City Manager’s Bi-Weekly Report Aug. 20, 2021 • Vol. 5 • Issue 15 City Officials
The City is led by a five-member elected Council, which sets policy and determines the long- term vision for the City. The Council appoints a City Manager to handle the daily business affairs, and a City Attorney to provide legal advice. This system is called a Council-Manager form of local government. Each Council member has one vote, including the Mayor, so legislative authority is equally spread among all five members.
Dates set for special election for Port St. Lucie mayoral seat Vice Mayor, City voters will elect Port St. Lucie’s next District 3 mayor during a special election with a Councilwoman primary to be held Sept. 21 and a general election on Dec. 7, according to a resolution approved by the City Council on June 14. Read More Shannon M. Martin
District 1 District 2 Councilwoman Councilman
Stephanie Morgan David Pickett
District 4 City Manager Councilwoman
Jolien Caraballo Russ Blackburn
P. 2 WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/COUNCIL Table of Contents
Port St. Lucie is a safe, beautiful and prosperous City for all people – your hometown.
02 City Officials “04 Strategic Goals 05 Coming Up 06 Highlight of the Week ON THE COVER 08 Strategic Plan Highlight The City recognized local first responders and City staff who 10 Half-Cent Sales Tax Projects contributed to saving the life of a construction worker at the City 12 1PSL System Council meeting on Aug. 9, 2021
14 Building Department
15 Business Tax Division
16 Communications Department
18 Community Redevelopment SUBSCRIBE TODAY 20 Emergency Management CITYOFPSL.COM/BIWEEKLY
21 Human Resources Department Receive regular updates of the City Manager’s Bi-Weekly Report, a digital 22 MIDFLORIDA Event Center publication released every two weeks, highlighting the City of Port St. Lucie’s 25 Neighborhood Services Department latest news, events and projects.
27 Parks & Recreation Department
29 The Saints Golf Course
30 Planning & Zoning Department
31 Police Department QUESTIONS? 39 Public Works Department Email the Communications 40 Keep Port St. Lucie Beautiful Department with questions or comments about this publication at 42 Utility Systems Department [email protected].
43 Feature Story
TABLE OF CONTENTS P. 3 Strategic Goals
The City’s Strategic Plan is the guiding document that the City Council and staff use to fulfill a strategic vision to be a safe, beautiful and prosperous City for all people. The entire organization is focused on carrying out the strategic plan, which is updated every year based on citizen input through the annual Citizen Survey and Citizen Summit.
Safe, Clean & Beautiful
Vibrant Neighborhoods An essential part of bringing the plan to life is measuring performance through objective indicators and reporting those results back to citizens. Quality Education for All Residents
In the City Manager’s Bi-Weekly Report, we will highlight projects specifically prioritized Diverse Economy & Employment in the strategic plan that have Opportunities achieved milestones, or where changes have occurred in our effort to remain transparent and proactive. High Quality Infrastructure & Facilities
In addition, strategic plan “badges” will indicate the strategic goal that each project, Culture, Nature & Fun Activities program or event advances, as everything that we do at the City of Port St. Lucie aligns with our Strategic Plan. High-Performing City Government Organization
P. 4 WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/STRATEGICPLAN Coming Up Aug. 25– Sept. 4, 2021
Aug. 25 Healthy Cooking 101, Community Center
Aug. 26 Vaccine Clinic, Somerset College Preparatory Academy
Aug. 26 Conflict Assessment Meeting, City Hall
Aug. 26 NICE: Simple Crime Prevention Techniques, Virtual Workshop
Aug. 27 Coffee with the Vice Mayor, City Hall, In-Person and Virtual CALENDAR
Aug. 31 See all upcoming events at: International Overdose Awareness Day, Pioneer Park at The Port www.cityofpsl.com/calendar. Aug. 31 Talent Show Audition deadline
Sept. 1 Healthy Cooking 101, Community Center
Sept. 1 Healthy U: Stress Management, Community Center, In-Person and Virtual
Sept. 1 City University Class No. 11, Session No. 1, City Hall
Sept. 4 Community Garage Sale, Minsky Gym
WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/CALENDAR P. 5 Highlight of the Week High-Performing City Government Organization
ITEMS NOT ACCEPTED AT THESE SITES • Materials from commercial waste haulers and contractors • Tree limbs exceeding 6 inches in diameter or root balls exceeding 50 pounds • Land clearing debris • Bagged household garbage • Hazardous materials such as fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, sharps/needles, gasoline and oil, spray paint, stains, thinners, solvents, biological waste and radioactive waste, including smoke alarms/detectors • Automotive, boat, RV or trailer parts • Engines • Any gas-powered equipment that must have the fuel drained PUBLIC WORKS COMPLEX • Propane, acetylene and helium Public Works Complex, behind the green, fenced-in area, just west of Florida’s tanks Turnpike overpass at the corner of Cameo Boulevard and Crosstown Parkway. • Oil paint (Latex must have lids off and paint dry/hardened.) Four temporary drop-off sites now available for bulky and yard waste disposal MARK YOUR CALENDAR The City’s next Household Hazardous To ease the waste accumulation and to Bulky waste are items such as boxes, Waste drop-off event is Oct. 23, 2021. provide residents with another option barrels, crates, furniture, mattresses, other than waiting for service, the wood, exercise equipment, swing City of Port St. Lucie and Waste Pro sets and basketball goals (broken established four self-serve drop-off down), refrigerators, stoves and other sites. These free, bulky and yard waste household appliances. drop-off collection sites are available to Port St. Lucie residents, six days a Yard waste is vegetative matter week, Monday-Saturday, from 8 a.m. resulting from yard and landscaping to 4 p.m., until further notice. maintenance and includes, but is not limited to, shrub and tree trimmings, “We appreciate our residents who can grass clippings, palm fronds, branches use the drop-off sites,” said Michael and bulky yard waste. When disposing Hahn, Solid Waste Manager for the City of yard waste, cut tree limbs and of Port St. Lucie. “We understand this branches to a manageable size, not is a temporary solution, but if you can exceeding 4 feet, excluding palm get your bulky and yard waste to these fronds. locations, we’ll dispose of it. Together we can keep Port St. Lucie beautiful.”
P. 6 HIGHLIGHTS SPORTSMAN'S PARK Sportsman's Park parking loop, 201 NW Prima Vista Blvd., Port St. Lucie, FL 34983.
WHISPERING PINES PARK Whispering Pines Park’s back parking lot, 800 SW Darwin Blvd., Port St. Lucie, FL 34953.
MIDFLORIDA EVENT CENTER Community Gardens, 2600 SE Waterview Drive, Port St. Lucie, FL 34952.
HIGHLIGHTS P. 7 Strategic Plan Highlight
Track our progress on the new Strategic Plan High-Performing City Government & Performance Dashboard Organization Serving our residents as a High WHY IT MATTERS Performing City Government Why the Strategic Goal matters and Organization is a key goal in the City’s how citizen input has impacted the Strategic Plan. goal.
This week, in an effort to improve WHAT WE ARE DOING ABOUT IT our performance through improved Updates on all of the Strategic Goals, communication, the City launched a Strategic Initiatives and Priority new tool for officials and residents Projects (including timelines) that help to better understand and track the address each goal. progress of Port St. Lucie’s citizen- driven strategic plan. HOW WE ARE DOING
The new Strategic Plan & Performance Key performance indicators for each of our strategic goals, including graphs Dashboard (www.cityofpsl.com/ and data from The National Community strategicplan) communicates the SurveyTM of our residents. impact of the Strategic Plan. HOW RESIDENTS CAN HELP The dashboard includes a community profile and is organized by the City’s Ways our residents can support the strategic plan goals by getting more seven Strategic Goals and as follows: involved in various programs and learning more.
P. 8 STRATEGIC PLAN HIGHLIGHT The City of Port St. Lucie has a well- For the past two years, the City has The Strategic Plan & Performance defined strategic planning process been the recipient of “The Voice of Dashboard was developed by the that is updated every year based on the People Awards,” the only awards Strategic Initiatives Team in the citizen input. The City’s Strategic Plan given in local government based on City Manager’s Office, including (www.cityofpsl.com/strategicplan) is the opinion of community residents, the dashboard’s project manager, the City’s roadmap to the future and presented annually by the National Salome Angrand, with support from guiding document for City staff to Research Center (NRC) at Polco Sabrina McLeod, Patricia D’Abate from follow in prioritizing initiatives. and the International City / County Communications and Kate Parmelee on Management Association (ICMA). the mySidewalk platform. The strategic planning process includes the annual National Community Award-winning communities embody Survey™, a statistically valid survey the spirit of The National Community of Port St. Lucie residents, a tried- Survey™ (The NCS™) and display and-trusted community survey commitment to best practices in that provides a comprehensive moving their communities forward. and accurate picture of resident perspectives on local government This new tool is part of our ongoing services, policies and management. efforts to continue to move forward and engage our residents in shaping Results from the surveys have been the future of their City. utilized by the Council over the years in setting several strategic priorities, including selecting the projects that will be paid for with a half-cent sales tax, the creation of the We Love Lucie Concert Series, the creation of a Multi- Modal transportation plan and the prioritization of parks projects.
WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/STRATEGICPLAN P. 9 High Quality Infrastructure Half-Cent Sales Tax & Facilities
ST. LUCIE WEST BOULEVARD INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS Construction starts in FY 25/26 for California Boulevard.
California Boulevard widening from St. Lucie West Boulevard to Crosstown Parkway. Construction starts in FY 25/26.
SIDEWALKS Fairgreen Crossings Neighborhood (Import, Galiano, Cadima and Fairgreen): Construction underway.
Sandia Drive (Thornhill to Crosspoint): Construction is underway.
REPAVING Gatlin Boulevard: Repaving starts in FY 26/27.
TRAFFIC SIGNAL COORDINATION ALONG PORT ST. LUCIE BOULEVARD Adaptive Traffic Signal Implementation along Port St. Lucie Boulevard was planned to start in FY 27/28. The City has now identified this project as one to be expedited utilizing upcoming bond proceeds. Implementation will now be completed in FY21/22.
LANDSCAPING & BEAUTIFICATION U.S. 1 landscaping and beautification is planned to start in April 2022. This will follow the completion of FDOT’s resurfacing and safety improvement project that is currently ongoing.
ST. LUCIE NORTH (SALES TAX) ST. LUCIE NORTH (NORTH) (TENTATIVE START WEEK OF AUG. 16, 2021) (TENTATIVE START WEEK OF AUG. 30, 2021)
NW Rodin Court NW Rugby Drive to End NW Monoco Court NW Milner Drive to End
NW Agnon Court NW Rugby Drive to End NW Perez Court NW Monoco Court to End
NW Molton Circle NW Rugby Road to NW Milner Drive NW Buena Court NW Monoco Court to End
NW Alter Court NW Rugby Drive to End NW Acmar Court NW Monoco Court to End
NW Pomona Court NW Milner Drive to End NW Pinson Court NW Mayfield Lane to End
NW Downy Court NW Molton Court to End NW Mamie Court NW Mayfield Lane to End
NW Rugby Drive NW Milner Drive to NW Selvitz Road NW Bengal Street NW Milner Drive to NW Mayfield Lane
NW Regal Circle NW Rugby Drive to NW Rugby Drive NW Craft Court NW Milner Drive to End
NW Nekoma Street NW Milner Drive to NW Rugby Drive NW Rasp Court NW Lamoore Lane to End
NW Primm Street NW Regal Circle to NW Regal Circle NW Omega Road NW Milner Drive to NW Milner Drive
NW Cosmo Court NW Nekoma Street to End NW Mayfield Lane NW Omega Road to NW Omega Road
NW Taper Court NW. Nekoma Street to End NW Lamoore Lane NW Bengal Street to NW Omega Road
NW Polly Court NW Nekoma Street to End NW Milner Drive NW Midway Road to NW Rugby Drive
NW Milner Drive NW Rugby Drive to NW Selvitz Road NW Torch Court NW Omega Road to End
P. 10 WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/SALESTAX Floresta Drive Improvements
SOUTHBEND BOULEVARD TO ELKCAM WATERWAY ELKCAM WATERWAY TO PRIMA VISTA BOULEVARD (SEGMENT 1): CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES (SEGMENTS 2 AND 3) PROGRESS UPDATE • Design is underway. Segments 2 & 3 have been combined • The contractor is working to complete drainage activities. and are being designed together. The final plan submittal is slightly delayed to address comments received during • The contractor paved the temporary roadway and shifted the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) traffic to the east, north of Port St. Lucie Boulevard; and permitting process. west, south of Port St. Lucie Boulevard. • A letter was sent to residents along the Phase 2 and Phase • The speed limit was reduced to 25 mph in the 3 corridor introducing the upcoming project and asking construction zone. for resident contact information to keep them updated • Periodic lane closures will take place along Floresta Drive. as the project moves forward. Meetings and outreach Please use caution driving through the work zone. Lane to residents will continue as the project moves closer to closures will not be permitted from 6:30-9 a.m. and 4-7 construction. p.m. Monday through Friday or on the weekends. • A meeting took place on April 22 with residents near the • Side streets, including Portage Avenue, Essex Drive, Penn SE Thornhill Drive and on April 28 with residents near Avenue, Academy Lane and Chapman Avenue, will have Harborview Drive stormwater retention areas to give the temporary closures as the contractor installs pipe across residents the opportunity to view the pond area designs the roadway during daytime hours. and ask questions. Subsequent information has been provided to those neighboring residents addressing their • The contractor will have closures on Thanksgiving Avenue questions and concerns raised during the meetings. at Floresta Drive for necessary roadway activities and construction of the roundabout. • The contractor has been pouring sidewalk and curb throughout the project. • Work on resident driveways has resumed as final concrete is being poured in some areas. • Upcoming work anticipated on Port St. Lucie Boulevard to install mast arms.
UPCOMING CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES • Sidewalk, curb and gutter • Roadway construction • Installing mast arms at Port St. Lucie Boulevard • Installing and setting light fixtures • Roundabout construction on Thanksgiving Avenue • Finalize Pond 1 area near Essex Drive with landscaping and irrigation • Work in Pond 2 area, including wall installation • Paving parts of Floresta Drive and preparing to shift traffic the other side of the roadway
WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/FLORESTA P. 11 High-Performing 1PSL System Government Organization
What is 1PSL?
1PSL is your 24/7 City Hall. This all-in-one system allows residents to connect with the City either via mobile app, phone or web portal. Residents can use 1PSL to request services, ask questions, pay bills, learn about City news and upcoming events, pinpoint an issue location with GPS, attach a photo with your comments, and receive status updates and resolution notifications.
CALL 772-871-1PSL DOWNLOAD APP WEB PORTAL Call a 1PSL Navigator 24/7. The 1PSL mobile app is available Residents can use 1PSL After hours calls are answered on the Apple App Store and without downloading the by Police Service Aides. For all Google Play Store. mobile app by visiting the emergencies, call 911. 1PSL Web Portal.
Top 10 Requests: Past Two Weeks 45 41 40
35 31 30
25
20 19 17 16 15 13 13 11 10 10 8 7 6 6 4 4 5 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
1 - Open 2 - In Progress 3 - Closed 4 - On Hold
P. 12 WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/1PSL Top 10 Requests - Year to Date 450
400 386
350
300 259 250 235 235 204 195 200 184 161
150 126
93 96 100 58 50 14 0 0 2 4 0 0 0 0 3 6 2 2 0 3 7 0 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0
1 - Open 2 - In Progress 3 - Closed 4 - On Hold
Call Totals 1800
1600 1546 1472
1371 1400 1326 1331 1289 1262 1241 1205 1210 1178 1170 1183 1203 1180 1154 1152 1156 1164 1155 1200 1181 1137 1123 1086 1097 1089 1109 1161 1073 1058 1047 1143 1154 1149 1012 1126 1112 1084 1072 1103 1000 937 1050 1058 897 921 1007 1011 999 858 998 1010 968 987 818 847 797 816 791 925 769 765 755 762786 780 800 727 742 729 819 813 786 754 756 788 742 704 713 715 692 672 600 568 591 520 400 410
200
0
WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/1PSL P. 13 Diverse Economy & Employment Building Department Opportunities
Highlights Testimonials
• The Building Department sent a team to the City of Palm “Everyone in the building department was extremely courteous and Bay on Aug. 5 to begin training on Best Practices for Building helpful. From the application process to the final inspection, any Department Recognition from the International Accreditation questions I had were answered by knowledgeable and friendly staff.” Service (IAS). “I have always been impressed with the PSL building department. • The Building Department provided training for the City of Fence permits are issued fast and questions and/or problems are taken Sebastian on master permitting for single-family homes. care of promptly.” • The Building Department participated in the TCBA Builders Showcase on Aug. 20 from 10 a.m. to noon at the MIDFLORIDA “Courteous, professional, with well-trained customer care attitude Event Center. with each staff member I spoke with. I am a homeowner, that paid for the permits and supervised the work. Your team was very helpful and • A mechanical contractor stakeholder meeting was Aug. 9. understanding of what forms were needed and the required proof for • The next stakeholder meeting will be Sept. 13 with electrical completion. I was delighted during both of my visits. I’ll be back as the contractors. building team was so helpful.”
• The inspections division obtained a customer service rating of 9.49 for July.
Building Activities
ACTIVITY: JULY 30-AUG. 12, 2021 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 Permits Issued 2,783 3,226 52,355 41,504 39,899 32,020 Single-Family Permits Issued 253 214 3,592 2,722 2,200 1,518 Certificates of Occupancy Issued (SFR) 109 158 2,893 2,711 1,824 1,382 Number of Inspections Completed 7,152 7,615 155,421 137, 3 02 115,073 84,510 Number of Plans Reviewed 884 1,013 19,150 13,978 13,559 10,352 Number of Permits Applied for Online 1,917 2,251 26,855 18,395 13,421 8,346
COMMERCIAL CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY COMMERCIAL PERMITS
• 7-Eleven, 5401 NW St. James Drive: New building • Publix, 1333 NW St. Lucie West Blvd.: Interior renovation • Renaissance Charter School, 10970 SW Tradition Parkway: New building • Charleys Cheesesteaks, 1367 SW Gatlin Blvd.: Interior • The Belmont at SLW Club House, 103 SW Peacock Blvd.: Interior renovation renovation
P. 14 WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/BUILDING High-Performing Diverse Economy City Government & Employment Business Tax Division Organization Opportunities
PORT ST. LUCIE’S
The 2021 Home-Based CALLING ALL Business Showcase will CITY OF PORT ST. LUCIE provide a venue for local HOME-BASED VENDORS! businesses to display and The showcase will feature more sell their products and than 30 local businesses! meet potential customers. Are you a home-based business owner looking to make valuable business connections?
Interested in getting new market leads? Vendor registration has started; reserve your spot today for $25. Sign-ups received between Sept. 11 to Oct. 8, 2021, will pay $35. Reserve your exhibitor booth today at www.cityofpsl.com/businesstax
THURSDAY, OCT. 14, 2021 • 2-7 P.M. MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION EVENT CENTER, Admission is FREE and open to the public. 9221 SE EVENT CENTER PLACE Free prizes, food, PORT ST. LUCIE, FLORIDA 34952 music and more!
CONTACT
Yvonne Grayson City of Port St. Lucie Business Tax Division 772-344-4356 [email protected]
WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/BUSINESSTAX P. 15 High Performing Communications City Government Department Organization
Departments work together to plan Becker Road rescue ceremony
City Council on Aug. 9 recognized Manager’s Office to plan a special Fire District Chief Nate Spera; Danny local first responders and City ceremony. Maureen Kenyon, Shane Segui, deputy director of the Utility employees who helped save the life of Ratliff and Jenny Tomes contacted the Systems Department; Heath Stocton, a construction worker in early July who local agencies and City employees interim director of Public Works; and was trapped in mud and water inside a involved that day and invited them to Port St. Lucie Police Chief John Bolduc 30-foot hole. the ceremony. also shared their appreciation for everyone’s efforts that day. The worker was extricated in two Communications designed certificates hours through a coordinated effort for all 73 people involved in the Watch the ceremony. between the St. Lucie County Fire rescue and presented each agency District, Martin County Fire Rescue, with a plaque honoring them for their the Port St. Lucie Police Department bravery, experience, training and and the City’s Utility Systems and communications skills in preventing Public Works departments. a potential tragedy. Communications also created a short video of photos The City wanted to honor everyone from the scene and the 911 call from involved in the life-saving mission, Colleen Jacobsen, Utility Systems so Communications, Emergency Department project manager, which Management and the Utility Systems was provided by St. Lucie County Fire Department worked with the City District.
P. 16 WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/NEWS Communications documents dedication ceremony for Donald B. Cooper Municipal Complex
Communications was on hand Aug. 17 to document the dedication ceremony for the Donald B. Cooper Municipal Complex.
Digital Video Producer Ben Elliott conducted interviews and recorded b-roll for an upcoming video; Digital Media Production Coordinator Avi Monina shot photographs; and Social Media Coordinator Maureen Kenyon shared photos and video of the event live to Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
The complex was dedicated in honor of former City Manager Donald B. Cooper, who served the City and its residents for two decades.
PSLinLights wins Award of Distinction from Florida Public Relations Association
Communications Director Sarah Prohaska, who serves as president of the Treasure Coast chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association until September, attended the 82nd annual FPRA conference Aug. 8-11 in Orlando and was honored to accept an award on behalf of the Communications Department.
PSLinLights, the City’s annual holiday lights decorating contest, which is open to all City residents, was honored with an Award of Distinction, winning the Virtual Special Event category of FPRA’s Golden Image Awards.
For more information about PSLinLights, visit www.cityofpsl.com/pslinlights. For more information about the Treasure Coast chapter of FPRA, visit www. fpratreasurecoast.com
WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/NEWS P. 17 Safe, Clean Community Redevelopment & Beautiful
The vision for Village Green
The Village Green Drive Corridor Residents, businesses and other and environmental features, including Revitalization Project is intended to stakeholders joined in creating the utilities and the built environment. kick-start eastern Port St. Lucie’s vision for a more people-friendly Thanks to the community members long-awaited renaissance and vision corridor. We began with a walking and business owners who participated for a revitalized gathering place. tour of the area last October, followed as well as the staff of the City of We imagined an area that would be by two virtual public meetings. Port St. Lucie, the final concept was a “complete street,” a place where We conducted public surveys and presented to and adopted by the City people could walk and bike to shops, performed door-to-door canvassing Council on July 26. The complete where bus stops and street crossings of businesses along the corridor. A Village Green Drive Master Plan is now would be safe, where air and water presentation was made to City Council available to the public on our website would be cleaner through sustainable in November, providing the council www.cityofpsl.com/villagegreen. design and where economic growth with an update to the project. An in- would exist in tandem with livability for person open house was held within The next phase of the process residents. In short, it would become the guidelines of COVID-19 restrictions will be the design phase, which the heart of Port St. Lucie. during the City’s annual Citizen’s includes creating the documents for Summit in March. construction. We appreciate the past For the past year, we have reached involvement from our community and out to the community for ideas, Meanwhile, behind the scenes, staff urge you to continue to work with us suggestions, concerns and dreams conducted data collection and analysis, as we create a true sense of place for the Village Green Drive area. mapped the area for topographical along the Village Green Drive Corridor.
P. 18 WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/CRA WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/CRA P. 19 Safe, Clean Emergency Management & Beautiful
Hurricane tips: City water service
Avoid long lines to purchase water and save money by filling up containers with your tap water. Our water is treated by reverse osmosis and purified with minerals, like many bottled waters on the market.
Our water plants operate and deliver City continues water to your home at 60 to 80 psi. If distribution system pressure vaccination outreach drops below 20 psi during a storm, at St. Lucie Catholic Tropical Storm Fred a precautionary boil water notice is Tropical Storm Fred raced through issued. A drop in water pressure may Church the Atlantic Ocean heading towards be caused by a line break, equipment Florida the week of Aug. 11-16, finally failure or generator failure. The City of Port St Lucie’s Office of Emergency Management is working narrowing its path, downgrading to a tropical depression, then strengthening Staff makes every effort to reduce diligently to ensure our residents have to a tropical storm once again before the possibility of a drop in pressure. every opportunity to get the COVID-19 making landfall in Florida's Panhandle. However, if there is a drop in pressure vaccine as conveniently and safely as and a precautionary boil water notice possible. Port St. Lucie was in the five-day cone is issued, our water customers will be of uncertainty, but as Fred got closer, notified. The City has partnered with Dr. Mark Pamer, a local pulmonologist, to have the cone narrowed until eventually, Port St. Lucie was hundreds of miles Self-serve emergency water supply vaccination points of distribution outside of the cone. The Office of depots will be made available to (PODs) throughout the City on dates Emergency Management monitored residents who may not have access to and times announced on the City’s Fred’s progress from the time it water during a storm. webpage and social media channels. formed until it was well past the City. On Friday, Aug. 13, 75 people received a first dose of Pfizer or one-dose The Office of Emergency Management of Johnson & Johnson vaccines. In will continue to monitor storms just the past two weeks, we have throughout hurricane season and local vaccinated almost 200 people at our officials will keep residents informed vaccination PODs and plan to continue about any storms that could affect Port having PODs as long as there is St. Lucie. Stay safe and be prepared! demand.
At our Aug. 20 vaccine POD, 113 vaccines were administered, 38 of which were third doses for immuno- compromised residents
Hurricane Season June 1–Nov. 30 Are you ready? Visit, www.cityofpsl.com/hurricane
P. 20 WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/EM High Performing City Government Human Resources Organization
Welcome to the City!
Human Resources welcomes the following employees who have recently joined the City of Port St. Lucie family:
• Erik Engel, Senior Accountant, Financial Management Department
• Sabrina Fraga, Building Permit Specialist, Building Department
• Sebastian Poprawski, Deputy City Attorney, City Attorney’s Office
• Joe Costigan, Event & Service Coordinator, MIDFLORIDA Event Center
• Pablo Castillo, Crime Prevention Specialist, Police Department
• Kaley Hall, Part-Time Recreation Aid, MIDFLORIDA Event Center, Parks & Recreation Department
• Bonnie Landry, Planning Project Consultant, Planning & Zoning Department
• Caroline Sturgis, Budget Director, Financial Management Department
• Dylan Williams, Plant Operator Trainee, Utility Systems Department
HR Statistics
7/31 – 8/12 YTD 2021 COMPLETED TRAINING (AUG. 6–11) New Hires 13 176 • Aug. 6: PSL FORWARD Innovation Academy – 10 Total Applications Received 378 4,172 • Aug. 10: Workplace Violence / Active Shooter – 170 Job Requisitions Received 15 197 Jobs Posted 21 384 • Aug. 11: Payroll / Timekeeper – 28 Internal Promotions 3 62 UPCOMING TRAINING (AUG. 7–26)
Reclassifications 0 16 • Aug. 17: Effective Business Communications Personnel Change Forms Processed 53 1,221 • Aug. 24: Conquering Workplace Stress Total Training Attendees 10 18 • Aug. 25: Adapt-Ability in an Ever-Changing Environment Water Cooler Site Visits 2,964 71,080 Employee Benefits Site Visits 837 11,230 • Aug. 26: Healthy Lifestyles: The Best Life For You PSL Forward Training Site Visits 480 8,841 • Aug. 26: Legistar Essentials: Council Agenda Items
WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/CAREERS P. 21 Culture, Nature MIDFLORIDA Event Center & Fun Activities
Event attendance: 153,826 Events: 281
Upcoming Events
SEPT. 11 Remembrance ceremony
SEPT. 11-12 Spirit Fest – Metaphysical & Holistic Fair
Another great SEPT. 14 summer has come 567 Workshop: Taxes in and gone at the Retirement St. Lucie County EDC MIDFLORIDA Event Luncheon Center
Just in time for the new school year to begin, the staff at the MIDFLORIDA Event Center bid adieu to the wonderful group of campers who joined them for the Boys and Girls Clubs Summer Camp-A-Thon. We wish them a successful year ahead and look forward to their return next year!
“Thank you for everything you all have done for us! We will see you all next summer!” - Kristie Sargent, Boys and Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County
Welcome to the team, Joe!
The Event Center welcomed Joe Costigan to its staff this month as the new Event and Service Coordinator. In his role, he will be responsible for the successful operation of the box office and will also be assisting Treasure Coast Builders Showcase returns the Promotions Manager with event to the MIDFLORIDA Event Center marketing efforts. Joe, a long-time resident of Port St. Lucie, is no The Treasure Coast Builders Association held its annual Builders Showcase at the stranger to the Event Center. Over MIDFLORIDA Event Center on Friday, Aug. 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the years, he has attended several events with his family as well as with Similar to a mini trade show, this is a great event for associates and builder his previous employer Coast 101.3 FM. members to showcase their businesses. Keynote speaker Brad Hunter discussed the We are very excited for him to join our future of housing development on the Treasure Coast. team!
P. 22 WWW.MIDFLORIDAEVENTCENTER.COM Preparation is key to a successful school year
Hundreds of local families joined us at the third annual Christian FM Back- to-School Expo on Saturday, Aug. 7 in preparation for the first day of school in St. Lucie County. During this free event, parents could speak with local area schools, business owners and vendors, while kids enjoyed their final days of summer vacation.
The Back-to-School Expo featured many family-friendly activities, including bounce houses, a petting zoo, face painting, live entertainment, arts and crafts, free haircuts and the crowd favorite, touch-a-truck! And, of course, lots of tasty treats were available from some of the area’s best food trucks.
Several Event Center staff, including Director Linda McCarthy and Event Representative Patricia Harrison, had the pleasure to interact with the event-goers as they visited the MIDFLORIDA Event Center booth. The staff took this opportunity to promote upcoming events, encourage guests to sign up for the Event Center’s monthly newsletter and hand out customized MIDFLORIDA Event Center coloring books.
The staff couldn’t have asked for a better day! Stay on the lookout for future Christian FM events at the MIDFLORIDA Event Center! WWW.MIDFLORIDAEVENTCENTER.COM P. 23 The wait is almost over, Port St. Lucie!
The We Love Lucie Concert Series is returning to the MIDFLORIDA Event Center this fall, and staff are gearing up for the four incredible events featuring:
FOGHAT With some of the best blues-boogie- rock ever recorded, Foghat is kicking off the series with a performance Saturday, Oct. 9.
Formed in 1971, the band has since amassed eight gold records, one platinum and one double platinum record. The band continues today with as much energy as it had back "in the styles, manifested itself into a unique maker, becoming the first female in day!" Foghat scored hits with the songs musical hybrid via such barnburners country music history to celebrate "Slow Ride," "Fool for the City," a cover as “Tuff Enuff” and “Wrap It Up.” Co- three consecutive multi-week, chart- of "I Just Want to Make Love to You," founder Kim Wilson, the sole original topping songs. “Stone Blue” and "Third Time Lucky member, still spearheads the group as (First Time I Was a Fool)," all of which it evolves into its newest incarnation. Co-headlining the third date of the are still in regular rotation on classic series, Jo Dee Messina and Tracy Byrd rock radio. Molly Hatchet and The Fabulous will perform Friday, Feb. 11. Thunderbirds will co-headline the Arrive early to catch the opening second show in the series Saturday, LITTLE RIVER BAND act, Sacred Union, whose diverse Nov. 20. repertoire covers songs from Dave Dubbed “the best singing band in the world” by Eagles founding member Matthews, Hall and Oates, The Foo TRACY BYRD Fighters and Etta James to Prince, the late Glenn Frey, Little River Band Lenny Kravitz, The Red Hot Chili Country hitmaker Tracy Byrd first will be taking the MIDFLORIDA Event Peppers, Stevie Wonder and so many reached No. 1 in 1993 with “Holdin’ Center stage Saturday, April 9 for a other iconic world-class artists. Heaven,” and he followed up with a highly anticipated performance. string of hits that include “Watermelon Crawl,” “Big Love,” “I’m From the LRB’s distinctive harmonies and MOLLY HATCHET Country,” “Ten Rounds with Jose smooth musical stylings earned chart- Multi-platinum band Molly Hatchet Cuervo,” “Drinkin’ Bone” and “The topping success throughout the 1970s firmly cemented its place in music Keeper of the Stars,” which won ACM and ‘80s with hits that live on today, history in the late 1970s after the Song of the Year honors in 1996. He's such as “Reminiscing,” “Cool Change,” release of its self-titled debut album released 34 singles and 10 studio “Lonesome Loser,” “The Night Owls,” in 1978. A perfect mixture of English albums, four of which have been “Happy Anniversary” and more. invasion rock, blues, country and certified gold, one platinum and one Inducted into the Australian Recording gospel remains the unique sound of double platinum by the Recording Industry Association Hall of Fame, Molly Hatchet. The band continues its Industry Association of America. Little River Band has sold over 30 worldwide tour, performing classic hits million records worldwide. It continues such as “Flirtin’ with Disaster,” “Devil’s JO DEE MESSINA to sell out shows from coast to coast, Canyon,” “Gator Country,” “Whiskey bringing vocal and musical energy to Jumpstarting her career, Jo Dee Man” and “Dreams I’ll Never See.” its timeless classic hits. Arrive early to Messina’s breakout song, “Heads After 40-plus years, the band is still catch the Wired Band, Port St. Lucie’s Carolina, Tails California,” made her workin’ hard, playin’ tough, livin’ fast classic and southern rock all-stars! and flirtin’ with disaster! a household name. Following the success of her debut, Jo Dee posted Don’t delay, get your tickets nine No. 1 hits, 16 Top 40 songs, sold THE FABULOUS THUNDERBIRDS today! Tickets are available at the over five million albums worldwide MIDFLORIDA Event Center box office, For over 30 years, The Fabulous and was honored by the Academy of online at www.etix.com or by phone Thunderbirds has been the Country Music Awards, Country Music at 800-514-3849. Sales tax and ticket quintessential American band. The Association Awards and Grammy fees apply. group’s distinctive and powerful sound, Awards. As Jo Dee’s résumé grew, she influenced by a diversity of musical proved to be a trendsetter and history-
P. 24 WWW.MIDFLORIDAEVENTCENTER.COM Vibrant Neighborhood Services Neighborhoods
Code Compliance aids in the beautification of another commercial property
Code Compliance has continued its work with local commercial properties to help address property maintenance issues.
Recently, Code worked with the Planning & Zoning department to help provide guidance to a property manager off Gatlin Boulevard that had several landscaping violations. Over several months, the property manager worked diligently to bring the commercial property into compliance and ultimately upgraded the aesthetics of a high-traffic area in the City.
Code would like to thank local property managers for their continued work in making sure commercial properties in the City are properly maintained and free of violations.
Upward mobility stakeholder listening session
On Aug. 12, staff from Neighborhood Services Department attended a stakeholder listening session for St. Lucie County’s Upward Mobility Cohort.
During the listening session, NSD, along with numerous stakeholders throughout the county, spoke about improvements we could be making to existing programs, along with new opportunities for programs that focus on upward mobility. For the past few months, NSD has been participating in an Upward Mobility Cohort to assist In its work, the county has been tasked with developing a program to narrow St. Lucie County after it was chosen by inequities and support upward mobility from poverty in the community. The goal is the Urban Institute last year as a pilot to develop strategies that will ultimately result in the launching of a Mobility Action community. Plan.
WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/NSD P. 25 Register for City University!
Registration is now open for City University Class No. 11, which runs from Sept. 1- O c t . 27.
WHAT IS CITY UNIVERSITY? The goal of Port St. Lucie’s City University is to provide residents the opportunity to learn about the City’s services and operations. Classes meet every Wednesday from 5:30-8:30 p.m. for nine scheduled sessions, including a graduation ceremony. To register and learn more, visit www.cityofpsl.com/cityu.
Crime Prevention Technique webinar
On Aug. 26, N.I.C.E. is excited to host a workshop on special neighborhood safety tips in partnership with our neighborhood counterparts from Orange County. Making sure your home and neighborhood are safe is a top priority for many community leaders, and there are simple and inexpensive techniques you and your neighbors can do to reduce the threat of crime in your neighborhood. This workshop will provide practical, ready- to-implement solutions to the common crime and public safety-related issues that neighborhoods experience. Register for this free virtual workshop!
Meetup to Cleanup Torino
On Aug. 7, Neighborhood Services Department staff attended the Meetup to Cleanup in Torino at Winterlakes Park. Project Manager Bolivar Gomez attended the event and promoted the N.I.C.E. Program by distributing neighborhood pocket maps and carrying bags. Residents who attended were able to learn which neighborhood they resided in and additionally, learn of upcoming N.I.C.E. meetings and opportunities!
P. 26 WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/NSD Culture, Nature & Parks & Recreation Fun Activities
Recreation Camp Corner
• With school starting back up, the free Great Kids program has resumed at Minsky Gym and MIDFLORIDA Event Center.
• Homeschool P.E. resumed on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
• On Aug. 6, Parks & Recreation staff assisted in coordinating an event featuring Gov. Ron DeSantis, who arrived in Port St. Lucie, to award the City with a grant to help businesses in the Tradition area.
• Summer Camp has ended. During the last two weeks of camp, participants in the Youth Camp at Minsky Gym learned a magic trick in "sorcerer's" training. Kids at Hope awarded their "Treasure Hunters of the Summer" recipients, Alexandria and Austin. Teen Camp's "End of the Summer" event was held at Ravenswood Pool. Tots had a pajama party and celebrated "Winter in July."
UPCOMING EVENTS
• Community Center Sept. 1 | Healthy U: A Series of Conversations - Stress Management
WWW.PSLPARKS.COM P. 27 New security camera system at Jessica Clinton Park
As part of the Parks Safety Plan to reduce criminal activities in our City parks, staff is happy to report that as part of the Capital Improvement Projects approved for FY 20-21, we have just completed the installation of the new parks security system at Jessica Clinton Park. As part of this project, this facility will also offer free public Wi-Fi access to all guests and furthers to address the requests made by City Council.
Special Populations Dance
P. 28 WWW.PSLPARKS.COM We've had some really great weather this summer, and after recently performing some special annual course maintenance projects, the course is looking more beautiful than ever! Guest traffic remains strong and we hope to see everyone out on the course very soon.
The Saints Golf Course was proud to announce recently that one of our hole sponsors, Gene Brancaccio from Roma Pizza, shot a hole-in-one on hole No. 7! Coincidentally, hole No. 7 is actually the hole Gene sponsors on behalf of Roma Pizza! How amazing is that? What's even more special about is it was his first hole-in-one ever. Congratulations, Gene Brancaccio! Way to go!
Even with the hotter summer days now upon us, The Saints continues to celebrate an average of over 115 rounds of play per day.
WWW.SAINTSPSL.COM P. 29 Diverse Economy & Employment Planning & Zoning Opportunities
Coming Soon to PSL
THE LANDINGS AT TRADITION PHASE 2 (P21-153) 40,015-square-foot retail building proposed between SW Village Parkway and The Landings Shopping Center.
PLANNING AND ZONING CUSTOMER SURVEY Let us know how we are doing. Please take a short survey.
P. 30 WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/PZ Safe, Clean Police Department & Beautiful
District 1
There was a lot of excitement and first-day nervousness at Rivers Edge Elementary School as students returned from summer break. Assistant Chief Del Toro, Lieutenant Howie and other Port St. Lucie Police Department members joined other local leaders at the Kids at Hope Tunnel of Hope. Lots of PSLPD Stickers were handed out, and we hope the kids had a great first week of school!
A police report was filed on Aug. 4 regarding an inappropriate offense between a juvenile and her 70-year-old grandfather. A controlled call was conducted between the complainant and her 70-year-old father. The call was about inappropriate behavior between him and her 12-year-old daughter. After the successfully controlled call, arrangements were made between the complainant and the suspect to meet in person and talk things out. Several Detectives planned for the suspect's arrival, and when the suspect arrived, he was taken into custody without incident. Post Miranda, the suspect confessed to several crimes. The suspect was charged with: one count of FSS 794.011 (2A) sexual battery on a child less than 12 by offender 18 or older; one count of FSS 794.011 (8B) sexual battery familiar or custodial, victim 12 or older by offender 18 or older; one count of 800.04 (5B) lewd and lascivious behavior/molestation, victim less than 12 years old by offender 18 or older; and one count of FSS 800.04 (5C2) lewd and lascivious behavior/molestation, victim 12 to 16 years old by offender 18 or older. The suspect was transported to the St. Lucie County Jail without incident. Information about incidents that occurred in Margate will be passed on to the appropriate law enforcement agency for charges.
District 2
Officer Walt Wyckoff assisted Matthew Turner with two incidents; both were highly productive and efficacious encounters. Mr. Turner mentioned, "Thank you to Officer Wyckoff, as he was courteous and professional in speaking with him." Mr. Turner expressed his great appreciation for the outstanding service he received from Officer Wyckoff. We appreciate you, Officer Wyckoff, for your outstanding service and a fantastic representation of the P.S.L.P.D.
Case 2021-15101: Three juveniles were arrested on the charges of grand theft, criminal mischief and trespassing on school grounds following an incident at a college campus in St. Lucie West. The juveniles entered the campus and commandeered two golf carts. They then proceeded to drive recklessly on school grounds, causing extensive damage to the landscape as well as the golf carts. The juveniles then crashed the golf carts into a ditch near the baseball stadium, and proceeded to flee the area. The suspects were linked to a similar incident that occurred in PGA Village on July 1. During that incident, they stole a tractor and golf carts and proceeded to cause several thousands of dollars in damage to a golf course. A concurrent investigation was conducted with the St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office, and multiple charges were levied against each juvenile. The parents of the minors were cooperative with the investigation.
WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/POLICE P. 31 On Aug. 2, a pilot with his 4-year- old son made an emergency landing on SW Glades Cut-Off Road. At approximately 11:30 a.m., the pilot of a Cessna 140 made an emergency landing after the engine sputtered and then stopped. The plane was at about 2,200 feet when the engine quit. The pilot checked the area and made the determination that Glades Cut-Off would be the safest landing spot. The airplane took off from Fort Pierce and was on its way to Boca Raton.
Thankfully, the pilot had been flying for approximately nine years and operates his own flight school. The man calmly followed the procedure A, airspeed for best glide, B, best field to land, C, checklist, and if time, D, declare an emergency. We're glad everyone is safe.
At the intersection of St. Lucie West and SW Cashmere boulevards, there was a vehicle accident Aug. 4. Remarkably, there were no serious injuries. However, the accident did cause quite a delay while the vehicles were being removed from the intersection.
A big thanks to Port St. Lucie resident Michael Zeff, who provided PSLPD with approximately 20 backpacks for our local children. The backpacks are filled with school supplies and remained from a supply drive Mr. Zeff participated in through his work. Several bags will be given to our School Resource Officers, and the remaining will be given to our Patrol Officers and Detectives to give out to children in need. We have a great community. Thank you!
P. 32 WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/POLICE SW Dalton Avenue about a traffic understand the issue at hand, and he District 3 accident. Officers learned that a 2004 listened and let us voice our concerns. motorcycle, driven by a 23-year-old He is an outstanding officer, and I Case 2021-14122: A man reported adult male, was traveling north on just wanted to quickly write to let you his pickup truck had been stolen. The SW Port St. Lucie Boulevard. A 2008 know. We are glad we have such great vehicle was recovered the following automobile, driven by a 68-year-old officers serving our community who day in North Miami Beach. The car adult male, was traveling south on listen and educate their citizens. Thank was found to have been stripped of SW Port St. Lucie Boulevard, and you so much for all that you do." parts and abandoned along a roadway. attempted to make a left turn on SW CSI processed the vehicle for latent Dalton Circle. The motorcycle struck Way to go, Officer Thompson! We are prints and found that the car had the passenger side of the vehicle, fortunate to have you as part of our been wiped clean of any forensic causing that car to roll over on its PSLPD family! evidence. A Crime Scene Investigator roof. The motorcyclist was pronounced recovered two plastic bags in the rear deceased on the scene. The driver of passenger compartment that contained the automobile was transported to a District 4 fingerprints belonging to a subject in local hospital with non-life-threatening Case 2021-17304: A Criminal Hialeah. An extensive investigation was injuries. Traffic Homicide Investigators Investigations Division Detective conducted, which included a subpoena investigated the circumstances was called out regarding an assault being served to the phone carrier of surrounding this accident. the vehicle owner. The investigation allegation between a 17-year-old female and her 57-year-old custodial revealed that the vehicle owner On Aug. 7, Maria Daniele wrote to Chief brother. The victim's father passed contracted this subject from Hialeah to Bolduc regarding a positive encounter away a year ago, and her biological take his truck from Port St. Lucie. The she experienced with Officer Brian mother is not in the child's life. As a vehicle owner then filed an insurance Thompson. The letter reads: "Today, result, her adult brother took her in. claim for $30,673. The owner was Officer Brian Thompson came out for The victim provided the detective a charged with Insurance fraud and filing a dispute/issue with a neighbor on SW video of the suspect's inappropriate a false police report. Idol Avenue. I just wanted to let you actions. When confronted, he denied know what an outstanding job he did. it. The battery allegation is pending On Aug. 7, at approximately 6:30 Officer Thompson was thorough in further investigation, and charges are p.m., Port St. Lucie Police Officers explaining the law to us and helping us responded to the intersection of forthcoming.
In Other News
After 22 years of service, Officer Rob Loupe retired from PSLPD. Current and former members of the department gathered to wish Officer Loupe a happy retirement. Officer Loupe held various assignments during his tenure, including SWAT Team Leader, SWAT Sniper, Patrol Officer, Acting Supervisor, Traffic Officer, Motor Officer, School Resource Officer, Marine Unit, Field Training Officer, Training Instructor, to name a few. We appreciate your service to our community and wish you a happy and healthy retirement!
On Sunday, Aug. 1, K9s Jaxson and Bohdi made their way to Camp Tanah Keeta with Officers Krecic and Harris. The teams showcased their abilities for our Police Explorers and other Explorer programs at their 2021 Police Explorer Boot Camp Academy. We'll be sharing more pictures from their time at Camp Tanah Keeta.
WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/POLICE P. 33 Assistant Chief Del Toro attended the Caribbean American Cultural Group's annual Caribbean Independence Celebration Service on Aug. 1. Assistant Chief Del Toro was their invited guest to enjoy their service. The CACG is a 501(c)(3) organization that announced it could give $8,000 in scholarships this past year. Great community outreach!
District Support
TRAFFIC UNIT There will be an increased police presence beginning Tuesday, Aug. 10, near and around school zones. Please be PSLPD DUI arrests are up 52% year to date. Three mindful of children walking or riding their bicycles to school. additional drivers made the wrong choice this weekend. One Also remember, children will be standing at neighborhood specific incident occurred when a driver was pulled over on bus stops. Partner with us to keep our children safe on their S U.S. 1 after he could not maintain his driving lane. The first day of school. driver fell asleep at the wheel in the short time it took our Officer to make initial contact. He became alert after the Officer had to repeatedly tap on his window.
Many of you have shared personal stories of the tragic consequences of someone choosing to drive under the influence. We are committed to keeping our roads safe. Please encourage others to make the same commitment. There are plenty of ways to get home without driving under the influence.
PSL Police Athletic League (P.A.L.):
UPCOMING EVENTS All events are occurring at the Port St. Lucie P.A.L. Building located on SW Tiffany Avenue. • Karate: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, from 6-8 p.m. • Boxing conditioning: Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 6-8 p.m. • Wrestling conditioning: Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 6-8 p.m. • Baton clinic at the P.A.L. Building: Saturdays, noon-5 p.m. • Marching Drum Line: Sundays, from 3-5 p.m.
P. 34 WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/POLICE Crime Stats
WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/POLICE P. 35 Crime Stats cont'd
P. 36 WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/POLICE Crime Stats cont'd
WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/POLICE P. 37 Crime Stats cont'd
P. 38 WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/POLICE High Quality Infrastructure Public Works Department & Facilities
SIDEWALK PROJECTS www.cityofpsl.com/sidewalks Grand Drive is complete. STREET PAVING PROJECTS www.cityofpsl.com/repaving The street paving goal for FY 20/21 is 32.9 miles, with 30.1 miles completed to date. See table below.
CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS Sagamore Stormwater Treatment Areas (STA): Excavation is complete at the West STA. Stabilization and sodding of the top of the bank has been completed and aquatic planting is ongoing. A large amount of garbage and debris have been encountered in the East STA area. The contractor has screened, separated, and is hauling the debris offsite Excavation of the ponds is ongoing. ROSSER RESERVE (COMPLETED AUGUST 9, 2021) SW Stony Avenue SW Savona Boulevard to SW Chaffin Street SW Bartell Avenue SW Chaffin Street to SW Crary Street SW Chaffin Street SW Stony Avenue to SW Bartell Avenue
SW Ridley Street SW Stony Avenue to SW Bartell Avenue
SW Chicopee Street SW Stony Avenue to SW Axtell Avenue
SW Ramspeck Street SW Stony Avenue to SW Bartell Avenue SW Ruark Street SW Stony Avenue to SW Bartell Avenue SW Crary Street SW Stony Avenue to SW Bartell Avenue SW Lawndale Avenue SW Crary Street to SW Savona Boulevard SW Axtell Avenue SW Balleto Street to SW Savona Boulevard SW Wampler Avenue SW Carlile Street to SW Savona Boulevard SW Amboy Avenue SW Carlile Street to SW Savona Boulevard SW Carlile Street SW Axtell Avenue to SW Hunnicut Avenue
SW Balleto Street SW Axtell Avenue to SW Hunnicut Avenue SW Hunnicut Avenue SW Balletto Street to SW Savona Boulevard SW Hextel Avenue SW Rosser Boulevard to SW Cheribon Street SW Neponset Road SW Bamberg Street to SW Mullimax Avenue SW Laveto Avenue SW Rosser Boulevard to SW Bamberg Street SW Kosnar Avenue SW Brunswick Street to SW Cheribon Street SW Tiskilwa Avenue SW Brunswick Street to SW Cheribon Street SW Latshaw Avenue SW Brunswick Street to SW Cheribon Street SW Hunnicut Avenue SW Rosser Boulevard to SW Cheribon Street SW Alice Street SW Hunnicut Avenue to SW Levato Avenue
SW Bamberg Street SW Hunnicut Avenue to SW Levato Avenue
SW Cheribon Street SW Hextel Avenue to SW Hunnicut Avenue SW Alice Street SW Mullinax Avenue to SW Hextel Avenue SW Bamberg Street SW Mullinax Avenue to SW Hextel Avenue
SW Brunsick Street SW Hunnicit Avenue to SW Mullinax Avenue
SW Mackemer Road SW Brunswick Street to SW Hunnicut Avenue SW Canrady Street SW Hunnicut Avenue to SW Latshaw Avenue
SW Mullinax Avenue SW Rosser Boulevard to SW Chaffin Street
WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/PUBLICWORKS P. 39 Keep Port St. Lucie Safe, Clean Beautiful & Beautiful
14th annual Treasure Coast Waterway Cleanup results
One thousand twenty-two (1,022) people participated in the 14th annual Treasure Coast Waterway Cleanup on Saturday, July 24 throughout the Treasure Coast, and virtually during the week from July 17-25.
Volunteers contributed over 1,339 hours and picked up 3.76 tons of litter. There were 46 volunteers from the City of Port St. Lucie who contributed 45 hours to help pick up .37 tons of litter.
Here is a sample of some of the unique items that were picked up: bicycle; skateboard; wet suit; swing set with a slide; and a fire extinguisher. Cigarette butts were the No. 1 form of litter collected, with 9,361 butts collected, with bottles, cans, plastic and glass beverage containers being second, with 4,703 total items collected.
P. 40 WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/KPSLB KPSLB Drive-Thru Tree Giveaway
KPSLB partners with the Botanical Gardens, Master Gardeners and the UF/IFAS Extension Office to provide education and awareness on best practices for selecting new tree types, planting and maintenance.
City of Port St. Lucie residents may receive one free tree per household SPREAD-THE-SHADE (IDs required) while supplies last, on a first-come, first-served basis. The event takes place rain or shine. Walmart will be providing breakfast items.
After receiving a tree, participants may park their vehicle in a designated area to visit the gardens and speak with Master Gardeners. There will be a UF/ IFAS Extension Office demonstration, SATURDAY, SEPT. 18, 2021 | 8-10 A.M. a scavenger hunt for children ages 6-11 and the garden center and gift Botanical Gardens: 2410 SE Westmoreland Blvd. shop will be open. The available trees The City of Port St. Lucie is giving away an assorted include mango, avocado, pomegranate, variety of trees. This popular event is a drive-thru and trees will be given away on a first-come, first-served gumbo limbo, green buttonwood, royal basis to City of Port St. Lucie residents, while supplies There’s now a larger poinciana and red maple. last. IDs are required. selection of trees! The KPSLB Committee hopes to protect native plants for future generations and encourage public awareness about the need to maintain Port St. Lucie’s Avocado Royal poinciana natural beauty.
TREES ARE GIVEN AWAY ON A FIRST-COME, Mango Gumbo limbo FIRST-SERVED BASIS. ONE PER HOUSEHOLD, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. LIMITED QUANTITY OF Pomegranate TREE TYPES AVAILABLE. Red maple
Green buttonwood
Public Works Department 450 SW Thornhill Drive, Port St. Lucie, FL 34984 772-871-5103 • www.cityofpsl.com/KPSLB
WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/KPSLB P. 41 Quality Education for Utility Systems All Residents
Linsley leaps from student to teacher
While attending a Utility Customer Relations course facilitated by the Florida Water and Pollution Control Operators Association (FW&PCOA), Utility Billing/Connection Support Manager Gina Linsley found herself at the head of the class.
The instructor had fallen ill and she was asked to take over teaching duties about halfway through the four-day, 32-hour class. Her classmates, now students, ranged from customer service representatives to utility managers from several different Florida utilities.
They were inspired when learning about Gina’s own expertise and innovations within Port St. Lucie Utility Systems. She has volunteered to teach future FW&PCOA advanced-level customer service classes to help support the professional development of those in this industry.
Schedule a presentation with ease
Requesting an educational presentation takes just a few clicks on a new online form. Whether you’re part of a community group, a homeowner’s association or a teacher looking for more information about Utility Systems, you can easily schedule an in-person or virtual presentation with Utility Marketing Coordinator Jenny Tomes. Jenny can speak about a variety of topics, including water and wastewater treatment, distribution and collection, water conservation, and much more.
Education and outreach is an opportunity for Utility Systems to bring awareness to the many ways we all can help keep our environment thriving. Both adults and children can lead the way when they understand how their actions can impact and influence those around them.
Learn more about the Utility Systems Education Program.
Request a presentation online!
P. 42 High Quality Infrastructure Feature Story & Facilities
Port St. Lucie City Council to vote on new transportation vision to address future mobility needs
As a significant strategy to manage the City’s growth and provide more mobility options for residents and visitors, the Port St. Lucie City Council is poised to adopt a new transportation vision by implementing a Mobility Plan and Fee for new development.
City Council will conduct its first public hearing on the Mobility Plan/ Fee on Monday, Aug. 23 at its meeting that begins at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall. The second public hearing and vote on final adoption is scheduled for Sept. 13 at 6:30 p.m. According to our 2021 scientific Residents and property owners do not “This will be a significant change to community survey, about 70% of pay this fee. The mobility fee would how business has been conducted survey respondents gave high marks be paid for by builders/developers on in the past for the transportation to the ease of travel by car and the new construction in lieu of the road impacts of new development and ease of public parking in Port St. Lucie. impact fees they now pay. The City redevelopment,” said Port St. Lucie However, respondents were more will be able to provide a lower cost City Manager Russ Blackburn. critical of other mobility characteristics to the development community than “Our residents will be the primary in Port St. Lucie and these were previously collected through separate beneficiary of this change: it will assessed below the national city/county transportation impact fees inject more transparency into the benchmark. Ease of walking and the for most categories of development. process, provide greater personal overall quality of the transportation The City’s vision is that these two fees transportation mobility options, and system either excellent or good marks would be replaced in totality in the City secure quicker and more certain from only about 4 in 10 respondents, by the new combined lower fee. mobility improvements to our while ease of travel by bicycle was transportation system network.” scored positively by only 31% of For more details on the proposed community members. Mobility Plan and Fee, including City leaders have heard from information on misconceptions vs. residents who are concerned about a The proposed Mobility Plan/Fee system facts, please visit www.cityofpsl.com/ lack of mobility as the city grows. would provide City Council greater mobilityfees. flexibility to determine when, what The City’s Budget Advisory types of projects and how quickly Committee analyzed the current projects will be built in and close to road impact fee system, which is Port St. Lucie. charged to developers to mitigate the impacts of new development on The Mobility Fees provide a greater transportation, and recommended range of options for use of the funding Port St. Lucie move away from an than impact fees, including bike inequitable and rigid impact fee lanes, sidewalks, trails and roads. The Mobility Plan/Fee system is approved system for roads to a more flexible by the Florida Legislature for use by all Mobility Plan/Fee system. cities and counties.
WWW.CITYOFPSL.COM/NEWS P. 43