Message from Commissioner Aaronson

February 10, 2009

I am looking forward to joining you on February 20th as we celebrate the opening of the new West Boca Branch Library on U.S. 441.  This new library is a 20,000 square foot facility designed for future expansion to 40,000 square feet and is situated in a beautiful park-like setting.  Inside, patrons will find an attractive environment with water views, an abundance of natural lighting and comfortable seating areas.  The library features 3 private study rooms, a larger group study room, a meeting room that accommodates 70 people, a conference room and a room for children’s programming. There is a large variety of materials including shelving that allows for a greater number of DVDs, CDs and audio books.  Computer access is available via 30 internet and word processing computers and library catalogue computers.  Free wireless access will be available throughout the building.  The staff is dedicated to providing the best customer service.  There are two express check-out stations as well as a drive-up materials return and interior and exterior walk-up returns.  I am certain this will be a welcome addition to the area.

Residents in the Boynton area can look forward to the opening of the new amphitheater adjacent to the Canyon Town Center in the near future.  In addition to the amphitheater, there are restroom facilities and soccer fields.  This is the beginning of bringing recreational facilities to the West Boynton area.

Finally, Palm Beach County is turning 100!  The County was created from Dade County which stretched from the St. Lucie River to the tip of the Florida Peninsula.  The County Charter was signed on April 30, 1909 and the County officially came into existence on July 1, 1909.  The first County Commission meeting was held on July 6, 1909.  A year-long celebration is planned to commemorate this important part of our local history.  The celebration includes highlighting the rich history of the County, showcasing the County’s cultural and ethnic diversity and educating the community about the county’s history.  A centennial website has been created that includes an official event calendar, web links and a listing of centennial partners.  For more information, or to find out about the next centennial event, visit www.pbcgov.com/100.

As always, I invite your comments on any issue of interest to you.  As your Commissioner, I am here to help you.  You may write me at 301 N. Olive Ave., West Palm Beach, 33401 or call my staff at 276-1310 or toll free at 877-930-2205.  You can also email me at baaronso@pbcgov.org.