Fall Greetings from Commissioner Bobby Powell Jr.

Hello District 7 Family,

I extend warm greetings to you and your families. This month offers an opportunity to recognize important causes, reflect on our shared history and enjoy meaningful moments with family, friends and neighbors throughout Palm Beach County.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to honor survivors, remember those we have lost and stand in solidarity with individuals and families impacted by the disease. National Cancer Institute data show that the county averaged 1,435 new cases annually from 2018 through 2022, with approximately 406 women diagnosed with late-stage breast cancer each year during that period. These figures underscore the importance of early detection, regular screenings and access to quality health care. I encourage residents to prioritize their health, speak with their health care providers about recommended screenings and support efforts that promote breast cancer awareness, education and prevention.

As we continue through hurricane season, which ends November 30, I encourage residents to remain prepared and informed. Review your family’s emergency plan, replenish essential supplies, monitor official weather updates and stay informed about local emergency resources.

Let us continue to look out for one another, support our neighbors and work together to build a healthier, safer and stronger Palm Beach County. May October bring you and your loved ones good health, happiness and meaningful opportunities to make a positive difference in our community.

A Life of Service is a life that counts,

Bobby Powell Jr.

On September 17, Theresa Lawrence, Deputy Chief of Staff, presented a proclamation on behalf of Palm Beach County Commissioner Bobby Powell Jr. during the Florida Statewide Organization of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc.’s 52nd Annual FSO Workshop in the Palm Beaches. The proclamation was presented during a meet and greet public program, one of several activities hosted by Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. as part of its annual workshop, held Sept. 17-20, 2026.

The event was well attended by members of Omega Psi Phi, members of other Greek fraternal organizations, state officials, community leaders and civic partners. Additional proclamations were presented by the city of West Palm Beach and Delray Beach. The public program provided an opportunity for fraternity members, community leaders, elected officials and civic partners to come together in recognition of Omega Psi Phi’s commitment to uplifting the communities it serves throughout Florida.

Members representing more than 40 chapters across Florida, along with members from several other states, attended the workshop. The workshop also highlighted Palm Beach County’s selection to host Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc.’s International Leadership Conference in summer 2027. The conference is expected to welcome fraternity members from around the world.

On Tuesday, September 22, a Centenarian Celebration was held at The Arbor Company at Lake Worth, an independent senior living community. The special celebration honored residents who were 100 years old and older, recognizing their remarkable lives, wisdom, accomplishments and contributions to their families and communities over the years. Commissioner Bobby Powell Jr. presented a proclamation declaring September 22, 2026 as Centenarian Day at The Arbor Company at Lake Worth

The event provided an opportunity for residents, family members, community leaders and guests to come together to celebrate these extraordinary individuals and recognize the milestones they had reached. The occasion was filled with appreciation and reflection as attendees honored the centenarians and the lasting impact they had made throughout their lives.

The celebration served as a meaningful tribute to the residents’ longevity, experiences and contributions, while giving those in attendance an opportunity to share in this significant milestone.

On Thursday, October 1, Commissioner Bobby Powell Jr. presented a proclamation recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Palm Beach County during the annual DVAM Opening Ceremony at the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Training Facility on Cherry Road.

The proclamation honors the strength and resilience of survivors while reaffirming Palm Beach County’s commitment to domestic violence prevention, education and support services for individuals and families affected by abuse.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the importance of raising awareness, connecting survivors with resources and strengthening community partnerships to build safer communities. Through continued education and collective action, Palm Beach County remains committed to supporting survivors and advancing efforts to prevent domestic violence.

At the October 6 Board of County Commissioners meeting, Commissioner Bobby Powell Jr. presented a proclamation recognizing October 2026 as Blind Equality Achievement Month. The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) established the observance to celebrate the organized blind movement, promote equality and recognize the achievements and contributions of blind individuals.

Formerly known as Meet the Blind Month, the observance began as a nationwide campaign to raise awareness and support for blind individuals. The name change reflects a broader focus on celebrating accomplishments, advancing equality and honoring the history of the blind movement.

White Cane Awareness Day, observed annually on Oct. 15, highlights the white cane as a tool for independence, mobility and safety. The observance also promotes awareness of the capabilities of blind individuals and their right to participate fully in their communities.

At the October 6 Board of County Commissioners meeting, Commissioner Bobby Powell Jr. presented a proclamation recognizing Oct. 10, 2026, as World Mental Health Day. First observed on Oct. 10, 1992, by the World Federation for Mental Health, World Mental Health Day recognizes mental health as an essential component of overall health and well-being. Mental health affects how individuals think, feel, manage stress, relate to others and make decisions.

Stigma, silence and limited access to care can prevent individuals and families from seeking support. Early identification, open conversations and access to quality, affordable care can save lives, strengthen families and build healthier, more resilient communities.

Schools, employers, health care providers, faith-based and community organizations, and government agencies all play an important role in promoting mental wellness, expanding access to services and creating safe, supportive environments where individuals can seek help without judgment or fear.



Palm Beach County Launches 

“Your Neighborhood Dashboard”

Palm Beach County is proud to announce the launch of its Your Neighborhood Dashboard. This comprehensive online tool is a convenient, one-stop resource for staying informed and connected, enabling residents to access valuable, district-specific information. 

By entering a valid Palm Beach County address, users can instantly view a personalized neighborhood snapshot. The dashboard displays local, state and federal representatives, public safety and evacuation zone information, area public schools, property and land use details and links to available utility providers. It also provides residents with county services, including housing assistance, libraries, parks and recreation and business resources.



Additional features include access to local chambers of commerce, transportation services, live traffic and beach cameras. This user-friendly dashboard is integrated with county databases, ensuring the information presented is current, accurate and relevant.

Tap in to explore the Your Neighborhood Dashboard by visiting pbc.gov/neighborhood 

Watch this promotional video to discover how Your Neighborhood Dashboard is connecting residents within their communities to help them stay informed like never before. 

At the Oct. 6, 2026, Board of County Commissioners meeting, the board took the following action on the regular agenda:

Airports – Palm Beach County approved an amendment to its existing contract with AECOM Technical Services, Inc. for up to $1,197,793.53 to provide additional consulting and professional services to support Palm Beach County’s airports.

Engineering & Public Works – Palm Beach County approved a $1.4 million state grant agreement to fund improvements to the stormwater system in the Country Club Acres area. The funding will be used for construction work to improve drainage and manage stormwater, helping address flooding and water runoff in the area. The agreement is with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and will remain in effect until June 30, 2028.

Housing & Economic Development – Palm Beach County accepted a housing loan agreement with Habitat Housing Solutions, Inc. for $1.88 million in HOME-CHDO funding to build 11 new single-family homes in Lake Worth Beach and Lantana.

Water Utilities – Palm Beach County approved an additional $1,017,026.67 for Globaltech, Inc. to make improvements to the membrane treatment system at Water Treatment Plant 11. The project involves upgrading the plant’s membrane trains, which are part of the water treatment process used to filter and purify water.

Investing in Stormwater Infrastructure – The Board approved a $1.4 million grant agreement with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for stormwater improvements in Country Club Acres. The project will support upgrades to local drainage infrastructure and continued improvements to stormwater management in the community.

Strengthening Water Infrastructure – Palm Beach County approved about $1.02 million to upgrade the equipment that helps clean the county’s drinking water at Water Treatment Plant 11. These improvements will help the plant treat water more effectively and maintain reliable water service for residents.

District 7 Highlights

Supporting Affordable Housing – The board received and filed a $1.88 million HOME Investment Partnerships Program agreement with Habitat Housing Solutions Inc. to support the construction of 11 single-family homes for income-eligible households at sites in Lake Worth Beach and Lantana. The initiative supports efforts to expand access to affordable homeownership opportunities.

Maintaining Essential County Services – The meeting also included agenda items addressing HIV/AIDS services, opioid-abatement initiatives, senior meal services in Riviera Beach and other community programs that help residents access essential resources.

Victoria Village – The Palm Beach County Commission approved Victoria Village, a 34 townhouse development near North Haverhill Road and Community Drive. The project replaces a previously planned group living facility and includes 14 additional homes through the county’s Workforce Housing Program to support affordable housing.

Convention Center Hotel – The county approved a $26 million purchase agreement for the land for a proposed 18-story, 400-room hotel next to the Convention Center in downtown West Palm Beach. The arrangement calls for Related Ross to finance, build and operate the hotel, while the county acquires the property and leases it back to the private operator under a long-term agreement.

Flock Cameras – At a September 29, 2026 workshop, commissioners questioned how Flock automated license plate readers are used and how the information they collect is protected. The cameras photograph vehicle license plates and record when and where a vehicle passes. Commissioners did not vote to expand the camera network at that workshop. They wanted more information about privacy protections and oversight before deciding what should happen next.

Upcoming Meetings

BCC Meeting:

October 20, 2026 at 9:30 a.m.

BCC Zoning Hearing

October 22, 2026 at 9:30 a.m.

BCC Workshop: October 27, 2026 at 9:30 a.m.



All BCC meetings and workshops are held in the Jane M. Thompson Memorial Chambers located at 301 N. Olive Ave., West Palm Beach, 33401.