--By 2030, Florida is expected to have 2.5 million new residents,-many of whom will want to call Palm Beach County home. Will we be ready? My district, which contains much of the usable land is being eyed for development. How will we manage this growth? What should come first, roads or houses? How much new growth can we sustain without damaging the quality of life for those who have lived here for years? How and where can we build affordable housing and how can we build the infrastructure to support the projective growth?
Economic Summit: 2022
Housing and Transportation
I have always been of the opinion that the most efficient way to solve tough problems, is to bring together stakeholders to discuss possible solutions candidly. This was the motivation for the summit and thanks to industry, government officials and nonprofits organizations, everyone participated in the discussion.

--One of the important takeaways from the summit was the data we compiled from the nationally recognized speakers. With younger families moving to Palm Beach County, we know that the types of housing and forms of transportation are far more different than we have historically relied upon. New urbanism, focusing on building communities of live, work and play is the style of the immediate future. Land that is presently not being used for office space or big-box style retail stores can be transformed into living spaces for new transplants. It will be with innovative building techniques that accessible, affordable housing can be achieved. These plans can and will be achieved only through the collaboration of all stakeholders. We must make it happen not just for the continuing success of businesses, but also for our community's future.
Commissioner Maria Sachs
Commissioner Maria Sachs and Head of Global Economics Research for Bank of America Global Research Ethan Harris
The Action Plan
Palm Beach County is experiencing a historical affordable and workforce housing crisis. Not only have the costs of homes increased, but rent continues to sky-rocket. We understand how rising home prices and rental rates affect our residents' quality of life, and also how they hinder economic growth, decrease healthcare, and stagnate our county's growth. Taking action now is imperative, as we will either grow or be overtaken by other places that are able to attract new residents and businesses.

After the presentations, the stakeholder groups agreed that affordable and accessible housing can be achieved through collaboration and contributions from various groups.
Committee Report
Hurricane season started on June 1, and many of our Palm Beach County neighbors are making sure they are prepared.

As you update hurricane supplies, keep in mind that some items should not be placed in the garbage, but instead, be brought to one of the Solid Waste Authority’s Home Chemical and Recycling Centers.


Supplies requiring special disposal include: 

  • Gasoline and oil from generators 
  • Propane tanks 
  • Rechargeable batteries from electronics or flashlights 
 
These items (and other home hazards) can be dropped off for free by county residents at any of the Home Chemical and Recycling Centers listed below:
South County
Transfer Station 
1901 SW 4th Avenue 
Delray Beach, FL 33446
Monday - Friday: 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. 
Saturday: 7 a.m. - 3 p.m.
West Southwest County Transfer Station 
13400 S State Rd. 7
Delray Beach, FL 33446
Monday - Friday: 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. 
Saturday: 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
In FY 2021, Palm Beach County residents safely disposed of or recycled more than 4.9 million pounds of home chemicals including: 

  • 95,000 lbs. of fuel 
  • 570,000 lbs. of used oil and oil filters 
  • 230,000 lbs. of gas cylinders/propane tanks 
  • 116,000 lbs. of batteries 
 
Remember, pollution prevention starts at home. For a full list of household hazardous wastes, visit SWA.org/HCRC or call 561-697-2700 or toll-free 866-SWA-INFO to learn more about the Solid Waste Authority of Palm Beach County’s Home Chemical and Recycling Centers. 
 
More information about proper waste disposal in Palm Beach County before and after a hurricane can be found at SWA.org/Hurricane.
I am interested in fostering a pet. How can I get more information about fostering?

Foster parents are always needed and Palm Beach County has a wonderful Foster Care Program through its Animal Care and Control Division.

The program was created with the intent of eventually placing the animals into their “fur-ever" home. By fostering a pet you are providing an invaluable service and possibly saving the life of a kitten or dog.
If you have the time and are willing to make the commitment, learn more about the county's Foster Care Program.
Your County Commissioner,
Maria Sachs
Palm Beach County District 5
Fighting For You!
Commissioner Maria Sachs | Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners | District 5