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 25: Elliot Falcione, Executive Director of the BACVB

    JAN 5

    Episode 25: Elliot Falcione, Executive Director of the BACVB

    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
  2. Episode 24: Commissioner Rahn & Carlos

    12/15/2025

    Episode 24: Commissioner Rahn & Carlos

    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
  3. 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
  4. 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
  5. Ep. 21: Chairman George Kruse and 2026 State Legislative Priorities

    11/10/2025

    Ep. 21: Chairman George Kruse and 2026 State Legislative Priorities

    Ever wonder how Manatee County’s biggest projects and policy goals make it to Tallahassee? In this episode of Chambers, Changes & Conversations, speak with Chairman George Kruse to unpack the 2026 Manatee County Legislative Priorities - the projects, policies, and partnerships shaping our county’s future. We talk about property taxes and SB 180 and a local bill for Manatee County to give back home rule related to our Library Advisory board. We walk through the major projects we're requesting funding for, like the Veterans Hub and the City of Anna Maria Pier, as well as key transportation and infrastructure requests. You’ll get the story behind why Chairman Kruse thinks why these matter to residents. We also walk through how the legislative process works, how residents can follow the progress, and simple ways to get involved in shaping Manatee County’s future - like the upcoming Manatee Day February 4 & 5, 2026. It’s a transparent, easy-to-follow look at how local government works for you, featuring the chairman of the board himself. Related links: 2026 Legislative Priorities - Manatee County Government Manatee County Day - Feb 4-5, 2026 BoCC Agenda BoCC Meeting Calendar Sign up to speak at a Commissioner's Meeting

    47 min
  6. Ep.20: Supervisor of Elections, Scott Farrington

    11/03/2025

    Ep.20: Supervisor of Elections, Scott Farrington

    🎙️ Trust, Technology, and Transparency: Inside Manatee County Elections We’re back with Scott Farrington, Supervisor of Elections in Manatee County, elected in 2024. This time, we’re talking about one of the most essential parts of public service: trust. Trust that your vote counts, your ballot is secure, and democracy is in good hands. And the person making sure of that in Manatee County is Supervisor of Elections Scott Farrington. With more than 75 elections under his belt and a background in information systems, Scott has spent over two decades ensuring our elections are secure, transparent, and trusted. In this episode, we dig into what election security really looks like, how his office operates between election cycles, and why our local elections office is one of the most tech-savvy in government. We also talk about how voters can stay informed, what goes on behind the scenes before and after Election Day, and how his team is inspiring a new generation of voters right here in Manatee County. It’s informative, timely, and a great reminder that confidence in our democracy starts at the local level. Related Links: Manatee County Supervisor of Elections: www.votemanatee.govRegister to Vote or Update Info: RegisterToVoteFlorida.govElection Security & Audit Process: votemanatee.gov/securityFollow @VoteManatee on social media for updates and resources

    47 min
  7. Ep. 19: Utilities Director, Pat Shea, and Deputy Director, Chris Collins

    10/27/2025

    Ep. 19: Utilities Director, Pat Shea, and Deputy Director, Chris Collins

    We’re diving into one of the most essential — and often overlooked — parts of daily life in Manatee County: Utilities. From the brand-new 96-gallon Big Bins rolling out across neighborhoods to cutting-edge renewable energy and smart water technology, this episode is packed with innovation, sustainability, and a behind-the-scenes look at the people making it all happen. Joining us are Patrick Shea, Director of Utilities, and Chris Collins, Deputy Director, two leaders guiding the County through a major modernization effort that’s reshaping how we handle waste, water, and infrastructure for a growing community. We cover everything from how the Big Bin rollout is going and what residents can expect next, to the Waste to Worth project — a groundbreaking system turning landfill methane into clean, renewable energy. You’ll also hear how Water Wise Manatee is helping customers track their water use in real time, spot leaks early, and save money while supporting long-term conservation. Beyond the technology, Chris and Pat share what it’s like leading a department that touches every home, every day — from the satisfaction of extending the life of the County landfill by 21 years, to the excitement of building the next generation of water treatment and reclamation facilities. It’s practical, forward-thinking, and full of local pride — proof that even the stuff we throw away (and flush away) can be part of a smarter, more sustainable future for Manatee County. Related links: Big Bin Advantage & Resident Information Tool: mymanatee.org/bigbin Waste to Worth Renewable Energy Project: mymanatee.org/wastetoworth Water Wise Manatee Smart Meter Program: mymanatee.org/waterwise Manatee County Utilities Department: mymanatee.org/utilitiesCommunity Cleanup Event Info: mymanatee.org/cleanup

    38 min
  8. Ep. 18: Dr. Laurie Breslin, School District Superintendent of Schools

    10/20/2025

    Ep. 18: Dr. Laurie Breslin, School District Superintendent of Schools

    We’re going back to school with Dr. Laurie Breslin, the new Superintendent of the School District of Manatee County and one of the most full-circle stories in local leadership. A Manatee County native, Dr. Breslin has experienced our schools from every angle: student, teacher, parent, and now superintendent. In this episode, we talk about how her personal journey informs her leadership, and how the district is helping every student succeed through programs like SOAR, a new initiative designed to support academic recovery and engagement. We cover the district’s focus on early learning and VPK, efforts to improve graduation rates, what’s being done to tackle chronic absenteeism, and the incredible opportunities available locally at Manatee Technical College. You’ll also get to know the person behind the title - her favorite field trip food, her leadership influences, and how she stays grounded while leading a district of more than 50,000 students. It’s thoughtful, inspiring, and she is absolutely delightful. Manatee County Teachers and Students are in good hands. Related links School District of Manatee County Homepage: https://www.manateeschools.netSOAR Program Overview: https://www.manateeschools.net/page/soar-in-4VPK & Early Learning Programs: https://www.manateeschools.net/prekAttendance & Absenteeism Resources: https://www.manateeschools.net/attendanceGraduation Rate Reports & Student Success Data: https://www.manateeschools.net/accountabilityFlorida’s Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) Program: https://www.vpkflorida.orgAttendance Works – National Campaign to End Chronic Absence: https://www.attendanceworks.orgManatee Technical College: https://www.manateetech.edu

    41 min
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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.

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