Commissioner Fox is Sorry!
Below is an excellent story written by Andrew Marra, Palm Beach Post, and published on Nov. 14,2025. Below are excerpts from the story, and my comments are in Italic. I have included the linc below to read the entire story.
I see the WPB City Commissioners (Fox, Lambert, Peduzzi, Ward and Warren) as a buffer between the residents and the Mayor (Keith James) and City Administrator (Faye Johnson) and expect them to be intelligent enough to understand the pros and cons of their vote. Sense James was elected Mayor of WPB in 2019 I can’t count the times they have disappointed the residents. This story is one more example they work for James, Johnson. developers and of course Cornerstone Solutions who represent every one of them in elections, and better known as the Cornerstone 5.
“A West Palm Beach city commissioner said she has major regrets about her vote to spend $40 million to make a city agency the landlord of Elisabetta’s Ristorante on the city’s downtown waterfront.”
Waterfront again. Remember when Mayor Keith James “$45,000 in contributions made to mayor’s campaign manager’s PAC ahead of West Palm Beach Marina vote” Terri Parker, Investigative Reporter for WPBF wrote a story on the contribution and the linc is below. The campaign manager’s PAC of course is Cornerstone Solutions, CEO Rick Asnani.
https://www.wpbf.com/article/florida-marina-bid-mayor-campaign-manager-pac-contributions/44476403
“In all the time I’ve been here, I don’t have a vote that I can look back on and say I regret more than the vote on the Elisabetta leases,” she said during a CRA meeting. “I regretted it at the time I made that vote. I’ve regretted it every single day since.” Commissioner Fox old saying “When in doubt–Don’t” Why did you vote to approve?
“Fox and two other commissioners had expressed serious skepticism about the deal when it was proposed at an Oct. 14 meeting. But after a long discussion filled with frustration about the lack of information being provided by city administrators, the commissioners voted 5-0 to approve it anyway.” There it is. These are the leaders we are supposed to put our faith and trust in. When will we learn? Four days before the City Commission meeting there is a meeting called the City Commission Agenda Review where items on the agenda on the upcoming CC meeting are discussed. Between the Agenda Review and City Commission meeting Commissioners had 4 days to investigate the item. Why didn’t they? Is 4 day’s enough time between meetings? Did all commissioners attend the meeting, or did you miss the opportunity?
“But buying back the leases from the company that developed the site wasn’t cheap. The developer, Navarro Lowrey Properties, wanted $25.5 million. Taking out a loan to buy the leases would cost $40.4 million with interest and other fees.”
“I regret that I didn’t ask for a continuance or to wait until we had additional information, and I take full responsibility for that,” she said. to little–to late. It’s done!
“Commissioners had complained that the city staff did not provide independent assessments of the lease’s market value or cost comparisons to similar leases.”
“Administrators also struggled to give a clear answer about how many years it would take the city to earn back the $40 million it would have to spend to acquire the leases. They eventually estimated the city could collect enough rental income to recover its costs after about 23 years.” Commissioners your approval will cost taxpayers Forty million dollars over 23 years, regretting your vote, even though you had doubts in meaningless to me.
“Fox said the situation demonstrated a need for commissioners to hire their own adviser who does not report to Mayor Keith James to ensure they have complete, independent information about each issue.”
Back in the day it was Mayor Jeri Muoio and City Commissioner Keith James and the Commissioners were discussing an item on the City agenda. I was seated at the meeting listening when Commissioner James questioned a statement by a staff member, stating he had doubts about a comment made. He then stated the Commissioners needed an independent advisor who would work for the Commissioners and not city staff. I commented on James concern a few times at meetings Obviously Fox heard me. Why is she still talking about it? Why don’t commissioners have their own advisor?
It’s said, and I believe it to be true, the public has a short memory when it comes to politics. When are we going to say enough is enough? City Commissioner Christine Lambert is running to be WPB next mayor and of course she is being represented by Cornerstone Solutions. County Commissioner, Gregg Weiss is challenging her. Lambert, term limited out has two challenges for her commission seat. Steve Sylvester, being represented by Cornerstone Solutions and challenger Matt Ferrer NOT represented by Cornerstone Solutions. Who has your vote?
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City Commissioners and WPB Budget 2026 (Part 1
Below is a story written for the Palm Beach Post by Andrew Marra and updated Sept. 5, 2025. The linc below may allow readers to read the entire story which I strongly recommend. My comments in italic.
“Why was a West Palm commissioner blocked from meeting with police chief as budget vote nears?” My opinion: to hide information Mayor James did not want Commissioners to have.
“Commissioner Cathleen Ward told her colleagues Tuesday, Sept. 2 that she asked to meet with Police Chief Tony Araujo to discuss the financial needs of the police department, which wants a budget increase to hire more than two dozen additional officers.” My opinion: Commissioner Ward did the sensible thing by speaking up and advising the Commissioner that James refused to allow her to meet with Police Chief Araujo. The city has made attempts to hire police officers in the past, but was unsuccessful. Unfortunately WPB has the reputation since 2019 that morale was low at the city with many firings of good long serving employees, burnout, people fired or resigning and remaining employees left to pick up the slack. Many people quit the boss, not the job. After James was elected Mayor in 2019, 3 commissioners who I respected Shoaf, Neering and Ryles, all allowed to run for office again choose not too. Speaks volumes to me.
“But the meeting request was blocked by Mayor Keith James, who told Ward she would have to submit any questions for the chief in writing to his administration instead.” My opinion: Written questions help ease the pressure of immediate answers in a live meeting where information the city wants kept in the dark does not see the light of day.
“Johnson said the department was already trying to fill more than two dozen officer vacancies, and it was unlikely they could fill all of those plus 32 new positions in the upcoming year.” My opinion: Johnson is correct they will never fill all the vacancies before March of 2027 when James is term limited out and we have a new mayor. City Commissioner Christina Lambert announced she is seeking the seat and has Keith James endorsement, along with Rick Asnani CEO of Cornerstone Solutions running her campaign assuring residents of at least 4 more years of James type of governing.
“The fact that Ward was not able to meet with Araujo did not sit well with two other commissioners.”
“Commissioner Shalonda Warren said she hoped that Ward would be able to speak with Araujo before the budget is finalized, saying direct communication was necessary for commissioners to make “sound judgment.”
Commissioner Christy Fox said she hoped that “in the coming days maybe there is a change of heart.” My opinion: I am grateful Ward, Warren and Fox spoke up and let residents know what was happening behind the scenes. My problem is Commissioners Lambert and Peduzzi who made no comment so I assume the city’s response sits well with them. Does not sit well with me and I’m betting many other residents.
“Commissioners, however, have the final say over the city’s budget.” My opinion: The mayor makes policy while the City Commissioners hold the purse strings. What would have happened if the Commissioners refused to accept the budget unless Ward was allowed to meet with Chief Araujo? Opportunity lost.
Know Who Is Worthy of Your Vote
Steve Sylvester, running for City Commission posted on Facebook that he was asking people to donate money to his campaign. Gary York & Lorraine J. Smith responded respectfully with questions and comments. Below is an example:
Gary York “How are you different from the current city commissioner, what do you oppose of their 4 years of decisions?”
Steve Sylvester Gary York “yes and there’s going to be lots of forums and I’m happy to meet with anybody to answer questions. It’s very difficult to discuss on this platform.” Difficult to answer questions, but able to ask for your support with a monetary donation given blindly.
Lorraine J. Smith “It’s obvious Steve isn’t going to answer questions without a controlled audience.”
6/14/2025 Gary York & Lorraine J. Smith asked important questions and made respectful comments which have been removed. Not cool.
Steve Sylvester sits on the SENA (Southend Neighborhood Association) BOD.
Message to SENA!
Wake up SENA! You have someone running for office sitting on your board when there is another candidate running in the race. Not a good look for a 501C3 Non-Profit who is not allowed to endorse a candidate. My opinion, Mr. Sylvester should resign from the board immediately, so it doesn’t appear they are endorsing him or attempting to influence the upcoming election.
If you live in the city of WPB and agree with the changes made since 2019 you can forgo the information I will share below.
Mayor Keith James and the 5 sitting City Commissioners Lambert, Ward, Peduzzi, Warren and Fox are all represented by Political Consultant Rick Asnani, CEO of Cornerstone Solutions. Cornerstone also represents Related, the Real Estate Developer that elected officials can’t say no to whatever new development they want. Remember the Marina scandal? Read the entire story in the link below. Cornerstone, James and the $45,000.00 contribution.
In my opinion a vote for Steve Sylvester is a vote for Cornerstone and Related. More of the same, Commissioners that will fall in line.
Picture speaks for itself, Cornerstone Class 7 Lifetime Member Mayor City of W.P.B.This award was not issued by Cornerstone Solutions, although Rick Asnani also won the award. The irony is James won the award after knowing how he treated the city employees, residents and the homeless. Read channel 25 news report below.
https://www.wpbf.com/article/florida-marina-bid-mayor-campaign-manager-pac-contributions/44476403
PBC Commissioners at It Again
The old proverb “If March comes in like a lion, it will go out like a lamb.” pertains to the weather. Just this once I wish to reverse it to say “If March comes in like a lamb, it will go out like a lion.” Why the change? It’s all do to three stories written on March 24, 25 and 27, 2025 and all stories relate to the PBC Administrator, Verdenia Baker, and Seven County Commissioners, Palm Beach County Clerk and Comptroller Joe Abruzzo, Rick Asnani, founder and president of Cornerstone Solutions, who ran the campaign for the successful election of the mayor and five City Commissioners of WPB. Developer Stephen Ross the CEO and Chairman of Related Ross who changed the image of WPB and the opinion of many not for the better.
I believe the three stories were thoroughly investigated, and I was pleasantly surprised by what I read. This was reporting as I remembered it years ago. I will start with the Stet News pull the highlights and hopefully you will open the link and read the entire story. It’s worth your time. My comments in Italic.
Stet News March 24, 2025 Joel Engelhardt
“Clerk Abruzzo at center of search for new administrator”
Commissioners Bobby Powell and Maria Sachs wanted no limits on academic or job experience when they expressed their thoughts
“To me the only qualification you need is an American citizenship and an interest,” Sachs said.
Powell pushed through a selection plan that did not suggest any criteria for the job and required candidates to submit applications in less than two weeks.
“Similar to Commissioner Sachs,” he said, “I simply believe that what’s outlined in statute as well as someone being a citizen here in the United States of America would qualify.”
Behind the commission’s unusual approach is a push to put Palm Beach County Clerk and Comptroller Joe Abruzzo in the job.
Mack Bernard’s role
The three commissioners on the losing end of the vote— Woodward, Gregg Weiss and Mayor Maria Marino — told Stet News they heard about Powell’s approach from Mack Bernard, a former county commissioner who now serves in the state Senate.
They didn’t see a formal presentation of the plan until they returned from a lunch break last Tuesday to find a three-page memo with no letterhead and no signature at their desks.
Bernard did not return phone calls and two commissioners on the winning side, Sachs and Joel Flores, said Bernard had not talked to them. Powell, a close friend of Bernard’s, and Commissioner Sara Baxter did not return phone calls. Powell and Baxter feel no need to explain their actions. What are they trying to hide?
“I don’t understand this rush,” Commissioner Marci Woodward said in an interview. “The only thing that makes sense to me is they have a candidate picked out and all of this is a show.”
I share Commissioner Woodward opinion and thank her and Commissioners Weiss and Marino for using common sense which tells me and others the residents of Palm Beach County need protection from developers who do not have residents’ best interest at heart. Please stand strong, you are not alone.
There is so much more to the story and I encourage readers to read the entire story in the link below.
https://stetnews.org/2025/03/24/clerk-abruzzo-at-center-of-search-for-new-administrator/
Sun Sentinel March 25, 2025 Editorial Board
Stop this bad backroom deal in Palm Beach County
Four of seven county commissioners appear ready to quickly hand the job to Joseph Abruzzo, the elected court clerk and a career politician, without conducting a nationwide search or demanding serious professional and educational qualifications.
To their credit, three commissioners want a deliberate, nationwide search: Mayor Maria Marino and commissioners Gregg Weiss and Marci Woodward.
“Marino, Weiss, and Woodward told the Stet News reporting site that they learned about Powell’s proposal from state Sen. Mack Bernard, D-West Palm Beach. The Palm Beach Post also cited Bernard’s backstage involvement from Tallahassee.”
“Bernard works for a political consulting firm, Cornerstone Solutions, whose clients include the development firm Ross founded. The stylish Related logo is featured prominently on Cornerstone’s client list.”
Cornerstone Solutions is the consulting firm that is responsible for electing WPB Mayor, Keith James and all 5 City Commissioners, Fox, Lambert, Peduzzi, Ward and Warren. Cornerstone will also represent Commissioners Lambert (running for Mayor-WPB) and Peduzzi running for County Commissioner. I was surprised to learn Cornerstone also represents Stephen Ross Related Group, the firm responsible for, in my opinion, the overbuilding in WPB and the problems that come with it. The WPB City Commission has always been a good friend to Related and has no problem voting in unison to give him what he wants.
https://www.sun-sentinel.com/2025/03/25/stop-a-bad-backroom-deal-in-palm-beach-editorial/
PB Post March 27, 2025 Mike Diamond PB Post Staff Writer Alexandra Clough contributed to this report.
Why developers say they see better days ahead with Palm Beach County Administrator gone
Two mega developers say business climate will improve with the retirement of County Administrator Verdenia Baker, but her replacement had not even been discussed when they made the comments.
Key Points
Some Palm Beach County developers are anticipating a more business-friendly environment following the retirement of County Administrator Verdenia Baker.
These developers have been engaged in disputes with Baker over land valuations and bidding processes for major projects.
The process to replace Baker has been marked by controversy, with some commissioners pushing for a swift appointment of County Clerk Joseph Abruzzo without a national search.
Critics, including Commissioner Marci Woodward, have expressed concerns about transparency and potential conflicts of interest in the selection process.
The backers of Transit Village, 99% owned by Miami-based BH Group, look at Baker’s retirement as a positive change. Transit Village LLC is involved in a contentious lawsuit with the county over what it should pay for 6 acres in West Palm Beach.
A spokesperson for Transit Village declined to comment when asked whether it supports the hiring of Abruzzo or had any involvement in the NAACP’s claim that a move was made to fire Baker before her retirement. Silence is golden when you don’t have an answer.
In a usual move, Maria Sachs called on County Attorney Denise Coffman to place on the county agenda a move to strip Baker of the ability to develop the county budget. She suggested that Abruzzo take over that function. Sachs never shared the memo with fellow commissioners. Appears to me Sachs is pretty damn sure Abruzzo has the job.
Commissioner Sara Baxter tries to take on role in Transit Village lawsuit
In another recent unusual development, Commissioner Sara Baxter called for the commission to meet privately to discuss settlement offers related to the Transit Village lawsuit. Coffman took to the dais and called such a meeting improper, noting that state law does not allow for such closed sessions.
Baxter wants to meet privately. Does that mean behind closed doors where it was first discussed to fire County Administrator Verdenia Baker and replace her with Joe Abruzzo, who would be a friend to developers? Am I the only one that feels an investigation is warranted for Sachs and Baxter? There is so much more to the story if you choose to read it.
To those new to the area who may appreciate a little history of PBC & WPB, these 2 stories are for you.
PB Post Oct. 20,2016 Eliot Kleinberg
After the 2000 election, it was about confused voters. But in a four-year stretch that started in earnest 10 years ago this week, Palm Beach County earned a new nickname: “Corruption County.”
Liberti & Exline 2 WPB City Commissioners
Masilotti, Newell, McCarty and Koons 4 County Commissioners.
These six movers and shakers were removed from office and shaken into Federal prison.
PB Post July 29, 2017 Lawrence Mower
The local Democrats he was referring to are Powell, County Commissioner Mack Bernard and state Rep. Al Jacquet, a close trio who combined forces to win their August races by generating unusually high turnout in absentee ballots. In some precincts, Bernard and Jacquet won nine of every 10 absentee ballots cast. Powell and Bernard have been friends for many years.
https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/news/2017/07/29/bring-in-fbi-candidate-says/7041395007/
Stet News, Sun Sentinel Editorial Board and PB Post a sincere thank you for shining the light on PBC and its very questionable decisions and what appears to be backroom deals. I believe in the power of the press, and when the one shining the light is held in a reporter’s hand great things can happen.
There will be a PBC Commission meeting being held on Tuesday April 1,2025 @ 2:00 PM. The public can speak on any topic they wish. Hope to see you there because Woodward, Gregg Weiss and Mayor Maria Marino can use our support.
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Are African Americans better off than in 1923?
Update 3/17/2025 Including Henrietta Farms. A special thank you from readers remining me of the injustice by the City of WPB toward residents who were both black and hungry.
The PB Post has published a story, and the link is included below. Hopefully you will be able to open and read the story and if not possible I have included a quote from Mayor Keith James.
“West Palm Beach city planning proposals from 1923 reveal the city’s intention to segregate and underserve the city’s historic Black neighborhoods”
“West Palm Beach city documents from 1923 were unveiled on March 10, 2025, that show the city had planned to segregate the Black population by confining them to certain sections of town — Pleasant City and the area around Tamarind Avenue, both north of downtown and west of Dixie Highway. “Let this sink in, everyone,” Keith James, the first Black mayor since the city moved to a strong-mayor system in 1991, told meeting attendees after the documents had been displayed. “This was part of the city’s master plan back in 1920. … This is intentional, institutional. So when people talk about the lack of progress in some of these communities, that was designed.”
Lets look at how Mayor James has helped the black community since being sworn in on April 5, 2019.
What former Mayor Jeri Muoio accomplished, and Mayor Keith James moved swiftly to undo.
https://wpbwatch.com/2023/01/james-record-as-mayor-2019/
The Sunset Lounge which opened in 1926, is extremely important to the black community and has been for nearly 100 years. It’s part of their heritage. The Lounge needed a company to manage the iconic lounge. The choices were: Vita LLC. A black owned business located in WPB Fl. The residents were pulling for Vita. Mayor Keith James did not want/allow Vita to manage the Sunset lounge.
Mad Room Hospitality out of Miami, was James choice. here comes the lawsuit.
7/20/2022
https://wpbwatch.com/2022/07/sunset-lounge/
8/ 12/ 2022
https://wpbwatch.com/2022/08/sunset-lounge-starting-over/
3/24/ 2023
https://wpbwatch.com/2023/03/vita-wins-lawsuit-against-the-city-of-wpb/
4/2/2024 Story in the PB Post. Entire story in the Link below
“As renovated Sunset Lounge sits idle, leaders assure they have a plan, reopening timetable”
“The Sunset Lounge, a 1920s-era supper club extensively restored with $16 million in taxpayer money, has sat idle for two years since its renovation, validating the complaints of some that West Palm Beach should never have purchased and rebuilt the iconic venue.”
If the Sunset Lounge isn’t bad enough, let’s see how James treated the black youth of WPB.
Goodbye PAL. (Police Athletic league) Highlights from the story. Entire story can be read in the link below.
“The City of WPB allocated $100,000.00 a year to the Pal program to pay for equipment, uniforms, transportation and other expenses.”
“4/4, 2019 Keith James sworn in as mayor of WPB and a few months later the PAL program lost its city funding, and the program was in trouble and near an end.”
“I met with Rams president Donovan Murdock and Vice President Corey Tate and learned the city sold the helmets, shoulder guards and training pants to them for $2,000.00 and I also learned the helmets must be inspected every 2 years. When the inspection took place most of the helmets had seen better days and would not protect the small heads that wore them. The cost of a new helmet at the time was $125.00/ea.
How badly did the city need the $2,000 Mr. Mayor? Why were the kids left stranded after practice and left parents scrambling to pick them up, Mr. Mayor?”
https://wpbwatch.com/2024/03/goodbye-pal/
Henrietta Farms
Mr Stewart Bosley, worked tirelessly to start the farm, was sent a letter from the City informing him the lease would not be renewed. The present lease will expire on 10/16/2021.
9/24/2021 (Fri.) Mr. Bosley had a crew of volunteers to work on the farm that weekend, and when they arrived they found their locks were cut off and replaced with new ones. A week end of work gone when the lease didn’t expire for 2 more weeks.
https://wpbwatch.com/2021/09/henrietta-farms-early-lock-out/
11/18/2021 This will be the last story on Henrietta Farms as Mr. Bosley has removed all equipment from the acre and a half piece of land the City leased to him seven years ago which allowed him to grow fresh fruits and vegetables in an effort to feed the poorest of the poor
Below is the link for previous WPB Watch stories. If you open the link, please go to “Archives” for stories published.
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FPL Abuse of Customers!
I purchased my home in Sept. 1986, and the following day I made a trip to WPB City Hall and FPL office to turn the utilities on in my name. For many years all was well, until it wasn’t.
I began receiving letters from FPL in 2019/20 telling me about their new payment plan that allows me to pay the same dollar amount monthly. These letters kept coming and I kept ignoring them. No payment plan for me, I’m “old school”, send me a bill and I pay it. Very simple and it has worked for me for years. I also believe it would benefit FPL and not its customers.
My first thought was if I pay the same monthly charge, I may not be as careful with my energy use like turning off the light when I leave a room or turning the air conditioner down when I’m out or after parking my car in the garage and waiting a few seconds to turn off the light which stays on for 5-6 minutes after the garage door closes. Why light an empty garage.
Below are 2 letters I wrote to FPL, the second one got their attention, and I soon began receiving monthly bills again.
FPL has a new plan; I received another $5.00 fee for my bill being a late payment. Quick trip to the bank and they showed me where the electronic payment was sent out in time. FPL was late in posting my payment.
FPL has an office at 6001 Village Blvd, West Palm Beach and when I arrived, I was told the office had been closed since the pandemic, and no one was available to speak with me. It was also mentioned other customers with the same problem as mine were also sent away. FPL needs the $5.00 from me and possibly thousands of other customers. This story is for you.
M. Matkivich
WPB Fl. 33407
7/30/2021
Account # 22903-*****
Hopefully this communication will be forwarded to Customer Service.
May 2021 $60.29 paid in full
June 2021 I did not receive my electric bill (? mail delivery) so unfortunately my bill went un-paid.
July 2021 Received my bill for $152.18 and read your “did you forget” $75.65 is past due, and that’s when I realized June bill was not paid. I immediately called FPL Customer Service @ 561-697-8000 to apologize and explain the situation of the missing payment.
I went from upset and apologetic to totally pissed off. I could not reach a human being to talk too. If you bother to check my payment history you will see I have been a customer for 35 years with no payment problems.
I made a payment of $152.18 and payment should reach you by Aug. 2, 2021.
·July 30,2021 I Received a “Final Notice” informing me $75.65 is past due and if payment is not received by Aug. 4, 2021 my power is turned off remotely.
Automation has crippled Customer Service all to make a few more dollars for greedy companies.
I have a suggestion why don’t you take all the $5.00 Late Payment Fees and hire a person to actually answer the damn phones.
You may have received the payment before this letter arrives, and I want you to understand the “Customer Service” at FPL is non-existent and should be removed from your bills. (I meant to say their customer service phone no.)
Madeline Matkivich
The letter dated 12/17/2021 was sent 12/18/2021 via Certified Mail and Return Receipt Request.
Madeline Matkivich
WPB Fl. 33407-3148
12/17/2021
Acct. No. 22903-*****
I wrote FPL on 7/30/2021 and this is my second letter concerning poor customer service.
I have been a FPL customer since 1986, that’s 36 years. In 36 years I can’t recall ever sending in a late payment, until I didn’t receive my bill for 5/13/2021 to 6/14/2021 for $75.65.
6/14/2021 to 7/14/2021 my bill was $76.53 + $75.65 = $152.18 which was paid immediately and included a $5.00 late payment, which I did receive credit for, along with a threat “Power may be turned off without visiting your location” which was damn well not appreciated.
8/16/2021 Received a letter from FPL with this statement “For your convenience, we invite you to take advantage of our online account services. Simply visit www.FLP.com to learn quick and easy ways to manage your electric account online.”
12/16/2021 Received my bill today and once more it covers 2 months, and includes a $5.00 late fee. $47.57 “Balance before new charges”
For 11/11/2021 to 12/13/2021 $35.08 total $82.65. My bank will send the check 12/17/2021. When I receive a bill I immediately put the amt. & due date on line, and my bank pays the amt. due by the due date.
In my opinion you are trying to eliminate statements being printed and mailed. I like receiving statements, and am not interested in a payment plan or allowing FPL to access my checking account.
I can’t tell you how much this upsets me, and I receive letters from FPL asking me to join a payment plan, where I can pay the same amount monthly. I don’t know if this is FPL way of getting customers to join or not, could be a coincidence, which I don’t believe in. You will receive payment before this letter, and if this billing me every 2 months instead of a monthly billing, my next step will be to file a complaint with The Florida Public Service Commission, BBB and see if the media is willing to look into the matter.
Madeline Matkivich
I believe there are others out there having a problem with FPL billing. Want to file a complaint? Below is the address for State of Florida Consumer Complaints.
https://www.stateofflorida.com/consumer-complaints/
“JUNO BEACH, Fla., Oct. 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Florida Power & Light Company today asked the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) to approve a temporary surcharge on customer bills in 2025 to recover restoration costs after four hurricanes battered Florida in less than 14 months.”
Good for FPL they won’t have to use their profits for repairs. No wonder stockholders love FPL.
“FPL bills going way up” PB Post 1/7/2022
“Florida Power & Light customers who paid $101.70 last year for a typical monthly bill of 1,000 kilowatt hours of electricity will now be charged $120.67. This change not only accounts for a five-year base rate increase approved by the Florida Public Commission in October, but a $6.82 per month adjustment for rising natural gas prices.”
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WPB Water Battle
“West Palm Beach water battle headed to court to avoid ‘catastrophic’ scenario”
“Dispute involves Army Corps of Engineers’ interpretation of Savings Clause”
“The dispute stems from the Water Resources Development Act of 2000 and its efforts to provide water in Everglades restoration projects with the Savings Clause in question that makes sure nearby municipalities also have enough water.”
Entire WPTV Channel 5 story can be read below. I have some questions and can be read below in italic. Onto Google with questions.
Q, What was the population of WPB Fl. in the year 2000?
A. “West Palm Beach/Population 82,590”
Q. What is the population of WPB Fl. in the year 2024?
A. “West Palm Beach has a 2024 population of 126,337. West Palm Beach is currently growing at a rate of 1.78% annually and its population has increased by 7.51% since the most recent census, which recorded a population of 117,507 in 2020.”
I recall attending City Commission meetings years ago and listened to residents concerned about the growth of WPB and their concern about our water supply. Elected officials didn’t listen and the boom continued. Hard to say no to developers when they are donating $45.000.00 to Mayor Keith James campaign managers PAC.
The story also states:
“Every year it seems like we have another record-breaking hottest year on record,” Rossi said. “With that kind of dramatic change to our climate, in combination with a population that continues to grow here in South Florida, we’ve had a surge in population since 2020 since the end of the pandemic. We have to make sure that our communities have the water that they need.”
“The levels are governed by the Army Corps, but there were some guardrails in place on how much they could remove and how much water would be allocated to other municipalities,” James said. “That’s what we’re fighting to protect.”
Q. How hot does concrete get when the temp. is 90 degrees?
A. “When the air temperature is 90 degrees Fahrenheit, concrete can reach a surface temperature of around 125 degrees Fahrenheit due to its ability to absorb heat from the sun.”
Q. How hot does asphalt get when the temp. is 90 degree?
A. When the air temperature is 90 degrees, asphalt can reach a temperature of around 140 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning it can be significantly hotter than the air temperature itself.
We know Florida reaches higher temps. than 90 degrees, with 2024 breaking records.
Q. Is there more water than land on Earth?
A. Yes, there is significantly more water than land on Earth; approximately 71% of the Earth’s surface is covered by water, while the remaining 29% is land.
Below is my opinion using common sense.
It took God 6 days to build the earth, and He earned the rest on the seventh day, I choose to give credit to God for doing a perfect job creating the earth and everything on it.
Q. So what went wrong?
A. Man.
God created the cool ocean waters for the breeze to carry it over the land and cool the earth. This is a picture of the Miami Coastline. Breeze hits a wall of concrete. Developers have eaten up the coastline and are now moving inland.
Yes, we will run out of water and if you watch City Commission meeting there is not one City Commissioner who ask a question on what could possibly go wrong with a project. If a resident goes to the podium with a concern, half the commissioners are looking down at their cell phones.
Q. What is City government going to do about the situation they created?
A. Use our taxpayer dollars to enrich more attorneys.
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Beyond the Badge
Beyond the Badge is a program for the West Palm Beach Police Department, and a meeting was held October 24th at 10:00 o’clock in the Old Northwood neighborhood, and I’m happy to report many neighbors attended asking questions and they were definitely involved as they mingled with officers and met with Tony Araujo, Interim Police Chief for the city and that started me thinking of Former Chief Frank Adderley, fired by Mayor James
CAST
Mayor Keith James, Chief Executive of the City of West Palm Beach elected to office on March 12, 2019.
Faye Johnson, Assistant City Administrator promoted to City Administrator by Mayor James in Jan. 2020.
Frank Adderley, hired as Chief of Police June 2019, and fired in Sept. 2024 for “financial improprieties”
Tony Araujo, Interim Police Chief, on loan from the PBC Sheriff dept. Taxpayers will re-imburse the PBC Sheriff for his salary.
Tony Shearer, Deputy Chief, retired from the office of the FBI and hired by Mayor Keith James Sept. 30,2024 one day before James terminated Police Chief Frank Adderley for “financial improprieties” I have a problem. James hired Shearer as “Deputy” Chief, why? The City Commission must vote to approve James choice for Police Chief, Fire Chief and City Attorney. James won’t need the City Commission approval for “Deputy” What are you up to Keith?
Many stories have been written about the firing and hiring of leadership for the WPB Police Dept. Are the stories true or exaggerated? I honestly don’t know, but if the stories are true, I want to know who is responsible for allowing it to continue for so long.
An audit was done previously on the overtime of the WPB Police Dept; and below is the 2nd. heads up received by the city.
March 29,2022 the IA (Internal Audit) dept. released a Draft report of the Addendum to Payroll and Overtime audit. Audit #19-04.
A letter addressed to the Audit Committee members and CC to Keith James, Mayor Faye Johnson, City Administrator and Franklin Adderley, Police Chief. It reads:
Dear Audit Committee Members,
During the original citywide audit of Payroll and Overtime, we identified inaccurate time card reporting that contained overlapping hours within the City’s Police Department (Finding 5 of the Payroll and Overtime audit report.) Our testing was limited to the top 20 Earners of city- paid and vendor- paid overtime during FY 2019. The process to analyze the records was time consuming and labor intensive, thus we did not have the resources to expand and review to all offices within the scope period of the audit. Subsequently, we requested resources to conduct testing on all officers during the audit period which was granted. As such, we have attached the Internal Auditors Office Addendum Report to the Payroll and Overtime Audit which details the results of the additional testing.
We thank our contracted auditors, Monica Sanchez and Elena Gonzalez, for their work in completing this audit. Further, we thank the management and staff of the police department for their time, assistance, and cooperation during this audit.
Respectfully submitted,
Beverly Mahaso
Chief Internal Auditor
The city can’t fix a problem they don’t know they have so when the Internal Audit department finds a problem during an audit it is their responsibility to bring it to the attention of the city so it can be corrected.
The Internal Audit Dept. has never been fully staffed and some of the audits are contracted out which was done in this case.
So who is responsible for the years of neglect the audit has uncovered?
Below is from the WPB City Charter.
“A city charter is a legal document that defines the structure, powers, and responsibilities of a city’s local government. It’s similar to a constitution for the city, and is adopted by the city’s residents through an election.”
What does the Charter say about the City Administrator?
“The West Palm Beach City Manager is primarily responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the city, implementing policies set by the City Commission, managing the city budget, appointing department heads, and ensuring the efficient delivery of city services, all while acting as the chief administrative officer of the city.”
“Key responsibilities include:
“Policy Implementation: Executing the policies and decisions made by the City Commission”
The City Charter also states the City Administrator MUST reside in the city of WPB which Ms. Johnson resides in un-incorporated PBC. She relies on the County for Fire, Medical Assistance, Sheriff’s office for protection and most important she does not rely on the city for her drinking water.
The mayor couldn’t possibly fire himself or his City Administrator for the mishandling of Audit No. 19-04 so in my opinion Police Chief Frank Adderley was the sacrificial lamb.
In closing I asked a police officer if they still gave out teddy bears to traumatized children they saw while on duty. The answer was yes, but there were to many children and not enough teddy bears, and they were constantly running out.
Christmas is coming please consider buying a teddy bear for a child you do not know but could use a friend.
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Hurricane Helene & Homeless
Florida airports gave a heads up that the airports would NOT be used as shelters as Hurricane Helene was heading for Florida.
The news media needs to report how many of the 64+ death caused by Hurricane Helene were homeless people living on the streets with nowhere to go.
In WPB Mayor Keith James even had “No Trespassing” signs placed on all city garages, and one chained to a tree in City Hall courtyard.
Hundreds have had their homes destroyed by Hurricane Helene. See how easy it is to become homeless.?
“At least 64 dead and millions without power after Helene’s deadly march across the Southeast” Story below.
https://apnews.com/article/hurricane-helene-florida-georgia-north-carolina-south-carolina-92d5caaafe40644e1db687cf6431395f
Help on the way?
The LaQuinta Inn located in WPB has a 114-room hotel and the county wants to buy it to be used for the homeless. Is it a good idea? 114 rooms with 2 people per room will take 228 homeless off the street. A room with a bathroom, toilet and shower. Heat in the winter and AC in the summer. Now 228 people have an address to give to potential employers. Sounds like a win-win to me. Not so.
“Century Village residents upset County may buy hotel”
“One of the possible ways to deal with the homeless situation isn’t sitting well with a retirement community.
Century Village in West Palm Beach is adjacent to the LaQuinta Inn, a hotel on Okeechobee Blvd. that Palm Beach County officials are thinking of buying to be used as a homeless shelter.”
Shame on Century Village.
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Contaminated Water—Again
Had a representative from Atlantic Filter visit my home today (8-6-2024) to explain how putting a filtration system in my home to insure I had clean drinking water for myself and KC. You just can’t trust the city of WPB to inform us IN A TIMELY MANNER OUR DRINKING WATER IS NOT SAFE.
First time it took 8 days before we were notified we had been drinking contaminated water. Thank you, Mayor Keith James and City Administrator Faye Johnson,
Posted on the city’s website July 18, 2024.
“Public notice: important information about your drinking water.”
“The city of West Palm Beach exceeded Turbidity (Cloudiness) Treatment Requirements.”
What should I do?
“There is nothing you need to do. You do not need to boil water or take other corrective action. You would be notified if the water is not safe to drink.”
“If you have a severely compromised immune system, have an infant, are pregnant, or elderly you may be at increased risk, and should seek advice. from your health care provider about drinking this water.” Is the water safe or not.? Call my doctor to see if he thinks I should drink contaminated water.
What does this mean?
“This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours.
Turbidity has no health effects. However, turbidity can interfere with disinfection and provide a medium for microbial growth. Turbidity may indicate the presence of disease-causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses, and parasites which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches.”
Atlantic Filter tested my water and here are the results.
This is the level of Chlorine in our drinking water.
Now ask yourself–do you feel safe drinking City water?
Want to help? call or email The Division of Environmental Public Health.
https://palmbeach.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/environmental-health/index.html
The end