In a key moment of the meeting, a motion was made to stop all discussions regarding the memorialization of Charlie Kirk in Boynton Beach. The decision followed a statement from the Vice Mayor concerning a tragic event involving Kirk, who was killed at a Utah college campus. The Vice Mayor expressed condolences to Kirk’s family, recognizing the tragedy of the event, but also criticized Kirk’s past statements, which were described as offensive and divisive, specifically concerning race and civil rights. The Vice Mayor emphasized the responsibility of leaders to promote unity and respect for all residents, regardless of background. The motion to cease discussions was met with approval from the audience and passed unanimously after a brief discussion. The Mayor acknowledged the Vice Mayor’s sentiments, clarifying that previous discussions were not intended to create division. Commissioner Kelley also expressed appreciation for the Vice Mayor’s words and reiterated the importance of unity within the community.

Another development was the discussion and approval of a 10% salary raise for the city attorney, Shawna Lamb. Lamb presented her year-end report, highlighting her office’s achievements, which included delivering over $20 million in measurable value to the city. This included an $8.4 million settlement related to PFAS contamination and negotiating long-term agreements with neighboring municipalities, yielding nearly $10 million in revenue. Lamb highlighted her office’s efforts to reduce reliance on outside counsel, resulting in significant cost savings, and emphasized proactive risk management practices that led to a 29% reduction in claim payments. She noted her compensation was below that of her peers in nearby cities and framed the raise as an investment in the city’s future. Following discussions, the commission unanimously approved the 10% salary adjustment.

The meeting also featured an announcement regarding the upcoming Boynton Beach Pirate Fest, scheduled for October 25th and 26th. Sir Henry Hyde presented the event, which will be free and held in the downtown area, offering various entertainment options such as live music, belly dancers, acrobats, sword swallowers, and a “Wheel of Death.” The festival will also include a live cannon show and a haunted trail, emphasizing a family-friendly atmosphere and inviting community participation.

Public safety and infrastructure concerns were raised by residents during the public audience portion of the meeting. One resident, identified as a truck driver, highlighted an issue with a traffic light on Boynton Beach Boulevard, posing a danger to children crossing to reach Galaxy Elementary School. The Mayor acknowledged the concern and directed the resident to discuss the matter with a city official present at the meeting. Another resident, Roy Jackson, echoed similar safety concerns around Galaxy Elementary School, urging the Commission to address the lack of proper infrastructure, such as sidewalks and speed bumps, to enhance children’s safety.

The meeting also covered updates on various city projects. The city manager presented achievements in finance, public safety, and urban beautification, noting the completion of the $1.5 million Coquina Cove drainage project. The finance department has been restructured, with new strategies for appropriations and grants, including the hiring of a federal lobbyist firm to secure federal funding. The manager highlighted the decrease in crime rates and enhancements in emergency response times, attributing improvements to investments in technology, such as a drone program and new SWAT trucks.