I visited family over the recent Thanksgiving break and saw my campaign mailer still hanging on my mother’s refrigerator. It got me thinking about what I initially wanted to accomplish in this position and the new priorities I’ve discovered along the way.

The budget is still a major task, and it has continued to grow. Although I wouldn't necessarily call it an accomplishment, we, as a board, have moved several capital projects forward that were either postponed, deferred, or delayed for several years. One such project I am most pleased to push forward is our Animal Care & Control facility. If you’ve visited, you know we have work to do in renovation and expansion, including facility-wide air conditioning. We also have planned expansions and renovations for the Governmental Center, South County Complex, Green Cay, Concourse B, and the Consolidated Rental Car Facility at Palm Beach International Airport!

Protecting agriculture in Palm Beach County remains a challenge due to the development pressure we face, but denying the Ag Reserve land swap was, for me, a significant step in the right direction. We will continue to have projects brought to us as farmers seek to sell to developers and will remain challenged to make the right decisions. Our recent vote to enter into agreements with a third-party conservation group to protect our environmentally sensitive lands gives me cause to celebrate the county’s commitment to protecting publicly owned lands as much as possible.

We’ve held several meetings and workshops to discuss the role of code enforcement in the county. These meetings are usually contentious, as there are always two sides to every story. While striking a balance between personal and property rights is difficult, this board has tackled a few disputes with a willingness to listen to all sides and strive for peaceful resolutions. We renamed code enforcement to "code compliance" and are preparing for our officers to wear body cameras while on calls to enhance transparency.

Our labor force has been and remains a top priority. I joined the CareerSource board as soon as possible and have met with business and economic leaders to address the issues. Our most recent unemployment numbers for Palm Beach County are 3.5%. We have under 28,000 people unemployed and at least 33,000 posted jobs available, with nearly 800,000 people employed. There is no industry without a shortage of available workers. We are working diligently not only to attract talent to our area but also to keep our homegrown talent here locally. Expanding the horizons of our young people to see career opportunities that do not require a four-year degree is also gaining traction.

One of my new top priorities, which emerged after I took office, is transportation. I have to admit that my regular commute from Boca Raton to my office in West Palm Beach quickly made this a priority. I joined the Tri-Rail and Transportation Planning Agency boards immediately and began exploring ways to help. It has been a steep learning curve to understand the multi-jurisdictional nature of our system, the long timelines for road projects, the restrictive nature of our funding sources, the limited options when approving developments, and the complex land use and comprehensive changes that have shaped our current system.

I am thrilled to announce that our board unanimously approved the issuance of an RFP (Request for Proposal) on Dec. 12, 2024, for a consultant to help us form a countywide Transportation Master Plan. I cannot possibly name all those who helped us get here. Both elected officials and staff from the 39 municipalities within PBC, county commissioners and staff, the school board, and those in private industry all worked collaboratively to reach this point.

I naively thought it would be easy. It was not. But is anything worth doing ever easy? The RFP is open until Feb. 25, 2025, and although I cannot predict what to expect from the applicants,

I hope we see an innovative, creative, and comprehensive approach to understanding how people currently move throughout our area and all the ways we can improve it for our citizens. This is a tall order but necessary for the future of our county. Quality of life is at stake. Affordability and expanded opportunities are on the horizon.

I, for one, can’t wait to see what the new year brings!

From my family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! Wishing you blessings in the New Year!

One of my top priorities upon taking office has been to bridge the gap between our municipalities and key organizations, fostering collaboration to get things done and make meaningful progress for our community.

Recently, I had the opportunity to bring together representatives from Palm Beach County, Delray Beach, and the Florida Department of Transportation for a productive discussion on improving Atlantic Avenue in downtown Delray Beach. Our goal is to enhance safety for both vehicles and pedestrians while ensuring that traffic continues to flow efficiently.

The conversations were incredibly positive, and we left the meeting with clear next steps and a shared commitment to finding practical solutions. I'm excited to see where this collaboration leads and am optimistic about the positive changes we can make together for our roads and residents.

What an incredible night at the Grey Team's America First Gala at Mar-a-Lago and congratulations on raising an astounding $1.4 million!

This generous support will allow them to expand their efforts in providing mental health support, preventing suicides, and improving the well-being of service members. Thank you to everyone who contributed —together, they are making a real difference in the lives of our nation's heroes. I also want to extend our gratitude to Carey Reichbach (pictured above) for consistently including us in these vital events.

Here’s to even more milestones ahead for the Grey Team!

I had an exciting start to this year’s Florida Association of Counties (FAC) Policy Conference in Hillsborough County. One of the highlights was hearing from guest speaker Ken Graham, director of the National Weather Service. His insights on weather operations and disaster preparedness were so engaging. I could have listened to him for hours!

Palm Beach County was well represented this year, with five commissioners in attendance: Maria Marino, Gregg Weiss, Joel Flores, and Bobby Powell Jr., along with members of our administrative and legislative teams. We proudly sported our “Vote for Maria” stickers, supporting her candidacy for 2nd Vice President.

As we move forward, it’s more important than ever to ensure Palm Beach County has a strong and influential voice at the table. I’m committed to fighting for our county’s interests and ensuring that our concerns are heard loud and clear. 

The conference provided a critical platform for members to discuss and finalize policy priorities ahead of the 2025 Legislative Session, and I’m excited to continue pushing for the representation and resources Palm Beach County deserves.

This week, Boca Raton was buzzing with excitement as we kicked off the festivities for the Boca Bowl! From the spirited pep rally at Mizner Park to the warm welcome of the James Madison University Dukes and Western Kentucky University Hilltoppers, the community came together to celebrate the big event. Local council members were also in attendance, showing their support for the teams and the city’s vibrant spirit.

I had the pleasure of chatting with some of the passionate game-goers at the Fan Fest, capturing all the energy for an exclusive feature on Channel 20, which will air next month. It was clear from the excitement in the air that this year’s Boca Bowl was one for the books!

On game day, we saw an incredible turnout from both locals and out-of-town visitors, with a positive economic impact on our hotels, restaurants, and shops in District 4. And, of course, our very own local university, Florida Atlantic University (FAU), enjoyed a well-deserved spotlight on ESPN, showcasing Boca Raton's pride on a national stage!

Despite a few rainy days leading up to the event, the skies cleared just in time, giving us perfect weather for the celebrations.

Congratulations to James Madison University for their impressive victory!

Once again, Palm Beach County is proud to have hosted the Boca Bowl, and we hope everyone enjoyed the thrilling game and festivities.

What a fantastic morning at the State of the County event, where Palm Beach County Mayor Marino took center stage as the keynote speaker. As many know, Mayor Marino is an avid golfer, and she brilliantly outlined the county's accomplishments and future goals as a "18-hole" course, drawing parallels between the county's progress and a winning round of golf.

Her speech highlighted the county's ongoing success in meeting the needs and aspirations of residents, emphasizing that Palm Beach County remains "on par" in every aspect of growth and development.

The energy in the room was a blast, with Digital Vibez performing at the breakfast and getting everyone to stand up and dance.

Here's to many more "holes-in-one" for the county’s future!

Each month, the Board of County Commissioners approves a wide range of important agenda items that impact areas such as engineering, facilities, housing, airports, and more. Here are some key items approved this month:

• The Countywide Transportation Master Plan Request for Proposal (RFP) was finalized on December 12, 2024, and will close on February 25, 2025.

• A maximum parking rate for public parking at Palm Beach International Airport has been established, set to phase in over five years starting February 1, 2025. Pilot programs for garage reservations and valet services will also launch in 2025.

• Revised Impact Fee Affordable Housing Assistance Program (IFAHAP) Guidelines, including:

1. extending the affordability period to 30 years.
2. reducing rental income eligibility to 110% of AMI.
3. clarifying ineligibility for Workforce Housing Program units.
4. removing buyout option for affordability.
5. imposing penalties for defaults while maintaining affordability.
6. prohibiting rental increases outside of lease renewals.

• The General Obligation Housing Bond Loan Program (HBLP) has approved a $13,000,000 loan for the Residences at Lake Worth Beach project, which will construct 195 workforce rental units, with 164 units receiving County assistance.

• The deadline for all conceptually approved Housing Bond Loan Program (HBLP) and Housing Initiatives Program (HIP) projects to be submitted for final BCC approval is March 11, 2025.

~ Boca Helping Hands Thanksgiving Box Brigade ~

This year's Boca Helping Hands Thanksgiving Box Brigade was a huge success!

The weather was perfect, the volunteers energized, and the recipients grateful. Boca Helping Hands has truly perfected its system to keep things running smoothly!

It was great to share this effort with Boca council members Fran Nachlas and Marc Wigder, and special thanks to Steven King, Greg Hazle, and Karen Swedenborg for including us!

~ Mayor's Staff Appreciation Luncheon ~

Cheers to Mayor Marino for hosting a festive and fun-filled holiday lunch!

The Italian food from Joseph’s was delicious, and the District 4 team had a blast posing with the selfie wall.

~ Boca Chamber Holiday Auction ~

Michael certainly hit the jackpot for Zoey and Fritz at this year’s Holiday Auction, coming home with not one but two basketfuls of treats! We had a blast bidding on some amazing items at the Chamber’s annual event.

With over 300 guests in attendance, the night was filled with networking, friendly competition, and lots of fun.

All proceeds from this event support the Boca Chamber’s educational and business programs, helping the community grow!

~ Tree Lighting with BRiC ~

What an amazing night at CP Group’s 9th Annual Tree Lighting Extravaganza at the Boca Raton Innovative Campus (BRiC)!

Hosted by WPTV’s Steve Weagle, the gorgeous tree was decorated with giant ornaments and we had a blast supporting Spirit of Giving.

The performances were incredible too. Grandview Prep’s AcaPride, Extensions, Organic Movements Dance School, and West Boca Raton’s CALLIOPE all brought the holiday magic to life with their talented acts. Already looking forward to next year!

~ Staff Joins the Fun ~

Due to the busy season, our office had to divide and conquer in order to attend several important events: the Circuit Court and Comptroller's Money Drop, Palm Tran's Stuff the Bus & PBC League of Cities BBQ, and the United Way Talent Show, which featured some familiar faces from across the county!

These events were focused on fundraising, making it a wonderful time of year to give back to the community.

I recently toured the Hanley Center, a local nonprofit that many may not know is located right here in West Palm Beach that offers comprehensive addiction treatment services.

The county recently awarded the organization $250,000 to enhance security, including heightened infant security measures. I was happy to see these funds being used during my tour, guided by Rachel Docekal, Corey Saban, Turner Benoit, and Chip James, who also shared the incredible work they do in our community.

The center has an expert team, including physicians, therapists, wellness specialists, and a dedicated culinary team, who deliver exceptional care across a spectrum of services, from medical detox to ongoing support. I had the pleasure of meeting their chef, who emphasized the crucial role of proper nutrition in the recovery process.

I look forward to continuing to support the important work you do to make a difference in so many lives.

While commissioners are well-known for their role as county policymakers, did you know they also take on additional responsibilities?

We often serve on a range of boards and commissions, tackling essential issues like health care, transportation, economic development and even regional waste management.

These additional duties connect us to diverse community needs and allow us to influence critical decisions beyond county lines, ensuring your voice is heard in more than just local government.

As your county commissioner, I serve on the following boards:

The Multi-Jurisdictional Issues Coordination Forum Executive Committee reviews and decides whether to address issues of multi-jurisdictional significance, referring them to ad-hoc committees when necessary, and provides written reports to the Forum on actions taken regarding these issues.

Vice Chair of the Solid Waste Authority which consists of all seven members of the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners. The Governing Board is the head of the Authority and exercises regulatory and executive powers. Learn more.

The Palm Beach Transportation Planning Agency focuses on transportation planning and programming goals in Palm Beach County within the guidelines of federal, state, and local laws and rules. Learn more.

Chair of the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (Tri-Rail) involves overseeing the planning, development, operation, and management of the Tri-Rail transit system, which serves Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties, providing efficient transportation via rail, buses, and motor vehicles. Learn more.

The Palm Beach Cultural Council supports arts and culture in Palm Beach County and provides services to cultural organizations and creative professionals including funding, education and marketing opportunities. Learn more.

CareerSource Palm Beach County helps area businesses to stay competitive through training grants and talent acquisition, and job seekers find new jobs through career assessments, training and employment assistance. Learn more.

The Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council (alternate) provides leadership, advocacy and coordination between local governments, state and federal agencies and the private sector to preserve and enhance the quality of the Treasure Coast’s economic, natural, built and social environment. Learn more.

The Water Resources Task Force (alternate) identifies and evaluates opportunities to providing future water supply, conservation, wastewater treatment, and reuse or reclaimed water opportunities in the most efficient and cost effective manner practicable. Learn more.

The other County Commissioners and I serve on some of the same boards, as well as the following:



• Kravis Center
• Homeless Advisory Board
• Children's Services Council
• South Florida Fair Board of Trustees
• Value Adjustment Board
• BioScience Land Protection Advisory Board
• Tourist Development Council
• Palm Beach Broadband
• Business Development Executive Board
• Criminal Justice Commission
• Public Safety Coordinating Council
• Circuit 15 Juvenile Justice Advisory Board
• Investment Policy Committee
• County Coalition for Responsible Management of Lake "O"
• Loxahatchee River Management Coordinating Council
• Pal Mar Water Control District

We had some brilliant minds tackle our September trivia question: "What year was Palm Beach County established?"

A big round of applause to everyone who correctly guessed 1909!

We welcome your feedback on our District 4 newsletter. Please let us know if you found this information helpful and what else you would like to know.