Manatee County Commissioner Carol Ann Felts has died, according to multiple sources.

Felts was elected in November 2024 to represent District 1 on the Manatee County Commission. A longtime community advocate, Felts quickly assumed leadership roles on several high-profile boards and committees tied to environmental policy, tourism and regional planning. She was a part of efforts to hold the line against development on agricultural lands in Manatee County, and an ardent supporter of community involvement in local government.

When reached for comment, multiple Manatee County Commissioners expressed their condolences. No further details are available.

“Commissioner Felts cared deeply about the people she served,” Manatee County Chair Tal Siddique said. “Her commitment to District 1 and to the future of our county was evident in her leadership and service. She will be greatly missed by her colleagues, County staff, and the community.”

According to the county’s website, Felts’ current appointments included Environmental Lands Management and Acquisitions Committee (ELMAC),  the Tourist Development Council, Manatee County Port Authority, Coastal & Heartland National Estuary Partnership Board, Sarasota Bay Estuary Program Board, Tampa Bay Estuary Program Policy Board, Gulf Coast Consortium Board, Peace River/Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority Board, Public Safety Coordinating Council and Value Adjustment Board.

Details surrounding her death were not immediately available. Felts’ passing leaves a vacancy on the Manatee County Commission. Under Florida law, the Governor is responsible for filling County Commission vacancies.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

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