We're halfway through 2025!

As we move into the 4th of July weekend, Commissioner Joel G. Flores and the District 3 team remain hard at work, building on the progress and momentum achieved earlier this year.

Our commitment to serving the residents of District 3 is stronger than ever. In this edition, we’re excited to share recent accomplishments from May and June, provide updates on key initiatives, and highlight what’s ahead as we continue shaping a thriving and inclusive community.

We hope you and your family have a fun and safe 4th of July!

Commissioner Joel G. Flores' First Town Hall:

On May 28, Commissioner Joel Flores hosted an energetic Town Hall that drew more than 100 residents eager to shape the future of Palm Beach County. Residents of District 3 received valuable updates on key projects and accomplishments from Commissioner Flores and his team since he took office. Neighbors asked candid questions and offered thoughtful suggestions on everything from traffic safety to workforce housing, giving the Commissioner direct feedback on the initiatives his office has delivered and on the priorities he is setting for the road ahead. Commissioner Flores emphasized that these conversations are the compass for his agenda, ensuring every project he champions is rooted in the needs and aspirations of the people he serves.

2025 Puerto Rican Summit "Building Bridges" :

Commissioner Joel Flores was proudly recognized at the 2025 Puerto Rican Summit: "Building Bridges," receiving a special award in celebration of his recent election as county commissioner and his unwavering commitment to public service. The honor highlights his role as a community leader dedicated to creating opportunities, fostering unity, and strengthening connections across cultures and generations. His recognition at the summit underscores the importance of inclusive leadership in building a stronger, more connected future.

Tours and Visits:

• Commissioner Flores continues to show his commitment to understanding the many facets of Palm Beach County. He and his staff recently toured the Palm Beach County Jail, gaining valuable insight into its operations and the challenges faced by both staff and incarcerated individuals. The visit, coordinated by the Criminal Justice Commission and PBSO, highlighted the importance of rehabilitation programs, mental health services, and the dedicated work of all officers who ensure safety and care within the facility. Commissioner Flores expressed his appreciation for the transparency and collaboration shown during the tour and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting thoughtful, effective criminal justice policies that enhance public safety while promoting dignity and opportunity for all.
• The Commissioner also visited Peanut Island, including a tour of the historic Kennedy Bunker. The trip offered perspective on the county’s unique history, tourism assets, and environmental preservation efforts.

Proclamations:

At the Board of County Commissioners meeting on June 3rd, Commissioner Joel Flores proudly presented two proclamations recognizing important cultural and community contributions.

• First, he declared June as Pride Month in Palm Beach County, honoring Compass LGBTQ+ Community Center for its ongoing work to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all residents.

• Commissioner Flores also proclaimed June as National Caribbean American Heritage Month, celebrating the rich cultural contributions of Caribbean communities. He recognized organizations such as the Cuban American Club Inc., the Club Socio-Cultural Dominicano de Palm Beach Inc., and the Puerto Rican Cultural Society of Palm Beach County Inc. for their dedication to preserving, promoting, and passing on Caribbean heritage and traditions to future generations.

Community Engagement:

Commissioner Joel Flores has long been a champion for small business owners in Palm Beach County. In partnership with the Office of Equal Business Opportunity and with support from the Purchasing Department, he helped launch the "Pathway to Certification" initiative an ongoing series of workshops designed to guide local small businesses through the process of becoming certified vendors with Palm Beach County.

• These workshops provide valuable resources, expert guidance, and step-by-step support to help entrepreneurs gain access to new opportunities and compete for county contracts. Commissioner Flores remains committed to expanding economic inclusion and ensuring that small businesses have a clear pathway to success.

Commissioner's Spotlight

Honoring Former Palm Beach County Administrator Verdenia Baker

During the May 28 Town Hall, Commissioner Flores honored the outgoing County Administrator Verdenia Baker for nearly four decades of exemplary service, applauding her steady stewardship and unwavering commitment to accessible, efficient government.

Palm Beach County Commissioners Choose New County Administrator

Looking forward, the Commissioner welcomes working with Joseph Abruzzo, recently selected by the Board of County Commissioners as the next County Administrator. Abruzzo's experience and fresh perspective will help keep Palm Beach County a premier place to live, work, and raise a family.

News You Can Use

Meet Our Staff

Commissioner Joel G. Flores

561-355-2203

jgflores@pbc.gov

Vivian Rodriguez

Chief of Staff

vrodriguez@pbc.gov

Dianni Mendez

Director of

Constituent Services

dmendez@pbc.gov

Yaneli Mata

Director of

Communications

ymata@pbc.gov

Deborah Arocho-Maisonet

District 3 Intern

darocho@pbc.gov

Angel Perez

District 3 Intern

aperez2@pbc.gov