A Message from Marci
One of my top priorities as your County Commissioner is to help make homeownership more attainable for working families in Palm Beach County. That’s why I’m excited to share that we are developing a new Homebuyer Match Program, which I recently presented to the Board of County Commissioners as a workshop item. The feedback from my fellow commissioners was overwhelmingly positive, and I’m eager to see this program come back as a voting item in the near future.
A few months ago, I sent out a survey asking the community why they think young talent isn’t staying in the county, and affordable housing was brought up by many constituents. This input has been invaluable in shaping a program that truly addresses the needs of our residents.
The Homebuyer Match Program is designed to make homeownership more achievable by partnering with buyers who are ready to invest in their future. Under the proposed pilot, the County would match homebuyer funds dollar-for-dollar, up to $50,000, to help with down payments, closing costs, and other home purchase expenses.
The program will be administered by the County’s Housing and Economic Development Department. Crucially, it will be funded entirely through Workforce Housing Program in-lieu fees (contributions from developers who opt out of building workforce units), not taxpayer funds. Approximately $5 million will be allocated to assist qualified buyers in the pilot phase.
Eligible applicants would include Palm Beach County residents or employees earning between 80% and 140% of the area median income (AMI), roughly $93,000 to $156,000 for a household of four. Buyers could purchase single-family homes, townhomes, or condominiums anywhere in Palm Beach County, provided they apply for a homestead exemption within one year of purchase and complete an 8-hour homebuyer education course.
The assistance would be secured by a second mortgage, with the principal forgiven after 15 years as long as they stay homesteaded in Palm Beach County. If the owner sells before that time, they will either repay the principal or transfer the lien to another homesteaded property within the county.
This approach helps strengthen our local workforce and encourages long-term homeownership, without adding pressure on infrastructure or requiring new development. By tapping into existing housing inventory, the program supports economic mobility and keeps families rooted in our community.
I want to especially thank Kevin Ratterree with Gold Coast Builders, Michele Jacobs from the Economic Council, Fabiola Brumley from Bank Of America and county staff, particularly Johnathan Brown and Carlos Serrano with Housing and Economic Development and Deputy County Administrator Tammy Fields, for jumping in early, having important conversations with me, and helping translate my ideas into a comprehensible program.
I’m proud to be advancing policies that help more residents put down roots in Palm Beach County, while not burdening taxpayers and I’ll continue to keep you updated as the Homebuyer Match Program moves forward to the Board for consideration.
Join Team PBC!
Palm Beach County is hosting its first-ever annual Job Fair on Tuesday, Dec. 10, from 3:00–7:00 p.m. at the Hilton Palm Beach Airport (150 Australian Avenue, West Palm Beach, FL 33406).
Meet representatives from all county departments including Community Services, Public Safety, Parks & Recreation, Information Systems Services, Engineering & Public Works, and more!
Bring your resume—computers will be onsite to apply, and areas are set up for on-the-spot interviews.
Whether you’re starting your career, a seasoned professional, a student, or an intern, we have exciting opportunities for motivated problem-solvers who want to make a difference in Palm Beach County!
For more information, visit https://discover.pbc.gov/Pages/pbc-job-fair.aspx.
PBC Firefighter Calendar to Support ACC
What do firefighters and rescue pets have in common? They’re both everyday heroes, and this year they’re sharing the spotlight.
This special calendar was made possible through a collaboration between the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners, Fire Rescue, and the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 2928, who jointly covered all printing costs.
Every dollar raised goes directly to Palm Beach County’s Animal Care and Control (ACC), helping more local pets get the second chance and loving homes they deserve.
The handsome pup featured in the calendar has already been adopted, a wonderful reminder that your support truly saves lives.
To purchase a calendar, visit https://shop2928.com/products/2026-firefighter-calendar.
Nonprofit Spotlight
The Boca Raton Regional Hospital Foundation serves as the philanthropic arm of Boca Raton Regional Hospital, raising essential funds to support hospital projects, advanced technology, and critical equipment. Its mission is to strengthen the hospital and its affiliates so they can continue providing high-quality, compassionate healthcare for our community.
I recently had the pleasure of attending the Go Pink Luncheon at The Boca Raton, hosted by the Foundation.
A heartfelt thank-you to April Lewis for the invitation. April reserved a table in honor of her mother, Rosemary, who lost her battle with ovarian cancer at a young age.
The luncheon featured Cheryl Ladd, known for her role in Charlie’s Angels. In 2023, she was diagnosed with Stage 2 Triple Negative breast cancer, an especially aggressive form.
She has since completed treatment and shared her experience during the event. Her remarks underscored the importance of continued investment in cancer research, treatment, and patient support.
For more information, visit https://donate.brrh.com/. If you require assistance, please contact our office at 561-355-2204 or email [email protected].
