Summer has finally arrived in the land of endless summer! Three years ago this month I made the life-changing decision to run for the Palm Beach Board of County Commissioners.
Part of my desire to run for this office was to bring awareness to the BCC. I am regularly asked some form of the same question I had before 2020 … “What does a county commissioner do?”
My hope in sending you this newsletter is to give you a snapshot of our month. It’s a chance to highlight not only my activities in District 4 but everything happening throughout Palm Beach County.
We can’t cover it all, I doubt you would read it even if your email would accept such a large file, but we do our best to give you the highlights.
I am happy I chose the county commission as my first foray into politics. It is large enough to make a real impact on the community in which I live but also keeps me close to home and the constituents we serve. It’s a good form of government; there are seven of us and we have lengthy but fruitful discussions when necessary.
I am glad to be a part of Team PBC and look forward to the future. We welcome your feedback.
Back in April, some sharp minds tackled our trivia question: “Which historic Boca Raton neighborhood is home to the buttonwood tree seen in this 1928 photo?”
I was excited to see the tree in person and join a special re-dedication ceremony at Por La Mar Park, celebrating this local treasure.
Alongside a member of my staff, community members, Boca Raton City Council members Andy Thomson and Fran Nachlas, and city staff, we unveiled a new historic marker for the beloved buttonwood tree. The original marker, designated in 1992, had since disappeared.
This beautiful tree—with its twisted trunks and deep roots—has stood for over 100 years, witnessing softball games, neighborhood gatherings, and quiet moments. We’re proud to preserve its story for generations to come.
Announcing Our Next County Administrator
I want to sincerely thank all of the applicants who participated in the County Administrator selection process. It was a rigorous and demanding experience, unlike anything we’ve undertaken before, with weeks of interviews, public forums, and meetings. I want to recognize and commend Patrick Rutter, Joe Abruzzo, Isami Ayala-Collazo, and Keith Clinkscales for stepping up to the challenge. It takes courage, vision, and commitment to pursue this opportunity, and each of you brought forward thoughtful ideas and meaningful perspectives about the County’s future and how we can improve its operations. While the competition was strong and the decision difficult, congratulations to Joe Abruzzo on being selected as our next County Administrator. I look forward to working together to implement innovative ideas and move Palm Beach County forward.
Palm Beach County’s First Pump Track
A new recreational feature is now open at Okeeheelee Park. Thanks to a $400,000 donation and a partnership between Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation and Palm Beach Pump Track Inc., we’ve opened the county’s first asphalt pump track. This 10,000-square-foot paved loop includes berms and small jumps and is designed for use by bikes, scooters, skateboards, and skates—any human-powered wheels. The facility is free to use and open during regular park hours, from sunrise to sunset. It’s located just behind the dog park at Okeeheelee Park, which can be found at 7715 Forest Hill Blvd., West Palm Beach, FL 33413. We’re pleased to offer a new, accessible space for residents of all ages and skill levels to enjoy. I encourage you to stop by and take a look!
Nonprofit Spotlight
Her Second Chance is a local nonprofit based in Boca Raton dedicated to empowering women in recovery from substance abuse. The organization provides paid employment opportunities within a safe and supportive environment, helping women rebuild their lives. Founded by Keely Copeland, whose own journey through sobriety inspired the mission, Her Second Chance addresses the critical challenge many face—securing stable employment during recovery. I had the privilege of visiting Her Second Chance recently and was warmly welcomed by Operations Director Angie Maya, Board President Christopher Malfitano, Board Member Mark Guzzetta, and team member Kristen Bibikos. For more information, visit https://her2ndchance.org/. If you require assistance, please contact our office at 561-355-2204 or email [email protected]
