From the Commissioner’s Desk

Dear Friends,

I hope you all had a beautiful Christmas and a very Happy New Year. December is a time for celebration, but as we welcome January, our focus naturally shifts to momentum. A new year brings new opportunities - and a chance to reset. I’m excited to share that we’ve already hit the ground running, with meaningful accomplishments that directly improve the quality of life for our residents and strengthen our community. The Glades & Commerce Centre streetlight is finally up and close to completion. This project enhances safety for our residents at a historically dangerous intersection. Animal Control has implemented a true 24/7 response model. This service strengthens public safety while reflecting our compassion and responsibility as a community. Indian River Estates sign project - The new signage will provide improved navigation and overall aesthetics. With over 500 signs needing replacement, it was a much-needed and deserving facelift for the neighborhood. Budget in January? Say it isn’t so! Did you know that a handful of our Citizens Budget Committee members have begun reviewing each department’s capital, operating, and personnel budgets line by line this budget cycle? And they’re not just doing it from a conference room - they are boots on the ground visiting sites, looking at equipment and structures, speaking directly with directors and support members. This hands-on approach allows them to report their findings and recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners. I am excited to see this level of engagement in our budget process occurring within our organization, and I am especially proud of how our team has embraced and welcomed this level of scrutiny.

‘Strong communities don’t just happen; they’re built by people who care’

Data Center Facts

We have reached out to the Loudoun County, VA, administrator and have a tentative plan for two commissioners to visit ahead of making any decisions on this project. At this time, there is NO DATE CERTAIN for when we may hear this item as the applicant is continuing to refine their plan. I am continuing to do my research, but this may not pop back up until late summer or early fall.

The IRSC Promise Program

Brazilian Birthday Bash: A Night of Carnival

This fundraiser supporting IRSC’s promise program brought out some true rockstars from across the community to compete for the coveted title of Carnival Dance-Off Celebrity Judge. Yours truly managed to raise the most money to earn the coveted celebrity judge spot. This high-energy celebration directly supported the promise program, which provides local students with two years of tuition-free college, opening doors, creating opportunities, and changing lives right here in our community.

 

 

 

 

Public Works Update

 

Thank you, residents, for your patience with this project.

Thank You, Pete Tesch

Not often do I get to combine a shoutout to an employee of the month and have the honor of roasting them at the same time. It was a pleasure to speak at the roast in honor of Pete Tesch as he steps back from his role as president of the EDC. There are many good things ahead for you, Pete! Thank you for all you’ve done—and all you’ll continue to do—for St. Lucie County.

Pete Tesch joined St. Lucie County’s Economic Development Council (EDC) in 2014. He served as the nonprofit public–private organization’s president through 2025 and will continue working with the EDC as a senior advisor for strategic initiatives beginning in January. The EDC is funded through investments from private businesses, St. Lucie County, the City of Port St. Lucie, and the City of Fort Pierce, and is the county’s designated economic development organization. Under Tesch’s leadership from 2017 to 2024, as the county emerged from the Great Recession, the EDC supported 85 business expansions and relocations totaling 16.5 million square feet of new development, helped create 12,935 projected new jobs, and retained 6,743 existing jobs. More than $1.87 billion in capital investment and $4.36 billion in economic output were added to the county’s economy, representing approximately 17% of the total St. Lucie County economy. The EDC received an Excellence in Economic Development Award from the International Economic Development Council in 2022.

 

 

 

 

 

Christmas Shenanigans!!

Parade Fun!!! Sights & Sounds on 2nd Street

 

 

 

 

The Reason for the Season!!

 

 

 

9th Annual Battle of the Bags Cornhole Tournament

I was happy to play for Team Freedom alongside Angel Robertson, Congressman Mast’s Outreach Coordinator, in support of Habitat for Humanity. With over 60 teams competing, we made it to the final seven—and we’re ready to bring it next year!

 

 

 

 

 

Treasure Coast School for Autism

I was honored to attend the groundbreaking of the new Treasure Coast School for Autism facility on Darwin Blvd, set to open for the 2026–27 school year. At full buildout, the campus will serve students from pre-K through 12th grade and will include a transition program, Project Next, for young adults ages 18–22 focused on vocational training and independent living skills.

 

 

 

Pawsitive Spotlight!!

Sable is a 1-year-old Shepherd mix who came to Animal Safety as a stray on October 15th. We believe she had previously been at our facility and was reclaimed by her owners, but unfortunately, their phone numbers are now disconnected, and they have not returned for her. Sable is a very smart, eager-to-please girl who will thrive with someone committed to consistent training. She loves car rides, absolutely adores her treats, and enjoys learning new things. Like many young dogs, crate training is recommended until she learns the rules of her new home. Sable is ready for a fresh start with a loving, patient family who can help her reach her full potential.