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A MESSAGE FROM COMMISSIONER BURT AARONSON

All of you are aware of the tremendous growth South County has experienced over the past ten years. The County has worked diligently to provide the services that are necessary to keep pace with this growth. New roads have been constructed and existing roads have been widened. Fire rescue stations and a sheriff’s substation have been built. The library system is being expanded. The Water Utilities Department has increased its services, added a reclaimed water system and opened the Wakodahatchee and Green Cay Wetlands.

In addition to these services, the County has made significant progress in its Parks System. We have smaller community parks such as Veterans Park, Lawton Chiles Park and Pinewood Park. South County Regional Park is a favorite of many residents and since its opening, has added Coconut Cove Water Park. A golf course and band shell are in the planning stages. What we have lacked is a passive park where residents can enjoy such activities as hiking, biking and camping. I am pleased to report that a south county passive park will soon become a reality.

In 2000, the South Florida Water Management District acquired a 313-acre parcel of land for water management purposes. The property is located on the west side of US 441 just north of West Atlantic Ave. The Water Management District does not intend to utilize the property for a number of years. I have been working with Representative Richard Machek, COBWRA, The Alliance and The West Boca Community Council for the past five years to lease those 313 acres of the Water Management District’s property for a passive park to serve the residents of South County. After many months, The Water Management District agreed to lease the property to the County and on February 28th, the County Commission approved a seven-year lease paving the way for a passive park. Plans are being finalized and may include fishing, biking, hiking, camping, archery and other passive activities. According to the County’s Parks Department, the park should be opened sometime this summer. This is a wonderful example of how government officials and civic leaders can work together to achieve a goal that benefits everyone.

I am very proud of all that has been done to offer top quality recreational facilities to the residents and I am certain that this new passive park will be another popular destination for many of you. When it comes to leisure time and outdoor activities, Palm Beach County, and in particular, District 5, truly has the “best of everything.”

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@co.palm-beach.fl.us.