From the Commissioner’s Desk

Dear Friends,

I hope everyone has managed to weather Florida’s recent rollercoaster conditions. It’s not often we experience three seasons in a single day, but that certainly seems to have been the case lately. Hang in there — our brown, crispy grass and plants will be green again before we know it. And remember, it could always be worse… we could be up north! I’m happy to share that we have officially moved into Phase 2 of the St. Lucie Gardens project. This long-anticipated step will help improve the overall watershed. The County plans to implement drainage improvements along Tilton Road and Silver Oak Drive, including the design and permitting of an enhanced stormwater collection and conveyance system within the existing County roadway right-of-way.

Veterans Shelter Update

 

St. Lucie County entered into a Contract for Sale and Purchase on April 23, 2024, to acquire the property located at 3455 U.S. Highway 1 in Fort Pierce for conversion into a Veterans Homeless Shelter. The County closed on the purchase on June 20, 2024, at a negotiated price of $1,150,000. The project received a state legislative appropriation of $875,000 through a funding agreement with the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs to support acquisition of the building. An additional $125,000 has been invested in architectural design, permitting, and construction administration services. In February 2026, the Board approved the award of Bid No. 25-076 to FSV Construction Company in the amount of $817,259.56 for renovation of the facility. Total committed project costs to date are approximately $2,092,259.56, inclusive of acquisition, design, and construction. The next step is execution of the construction contract and issuance of the notice to proceed. The approved bid includes a 120-day construction period. We anticipate issuing the notice to proceed in March, which would place estimated completion around July 2026, assuming no unforeseen delays.

Shadow the Commissioner

Laurissa Prochette a Port St. Lucie High School sophomore joined us for a day of shadowing. We love when students show interest in county government at a young age.

Jennifer Avellaneda Vega and Dayanara Morrison, seniors at Treasure Coast High School, returned for another visit to District 4. Dayanara has committed to University of Central Florida, where she will major in History. Jennifer will attend Indian River State College to pursue her Associate of Arts degree in Political Science.

Tessa Toman, a homeschooled senior and 4-H member, joined us for a day with the Commissioner. She is dual enrolled at Southeastern University, where she is earning her AS in Project Management. She plans to continue her education there to pursue a Bachelor’s in Political Science.

 

 

 

 

 

Black History Month Turns 100

St. Lucie County takes a moment to honor Black History Month

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pawsitive Spotlight!!

 

Meet Finn and Milo — two fun-loving, one year-old brothers who had a very rough start in life. In mid-October 2025, they were rescued by the Animal Safety Division from severely neglectful conditions. They had been living in a home with rotting floors, widespread black mold, collapsing ceilings, and overall unsanitary conditions. When found, they were covered in fleas, urine, and feces. Severely underweight at just 36 and 22 pounds, their ribs and hip bones were clearly visible. Fast forward to today, and their transformation is remarkable. Each has gained about 10 pounds and is now healthy, strong, and happily a little plump. Finn and Milo are full of life and ready for loving forever families who will give them the care, safety, and affection they have always deserved.

St. Lucie County Longevity Awards

 

It is my pleasure to recognize the many dedicated employees of St. Lucie County who have devoted years of service to our community. We recently had the honor of celebrating nearly 100 team members whose service ranges from 5 to 40 years. While I would love to recognize each individual by name, I would especially like to give a heartfelt shoutout to those who have served 25 years or more with St. Lucie County. Thank you for your commitment, professionalism, and lasting impact on our community — you are truly appreciated.

25 Years of Service · Eduardo Almodovar · Scotty Beaulieu · Sandra Bogan · Jason Dare · Christopher Gamble · Charlotte LaChance · Maegan Leslie · Brion Pauley

30 Years of Service · Desiree Cimino · Elisabeth Hoffman · Beverly Williams

35 Years of Service · Derek Moore

40 Years of Service · Randall Young

Palmetto Pavillion

I was honored to share a few words at the grand opening of the new Palmetto Pavilion at Oxbow Eco-Center—a beautiful outdoor learning space designed to connect visitors of all ages with nature. It was a wonderful day exploring the trails, discovering small creatures, and potting mangroves to support future habitat restoration efforts.

 

 

 

 

Play Ball!!!

I was honored to be a part of the groundbreaking ceremony for the Mets Player Development Complex.

 

 

 

Opening Day!!

Opening Day is always special in St. Lucie County, but this year was even more memorable. I was so proud to have my favorite little guy, Easton, throw out the first pitch! The day was filled with patriotism, camaraderie, and a true sense of community.