A Message from Marci
As my office continues serving the residents of Palm Beach County, I wanted to take a moment to recognize some important transitions within my team.
First, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to my former Chief of Staff, Caitlin Joyce, on graduating from Florida Atlantic University with her Master’s degree in Business. Caitlin has dedicated the past four years to serving the residents of Palm Beach County alongside me, and I am incredibly grateful for all of her hard work. While we will certainly miss her, I am excited to see her begin this next chapter as she transitions into the private sector. On behalf of my office, I wish Caitlin continued success in all her future endeavors.
At the same time, I am pleased to welcome Connor Bernhardt to my office, who officially joined the team on May 11, 2026. Connor previously worked in Planning, Zoning, and Building, where he served as a Code Compliance Officer for the past year. He has been with Palm Beach County for four and a half years, and I am excited to have him joining my office. In his new role, Connor will be handling the Zoning Agenda, Comprehensive Plan Amendment Agenda, gift reporting, and constituent correspondence.
I also want to recognize Christian Wright, who has been with my office for nearly four years and will continue as Deputy Chief of Staff. She manages my calendar, proclamations, and assists with constituent issues. Her dedication and institutional knowledge continues to be invaluable assets to our team. Everyone who schedules a meeting with me can vouch for how amazing she is!
Additionally, Nicole Bilotta, who joined my office last year, has jumped in with both feet. She will be stepping into the role of Chief of Staff. In her expanded role, she will be assisting with the newsletter, the Board of County Commissioners Regular Agenda, Workshop Agenda items, social media, and overall office operations.
Before taking office, I wondered why a commissioner would need a staff of three. I now know, I could not do near what I do now without them. Big thanks to the D-4 Team! I am very lucky!
Homebuyer Match Update
Palm Beach County recently launched its Homebuyer Match Pilot Program, which offers up to $50,000 in dollar-for-dollar matching funds to assist income eligible residents with down payments and closing costs.
The program is expected to support a minimum of 60 homebuyers in its first phase. Participants must contribute a minimum of $10,000 toward their home purchase.
Following a random drawing held on April 27, 60 applicants were selected from the pre-application pool and invited to submit full applications for review. To date, 25 applications have been received and are currently moving through the review process.
If additional completed applications are not submitted by next Monday, another random drawing will be conducted from the remaining applicant pool to continue filling available spots in the program.
Summer Fun in Palm Beach County
As summer approaches, Palm Beach County invites residents and visitors to enjoy hands-on nature experiences and outdoor educational programs at Green Cay Nature Center in Boynton Beach.
Located at 12800 Hagen Ranch Road, the center offers guided tours, wildlife encounters, and interactive programs designed to promote environmental awareness, conservation, and healthy outdoor recreation. All programs are by online reservation unless otherwise noted, and participants must complete a Program Participation Form before attending. For more information or to register, visit http://www.pbcnature.com or http://www.pbcparks.com under “Online Services.”
Upcoming special programs include:
• Night Stalkers – Wednesday, May 20 at 7:15 p.m. ($5, ages 9+)
• Bird Talk & Tour: Wetland Birds – Saturday, May 23 at 9:30 a.m. ($5, all ages)
• Archery 101 – Saturday, May 30 at 9:30 a.m. ($10, ages 8+)
Nonprofit Spotlight
This month, I’m proud to highlight the impactful work being done by the American Association of Caregiving Youth (AACY), an organization dedicated to supporting children who take on the extraordinary responsibility of caring for family members facing illness, disability, mental health challenges, frailties of aging, or substance misuse.
AACY envisions a nation where Caregiving Youth are understood, appreciated, and celebrated as they pursue their dreams and opportunities while balancing the demands of caregiving at home.
Their mission is centered on championing youth under the age of 18 who provide significant care and assistance to loved ones. Through academic support, guidance, and advocacy, AACY helps these young caregivers succeed both in school and in life.
While children are often seen as the recipients of care, many young people quietly serve as caregivers every day. These responsibilities can include helping with medications, preparing meals, assisting with mobility, or providing emotional support to family members facing chronic illness or other health challenges.
Without proper support, Caregiving Youth are at greater risk for academic, social, and emotional difficulties. Organizations like AACY are working to change that by bringing visibility to these young people and ensuring they receive the resources, understanding, and encouragement they deserve.
Their work is helping create a future where no child caregiver feels invisible, and where every Caregiving Youth has the opportunity to thrive both at home and in the classroom.
For more information, visit http://www.aacy.org. If you require assistance, please contact our office at 561-355-2204 or email [email protected].
