Key West Mayor Dee Dee Henriquez joined Good Morning Keys on Keys Talk 96.9/102.5FM yesterday to talk about what’s going on in the city.
The Key West City Commission will meet July 1 where the group will discuss a proposal to expand an affordable housing project at Poinciana Plaza.
The proposal would amend a previous resolution to increase the scope of the development from 16 units to a total of 77 income-qualified rental units. The project would include 40 units in Poinciana Royale II and 37 units in Peacock House and is supported by $2.8 million in funding from the local land authority.
Commissioners will also consider using up to $10,000 from the city’s tree fund to purchase key lime trees for a public giveaway program designed to encourage residents to plant more trees throughout the community.
Another presentation will focus on beach cleaning and maintenance, particularly efforts to manage the recent influx of sargassum seaweed while protecting nesting sea turtles during turtle season.
City officials will also receive an update on engineering projects underway and planned across the island, providing an overview of infrastructure improvements.
Among other agenda items, commissioners are expected to discuss requesting voluntary cooperation from the United States Navy regarding large cruise ship operations at the Outer Mole.
The commission will also consider eliminating the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board by repealing a previous ordinance and replacing the board with a more informal process for public input on parks and recreation matters.
Another proposal would authorize an interlocal agreement between the City of Key West and the Key West Housing Authority to provide temporary housing for on-duty firefighters while Fire Station 3 is being replaced.
Mayor Henriquez also announced a community meeting on the future of Higgs Beach, scheduled for July 8 from 2 to 4 p.m. in the commission chambers. Residents will be invited to share ideas and concerns regarding future improvements to the beach.
In addition to city business, Henriquez thanked residents and staff for helping organize the city’s recent celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, praising the community-wide event honoring military members, first responders, and law enforcement.
Looking ahead to the Independence Day holiday, City Hall will be closed on Friday, July 4. The annual Fourth of July 5K race begins at 7 a.m., followed by the Rotary Club of Key West celebration at Higgs Beach from 5 to 10 p.m., with fireworks scheduled for 9 p.m.
The mayor encouraged residents to attend Wednesday’s commission meeting and continue participating in community discussions about the city’s future.
For more information on the city, click here: https://www.cityofkeywest-fl.gov/