Suncoast Searchlight

Power and Profit

Josh Salman, Derek Gilliam, Kara Newhouse

This investigative series uncovers and explains how an increasing number of privately-run special districts wield government-level power and fuel a higher cost of living for many Floridians — to developers’ benefit. Community development districts pass costs along to homeowners, who have little say over how essential infrastructure such as water utilities is managed. The series spurred legislation that aims to change this system.

The project stands out for including a “first-of-its-kind database” and “deep reporting coupled with strong, clear writing,” a judge wrote. 

“The fact that legislation has been proposed to change this system is a testament to the power of the reporting done here.”

Read the Winning Work

Gran Paradiso battle reveals how developers control Florida’s fastest-growing communities April 18, 2025

Power and profit: Developers gained government status, then got bonds to build big May 2, 2025

Power and Profit: How special district bonds divided a Sarasota-area neighborhood May 23, 2025

Power and Profit: Developers build the dream, homeowners pay the debt June 6, 2025

Want a new home on the Suncoast? It likely comes with developer debt July 25, 2025