Highland Beach Fire Rescue Department Honors Former Mayor

Overview: Highland Beach Town Commission’s recent meeting was marked by a unanimous resolution to dedicate the Highland Beach Fire Rescue Department Station number 120 in honor of former mayor Douglas Hillman. The meeting also saw the recognition of Town Manager Marshall Lebid for his role in the successful establishment of the fire rescue department and addressed crucial aspects of local governance, including election integrity and public safety.

Palm Beach County School Board Addresses Child Wellness and Educational Equity

Overview: In a recent Palm Beach County School Board meeting, discussions were dominated by the focus on child wellness, educational equity, and the enhancement of student experiences. The board addressed the implementation of new field trips for students to broaden educational opportunities and ensure equitable access to diverse experiences. Moreover, the meeting shed light on programs serving Haitian and other families, such as the Children’s Community Wellness Center and “For the Children,” highlighting the community’s desire for greater Haitian representation and the need for systemic change to support children’s academic and personal development.

Highland Beach Residents Navigate Permit Troubles at Code Enforcement Meeting

Overview: At the Highland Beach Code Enforcement Board regular meeting, a case involving permit issues surrounding kitchen renovations at a local residence dominated discussions. The property, owned by Michael and Sarah Gortz, was represented by their son Jeffrey Gortz who detailed a series of complications with contractors and subcontractors leading to an expired permit for electrical work. The town recommended finding the respondents in violation of the town code with a potential fine of $250 per day after a set compliance date, alongside a prosecution cost of $250.

Palm Beach County School Board Discusses Grievance and Observation Procedures

Overview: In a recent Palm Beach County School Board meeting, the main focus was the discussion on resolving conflicts between sections of the collective bargaining agreement pertaining to teacher evaluations. The board considered various aspects of the Instructional Practice Review Committee (IPRC) and its role in addressing issues arising from individual observations as stipulated in the collective bargaining agreement.

Jupiter High School Audit Reveals Financial Non-Compliance

Overview: A recent meeting of the Palm Beach County School Board revealed significant non-compliance with financial procedures at Jupiter High School, particularly within its baseball and band programs. The internal funds audit for the fiscal year 2023 showed a total revenue of $57.9 million and disbursements amounting to $57.3 million, with an overall fund balance of $24.7 million. However, the audit disclosed serious discrepancies in consultant agreements and disbursements, missing documentation, and issues with the procurement process. The meeting further highlighted concerns about financial management practices and the need for improved training and compliance measures across the school district.