Bilirakis highlights record VA maintenance funding
WASHINGTON — U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis touted new progress on veterans’ health care infrastructure following passage of the fiscal 2026 budget earlier this year.
The budget, which Bilirakis supported, includes a record $4.8 billion in non-recurring maintenance funding to address long-deferred infrastructure needs at VA medical facilities nationwide. The money will pay for repairs, replacements and upgrades aimed at maintaining operations and ensuring quality care.
The Department of Veterans Affairs approved $596 million in infrastructure improvements in the second quarter of fiscal 2026, including more than $5.3 million for upgrades at the James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital in Tampa.
“Promises made to our veterans must be followed by action, and this budget delivers exactly that,” Bilirakis said. “By investing in modern, safe and fully operational VA facilities, we are ensuring that those who served our nation receive the quality care they have earned.”
Sheriff’s Office accepting Junior Citizens Academy applications
BROOKSVILLE — The Hernando County Sheriff’s Office is accepting applications for its Junior Citizens Academy, a free two-day program for students ages 12 and 13 that offers a hands-on look at law enforcement through interactive demonstrations.
Sessions run from 1 to 5 p.m. June 4-5 and June 8-9 at 18900 Cortez Blvd. Doors open at 12:45 p.m., and pickup begins at 4:45 p.m.
Space is limited. Sign up at forms.office.com/g/Tzq9LDtuji. For more information, call 352-797-3680 or email PIO@hernandosheriff.org.
Health department marks National Water Safety Month
The Florida Department of Health in Hernando County is marking National Water Safety Month in May with a push to educate residents on drowning prevention.
Children ages 1 to 4 are most likely to drown in home swimming pools, while children 5 and older are more likely to drown in natural bodies of water, the department said.
For more information, call DOH-Hernando at 352-540-6800.
Health department observes National Stroke Awareness Month
The Florida Department of Health in Hernando County is observing National Stroke Awareness Month, an effort to highlight stroke risk factors and symptoms.
Stroke is a leading cause of death nationally. Recognizing a stroke quickly can be lifesaving because fast treatment can limit brain damage and improve survival.
Risk factors include high blood pressure, excessive alcohol use, physical inactivity, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking and heart disease.
State Attorney moves to abate Holmberg case
The State Attorney’s Office for the 5th Judicial Circuit has filed a motion for abatement in the case of Nathan Douglas Holmberg, who died by suicide April 3 while in custody at a Hillsborough County detention facility.
Holmberg, 34, was indicted in November on 25 felony counts, including seven counts of sexual battery on a child younger than 12.
County launches ‘Hernando Happenings’ updates
BROOKSVILLE — Hernando County government has launched “Hernando Happenings,” a monthly update series intended to keep residents informed about county operations.
County Administrator Jeff Rogers will share highlights and accomplishments from the previous month, with reports from county departments on projects, services and improvements.
Videos will be posted at engagehernando.com/hernandohappenings, along with downloadable documents featuring departmental highlights from each month of 2026.
“Hernando Happenings is another way Hernando County is increasing transparency and communication with residents,” Rogers said. “Hernando County wants the community to see the work being accomplished each month by dedicated county staff and departments.”
Utilities Department to break ground on Ridge Manor reclamation plant expansion
BROOKSVILLE — The Hernando County Utilities Department will hold a groundbreaking ceremony for the Ridge Manor Water Reclamation Facility expansion at 10 a.m. June 4.
The ceremony will take place at the existing plant at 5095 Kettering Road, where the new treatment facility will be built as an expansion of the current system.
The upgraded plant will use advanced reclamation systems intended to serve the area’s growing population for decades and to keep service running during hurricanes, severe weather and other emergencies. The project will also replace outdated infrastructure and bring the facility in line with current regulatory and environmental standards.
Guests should enter through the south gate. The north gate will be closed on arrival but will open for departing traffic. Parking will be available along the facility’s driveway, and staff and signage will direct traffic.