Mayor Keith A. James honors staff for their efforts on Fourth on Flagler as the City Commission approves a wide range of ordinances and resolutions during the September 2 meeting

West Palm Beach, Florida – The first week of September brought a full agenda for city officials in West Palm Beach, where Mayor Keith A. James, the City Commission, and the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) gathered on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, to review, debate, and approve a wide range of measures touching nearly every department in municipal government. From public utilities to zoning changes, from strategic financial plans to community outreach, the meetings highlighted how decisions made in one room ripple across neighborhoods, businesses, and residents alike.

A Celebration Before the Work

Mayor Keith A. James opened the session by honoring city staff for their role in producing the annual Fourth on Flagler celebration earlier this summer. The July 4th Spectacular once again drew thousands to the waterfront, and the mayor noted that the event’s success rested squarely on the shoulders of those who worked behind the scenes. It was a moment of appreciation before the body moved into the weighty matters on the agenda.

One notable item never made it to discussion. A resolution that would have supported the construction of Honorary Designation Markers along a stretch of Southern Boulevard in recognition of President Donald J. Trump was pulled from the agenda. The proposed resolution also would have identified the Florida Department of Transportation as the agency responsible for the markers. No immediate explanation was given for its removal, though such symbolic gestures often stir debate within the chamber.

City Attorney: Liens and Legal Housekeeping

The City Attorney’s office presented a resolution to formalize the assessment of city liens. These liens, totaling $14,469.43, represent unpaid charges for water, sewer, and stormwater services dating back to April 2025. Approval of such measures, though administrative in nature, ensures the city maintains accountability and secures payment for critical services that keep daily life functioning for residents.

Development Services: Zoning Revisions and Future Hearings

Perhaps the most detailed discussions of the afternoon came from the Development Services Department, which secured approval for several zoning-related ordinances.

One ordinance, requested by Lentzy Jean-Louis of Urban Design Studio on behalf of Huizenga Holdings Inc., amended dimensional lot requirements, setback regulations, and other exceptions for two zoning categories—Single-Family Low Density (SF-7) and Single-Family High Density (SF-14). These changes specifically affect parcels located east of Broadway Avenue, west of North Flagler Drive, between 40th and 45th Streets. The goal is to allow more flexibility in development while still preserving the residential character of those neighborhoods.

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Another ordinance passed after its second public hearing created new regulations for the North Flagler Overlay District. Overlay districts give the city tools to shape development in targeted corridors, balancing growth with design standards and community needs.

Not every zoning matter reached conclusion. Two separate proposals—one to amend the city’s Future Land Use Map and another to rezone land at 2410, 2460, and 2508 North Australian Avenue—were continued until the September 15 meeting. These proposals involve 2.46 acres that could shift from community service and commercial uses to high-density multifamily housing, signaling the city’s broader interest in expanding residential options.

Housing and Community Development: Boost for Outreach

Housing and homelessness remain pressing issues across South Florida, and West Palm Beach is no exception. The Commission approved a resolution to accept $150,000 in funding from the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority. The money will directly support homeless outreach in the downtown area, reinforcing the city’s commitment to connect individuals with resources and reduce the visible impacts of homelessness on both residents and businesses.

Public Works: Funding Vehicles and Equipment

From road crews to sanitation services, city operations depend on vehicles that are costly to purchase and maintain. On Tuesday, the Commission approved a resolution to recognize and appropriate $425,895 from the sale of surplus assets. The funds will be directed toward purchasing vehicles not only for Public Works but for other departments as well. The decision reflects a practical reinvestment strategy—selling older equipment to help pay for updated fleets.

Public Utilities: Water Conservation and Treatment Plant Costs

The Public Utilities Department secured two major approvals. First, the Commission authorized an interlocal agreement with the Palm Beach Soil and Water Conservation District. The partnership, operating under the Urban Irrigation Efficiency Improvement Program, will provide irrigation evaluations and water conservation services. By focusing on irrigation, the city aims to cut unnecessary water use and encourage sustainable landscaping practices.

Second, the Commission approved appropriations of $550,000 for additional chemical expenses at the city’s water treatment plant. Rising costs of treatment chemicals have put pressure on budgets across Florida, and the resolution ensures West Palm Beach can continue to deliver safe drinking water without interruption.

Community Redevelopment Agency: Long-Term Investments

After the City Commission adjourned, the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) convened with an equally weighty agenda. Several resolutions centered on strategic finance plans and budget approvals for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2025.

Amendments to both the Downtown/City Center CRA Strategic Finance Plan and the Northwood/Pleasant City CRA Strategic Finance Plan were approved, alongside adoption of the final revenue and expenditure estimates for each district for FY 2025-2026. These approvals lock in financial roadmaps that will guide redevelopment and investment projects across key parts of the city.

The CRA also approved a $335,000 mobility improvement assistance agreement with WPB Mobility Coalition, Inc., and the City. This three-year arrangement, starting October 1, aims to enhance mobility options—an important step in addressing congestion and accessibility in the urban core.

Another significant vote authorized a Relocation and Development Assistance grant of up to $2 million for Project Flagship, signaling major investment in future redevelopment opportunities.

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Finally, commissioners approved a creative seasonal use of public space. Under the resolution, The Ben hotel will be allowed to operate an ice rink during the 2025-2026 winter season on open space adjacent to 185 N. Banyan. The rink will be open to the public, providing a festive attraction in the heart of the city and another example of how redevelopment efforts intersect with cultural life.

Looking Ahead

By the close of the day, city leaders had moved through a packed docket that touched everything from neighborhood zoning to holiday festivities. While some matters were delayed for further review, the approvals set in motion a range of initiatives that will shape West Palm Beach in the coming year—from expanded outreach for the unhoused to new mobility programs and recreational opportunities.

The September 2 meetings underscored the complex balancing act faced by local governments: addressing immediate needs while also planning for long-term growth. With the next session scheduled for mid-September, the work of guiding the city forward is far from over.