Florida News That Impacts You – April 1st, 2025
Bottom Line: Your daily recap of the biggest news from around the state that impacts you throughout the Palm Beaches and Treasure Coast.
- Governor DeSantis has proposed a $1,000 property tax rebate per homesteaded homeowner. DeSantis’s plan would call for the state to issue a rebate in December, in the form of covering property taxes for schools which the governor said would ensure full school district funding while offering property tax relief. The governor is still backing a proposed amendment to end property taxes that he hopes will be on voters’ ballots next year.
- Florida-based Hooters has filed for bankruptcy protection following years of financial challenges after the pandemic. The company will continue to operate while in bankruptcy as it has a plan to sell company owned restaurants to a private franchise group. Many locations have closed in recent years; however, the chain still operates 151 locations including a location in Boca Raton.
- Watson B. Duncan Middle School teacher Christopher Withers has been arrested for lewd and lascivious behavior involving a minor. The arrest was made following an investigation that began last Tuesday with the filing of a complaint against the teacher. The incident is believed to be isolated. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Lt. Cecil Wagner with School Police.
- The rain has moved out of the area and today will be sunny and warm with highs in the mid 80’s which is warmer than usual for this date. We’ll have similar weather on Wednesday.
- Gas prices dropped three cents per gallon on Monday. The average price for regular unleaded in Florida is currently $3.07 per gallon. In Palm Beach County the average price is $3.23 per gallon, in Martin the average is $3.08 and in Indian River County the average is $3.09 per gallon.