West Palm Beach mayor city commission and CRA approve multiple resolutions and ordinances during January 5 2026 meeting

West Palm Beach, Florida – The City Commission and Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) of West Palm Beach held a busy session on Monday, January 5, 2026, approving a range of resolutions, ordinances, and community projects spanning legal settlements, housing, development, and public infrastructure. The meeting set the stage for several initiatives aimed at improving the city’s infrastructure, supporting affordable housing, and enhancing public programs.

One of the first items on the agenda involved the City Attorney’s office. The Commission approved a resolution authorizing a Conditional Settlement Agreement totaling $55,000 in the matter of Terrence Searcy v. The City of West Palm Beach. This settlement brings closure to ongoing litigation while ensuring the city’s interests are represented and maintained.

The Development Services Department also had a substantial agenda. Commissioners approved Ad Valorem Tax Exemption, Completed Work Applications for properties located at 205 Greymon Drive and 3025 Vincent Road. These approvals reflect the city’s continued efforts to incentivize property development and investment in West Palm Beach.

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A key component of the meeting was the first reading of an ordinance to amend the Utilities Element and Capital Improvements Element of the city’s Comprehensive Plan. These updates revise the 20-year Water Supply Facility Work Plan Sub Element and align the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) with state statutory requirements under Section 163.3177(6)(c), Florida Statutes. The second public hearing and final approval are scheduled for March 2, 2026, which will solidify these long-term planning initiatives.

The Commission also approved a resolution concerning the redevelopment of the Family Church Residential Planned Development (RPD) at 1101 South Flagler Drive. This project includes the Family Church Campus, new multifamily residential towers, and commercial uses. The approval allows amendments to development regulations and grants certain waivers under the Zoning and Land Development Regulations, facilitating the property’s transition and broader community development goals.

In housing and community development matters, the Commission approved several important resolutions. A conditional waiver of city liens and authorization for the mayor to execute a release of code enforcement liens was granted for the property at 5421 South Flagler Drive. Additionally, a conveyance agreement with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County was approved for city-owned property at 600 14th Street, paving the way for the development of an affordable single-family home.

Further action in housing included approval of two resolutions amending the City’s Annual One-Year Action Plans for Fiscal Years 2024/2025 and 2025/2026. These amendments authorize submission of changes to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and reallocation of program funds. Adjustments to the CDBG Program Grant Fund, HOME Program Grant Fund, and HOPWA Program Grant Fund were approved, ensuring targeted use of funds to support specific community projects and ongoing housing initiatives.

Parks and Recreation also received attention. The Commission approved a resolution accepting a grant of $280 from the Palm Beach County Partnership for Aging. These funds are earmarked to support senior programming at the Gloria Williams Multicultural Center, helping the city expand services for older adults in the community.

The Police Department received approval for an ordinance amending Chapter 54 of the Code of Ordinances. The changes provide additional enforcement options regarding the anchoring or mooring of vessels in Lake Worth, reinforcing the city’s ability to maintain safe waterways and manage maritime activity effectively.

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Meanwhile, the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) held its own session, focusing on strategic development and planning initiatives. Representatives from Florida Atlantic University’s Center for Smart Streetscapes provided an update on the city’s participation in a national pilot project. West Palm Beach joins New Brunswick, NJ, and the Harlem area of New York City in implementing the Smart Streetscape project, which seeks to improve public spaces, transportation corridors, and urban infrastructure through innovative design and technology.

The CRA also heard from the Neighborhood Organization for Revitalization and Advancement (NORA) regarding the master plan and funding for the area between 7th Street and 11th Street along Railroad Avenue and parts of Brelsford Park. Discussions focused on creating a cohesive plan to enhance public amenities, support redevelopment, and strengthen community engagement in the district.

Monday’s meeting highlighted West Palm Beach’s ongoing commitment to addressing urban growth, public safety, housing affordability, and quality of life. From legal settlements and tax exemptions to redevelopment projects, senior programs, and innovative streetscape planning, city leaders took decisive steps to ensure that residents and businesses benefit from thoughtful planning and strategic investments.

As the city moves forward, several initiatives approved on January 5 will continue through public hearings and implementation phases, including the Comprehensive Plan updates, Family Church RPD redevelopment, and CRA-led streetscape projects. Collectively, these actions reflect the city’s effort to balance growth, community well-being, and infrastructure modernization for the years ahead.