Budget Has More Local Projects

In a sure sign of an improving economy, the Florida Legislature prepared to pass a state budget on Friday packed with questionable local projects that lawmakers are already trying to defend against the dreaded “turkey” label that can invite the governor’s veto. … Sarasota and Manatee counties weren’t left out of the funding bonanza. Among the local projects are $5 million for the rowing facility at Nathan Benderson Park, $1.6 million for the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Lakewood Ranch and $2.1 million for repairs to the Cook Library on the New College of Florida campus.