First and foremost, I am happy to announce that Minton Road has reopened! Ranger Construction, the contractor for the project, performed Full Depth Reclamation (FDR) on the roadway. The FDR process pulverizes the existing asphalt and base material, mixes cement, emulsion, and water, and compacts the materials to produce a strong, durable structural base for the new road. The asphalt pavement is placed on top of the new base structure. Take a look at this video, which shows part of the process.
I hope you all made it out to the first Battle of the Badges last week, where the Palm Bay Police Department and Palm Bay Fire Rescue went head-to-head in a fundraising basketball game. It was a nail-biting matchup, but Palm Bay PD took the trophy by three points. Way to go, PD! I am so proud of both sides for their dedication and sportsmanship to make this community event a success! Join us next year, as I am sure Palm Bay Fire Rescue will be coming for redemption, and Palm Bay PD will be all out defending their bragging rights.
Join me in congratulating Goff Orthodontics on becoming the third quarter Mayor's Business Spotlight Program winner for 2024! Goff Orthodontics, located at 580 Malabar Road, Suite 1A, has been a family-owned and operated business in Palm Bay since 2011. This husband-wife duo team offers double the expertise and double the care through their comprehensive orthodontic treatment for all Brevard County residents. Drs. Lauren and Romia Goff are your hometown "Smile Engineers" who are dedicated to delivering their two primary objectives: providing exceptional patient experiences and making orthodontic treatment affordable to the community. Aside from providing superior care in the office, they are actively involved in the community by supporting local charities, sponsoring athletic and performing arts programs, and providing monetary contributions to almost 30 public and private schools. They have a great reputation, and I'm truly honored they are the recipient this quarter!
I would like to congratulate Officer Lutz of the Palm Bay Police Department, who has been recognized by the Institute of Police Technology and Management as Florida's Drug Recognition Expert of the Year! This prestigious award is a testament to his dedication, expertise, and commitment to keeping our roads safe. Becoming a Drug Recognition Expert is no small feat. It requires countless hours of training, continuous education, and an exceptional ability to identify and evaluate impaired drivers. Officer Lutz has gone above and beyond, demonstrating not only his mastery of these skills but also his passion for ensuring the safety of our community.
On August 4, we proudly celebrate the United States Coast Guard's birthday, honoring over two centuries of dedicated service and unwavering commitment to safeguarding our nation's maritime interests. Established in 1790 by Alexander Hamilton, the Coast Guard has evolved from its early role in enforcing tariffs and combating smuggling into a multifaceted force that excels in search and rescue operations, environmental protection, and homeland security. As the world's premier maritime service, the Coast Guard's brave men and women tirelessly patrol our shores and beyond, embodying the motto "Semper Paratus" – Always Ready. Today, we pay tribute to their courage, resilience, and the vital role they play in ensuring our waters remain safe and secure. Happy Birthday, United States Coast Guard! #OOHRAAH
On August 7, the Planning and Zoning Board will hear the proposed amendments to the City's Land Development Code, followed by public hearings at the August 8 Special Council Meeting. Upon Council adoption of the first reading, the proposed amendments will require transmittal and review by the Florida Department of Commerce, which has 30 days to review. Council will have a second and final reading on September 19. Once adopted, any new applications for the development of land within the City will adhere to the latest Land Development Code.
The first day of school is right around the corner, and I would like to wish all our Palm Bay students a safe and happy school year! Drivers, be cautious and watch for kids riding their bikes and walking to school.
August 20, Primary Election Day, is approaching quickly, and your voice matters more than ever! A reminder that voters must vote in their precinct specific polling location, and voted mail ballots must be received in the Supervisor of Elections Office by 7:00 PM. Visit VoteBrevard.gov for more information. Voting is a fundamental right and a powerful way to participate in our democracy; get out and vote, Palm Bay!
As you all know, the City is working to replace and enhance Sacrifice Park, a memorial dedicated to honoring first responders who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the Palm Bay and Brevard County communities. On August 22 at 9:00 AM, the City of Palm Bay will hold a ceremony to remove the existing plaques of our fallen heroes. These plaques will be turned over to the respective agencies. Representatives from Brevard County Sherriff's Office, Florida Highway Patrol, Titusville, Satellite, Cocoa Beach, and Melbourne Police Departments will be in attendance to receive the plaques. New plaques will be placed on the new memorial once it is completed.
City Council will hold a Council Workshop on August 22, during which the Community & Economic Development Department will present an update on economic development in the City of Palm Bay. The presentation will include an update of programs and initiatives of the Economic Development Division as well as additional programs and initiatives for consideration by City Council.
I would like to take a minute to honor the service of a former City of Palm Bay employee, Keely Leggett. Keely was the epitome of hard work and dedication. Her exceptional work ethic was evident in every project she undertook, from starting in Utilities as a Marketing Specialist to leaving Palm Bay as the City's Public Information Officer. Keely faithfully served the City of Palm Bay for eight years. After her time at Palm Bay, she became the Public Information Officer for the Melbourne Orlando International Airport and was recently hired as the Press Secretary for the City of Orlando, working directly for Mayor Buddy Dyer. Her contributions to the City of Palm Bay during her time here were immeasurable, and she will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Last but certainly not least, August 30 is a very special day, and I would like to wish my beautiful wife a happy birthday! Thank you for being a beacon of positivity and strength. Your presence lights up every room. Wishing you a day filled with joy, laughter, and all the happiness you deserve. Enjoy your special day. Happy Birthday, Lissette!
