May 13, 2022

Pahokee 100th Anniversary

This week I visited the City of Pahokee to recognize its 100th anniversary. Joined by State Senator Gayle Harrell, we presented proclamations on behalf of the Florida Senate and the County Commission commemorating this important occasion. Pahokee takes its name from the Seminole word for the Everglades, meaning "grassy waters." It enjoys a rich history with an abundance of outdoor recreation options and is the only city with direct access to Lake Okeechobee. It is also the hometown of multiple NFL players and country music legend Mel Tillis.

Afterwards, I stopped by the Pahokee Marina and caught an absolutely stunning sunset on a beautiful, cool, windy evening. This is one of the most gorgeous spots in all of Palm Beach County!

Comm. McKinlay with Sen. Gayle Harrell and the Pahokee City Commission

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Homeless Resource Center Groundbreaking

On May 9th, the County broke ground on its third Homeless Resource Center! This will be located near John Prince Park off of Lake Worth Road. Once it is built the temporary shelter at the Fairgounds will close. With rising rents and housing out of reach for so many, families need help and this Center can't come soon enough.

Glades Visit

Last Friday, I filmed my final Commissioner Spotlight with one of my best friends, Assistant County Administrator Todd Bonlarron. We traveled throughout District 6 visiting various sites to highlight in the Glades as well as the Butterfly House at Wellington Regional Medical Center. It's been an honor to represent this district and experience its wonderful offerings, including its incredible agriculture. Here's a photo of us at Wedgworth Farms in the corn fields! Is there anything better than Glades-grown sweet corn?

Intern Update

On May 6th, one of my former interns, Madison Gay, graduated from the Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Program and is now one of our premier firefighter/paramedics! We are so proud of you, Madison!

Photo l-r: Chief of Staff Kelley Burke, Madison Gay, and Palm Beach Fire Rescue Chief Patrick Kennedy

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Rachael Bonlarron/West Palm 100 Scholarship - Deadline May 15th

"This scholarship is designed to support young women who are committed to their education, their community and their careers. Students completing their senior year and who will be attending either Palm Beach State College or Florida Atlantic University are the focus of this scholarship. We are looking for students who are planning to continue their education while working to help financially support themselves through school by working part time. West Palm 100 understands the challenges this creates for students and that is why we are committed to supporting those students who are most dedicated to continuing their education while working to financially support those efforts."

For additional details on this $500 scholarship, including eligibility criteria, visit here.