Happy New Year!

I started off the year strong representing District 4 in a whirlwind of meetings with our state legislators and leaders in Tallahassee for PBC Day! We traded our usual sunshine for a taste of Tallahassee's brisk winter air!

With nearly 400 attendees, our county made a strong presence. Some of our meetings included Rep. Peggy Gossett-Seidman, DOT District 4 Secretary Steve Braun, CFO Jimmy Patronis and more!

Our advocacy covered a broad spectrum, from affordable and workforce housing to infrastructure and water resources. The enthusiasm of our state partners was evident, even earning a shout-out from the Senate floor.

Somewhere in the mix, I sat down with Todd Bonlarron to discuss how building a strong link between housing and public transportation options is crucial for fostering vibrant, sustainable communities. Stay tuned for the upcoming airing of our discussion on Channel 20!

A heartfelt thank you to TEAM Palm Beach County and my rock-solid escort, PBC Firefighter Craig Gerlach.

As the legislative session progresses, our dedicated county lobbyists will remain in Tallahassee, diligently monitoring crucial appropriations for our residents.

Rest assured, the fight for Palm Beach County continues!

We look forward to championing the needs of our residents with unwavering tenacity in the weeks and months ahead, even if it means braving another taste of Tallahassee's winter wonderland.

Below is a recent update from the Engineering and Public Works Department on the Palmetto Park Road Bridge project.

The contractor has completed pouring the end wall, the wing wall cap, and the pile caps.

Currently, they are preparing to move to the east side of the bridge to finish driving the remaining piles. 

The project is scheduled to be completed in spring 2024. 

Thank you for your continued patience and understanding as we work to enhance our infrastructure. Your support is invaluable as we navigate through these phases of progress.

As Vice Chair of the SFRTA Board, I'm delighted to announce that Tri-Rail now connects you to downtown Miami!

Whether you're commuting, exploring vibrant spots, or enjoying events, Tri-Rail provides a hassle-free way to experience the best of the city.

Fares start at $2.50 on weekdays and $5 on weekends, making it easy and affordable. Kids under five ride free!

I encourage everyone to hop on board and experience the convenience of Tri-Rail's downtown Miami connection.

Honored to join SFRTA Executive Director Dave Dech and Boca Raton City Councilwoman Yvette Druker on the inaugural ride from Boca Raton to Downtown Miami.

The Board recently approved the following items in District 4!

• Design services for the Palmetto Park Rd. and Powerline Rd. Intersection improvements (project). The project includes the construction of an additional third northbound left turn lane and other road adjustments.

• To mill and resurface SW 18th St. from Boca Rio Rd. to Military Trail. These are your infrastructure sales tax (IST) dollars hard at work!

Additionally, 

• Over $242,000 in grant funding to renovate six restrooms at the Boca Museum of Art with artistic tiles.

• The Sandoway Discovery Center in Delray Beach received $130,000 in grant funding to update its entrance.

For any inquiries or additional information, please feel free to reach out to our office. Exciting times ahead!

It was an honor to present a proclamation recognizing the Boca Raton Airport's remarkable 75-year journey of connecting lives, fueling dreams, and propelling Boca Raton forward!

Its transformation from a WWII training ground to a bustling general aviation hub has left an unforgettable mark on our community's growth and prosperity.

Witnessing the passion and dedication of the Boca Raton Airport Authority's team firsthand reaffirmed why this airport is a crown jewel.

Thank you, Boca Raton Airport, for 75 years of memories, and here's to many more chapters of aviation excellence!

Pictured (l to r): Cheryl Budd (D5 appointee), Jim Nau (D4 appointee), Mayor Sachs, Bob Tucker, myself and Scott Kohut

The recent bicyclist crash in Delray Beach was a stark reminder of the importance of road safety.

In my role at the Palm Beach Transportation Planning Agency, I want to assure you that enhancing the safety of all road users remains a priority.

The agency is actively pursuing a "Vision Zero" initiative, aspiring to eliminate fatalities on our roads. Together, let's prioritize a collaborative effort to ensure the safety of all road users.

Here are some important safety tips for both bicyclists and motorists:

Bicyclists:

• Wear protective gear like a fitted helmet and shoes with a good grip.
• Check your bicycle for any malfunctions before riding.
• Wear clothing with bright colors during the day and lights at night.
• Be aware of dangerous road conditions.
• Obey all traffic laws.
• Yield to traffic when appropriate.
• Signal your intent and be predictable.

Motorists:

• Stay aware, and actively look for cyclists.
• Know that cyclists have the same rights on the roads as you do.
• Be patient around cyclists even if they are moving slower than traffic.
• Do not pass a cyclist until you are sure that your passing lane is clear.
• Look for cyclists when turning and at intersections.
• Give cyclists plenty of space, and never tailgate a bicycle rider.
• Watch for cyclists before you open your door.

Palm Beach County, in collaboration with Highland Beach, will be hosting a public outreach meeting to discuss the park's future on Thursday, February 1, 2024, at 6 p.m. at the Highland Beach Library conference room (3618 S Ocean Blvd, Highland Beach, FL 33487).

County staff will present an overview of the park's current status and future plans, followed by an opportunity for public comments.

We encourage you to attend the meeting and share your thoughts and suggestions.

In Palm Beach County, The Promise Fund is fighting for women's health.

They empower hundreds of underserved women each year to overcome financial barriers, saving lives through early detection of breast and cervical cancer.

The Promise Fund goes beyond awareness campaigns. Their patient navigators guide women through every step of cancer diagnosis and treatment, while their cultural competency training ensures healthcare providers offer sensitive and effective care to diverse communities.

Their replicable model is paving the way for a brighter future for women across Florida.

Every year the Royal Park Bridge is illuminated pink as a symbol of Promise Funds commitment to "bridge" communities together in the fight against breast and cervical cancer.

Ever wondered how your voice reaches Tallahassee, the bustling hub of Florida's state government?

As your County Commissioner, it's my job to bridge the gap between our local needs and the decisions made miles away.

However, I don't work alone in this vital task. Here's your crash course on the dynamic duo representing Palm Beach County in Tallahassee.

Who are they?

Palm Beach County has nine State Representatives in the Florida House, each covering specific districts within the county.

These dedicated individuals champion local issues like education, healthcare, and environmental protection on the House floor.

We also have four State Senators who represent larger districts encompassing parts of Palm Beach County and other counties.

Their broader focus tackles statewide concerns like budgeting and infrastructure.

Wondering who your specific representatives are?

Head over to their website, here and click on "Find Your Representative". Enter your address, and it will generate the names and contact information of your House and Senate reps.

Why they matter

Both House and Senate members have immense power to impact our lives.

They allocate state funds for schools, hospitals, and roads and pass laws that regulate environmental conservation, healthcare access, and even the minimum wage.

By actively engaging with your representatives, you can ensure your voice is heard on issues that matter most to you.

My role in the picture

As your County Commissioner, I work closely with our state representatives and senators.

I share concerns from our community, advocate for local priorities, and collaborate on legislation that benefits Palm Beach County.

It's a constant two-way street, ensuring your needs are not forgotten in the hustle and bustle of Tallahassee.

So next time you see a news story about a legislative decision, remember - you have a direct line to the decision-makers.

Use your newfound knowledge to find your representatives, reach out, and share your concerns.

Together, we can ensure a vibrant and prosperous future for Palm Beach County and beyond!

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.