Latest News in St. Petersburg, FL

SPCA shutters Veterinary Center in St. Pete

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Tampa Bay has closed its Veterinary Center in St. Petersburg to adapt to community needs, shifting towards more accessible services for pet owners facing financial difficulties. The decision, described as bittersweet by CEO Martha Boden, comes after nearly eight years of impactful service at the facility. The organization plans to reinvest proceeds from the sale of the center into targeted community programs.

St. Pete Pier closes due to power outage: Officials

The St. Pete Pier and a portion of downtown St. Petersburg are currently experiencing a power outage, prompting city officials to close the area until further notice. Duke Energy is working to restore power, with estimates suggesting it could be restored by 1:30 a.m. Saturday.

Local Real Estate Roundup: Notable Listings and Sales in St. Petersburg Area

A two-story Spanish-style residence in St. Petersburg has been listed for $1.2 million, featuring 5 bedrooms and recent renovations. Additionally, the Shops at Midway in Largo is on the market for over $25 million, while a waterfront estate in Oldsmar sold for $2.2 million after a month of listing.

Mint House partners with the Rays

Mint House has launched a partnership with the Tampa Bay Rays, promoting their apartment-style short-term rentals as a preferred accommodation option near Tropicana Field. To celebrate this collaboration, a free public barbeque event will be held on Friday evening, featuring food, drinks, and opportunities to meet the team mascot.

Community giving event returns to St. Pete

CareFest is returning to St. Petersburg, offering residents an opportunity to assist their neighbors and enhance community spaces through various local projects. The initiative, in collaboration with Somebody Cares Tampa Bay, will run until October 31, 2024, inviting participation in activities such as painting and landscaping. More details can be found on the city’s website.

Report: Hispanic entrepreneurs thrive in St. Pete

St. Petersburg has been recognized as one of the top cities for Hispanic entrepreneurs, ranking 9th in a recent WalletHub report that evaluated over 180 cities based on various business metrics. The report highlights the city's strong entrepreneurial environment and business friendliness, with Tampa also making the list at 11th place.

Livability survey highlights St. Pete’s strengths, weaknesses

St. Petersburg's 2024 Community Survey reveals residents' appreciation for the city's vibrancy and cultural offerings, while highlighting concerns over governance, affordability, and disaster safety. Local leaders plan to use this feedback to shape future budget and policy decisions.

Mayor’s City Hall on Tour series returns

Mayor Ken Welch’s City Hall on Tour event series is set to return on August 18, 2024, at the University of South Florida St. Petersburg. This initiative provides an opportunity for constituents to engage directly with city officials, including law enforcement, and enjoy family-friendly activities with refreshments.

Nonprofit Uses ARPA Funds to Upgrade Tech

Vincent House, a nonprofit dedicated to aiding adults with mental illnesses in Pinellas County, has utilized a $20,000 ARPA Small Capital Purchases grant to enhance its technology. The upgraded resources will facilitate career training and improve access to essential learning tools for its clients.

SPFC served more than 6,000 families summer meals

St. Pete Free Clinic has provided summer meals to over 6,000 families in Pinellas County, addressing food insecurity during the school break. The initiative served 1,670 households, including 3,775 adults and 2,795 children, highlighting the critical role of nonprofits in supporting vulnerable communities.