Independent community radio remains one of the few places where local government accountability, public health, and civic life share the same airwaves — and in Tampa Bay, WMNF 88.5 FM is doing exactly that. The station’s ongoing coverage of local government and community affairs gives Tampa Bay residents a closer look at the stories shaping their neighborhoods.
From questions about surveillance technology in Pinellas County to a Florida governor’s race heating up ahead of elections, here is a look at what WMNF’s newsroom is currently tracking across the region.
Pinellas Sheriff Under Scrutiny Over Surveillance Camera Deal
One of the most closely watched stories in the region centers on Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri and his ties to Flock Safety, a license plate reader company. Gualtieri has told county commissioners that there is no connection between his nationally visible campaign promoting Flock’s technology and a separate Flock sponsorship valued at $150,000. Critics and civil liberties advocates have questioned whether the two are related, raising concerns about transparency in how public officials promote private technology companies.
Florida Governor’s Race: Frank Russo Makes His Case
On the campaign trail, Florida governor candidate Frank Russo is drawing attention with a message centered on economic fairness. Russo, who spoke with WMNF about his background and policy vision, has framed his candidacy around putting
“humanity over the dollar.”
His comments touch on broader debates about the direction of Florida’s economy and which values should guide state leadership.
Public Health: What You Can Do to Stay Protected
WMNF’s health coverage is also focused on prevention. A recent segment explored how vaccines may reduce the risk of dementia and what residents should know about protecting themselves from common but serious illnesses including flu, shingles, and RSV. Health experts are increasingly pointing to active prevention strategies as a key tool for aging populations.
About WMNF 88.5 FM
WMNF is a listener-supported community radio station based in Tampa, Florida. Unlike commercial stations, it does not rely on traditional advertising, and it operates independently from any university. The station broadcasts on 88.5 FM and is available through the WMNF app, smart speakers, and online at wmnf.org. Coverage spans local news, music, and community affairs, with a full broadcast schedule and a calendar of community events.
The station is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit — formally known as The Nathan B. Stubblefield Foundation, Inc. — and maintains an online public file with the FCC. It is also a proud member of Project Galileo, a Cloudflare initiative that protects nonprofit and independent media organizations from cyber threats.
Readers who want to stay informed can subscribe to WMNF’s newsletter and follow the station across social media platforms including YouTube, TikTok, Blue Sky, and LinkedIn.
Those looking to support the station have several options, including a one-time or recurring donation, planned giving, endowment contributions, employer gift matching, car donations, membership, or volunteering. Organizations interested in hosting events can also rent WMNF’s studios, and individuals can start a fundraiser on the station’s behalf. The station’s full donor privacy policy is available online.
WMNF can be reached at its Tampa studio by phone at 813-239-9663, by text at 813-433-0885, or through the main office at 813-238-8001. The station is located at 1210 E Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Tampa, FL 33603. More information about the station’s mission and programming can be found at the Discover section of its website.
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