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October 19, 2021

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National Farmer's Day


October 12th was National Farmer's Day. On this day, we recognize the hardworking men and women who grow the food our nation relies upon to nourish our families. Farming is one of the oldest professions in the world, and also one of the most challenging, so please thank a farmer for all the important work they do!

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State Road 80 Expansion

I'm happy to share that the State Road 80 widening project is nearing completion. This 7.2 mile widening project, on the stretch of SR-80 through Royal Palm Beach, Wellington, and Loxahatchee Groves, started on July 31, 2018. The scope of work includes widening from four to six lanes, adding a 12-foot shared-use pathway on the north side of the roadway, adding bike lanes, milling and resurfacing, drainage improvements, adding lighting and signalization, installing curb and gutter guardrails, minor median modifications, and signage and pavement markings. When the Florida Department of Transportation announces that the project is complete, I will provide an update.

C-51 Reservoir Funding


In this year's state budget, $48 million has been allocated to Palm Beach County for Phase II of the C-51 Reservoir. The benefits of this project include reducing harmful discharges to the Lake Worth Lagoon, improving resiliency, combating saltwater intrusion, and enhancing aquifer recharge to help improve regional water supply.


This is also an important step for the future of the Loxahatchee River restoration. Currently, the River depends upon Grassy Waters Preserve for water, which the City of West Palm Beach also relies upon for its drinking water. With the proper infrastructure built, the C-51 Reservoir could be a valuable source of water for the Loxahatchee River.


The Reservoir will be managed by the South Florida Water Management when completed.

Breast Cancer Awareness


October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In 2021, it is estimated that over 281,000 women in the United States will be diagnosed with this cancer, and approximately 43,600 women will die from it. For more information and important resources, visit www.komen.org. The Komen helpline at 1-877 GO KOMEN offers assistance finding low-cost breast cancer screening in our area.

New Westlake Tax Collector Service Center


The new 23,735 square foot Palm Beach County Tax Collector service center in the City of Westlake, located at 16640 Town Center Parkway South, is scheduled to open on January 18, 2022 and will replace the current Royal Palm Beach service center which will permanently close on January 7, 2022.


This new location will offer several in-person transactions including driver license renewals, road tests and written tests, vehicle registration renewals, and property tax and tangible tax payments. Clients requiring in-person service will soon be able to book appointments for the Westlake service center by visiting www.pbctax.com/appointments.


Visit the agency’s website, www.pbctax.com, to view a video featuring the construction progress of the Westlake service center.

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EPA Local Government Advisory Committee


On October 14th, I participated in my first meeting as a member of the Environmental Protection Agency's Local Government Advisory Committee. I am excited to have a voice on this important committee, and look forward to sharing future updates with you.

Lomax Harrelle Appreciation Day


I recently had the honor to present a proclamation declaring declaring Oct. 5, 2021, as Lomax Harrelle Appreciation Day in Palm Beach County. Mr. Harrelle served as the Belle Glade city manager for nearly 21 years and was instrumental in dramatically improving the city’s financial condition, infrastructure, housing, and employment opportunities. Lomax is an institution in Belle Glade, and I thank him for all of his tremendous leadership over the years to move the City forward.


Pictured (l to r) are Belle Glade Mayor Steve Wilson, Lomax Harrelle and Commissioner Melissa McKinlay.

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City of Belle Glade Vaccination Event


On Saturday, October 23rd, from noon to 6 pm at the Belle Glade Loading Ramp, the City of Belle Glade will hold its next vaccination event. Belle Glade residents who receive their first vaccination will receive a $100 Visa gift card. Those receiving their second shot will receive a raffle ticket. There will be 15 $100 gift cards raffled off. See the below flyer for additional details.

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National Walk and Bike to School Day


My office attended the National Walk and Bike to School Day celebration at Equestrian Trails Elementary on October 6. This day helps raise awareness of student safety, healthy habits, and building community. I want to thank PBSO, School District Police, crossing guards, and all the volunteers who participated and help make sure our students get to school and back home safely each and every day.

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Mosquito-Borne Illness Advisory


On October 13, the Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County (DOH-Palm Beach) advised residents there has been an increase in mosquito-borne disease activity in the western areas of Palm Beach County. These areas include western Boca Raton, Jupiter Farms, Belle Glade, and Wellington.


For the full advisory and for helpful tips on preventing mosquitos, visit here.


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Code Enforcement Lien Forgiveness Program


As a reminder, the Board of County Commissioners has approved a Code Enforcement Lien Amnesty program that will provide Palm Beach County property owners/lienholders with a method to clear Code Enforcement liens.


Many property owners have faced economic difficulties due to COVID-19 and this program will assist so they can obtain clear title and allow them to refinance or sell properties. The County has over 1,000 outstanding Code Enforcement liens on residential and non-residential properties. This program will enable property owners/ lienholders to apply to have 100% of the outstanding lien balance forgiven and the lien released. The program will run from October 1, 2021 to November 30, 2021. In order for a property owner/lienholder to participate in the program, the property must be in compliance with all county codes, file an application before November 30, 2021, and pay a $250 nonrefundable application fee.



To apply for this program, visit here. For more information, please contact Marie Jasmine at the Office of Financial Management and Budget at 561-355-4010.


In Closing


For rental assistance, click here: Emergency Rental Assistance Program


To find vaccine sites near you, click here: Interactive Vaccine Locator


Health Care District Weekly Vaccination Schedule


Palm Beach County Hospital Dashboard

Commissioner Melissa McKinlay

(561) 355-2206

mmckinlay@pbcgov.org


Kelley Burke

Chief of Staff

(561) 355-2206

kburke@pbcgov.org

Joseph Sophie

Senior Legislative Aide

(561) 355-2206

jsophie@pbcgov.org


Lisa Wilson

Legislative Aide

(561) 996-4814

awilson1@pbcgov.org

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