A Tampa Bay Economic Forecast

Presentations at last week's Focus on 2025: Tampa Bay Economic Forecast "After the Storms" breakfast featured power, real estate and insurance information. More than 100 business and community leaders gathered for the annual Chamber event.

Duke Energy Florida President Melissa Seixas, left, spoke on the utility’s efforts following Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton here as well as in the Carolinas. Customer rate hikes to offset those costs will start in March.

Real estate expert Michelle Rumore, Director of Analytics for CoStar Group, highlighted trends in Tampa Bay residential and commercial construction. She said she’ll be watching to see if the multi-tenant apartment sector takes a hit when people move back to their homes impacted by the storms.

And Dave Newell, VP of Membership & Industry Relation with Florida Association of Insurance Agents (FAIA), believes property insurance policy holders should see some relief this year. He noted that providers are reporting no planned increases, and even some decreases. Let’s hope so!