Councilman Corey Givens Jr.

08/31/2026

“With us being preempted every which way, we have to be able to control what we can control,” Givens said. “For one, state law really regulates rideshare in Florida. So, local councils are limited with the direct power that we have over those rules. That’s why cities have to really set compliance when it comes to local traffic laws.”

Earlier this month, Waymo representatives met with City officials.

https://stpetecatalyst.com/council-to-explore-autonomous-vehicle-safety-standards/

08/29/2026

Saturdays are for sailing!⛵️
It's a beautiful day to be out on the water. I've been hearing some great things about the sailing classes at the St. Petersburg Sailing Center, so I decided to check it out for myself. Let me tell you, it's an opportunity you won't want to miss.

This isn't just about learning to sail; it's about building confidence, fostering teamwork, and connecting with the incredible natural beauty of our community. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or just looking to try something new, the center offers programs for all skill levels. It's a chance for residents of all ages to get out on the bay, learn from experienced instructors, and discover a passion that can last a lifetime.

So, if you're looking for a new adventure, a way to enjoy our waterfront, or simply want to learn a valuable skill, I encourage you to check out the St. Petersburg Sailing Center. It's a fantastic resource right here in our backyard, and I know you'll be glad you did.
📍250 2nd Ave SE Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
🔗 https://sailstpete.org/

08/28/2026

My fellow residents of St. Petersburg, yesterday I voted AGAINST another utility bill increase. I understand the burden you're feeling as the cost of living continues to rise. It's clear that our water bills are now, for many, surpassing even our electricity costs, and that's a trend we simply cannot ignore.

We must acknowledge that city-owned utilities, while offering certain advantages, do not automatically guarantee lower rates. It's time for us to be innovative and resourceful in finding solutions that ease the financial strain on our families, rather than simply increasing their rates. This means looking critically at where our city's resources are being allocated and ensuring we're operating with maximum efficiency.

We need to fix what's broken within our systems and, where legally permissible, ensure that developers contribute their fair share through increased impact fees, rather than placing that burden squarely on the shoulders of our hardworking residents. This is about common sense, fiscal responsibility, and ensuring a sustainable future for every single person who calls St. Petersburg home.

Residents will see roughly a 7% overall increase as the city tries to catch up on aging systems.

08/27/2026

Great news out of St. Petersburg! It’s inspiring to see a community come together to save a beloved 75-year-old landmark like The Chattaway. When local investors step up, not just for profit, but to preserve a piece of the city’s history and character, that’s the kind of collective action that strengthens us all.

And to Mama Jill and the entire Kitto Family, thank you for decades of dedication. Your service has woven The Chattaway into the very fabric of St. Pete. Best of luck to Cullen Mahoney and Mark Ferguson as they take the reins – here's to many more years of memories made at this special spot. This is what community is all about.

08/27/2026

RIP Mr. Edwards. Thanks for helping to transform our great city!

Bill Edwards, leading St. Petersburg business figure, dies at 81 | Link in comments ⬇️

08/27/2026

𝐄-𝐁𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲 𝐈𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐉𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐊𝐢𝐝𝐬!

Our Traffic Officers recently spent the day downtown educating e-bike riders about the rules of the road—and enforcing them.

We continue to receive complaints about e-bikes that can travel faster than the legal 28 mph limit and riders ignoring traffic signs and signals, especially downtown.

A few reminders for all e-bike riders:
🚲Stop at stop signs and red lights.
🚲 Use bike lanes when they’re available.
🚲 E-bikes cannot exceed 28 mph.
🚲 When riding on sidewalks, do not use the motor.

E-bikes have the same rights—and responsibilities—as bicycles. Ride smart, follow the rules, and help keep St. Pete’s streets and sidewalks safer for everyone! 🚓

08/26/2026

08/26/2026

Not every good job requires a four-year college degree. Fields like aviation, manufacturing, technology, and other advanced trades offer real skills, good pay, and lasting security. But to get those jobs, folks need the right training and trade certifications.🎓

That is why local government has to step up.

Our cities and counties must partner directly with local community colleges and trade schools. When we build those bridges, we reach families in Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) areas who have been left behind for too long.

We can connect residents to hands-on training that leads straight to a good paycheck. I’m excited to be collaborating with St. Petersburg College, Pinellas Technical College & Barrington Irving to lay the groundwork.✈️

This is how we grow the economy from the middle out and the bottom up. This is how we make sure that no matter where you start, you can work your way up to a better life.

That’s what progress looks like.

08/25/2026

Look—democracy does not just happen in a quiet meeting room at City Hall. Thank you Starling School for allowing us to share space.

Too often, politics feels distant. You shouldn't have to find a babysitter and drive across town just to ask your city council member a question.

That is why pop-up town halls matter so much. When elected officials bring the conversation straight to a local daycare or a neighborhood park, something powerful happens. They meet working parents where they are. They hear real stories about the cost of child care, safe sidewalks, and good jobs.

That is how we fix what is broken. We do not wait for people to come to us. We go to them.

When local leaders listen on the ground, trust grows. And when we trust each other, there is nothing our communities cannot do.

Keep showing up for one another, folks!