Local Politics · Lake County
Voters in Lake and Sumter counties head to the polls Tuesday, Nov. 3, for races including Florida governor, U.S. Senate, Lake County Commission Districts 2 and 4, School Board District 1, and mayoral contests in Clermont, Groveland, Bushnell, and Center Hill. Lake County voters face two ballot questions: a school district millage increase to one mill for four years and continuation of the North Lake County Hospital District for ten years. Sumter County voters decide on renewing local option fuel taxes and re-establishing a 2% tourist development tax on short-term rentals. Polls are open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.; voters must bring a valid photo ID with signature or may cast a provisional ballot.
Housing & Development · Lady Lake, FL
The Lady Lake Commission voted 3-2 on Monday night to allow Solid Rock Property Group to construct a 7-Eleven gas station at the corner of Rolling Acres Road and County Road 466. The approval follows a May denial and includes concessions such as $350,000 in turn-lane improvements funded by the developer, a vinyl fence, enhanced landscape buffer, and 24-hour lighting with surveillance cameras. Mayor Ed Freeman and Commissioner Treva Roberts voted against the proposal; Commissioners Ed Regan, Amanda McLea and Mike Sage voted for it. A second reading and final vote are scheduled for Nov. 16.
Community brief · Eustis, FL
Singer, comedian and ventriloquist Darci Lynne will perform her "Darci Lynne & Friends: The Growing Pains Tour" at the Hideaway Performing Arts Center in Eustis on Friday, Jan. 22 at 7:30 p.m. Lobby opens at 6 p.m. with seating beginning at 6:30 p.m. The show combines comedy, music, storytelling and ventriloquism featuring characters Petunia, Oscar, Edna and Andy.
Community brief · Lake County
The East Ridge Middle School Spartans defeated Eustis Middle School Mustangs 32-13 on Monday night, Nov. 2, to claim their second consecutive flag football championship. The team finished 12-0 in the 2026 season, extending a combined 24-game winning streak over two undefeated seasons. Quarterback Jackson Everett threw 41 touchdown passes during the year. Coaches Nino and Joe Gargano led the squad through playoff wins over Carver Middle (31-15)…
