Page 1 - The Shores of Jupiter - July '23

Our Village Voice

VOL. 34 NO. 7 www.seabreezepublications.com JULY 2023

commissioner’s update Bill’s Box

protecting and enhancing Management has deployed over 49 vessels, 110,000 tons By Bill Thompson
of concrete, and 140,000 tons of limestone boulders to
our Reefs create artificial reefs. editor’s note: This
The artificial reefs become new substrate for coral is an abbreviated column
By Commissioner settlement and diversify habitat in otherwise sandy areas. due to unexpected time
Maria Marino Once established, they provide the same food, shelter, demands. Bill will be back
Within Palm Beach protection and marine life spawning areas as the natural reefs. with more and different in
County’s 47-mile Atlantic Both natural and artificial reefs support our local the following month.
coastline lies part of the economy, generating over $280 million per year and My preaching about
only living barrier coral reef supporting approximately 3,000 annual jobs. certain ACC guidelines
system in the continental Funding for PBC’s artificial reef program comes and common area neglect
United States. Florida’s from vessel registration fees, grants from federal and has resulted in some improvements but not enough. I guess,
Coral Reef stretches 360 state agencies, donations from fishing clubs, local dive like some, if not most, preacher’s requested changes are often
miles from the St. Lucie associations, corporations and individuals. Nonmonetary ignored. The preacher did his job, but …
Inlet south to the Dry support includes donated reef material such as concrete, Vehicles and other materials are blocking sidewalks.
Tortugas, formed thousands prefabricated modules, underwater art and ship hulls. Jupiter Code Enforcement can warn or fine for Town and
of years ago. The reefs are lush with coral and limestone, This year’s artificial reef project plan involves a multi- State ordinances and laws. An anonymous report to code
shipwrecks, and a wide range of sea life. Because of our partner effort. For instance, the Florida Department of enforcement can be made by anyone. Ask not to be named
close proximity to the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, Transportation is donating material removed from the so as not to lose a friend. Alternatively, a code enforcement
Palm Beach County is home to one of the most diverse Earman Canal bridge renovation project in North Palm officer may be able to personally witness the infraction.
marine ecosystems in the country. Beach to a reef project 75 feet offshore of South Palm Parking in the grassy verge between sidewalk and street
Natural reefs support aquatic plants and animals by Beach. is a blemish on the Shores’ upscale appearance. It looks as
providing food and refuge for young marine life to develop. One of PBC’s key artificial reef partners – the Andrew if homeowners should be concerned. There is no restriction
The reefs protect our coastline by absorbing wave energy. “Red” Harris Foundation – will deploy three to four reefs on street parking when necessary for a short while.
As we enter another hurricane season, it is important to in 70 to 80 feet of water offshore of Juno Beach. This I did not study ministry and don’t like it. Peer pressure
note that this absorption helps prevent loss of life, property project will consist of at least 1,000 tons of limestone would be more effective. Most caring homeowners take pride
damage, and erosion, particularly in strong storm events. boulders and 500 tons of concrete culverts. This material in the appearances of their property in keeping with Shores
For more than 40 years, Palm Beach County (PBC) has – all donated – will be located near an existing artificial guidelines and to maintain or increase property values in our
worked to create artificial reefs using various materials reef train in the Juno Beach permitted area. fine “Village.”
to give the public additional areas for fishing, diving The artificial reef program is a prime example of Palm That’s it. I am no longer a preacher.
and snorkeling, and to protect our natural reefs from Beach County’s commitment to stewardship of our natural Final note: Remember the cartoon character Dudley Do
overuse. The materials include limestone, concrete, and resources by creating new habitat. Right? Just do it!
occasionally decommissioned ships that become marine As always, please contact me if I can assist you at Out of time and space.
habitats. The Department of Environmental Resources (561) 355-2201 or by email at mmarino@pbcgov.org.
tax talk

Dear Friends: • For those that prefer the indoors, why not visit the current a little easier, our office is
Well, the heat is on as exhibits at the Norton Museum of Art? For details, visit https:// pleased to offer a Welcome to
we enter the height of the www.norton.org/. Palm Beach County Guide.
summer weather here in South • For you water enthusiasts, there is swimming or surfing at This comprehensive guide
Florida. And while we all find our wonderful beaches or perhaps an island adventure at Peanut includes everything from
comfort inside with the air Island (https://discover.pbcgov.org/parks/Locations/Peanut- “how-tos” for updating a
conditioning blasting, there Island.aspx). driver’s license and vehicle
are some wonderful outdoor There is plenty more to do around our fantastic community, registrations through the tax
things to do this time of year, so I encourage you to visit https://www.thepalmbeaches.com/ collector’s office, to signing up for Homestead Exemption,
especially now that the tourist to find that perfect summer adventure. important phone numbers, education options, and even fun facts
season is over and those of us Enjoy your summer and have a great Fourth of July holiday! about our county. If you have friends or family planning a move
that are “year-rounders” can Anne M. Gannon, to our county, an online version of the guide is available at www.
enjoy lesser crowds. For instance, there’s nothing like an early Constitutional Tax Collector, pbctax.com/welcome-guide.
morning stroll on the beach to watch the sunrise or an opportunity Serving Palm Beach County
to head out west to the edge of the Everglades to watch a beautiful Journey to Good health
summertime sunset. There are many wonderful things to do in introducing the Welcome
Palm Beach County and here are a few ideas to get you started: Employee health and wellness have remained a focus for
• Enjoy the many activities at our Palm Beach County parks, Guide me since being elected to office in 2006. The American Heart
from camping, to playgrounds, and water activities – there is Association previously awarded my agency the “Fit Friendly
a variety of things to do. For more information, visit https:// When I first moved to Palm Beach County I remember how
discover.pbcgov.org/parks/pages/default.aspx. intimidating it was to get settled into a new area. Since then, Tax Talk on page 4
there has been immense growth
in our county. In 2022, more RepoRt SuSpiciouS activity
than 13,000 people made the
move to Palm Beach County. immediately
Settling into a new town comes to the JupiteR police
with a lengthy to-do list of tasks depaRtment
ranging from updating your (561) 799-4445
driver’s license to registering to
vote. Knowing who to contact Use 911 for emergencies only.
for each item can be a daunting Lock car doors. Do not leave valuables in the car.
endeavor. To make the process

Jupiter Senior Softball