A group of people gathers outside a wooden barn during a farm tour or educational event, watching as a presenter interacts with a chestnut horse in a fenced area. Trees and greenery surround the scene under a partly cloudy sky.
Business
2 months ago
New training center, drone program, and business incubator fuel Ocala’s growth

The Ocala Metro CEP is celebrating milestones in economic growth, including a drone technology partnership for students, its Business Impact Incubator, and plans for a new technical training center.

A look at the data for Ocala and Marion County's real estate market
Local
2 months ago
Real Estate Report: Ocala’s home prices hold steady in June

According to Realtor.com, Ocala’s housing market remains stable for June with a slight increase in inventory.

Marion County Development Planning Committee Meeting review
Local
2 months ago
What’s being built in Ocala? 3 new developments under review this month

Three new developments, including Arden of Ocala, Juniper Loop, and Piccadilly Square, are under review as Marion County plans for continued growth in housing and commercial space.

An array of pop-up tents and canopies line SE 3rd Street in Downtown Ocala selling an array of homemade goods.
Entertainment
2 months ago
Ocala Downtown Market offers weekly blend of local goods and community spirit

The Ocala Downtown Market is more than just a place to shop—it’s where community, culture, and commerce come together every weekend. From handcrafted jewelry and fresh produce to local food favorites like Grandpa’s Grove pretzels and Jerusalem Street Food’s famous pita chips, the market captures the heart of Ocala’s vibrant downtown.

Water treatment tank used by Marion County Utilities to deliver safe drinking water.
Local
2 months ago
Millions pour in to fix Lowell’s water crisis: State funds boost Marion County’s plan for clean, reliable water

With $5.75 million in total funding approved, Marion County takes major step toward replacing contaminated wells in Lowell with a safe public water system.

Five representatives from HCA Florida Healthcare and Interfaith Emergency Services pose with donated hygiene items outside Interfaith’s Ocala building.
Community
2 months ago
HCA Florida hospitals donate hygiene supplies to Interfaith Emergency Services ahead of hurricane season

HCA Florida Ocala and West Marion hospitals continue their support of Interfaith with a summer donation of essential hygiene items to protect vulnerable residents in Marion County.

Emily Johnson speaks at a podium during an Ocala City Council meeting as attendees listen from the audience.
Community
3 months ago
Ocala approves major expansion of Heathbrook development; hundreds of homes now protected under special district

City Council votes 5-0 to expand Ridge at Heathbrook CDD, unlocking nearly 30 more acres for growth and shifting infrastructure control to a special-purpose district.

Vintage black car parked outside the historic Ma Barker House in Bradford County, Florida.
Local
3 months ago
DeSantis greenlights $3M+ for Marion County projects: Historic Ma Barker House, clean water in Lowell, and NW 49th upgrades

Governor Ron DeSantis approves key Marion County priorities in the 2025 state budget, delivering millions for heritage preservation, clean drinking water, and safer roads.

Exterior of HCA Florida Ocala Hospital on a sunny day
Local
3 months ago
Marion County approves hospital assessment that helps locals get free care without raising taxes

Commissioners vote 5-0 to renew hospital-only fee that brings millions in Medicaid support for uninsured and low-income Marion County residents.

Kat Cammack stands with business leaders and chamber members during a tax policy roundtable in Ocala.
Business
3 months ago
Kat Cammack joins Ocala business leaders to discuss future of tax policy

As key tax provisions near expiration, Ocala hosts roundtable with U.S. Rep. Kat Cammack to explore how policy decisions impact local economic growth.