Tampa Bay Business Journal - August 3, 2012

TAMPA - In this week's Tampa Bay Business Journal report, editor Alexis Muellner discusses how hospitals are preparing for the Republican National Convention, why DeBartolo Development could sell their Georgetown property, and the fast-casual dining craze.

During past political conventions in other cities, hospitals have experienced anywhere from a 10 to 30 percent increase in emergency room visits.

Eight hospitals in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties participated in casualty exercises in April with emphasis on responding to potential convention health issues. One major thing helping out the hospitals is the already have a disaster plans to cope with hurricane-related problems.

Within the next two weeks, DeBartolo Development could decide whether to sell the former Georgetown Apartment side located on West Shore Boulevard just north of Gandy Boulevard.

The 162-acre waterfront site is considered a highly developable piece of property. DeBartolo is one of four partners that bought it for $30.5 million in October 2009. A potential sale would depend if the company believes they could turn a good profit by selling the land.

Fast-casual dining is on the rise in Tampa Bay. Diners are seeking out restaurants such as the Greek-themed Mo' Ziki in Largo. The demand from consumers is for a quick, casual meal for a reasonable price.

For more information on these stories, click on the video player on the left to watch this week's report.