A Message from Marci
With gas prices continuing to strain working families and small businesses, I directed staff, supported by the Board of County Commissioners, to explore the potential suspension of locally imposed gas taxes to provide relief at the pump.
Like many residents, I believe that every little bit helps right now, and I wanted to explore every option available to support our community.
Following my request, our County Attorney’s Office conducted a thorough legal review to determine whether Palm Beach County has the authority to temporarily pause the local gas tax. Their analysis concluded that the County does not currently have the legal authority to “pause” locally imposed fuel taxes, because local governments may only levy and administer taxes in the exact manner authorized by state law.
While this was not the outcome I hoped for, it did not end the conversation.
In response, I sent a formal letter to Ron DeSantis requesting support for legislation that would grant Florida counties explicit authority to temporarily suspend collection of locally imposed fuel taxes during periods of elevated fuel prices or economic hardship. This change would give local governments the flexibility to respond quickly to economic challenges affecting our residents.
At the time of my request, the average cost of gasoline in Palm Beach County was approximately $4.22 per gallon. A temporary pause of the County’s 12-cent gas tax could save drivers about $2.40 on a 20-gallon fill-up—a modest but meaningful form of relief for families managing rising costs.
At this time, the matter is in the hands of the State of Florida. I will continue advocating for solutions that provide flexibility to local governments while protecting essential services for our residents.
If you are interested in sharing your perspective on this issue, I encourage you to contact your state legislators. You can find your state representative and senator by visiting the Palm Beach County Neighborhood Dashboard website and entering your address.
As always, I remain committed to exploring every responsible option to support our community and keep Palm Beach County affordable for the families and businesses who call it home.
District 4 Improvement
The Ocean Ridge Shore Protection Project is now underway, bringing critical beach and dune renourishment to address severe erosion caused by recent storms, including Hurricanes Nicole and Milton.
This important project, sponsored by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers with more than 90% federal funding support, is being carried out with Palm Beach County serving as the local sponsor in coordination with the City of Boynton Beach and the Town of Ocean Ridge.
Plans include placing approximately 500,000 cubic yards of beach-compatible sand to restore vital marine turtle nesting habitat, strengthen storm protection for nearby public parks, and enhance the beautiful recreational spaces that residents and visitors enjoy year-round.
District 4 Board Appointment Opportunities
I am currently seeking District 4 residents to serve on the following advisory boards and committees. Surtax Oversight Committee: This committee plays a critical role in ensuring accountability by providing oversight and reviewing expenditure reports produced by the county. The committee meets quarterly, with 2026 meeting dates scheduled for May 21st, August 20th, and November 19th.
Solid Waste Authority Small Business Advisory Committee (SBAC): This committee supports small business participation in SWA contracts and recommending program improvements. Meetings are held at 9 a.m. on the first Tuesday of every other month at the SWA Administration Building Auditorium and are open to the public.
If you are interested in serving on any of these boards, please contact our office at 355-2204. A big thank you to Todd A. L’Herrou for reaching out to our office and agreeing to serve on the Fire Rescue Advisory Board!
Nonprofit Spotlight
Digital Vibez is a local nonprofit dedicated to promoting youth development, health, and wellness through music, dance, and creative movement programs that inspire active lifestyles and positive self-expression.
While they are widely known for engaging youth through school and community programs, their impact also extends to residents of all ages through initiatives like MOVE 365, bringing fun, accessible fitness classes to seniors throughout the county.
I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Digital Vibez to discuss their impact metrics and explore ways they can continue to serve the residents of Palm Beach County.
For more information, visit http://www.digitalvibez.org.
If you require assistance, please contact our office at 561-355-2204 or email [email protected].
