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HIGH SPRINGS – During the Jan. 9, 2025, High Springs City Commission meeting, several residents shared reactions on the proposed Bridlewood development and other community matters.

Becky Burns, a local real estate agent, highlighted potential issues with the Bridlewood project’s process. Burns alleged that the developer had failed to comply with Section 1115-05 Notice of the City’s codes, claiming that required notifications to nearby residents were incomplete. She also criticized the marketing tactics associated with the development, citing violations of Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) rules and misleading claims about native plantings and infrastructure inspections.

Additionally, Burns expressed concerns about the impact of the proposed Community Development District (CDD) on the city and future homeowners, referencing her personal experience with similar districts in St. Augustine.

“I’m making it aware they’re just doing a sales pitch on you,” said Burns, urging the Commission to fully understand the implications of approving a CDD. She also highlighted environmental concerns, noting the presence of wildlife, including protected species, on the land.

Another resident, Bryan Buescher, shared his own reservations about the CDD, stating that it would primarily benefit the developers while increasing financial burdens for future homeowners. He emphasized that the roads and stormwater basins in the gated community would remain private, providing little benefit to the City. “Approving a CDD would be detrimental,” said Buescher.

Mayor Tristan Grunder assured residents that the City would ensure the developers follow all regulations moving forward. “We will look into the ordinance stuff… I don’t know there’s much we can do against Bridlewood, but the one thing we sure can do is make sure that they follow the rules and regulations that are put before them moving forward.”

In other City business, the Commission unanimously approved changes to the Mayor’s Youth Council, aligning member terms with the school year to improve coordination. Commissioners Katherine Weitz and Chad Howell were absent from the meeting.

Resident David Linch expressed concerns about preserving High Springs’ historic decorative concrete streets, noting their age and historical value. At 82 years old, Linch said the streets predate him and are an essential part of the city’s charm.

Former City Commissioner and Mayor Scott Jamison urged the Commission to reconsider their earlier decision to reject a $1.8 million grant for sewer installation for a small number of homes. Jamison emphasized the importance of clean water and warned of potential long-term consequences if the city failed to address water infrastructure needs.

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HAWTHORNE ‒ A 37-year-old Hawthorne man, Brian Michael Hendrickson, was arrested on Monday, Jan. 13, 2025, following a high-speed chase involving reckless driving on State Road 20 (SR 20) and U.S. Highway 301. Hendrickson now faces charges of fleeing and reckless driving after allegedly attempting to evade law enforcement at speeds exceeding 100 mph.

At approximately 6:54 a.m., an Alachua County Sheriff’s Deputy observed a Subaru Crosstrek traveling over 70 mph on SR 20 near Southeast 65^th Lane. When the deputy activated their lights and sirens, Hendrickson reportedly accelerated and began weaving through traffic, disregarding public safety.

The chase continued as the suspect briefly exited onto U.S. Highway 301 before re-entering SR 20 westbound, according to the deputy’s report. During the pursuit, Hendrickson allegedly ignored all traffic control devices while maneuvering through vehicles at high speed.

The pursuit came to an end near Southeast 171^st Street, where Hendrickson reportedly raised both hands out of the driver’s side window before pulling over and surrendering to authorities.

Hendrickson’s criminal history includes two felony convictions, one misdemeanor conviction, and a prior state prison sentence for grand theft, from which he was released in July 2023. He is currently on pre-trial release in Marion County for a misdemeanor case and has an active felony warrant from the same county.

Judge Susan Miller-Jones set Hendrickson’s bail at $125,000. Authorities noted the danger Hendrickson posed to the public during the pursuit, citing his disregard for traffic safety and property. The case remains under investigation.

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NEWBERRY – The City of Newberry has once again been recognized by the Florida Municipal Electric Association (FMEA) with a “Building Strong Communities Award.” This is the eighth time since the award was introduced in 2015 that Newberry has been a recipient.

The award, which recognizes public power utilities for initiatives that promote education, charitable giving, environmental stewardship, and community engagement, was announced on Nov. 12, 2024, during the FMEA Energy Connections Conference and Trade Show in Daytona Beach. Newberry joins 19 other community-owned utilities across Florida in receiving this year’s distinction.

Newberry earned the award for a diverse range of programs and projects designed to serve its residents and enhance the quality of life in the city. Among the initiatives highlighted are:

Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), which is designed to give residents and electric customers more information and control over their utility usage

Bill paying assistance programs

Production of the annual Career Fair at Newberry High School focusing on trades, including utilities and public safety

Recognition of local government operations with annual My City event highlighting benefits of municipal services

Thanksgiving Food Drive

Provision of Christmas for families in Newberry

Christmas in the Park event, and

WestFest Music Festival, a free all day festival highlighting family-centered entertainment.

“The City is delighted that our efforts are recognized by FMEA,” said City Manager Mike New.

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Photo special to Alachua County Today

ALACHUA ‒ Bringing together business leaders in a spirit of collaboration and innovation, the Alachua Chamber of Commerce debuted its inaugural “Breakfast with The Board” on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025.

This new quarterly event set the stage for meaningful connections, offering a unique platform for chamber members to network, engage with leadership, and contribute to shaping the chamber’s vision for the year ahead.

This inaugural event brought together some 100 members, both seasoned and new, for a morning of networking and idea-sharing. Held as the first in a planned series of quarterly gatherings, the breakfast served as a platform for attendees to engage directly with the chamber's board of directors and learn more about the resources and opportunities available through membership.

One of the highlights of the event was a special welcome to the chamber’s newest members, who joined during 2024. For these fresh faces in the area’s business community, the breakfast offered a chance to introduce themselves, showcase their businesses, and connect with other members and chamber leadership.

Adding to the event’s atmosphere was a breakfast feast provided by Susie's Homemade, a local eatery operated out of the Good Life Station located at 14933 Main Street, Alachua. Attendees were treated to an assortment of homemade dishes, including fresh pastries and savory breakfast favorites. Table floral centerpieces were provided by Alachua Flowers and Tuxedo Rental.

“We’re thrilled to see such a strong turnout for our first Breakfast with The Board,” said Chamber President Adam Boukari. “This initiative reflects our commitment to fostering meaningful relationships and ensuring every member, especially our newest ones, feels supported and engaged.”

New members expressed their enthusiasm about joining the chamber and appreciated the welcoming atmosphere. Several attendees highlighted the value of being able to network in a smaller, more interactive setting, where conversations with board members and other professionals felt more personal.

The breakfast not only served as a networking opportunity but also as a forum for idea exchange. Members shared suggestions on how the chamber can continue delivering value in 2025, with discussions ranging from business development workshops to community outreach initiatives.

As the chamber looks ahead to the coming year, this first breakfast sets the stage for future events in the series. The quarterly gatherings are expected to become a cornerstone of the chamber’s engagement efforts, providing members with ongoing opportunities to connect, collaborate, and grow. Boukari said, “It’s about building connections and creating opportunities for everyone to thrive. These breakfasts will help us align our efforts with the needs and aspirations of our business community.”

For those unable to attend, the chamber emphasized its ongoing commitment to providing similar opportunities throughout the year. For more information about chamber events or to learn how to get involved, members can visit the Alachua Chamber’s website at alachuachamber.com or contact the chamber office directly at 386-462-3333.

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ALACHUA –A collision between a semi-truck and a Road Ranger truck early Saturday morning, Jan. 18, 2025, resulted in a fire and prompted a multi-unit emergency response from Alachua County Fire Rescue (ACFR). Fortunately, the crash caused only minor injuries, and no hospitalizations were necessary.

The accident occurred around 12:30 a.m. near the 398-mile marker on Interstate 75. According to ACFR, the semi-truck collided with the Road Ranger truck under circumstances that remain under investigation. The impact sparked a fire, leading to immediate safety concerns and the dispatch of four ACFR units to the scene.

Emergency crews acted quickly to extinguish the flames and secure the area, ensuring no further injuries or property damage occurred.

While the drivers involved in the crash sustained minor injuries, they were treated on-site, and no one required transportation to a hospital. However, the collision had a significant impact on traffic, as Interstate 75 was shut down for several hours. Motorists traveling through the area were detoured, resulting in delays as crews worked diligently to clear the wreckage and assess the scene’s safety.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), which will determine the factors that contributed to the collision and whether charges may be filed.

This incident serves as a reminder for all drivers to exercise caution on the road, particularly when approaching emergency vehicles and service trucks. Florida’s “Move Over Law” requires drivers to change lanes or slow down when approaching stopped emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or Road Rangers.

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ALACHUA – The Alachua Police Department has announced Sergeant Carl Newsome as the recipient of the prestigious 2024 Officer of the Year Award, recognizing his nearly 27 years of exemplary service and dedication to the City of Alachua.

Sgt. Newsome began his career with the Alachua Police Department on Jan. 22, 1997, and currently serves as a shift supervisor in the Patrol Division. Over the years, he has taken on numerous vital roles within the department, demonstrating his versatility, leadership, and commitment to public safety.

His extensive contributions include serving as the Supervisor of the Traffic Unit, Supervisor of the K-9 Unit, and a member of the FDLE-sponsored Statewide Narcotics Task Force. He also represented the department in the Regional Domestic Security Task Force in the post-9/11 era and has served as the Event Commander for APD’s annual July 4th Celebration, a major city event.

In its announcement, the Alachua Police Department highlighted Sgt. Newsome’s professionalism, leadership, and dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of Alachua’s residents. His unwavering commitment to the community has made him a respected figure within the department and among the citizens he serves.

Beyond his remarkable career, Sgt. Newsome is known for his passion for cooking and cherishing time with family and friends, further showcasing the well-rounded qualities that define his character.

Sgt. Newsome will be formally honored at the 2025 Alachua Chamber of Commerce Gala on Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025, at Legacy Park, Alachua. This high-profile event will feature Danny Wuerffel, Heisman Trophy winner and celebrated keynote speaker, making the occasion even more memorable.

The gala will bring together community leaders, city officials, and residents to celebrate Sgt. Newsome’s achievements and his ongoing dedication to the City of Alachua.

On behalf of Alachua Police Department Chief Jesse Sandusky, the Alachua Police Department, and the City of Alachua, the department expressed its gratitude to Sgt. Newsome for his outstanding contributions and the positive impact he has made over nearly three decades of service.

The recognition of Sgt. Newsome as the 2024 Officer of the Year underscores the values of professionalism, leadership, and community dedication that the Alachua Police Department strives to uphold.

For more information about the 2025 Alachua Chamber of Commerce Gala or to join in celebrating Sgt. Newsome’s accomplishments, contact the Alachua Police Department or the Alachua Chamber of Commerce.

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