In this episode of Voices of Fire Rescue, Fire Chief Scott Titus sits down with Engineer Tyler Griffith to discuss his path into the fire service, his career development and the experiences that have shaped him along the way.

Tyler shares what first sparked his interest in becoming a firefighter, his decision to transition from Sarasota County to North Port Fire Rescue and what he has learned throughout his career. He also reflects on the challenges he has faced, including setbacks that tested his resilience and helped him grow both personally and professionally.

From career lessons to leadership, perseverance and continuous improvement, this conversation offers an honest look at the realities of a career in fire rescue and the determination it takes to keep moving forward.

This week on North Port Now, we highlight the dedication of the new Circle of Honor, a lasting tribute created to recognize U.S. veterans and active-duty service members from all branches of the military. We also share details about the upcoming Memorial Day Ceremony hosted by American Legion Post 254 and holiday impacts to City facilities and services.

Summer hours are returning to the North Port Aquatic Center beginning May 28, giving residents more opportunities to cool off and enjoy the pool, lazy river, slides and splash pad throughout the season. We also share reminders about staying safe in the Florida heat.

As hurricane season approaches, North Port Emergency Management is offering free hurricane preparedness presentations for HOAs, businesses and community groups. Learn how to schedule a presentation and sign up for emergency alerts to stay informed during storm season.

In this episode’s Commission Meeting Highlights, City Manager Jerome Fletcher discusses public engagement during recent Commission meetings, the approved conservation easement option for Warm Mineral Springs Park and the renaming of the Tree Fund to the Environmental Protection Fund.

Links and Resources:
North Port Aquatic Center: NorthPortFL.gov/Pool
Emergency Management and Speaker Requests: NorthPortFL.gov/Communications
Emergency Alerts: AlertSarasotaCounty.com
City Meetings and Agendas: NorthPortFL.gov/Meetings

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In this episode of Voices of Fire Rescue, Fire Chief Scott Titus sits down with Lieutenant Matt Johnson to talk about his journey in the fire service and the experiences that shaped his career.

As a fourth-generation firefighter, Matt discusses the influence of family legacy, his decision to forge his own path at North Port Fire Rescue and the personal moments that motivated him to pursue a life of service.

The conversation also explores his growth within the department, lessons learned along the way and what continues to drive him today.

It’s an honest and thoughtful discussion about leadership, purpose and the people and experiences that shape a career in fire rescue.

The City’s Eat and Greet Budget Input Event is happening May 12 at the Morgan Family Community Center. Residents can meet with City staff, share feedback on priorities for the 2026-27 fiscal year budget and enjoy free food from local restaurants and vendors. If you can’t attend in person, you can still participate online through the City’s Budget Hub.

We also preview the upcoming Stormwater 101 and Storm Preparedness Town Hall on May 20 at Suncoast Technical College. Learn how North Port’s stormwater system works, how the City prepares for severe weather and what steps you can take at home ahead of hurricane season.

Plus, the City is seeking new members for the Art Advisory Board and expanding its local artist database for future public art opportunities.

Since May is Drowning Prevention Month, we also highlight swim lesson opportunities through the North Port Aquatic Center, including information about youth scholarships for qualifying families.

In this episode’s Commission Meeting Highlights, City Manager Jerome Fletcher discusses updates from the May 5 City Commission meeting, including changes to the Environmental Protection Fund, discussions surrounding facility lease policies and the approved funding for the Legacy Trail connection to Warm Mineral Springs.

Links and Resources:
Budget Hub: NorthPortFL.gov/BudgetHub
Storm Alerts and Preparedness: NorthPortFL.gov/Alerts
Advisory Boards: NorthPortFL.gov/Advisory
Swim Lessons and Aquatics Programs: NorthPortFL.gov/Pool
City Meetings and Agendas: NorthPortFL.gov/Meetings

Thanks for tuning in to North Port Now. Stay informed, stay engaged and stay connected.

May is Drowning Prevention Month, and in this episode of North Port Living, we sit down with Aquatics Manager Devon Poulos to talk about the importance of water safety for all ages.

Devon shares practical tips to help keep you and your family safe around the water, common misconceptions about drowning and what every parent and caregiver should know heading into the summer months. We also discuss the role of swim lessons, safety training and how building confidence in the water can make a life-saving difference.

Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just getting started, this conversation offers valuable insight to help you stay safe and prepared.

Learn more:
Swim Lessons: https://www.northportfl.gov/Community-Recreation/Programs-Activities/Swimming-Lessons
Safety Training and Certification Programs: https://www.northportfl.gov/Community-Recreation/North-Port-Aquatic-Center/Safety-Training-Certification-Programs
North Port Aquatic Center: https://www.northportfl.gov/Community-Recreation/North-Port-Aquatic-Center

This week on North Port Now, we cover key updates and opportunities to get involved across the City.

The City of North Port is building its Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget, and residents are encouraged to share their priorities through the online Budget Hub survey. We also highlight the upcoming Budget Input Eat and Greet, where you can meet City staff, learn about department budgets and enjoy food and family-friendly activities.

City leaders and North Port Fire Rescue recently toured the new Wellen Park High School, set to open this August. The campus will feature hands-on STEM labs, arts programs, a student coffee shop and a full athletic complex.

With hurricane season beginning June 1, we recap this year’s Hurricane Expo and share how you can access preparedness resources and sign up for emergency alerts.

Plus, April is National Volunteer Month. Learn how to connect with local organizations at the upcoming Newcomer Day event or explore volunteer opportunities with City departments.

We also bring you the latest Commission Meeting Highlights, including updates on capital improvement funding, discussions on mandatory water connections and a recent performance evaluation of the City Attorney.

Links and Resources:

Budget Hub: NorthPortFL.gov/BudgetHub
City Meetings and Agendas: NorthPortFL.gov/Meetings
Emergency Alerts and Hurricane Preparedness: NorthPortFL.gov/Alerts
Volunteer Opportunities: NorthPortFL.gov/Volunteer
Wellen Park High School Information: sarasotacountyschools.net

Thanks for tuning in to North Port Now. Stay informed, stay engaged and stay connected.

In this episode of Voices of Fire Rescue, Fire Chief Scott Titus sits down with Firefighter/Paramedic Martin Lemay to talk about his unique path to the fire service.

Before joining North Port Fire Rescue, Martin worked as a professional skydiving instructor in Canada, an experience that helped shape his mindset, discipline and ability to perform under pressure. He shares how the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic led him to reevaluate his future and ultimately pursue a new calling in fire rescue.

Martin also reflects on what drew him to North Port Fire Rescue, the transition into the fire service and the experiences that have defined his career so far.

This week on North Port Now, we’re highlighting ways to stay prepared, get involved and celebrate our community—plus bringing you the latest from the City Commission.

In honor of National Arbor Day, the City’s Natural Resources Division is hosting a community tree giveaway on Friday, April 24, from 4 to 6 p.m. behind City Hall. Residents can receive one tree per household while supplies last, along with expert guidance on planting and care. Be sure to bring proof of residency.

Looking to get storm-ready? The next North Port University Online session, Storm Smart North Port, takes place April 17 at noon. This free webinar will cover storm risks, preparation tips and how the City supports residents before, during and after severe weather. Register at NorthPortFL.gov/Webinar.

April also marks National Child Abuse Awareness Month and Sexual Assault Awareness Month. We recognize the critical work of North Port Police detectives and the Internet Crimes Against Children team, who work tirelessly to protect the most vulnerable members of our community. If you see something concerning, speak up—your voice matters.

North Port Fire Rescue continues to train at the highest level, recently participating in pediatric drowning simulation training with Sarasota Memorial Health Care System. This hands-on training helps crews respond quickly and effectively to water-related emergencies, which are especially important in Florida.

We also bring you another installment of Commission Meeting Highlights with City Manager Jerome Fletcher, covering key discussions from the April 6 workshop and April 7 meeting—including economic development updates, utilities proposals, capital project funding, the creation of a Youth Advisory Council and a special recognition.

You can view meeting agendas and recordings anytime at NorthPortFL.gov/Meetings.

In this powerful episode of North Port Stories, we sit down with Phillip and Michele Moore of Images of Therapy to explore the transformative power of art.

Phillip shares the deeply personal story behind his Art of War series, offering a raw look at how art has helped him process trauma, cope with PTSD and navigate life as a veteran and artist. As someone who is colorblind, Phillip experiences the world differently—interpreting it through light and shadow rather than a traditional spectrum. His work, which he describes as “relentless colors,” reflects memory, emotion and experience in a way that is both striking and deeply human.

Together, Phillip and Michele discuss how art can go beyond creative expression to become a meaningful tool for healing, resilience and survival.

This is a story about perspective, strength and the many ways people find their path forward.

In this special episode of North Port Now, we’re focusing on an important issue impacting our entire region: water shortage restrictions and what they mean for North Port residents.

The Southwest Florida Water Management District has implemented Modified Phase III “Extreme” Water Shortage restrictions, and these changes affect both City water customers and private well users. North Port Utilities Director Tricia Wisner joins the show to break down what’s behind these restrictions—including a significant regional rainfall deficit—and how they’re impacting our local water supply.

We walk through what residents need to know, including updated once-per-week watering schedules, reduced watering hours, and rules for things like car washing, pressure washing and restaurant service. We also discuss enforcement, as Code Enforcement is now authorized to issue citations and fines for violations.

Most importantly, this episode explains why these restrictions matter and how each resident plays a role in protecting our shared water resources.As a reminder, the City also remains under a burn ban due to ongoing dry conditions.

For more information and water conservation tips, visit:
WaterMatters.org
NorthPortFL.gov/Conserve

Stay informed, stay engaged and stay connected with North Port Now.