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City Proclaims World Suicide Prevention Day

9/8/2022

Mayor Teri Johnston and Commissioner Mary Lou Hoover have proclaimed September 10th as World Suicide Prevention Day.

Commissioner Hoover has been a tireless advocate of raising awareness for years. She encouraged the community to join in the American Society for Suicide Prevention walk on November 19th. Already, a good number of staff have signed up to walk for the City of Key West team.

Suicide is the 8th leading cause of death Florida, she noted, and over 90 percent of people who die by suicide have a diagnosable and treatable mental health condition.

Suicide rates have increased 30 percent over the last two decades. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 3,135 people died by suicide in Florida in 2020. Organizations such as the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention are dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide through research, education, advocacy and resources.

“It is important to recognize suicide as a preventable public health problem,” reads the proclamation, “to address the disparity in access to mental health care for underserved and underrepresented groups, and to advocate for a comprehensive suicide, mental health, and substance use crisis response system to build on the historic new 988 phone number for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.”

Mobley Named City's Employee of the Quarter

9/8/2022

Key West City Manager Patti McLauchlin, during this week’s commission meeting, named Patrick Mobley Employee of the Quarter.

Mobley is a permit technician with the Building Department, serving the public at the front desk.

“His friendly upbeat demeanor is appreciated by both staff and customers alike,” said McLauchlin. “Patrick is always willing to assist customers with the permitting process as well as obtaining answers to questions or concerns they may have. He is always willing to go over and beyond to ensure that the customer receives the help they need to move forward with their permitting process. When our customers interact with Patrick they are immediately drawn in by his charismatic charm and they always leave with a smile.”

Mobley started with the City in 2017 as an entry level maintenance worker, and was quickly promoted. In 2019 he moved to the Building Department where, says McLauchlin, he really shines.

“Patrick also has a way of keeping the frontline staff in a good mood and laughing,” she said. “He is a major part of why the Building Department has a great customer satisfaction rating.”

She noted that, with the recognition, Mobley also has a parking spot designated for the Employee of the Quarter.

County Continues to Advocate for Local Contractors not State Licensed - Meeting Sept. 13, 9:30 a.m.

9/7/2022

In 2021, the State of Florida Legislature passed House Bill (HB) 735, which preempts local occupational licensing.

“The passing of the bill affected many small businesses in Monroe County that were locally licensed,” said Monroe County Assistant Building Official Rey Ortiz. “The passing of this bill caused the Contractors Examination Board of Monroe County to no longer be able to issue licenses specified in the law.”

Due to the bill’s passing, many companies that have been in business for some time may be unable to pull permits starting in July 2023.

The Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (CEB), an eight-member appointed board made up of those in contracting industries, along with Monroe County Building Department staff, is compiling a series of direct questions and concerns regarding HB 735 to forward to the Dept. of Business and Professional Regulations. Industry input is encouraged at the regularly scheduled Tuesday, Sept. 13 CEB meeting. The meeting starts at 9:30 a.m. Additional information on the CEB can be found at www.monroecounty-fl.gov/ceb, including the Zoom link for the meeting. Questions and comments can also be emailed to [email protected].

“This will affect everyone from the state licensed general contractor to the local specialty licensed contractor that the state doesn’t offer an equivalent license for who has been in business for 20-30 years, and the homeowner,” said Rudy Krause, Chairman of the CEB. “If something doesn’t change, homeowners will need to be very aware of unlicensed, uninsured contractors. Before the bill, the County’s process created a safe and even playing field.”

The County Attorney and Legislative Affairs are also working with the Florida Association of Counties and other counties experiencing the same issues to advocate for changes to HB 735 in the upcoming state legislative session.

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HB 735 reads, “A local government, as defined in s. 163.211, may not require a person to obtain a license for a job scope which does not substantially correspond to the job scope of one of the contractor categories defined in s. 489.105(3)(a)-(o) and (q) or authorized in s. 489.1455(1). For purposes of this section, job scopes for which a local government may not require a license include, but are not limited to, painting; flooring; cabinetry; interior remodeling; driveway or tennis court installation; handyman services; decorative stone, tile, marble, granite, or terrazzo installation; plastering; stuccoing; caulking; and canvas awning and ornamental iron installation.”

Atocha Plaque Dedicated at Mallory Square

9/7/2022

Members of the Mel Fisher family, City officials and the community gathered today to commemorate the sinking of the Nuestra Senora de Atocha and the entire 1622 fleet with the unveiling of a plaque. On this day, 400 years ago, 260 souls were lost in a raging hurricane. Also lost were 40 tons of gold, silver, and copper artifacts – until the persevering Mel Fisher located wreck in 1985.
Prior to the discovery, the treasure hunter had secured ownership of the wreck through the courts. He and his wife founded the Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Society, a non-profit organization to support a collection of artifacts from the Nuestra Senora de Atocha and its sister ship, the Santa Margarita in perpetuity.
The plaque is located at Mallory Square alongside a time capsule that commemorates the 200th anniversary of the founding of Key West.

September 07th, 2022

9/7/2022

The College of the Florida Keys’ invites the community to celebrate the birthday of the United States Government at its annual Constitution Day event on Thursday, September 15 at 11:00 a.m. in the library on the Key West Campus. Constitution Day commemorates the formation and signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787, thus laying the foundation of our government, rights, and freedoms. This year's event will feature Attorney J. William Eshelman who will present “The Constitution’s Relevancy Today.” He will review the principles and unique characteristics of the Constitutional Order that contribute to our success as a nation and as a people today.

The College’s Constitution Day activities aim to educate the public on their rights under the Constitutional Amendments and encourage habits of being a good citizen. Attendees will receive Pocket Constitutions and learn how to register to vote with the help of representatives from the League of Women Voters. The event is free and open to the public.

“Cult Classics & Cartoon Chaos” themed Fantasy Fest 2022 kicks off October 21

9/3/2022

“Cult Classics & Cartoon Chaos” is the official theme setting the stage for Fantasy Fest 2022 – Key West’s annual 10-day costuming extravaganza in Paradise. From October 21-30, revelers can experience and participate in several dozen exciting events, including the world-famous Bud Light Fantasy Fest parade, the all-hands-on-deck Captain Morgan Masquerade March (aka “Locals Parade”), the exuberant Goombay Festival in the streets, Royal Coronation of the 2022 Fantasy Fest King, Queen, and royal court, plus concerts, theater productions, a “Heroes and Villains” 5K run/walk, the enchanting Key West Pet Masquerade, the 39th annual Headdress Ball pageant, and more. Fantasy Fest 2022 is presented in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council. For a full calendar of events, visit http://www.fantasyfest.com.

County Continues to Advocate for Local Contractors not State Licensed

9/3/2022

In 2021, the State of Florida Legislature passed House Bill (HB) 735, which preempts local occupational licensing.

“The passing of the bill affected many small businesses in Monroe County that were locally licensed,” said Monroe County Assistant Building Official Rey Ortiz. “The passing of this bill caused the Contractors Examination Board of Monroe County to no longer be able to issue licenses specified in the law.”

Due to the bill’s passing, many companies that have been in business for some time may be unable to pull permits starting in July 2023.

The Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (CEB), an eight-member appointed board made up of those in contracting industries, along with Monroe County Building Department staff, is compiling a series of direct questions and concerns regarding HB 735 to forward to the Dept. of Business and Professional Regulations. Industry input is encouraged at the regularly scheduled Tuesday, Sept. 6 CEB meeting. The meeting starts at 9:30 a.m. Additional information on the CEB can be found at www.monroecounty-fl.gov/ceb, including the Zoom link once available. Questions and comments can also be emailed to [email protected].

“This will affect everyone from the state licensed general contractor to the local specialty licensed contractor that the state doesn’t offer an equivalent license for who has been in business for 20-30 years, and the homeowner,” said Rudy Krause, Chairman of the CEB. “If something doesn’t change, homeowners will need to be very aware of unlicensed, uninsured contractors. Before the bill, the County’s process created a safe and even playing field.”

The County Attorney and Legislative Affairs are also working with the Florida Association of Counties and other counties experiencing the same issues to advocate for changes to HB 735 in the upcoming state legislative session.

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HB 735 reads, “A local government, as defined in s. 163.211, may not require a person to obtain a license for a job scope which does not substantially correspond to the job scope of one of the contractor categories defined in s. 489.105(3)(a)-(o) and (q) or authorized in s. 489.1455(1). For purposes of this section, job scopes for which a local government may not require a license include, but are not limited to, painting; flooring; cabinetry; interior remodeling; driveway or tennis court installation; handyman services; decorative stone, tile, marble, granite, or terrazzo installation; plastering; stuccoing; caulking; and canvas awning and ornamental iron installation.”

Life Jackets Donated

9/2/2022

Just in time for one of the busiest boating weekends of the year, Boat US and West Marine have donated all sizes of life jackets for those who don’t have them.
The life jackets are at the Key West Bight Marina Dockmaster’s office. The island’s main dinghy dock, the pump out station, and a fuel station are all located at the Bight.
“We see nearly every dinghy that brings people ashore here at the Bight,” said Key West Bight Marina Dockmaster Stan Loveday. “This generous donation allows us to provide lifejackets to those who need them.”

Leadership Monroe Announces Class XXX

9/2/2022

Leadership Monroe County, the premier educational non-profit community leadership organization, announces its thirtieth year of programs with the selection of Class XXX.
The LMC program is aimed at residents who are active in leadership roles within the private sector, government, or community organizations. Through a series of single or multi-day sessions over seven months, participants examine the fundamental public and private segments throughout the county. The program also provides participants the opportunity for mutual awareness and discussion of issues impacting the Keys. These unique experiences help participants grow as Monroe County residents and leaders as well as provide invaluable connections among other leaders across the county.

Sessions begin October 7 in Key West with subsequent monthly classes throughout the Keys, culminating with graduation in April, 2023. Sessions are led by experts and leaders in the respective fields covered in each session. The sessions begin their focus on the challenges and opportunities that confront the dynamic tourism industry and the Keys economy, continue to evaluate vital environmental issues from the Everglades to Florida Bay and the coral reefs, the Monroe County education system, the multi-levels of government, the judiciary and law enforcement system, the historical and present military significance in the Keys, emergency management and emerging best practices, an examination of the Keys health care system providers, an immersive review of the human services sector, the increasing impact of the non-profit arts and creative industries, and the rapidly changing media platforms that inform the citizenry and affect and influence public policy.

Established in 1992 to address the rapidly changing needs and concerns of the county, develop a group of well-educated leaders, help guide the community in a positive direction, and foster county-wide effective and non-partisan alliances, Leadership Monroe County is an independent non-profit, governed by a county-wide alumni member Board of Directors. Present Officers are President Chuck Licis-Masson, Vice-President John Johnson, Secretary Bruce Shea and Treasurer Bruce Halle, with Program Coordinator Michael Shields.

Class XXX members are:
Rachel Bowman, Manager, Keys Fisheries
Kerry Cosme, ReStore Manager, Habitat for Humanity
Lauren Dunn, Realtor, Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate
Sarah Fangman, Superintendent, Keys National Marine Sanctuary
James Hager, Sergeant, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office
Dwight Hill, Market President, First Horizon Bank
Christian Kellenberger, Lieutenant, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office
Cary Knight, Director, Project Management, BOCC
Kate Koler, Owner, Sweet Savannah’s
Christine Limbert-Barrows, Assistant County Attorney, BOCC
Kevin Macaulay, Office/Property Mgr., Key by The Sea Condo
Jim Marquardt, General Manager, The Gardens Hotel
Craig McBay, Owner, Florida Keys Brewing
Rolando Monteagudo, Mortgage Loan Officer, Tewes Mortgage
Andrew Morawski, Director, Hemingway Home and Museum
Michael Nelson, Asst. Director, Public Services, BOCC
Alex Rickert, Editor, Keys Weekly, Marathon
Chris Rivett, VP, Residential Lending, First State Bank of the Florida Keys
Robyn Still, Owner, The Tackle Box/Marathon Councilwoman
Leah Stockton, Keys Area President, United Way of Collier and the Keys
Cheryl Sullivan, Director, Solid Waste Management, BOCC
Dakin Weekley, Manager, Fausto’s Food Palace

SUCCESSFUL SALE OF AIRPORT REVENUE BONDS FOR EYW CONCOURSE A PROJECT

9/1/2022

Monroe County Administrator Roman Gastesi and Director of Airports Richard Strickland reported Wednesday that the County successfully sold $41.34 million of Airport revenue bonds to finance a portion of the Key West International Airport Concourse A project.

The Airport revenue bonds are project-specific and are not funded by taxpayers. The guarantee of repayment is solely from revenues generated by a specified revenue-generating entity associated with the purpose of the bonds. For the Concourse A revenue bonds, payment of principal and interest (debt service) on the bonds will be paid with the Airport’s Passenger Facility Charge revenues and general Airport revenues.

Gastesi and Strickland said the Airport achieved strong results, with a borrowing cost of 4.99% for the 30-year Series 2022 Bonds.

“We are now even closer to building an amazing new Airport concourse that will improve services for our visitors and residents,” Strickland said.

The Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved the 48,000 square feet second-level Concourse A project that will include several elements to improve the level of service for passengers and tenants. Upgrades include:

Seven passenger boarding jet bridges
Expansion of additional baggage areas and devices
Airline ramp/office spaces
An expanded security checkpoint with an area to support up to four lanes
New extended passenger bridge located post-security connecting the existing terminal building with the new concourse

Construction on the project is set to begin this month.