For more details- check the achievements page!
Our Neighborhoods and Community
We’ve tackled long-standing issues. From finally enforcing the 60-day minimum stay on short-term rentals and approving the Gulfstream Hotel’s redevelopment to supporting homeless women and ending developer handouts. In addition, we’ve made significant strides in affordable housing and strategic growth, all while preserving the unique character of our neighborhoods.
Renewable Energy and Utilities for the Future
I voted against the substantial rate increase and actively advocated for reducing rates as soon as feasible. I also played a crucial role in establishing a $3 million Rate Stabilization Fund to protect against future escalating fuel costs. As part of the last budget, I voted to revive the lineman apprenticeship program, enhancing our community’s workforce development and continuing to protect our lineworkers union. Additionally, we removed the cap on the number of homes that can install rooftop solar. Recently, the EU won $23 million in federal funding. This significant grant aligns with our pledge to attain carbon neutrality by 2045.
Flood and Hurricane Protection
We are upgrading stormwater infrastructure in Parrot Cove, Eden Place and Northeast LWB. To do so, we’ve secured significant grants to help finance these improvements. Additionally, we’ve updated the standards for hurricane-proof windows for homes in historic neighborhoods.
Public Safety and Community Well-being
A key priority of mine is using federal funding to create a mobile response team of social workers and emergency medical personnel who can respond to non-criminal emergencies. Instead of relying on PBSO to handle these calls, this will free up officers to focus on critical law enforcement duties. Furthermore, in collaboration with PB County, I’m proud to have brought The Recovery Hub to our city, providing vital support for those in recovery.
Likewise, we’ve improved quality of life by working with PBSO to streamline the process for noise complaints and remove abandoned vessels from our waterways.
Our Beachfront Property
I am committed to keeping our beachfront public and will fight against any attempt to privatize it. Our beach belongs to everyone. I’m also committed to making sure the beachfront is managed prudently. To this end, we successfully renegotiated the lease for Benny’s on the Beach, aligning its rates with our other beachfront businesses and enhanced its value by $1.3 million. A much better deal for our city! Also, we’re relocating the lifeguards out of the top floor of the casino, opening it up to new business opportunities.
Investment in Our Parks
We’ve approved $25,000 for trees in Bryant Park, prioritizing shade trees throughout and have allocated $150,000 to revitalize Spillway Park. We’re working hard to secure state and federal funding to enhance our parks and public spaces, ensuring that we can keep beautifying our city.