Center expansion is such a critical investment right now, how it helps diversify our tourism economy, and the ripple effect it creates for local businesses year-round. With more than 30 years at the CVB, Elliot offers a unique perspective on how visitation has evolved, what trends are shaping traveler expectations, and why international travel — supported by strong partnerships with Sarasota Bradenton International Airport — is a growing part of Bradenton’s future. We also explore Bradenton’s long-standing sister city relationship with Pittsburgh and how it helped shape the area’s identity as a destination. It’s an insightful conversation about tourism’s past, present, and future — and why it matters to everyone who calls Manatee County home. 🎧 Listen now and discover how tourism works for you.

    54 min
  6. Ep 24: Commissioner Mike Rahn & Carlos Burqueras, Seaport Manatee Executive Director

    12/15/2025

    Ep 24: Commissioner Mike Rahn & Carlos Burqueras, Seaport Manatee Executive Director

    In this episode of Chambers, Changes, and Conversations, Commissioner Mike Rahn and Port Manatee Executive Director Carlos Buqueras join the conversation to unpack one of Manatee County’s most powerful economic drivers - and reminds us it does so without any tax payer dollars. We explore the port’s enormous economic impact, why its location matters as the closest deepwater seaport to the Panama Canal and to Cuba (Havana, anyone?), and how global trade directly shapes our local economy. From one billion in bananas moving through the port each year to the international relationships Carlos Buqueras navigates daily, this episode brings the global supply chain close to home. Commissioner Mike Rahn also explains the proposed 2026 legislation to create a special district for Port Manatee, why he believes it’s the right step forward, and what it could mean for long-term growth, competitiveness, and local governance. If you’re curious how Manatee County connects to the world and why Port Manatee plays such a critical role in our future, this episode delivers insight, perspective, and a few surprises along the way. Learn more: Seaport Manatee Website Why Southwest Florida Port Statistics

    49 min
  7. Ep. 23, Palmetto Mayor Dan West

    12/08/2025

    Ep. 23, Palmetto Mayor Dan West

    We sit down with Palmetto Mayor Dan West for a deep dive into the history, heritage, and heart of Manatee County. Before he ever served on the Palmetto City Commission or stepped into the Mayor’s office, Dan built a career as an agriculture teacher and spent 20 years working and eventually leading the Manatee County Fair. That background shapes how he leads, how he sees community, and how he thinks about the future of a growing agricultural county. We trace the roots of Florida’s agricultural identity, including Dan’s passion for elevating and preserving agriculture in Manatee County. Be prepared to learn something new; this conversation is full of stories you didn’t know you needed, from the origins of Palmetto's ag traditions and the local decisions that keep them alive. If you want to understand Palmetto’s past, its growth, and why agriculture remains the backbone of Florida’s future, this episode is a must-listen. Keywords: Palmetto Mayor Dan West, Manatee County history, Florida agriculture, Florida Agricultural Flag, Manatee County Fair, agriculture education, local government leadership, Chambers Changes and Conversations podcast.

    40 min
  8. Ep. 22: Chad Butzow, Director of Public Works

    11/24/2025

    Ep. 22: Chad Butzow, Director of Public Works

    If you’ve ever sat in traffic on your morning commute, wondered why a road project takes so long, questioned how repaving decisions get made, or felt frustrated trying to understand how growth is outpacing infrastructure, this is the episode you need to hear. It is an engaging conversation with Public Works Director Chad Butzow; a refreshingly direct breakdown of the issues residents care about most. This is not a scripted, polished county update. Chad talks like a real human who knows exactly what people are feeling, and he doesn’t hold back. We get into: • all things traffic • roundabouts • buses, repaving, new signals • street sweeping, and maintenance tie directly to flooding and safety • and the recent expansion of 44th Ave. Chad also gives a rare inside look at how public works decisions are made, what slows things down, what speeds things up, and what residents should expect as Manatee County continues to grow. If you care about roads, traffic, growth, or infrastructure in Manatee County, this episode is a must listen. It’s honest. It’s clear. And it answers many of the common questions so many people ask every day. Contact the public works team: publicworks.maintenance@mymanatee.org Public Works Website (you can even follow specific projects!) Public Works Strategic Plan Public Works Standards

    43 min
See All (29)

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Chambers, Changes and Conversations is the official podcast of Manatee County Government on the West Coast of Florida. Our region includes the cities of Bradenton, Palmetto, Anna Maria Island, Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach, Myakka, the town of Longboat Key and the communities of Lakewood Ranch, Parrish, Tallevast and Terra Ceia. It's your go-to source for updates on what's happening with our Board of County Commissioners, ways to get involved, public services, and the people shaping our community. Each episode features real conversations with county leaders, staff, and community members as we break down the decisions and initiatives impacting residents every day. Whether you’re a long-time local or new to the area, tune in to stay informed, engaged, and connected to your local government brought to you by Casey Zempel and Stephanie Garrison.

Information