Guest column | Powerful Florida developer hears a rare response from Manatee County: No!

Billionaire builder Pat Neal wanted to put houses in a flood-prone area despite neighbors’ objections, but commissioners rejected his request.

Ongoing flooding problems at the site of the proposed Pope Ranch development led neighbors to oppose new development there. (Photo by Kate Horne)

By Craig Pittman / Florida Phoenix

There’s a tradition that when someone sings Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus,” everyone has to stand. So please rise as I warble several heartfelt hallelujahs over what the Manatee …