Another middle-of-the-day City Commission meeting...

The time of day for these meetings does not allow for adequate public notification, input or attendance - this is a big part of my campaign platform. Being held at Compass also prevents streaming of the meetings over the Internet - unless they have recently found a way to do that.

The above is a joint meeting of the City Commission and Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) to discuss the Cultural Renaissance Program - this is the effort that the CRA developed while I was on the board to use arts and cultural activities, groups and individuals as a way to promote redevelopment in Lake Worth. Part of this includes the $25 million grant application for Neighborhood Stabilization Program - 2 monies to convert vacant, foreclosed or derelict homes to property owners who don't exceed 120% of median income - essentially the bulk of the workforce in this area. Apparently some of the people on the current City Commission are threatened by a program that might actually improve the conditions of a large area of our city. I hope to attend the meeting.


Quickly following the joint City Commission/CRA meeting, will be a City Commission work session that will discuss the proposed noise ordinance for businesses in the downtown. I have read through the draft ordinance and it does not seem too onerous in relation to the actual "real world" decibel readings that were taken sporadically around the downtown - including our famous "Noise Walk/Commission Meeting" through the downtown. It actually helps clarify what was a vague part of our Code. However, it will all come down to the need to enforce it - which takes time away that the sheriff and code enforcement tasks/emergencies. I am concerned that this could become another way to threaten or intimidate businesses within our downtown - who have enough trouble already staying in business, paying their electric/water bills and providing a fun entertainment outlet for many people in Palm Beach County. Let 's not make this an anti-business declaration.

Click links for back up material from City. Since the second meeting is advertised as a work session, no action can be taken. The Noise Ordinance will have to be brought back to the City Commission for final action.

Also note that both meetings are at the Compass Community Center.